CNC Flip Table pt.1

Hi All,

This post is part of my recent video and if you have not seen it take a look:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfm4ryxgsms

This week I have been working finding a better way to store my CNC machine in my small shop which is in my garage. I have been wanting to do this for some time and finally I have had the chance to do it. Part of having a small work space means finding better ways to utilize the space available to maximize your efficiency.

One issue with having a CNC machine is space consumption. When the machine is in use this is fine as the space is justified by production. But currently I am not in production mode and don't want to use up my premium space. So time to build a flip cart to hold the machine.

This is only part 1 of a multipart video and blog series as I will be really fleshing this out to maximize the carts storage and functionality capability. But first thing is first do I build the cart from scratch or start with a good known base? The answer was a good known base. Partly to reduce the project time but also because we'll idk how confident I am in making a strong rotating base haha!

So to start I attached plywood to the top of the Rockler material cart. There are multiple holes located around the top section to help mount a top to it. This way you can turn it into a mobile work table. I also added two additional swivel wheels so I can move the machine around more easily. Once attached came centering the CNC and then finding the best way to attach the CNC to the top. What I chose to do is use a gravity based holder by taking and placing a piece of angle metal and attaching it to the wood base in front. Then putting one on the back side as well as shown here:

Now for the back side I had to use zip ties to test that this would work but I swapped these out. Using some T-nut bolts and a wood shim I was able to attach the back part of the CNC under the spoil board to the wood top.


This took care of the issue where the CNC could flip forward due to gravity and topple off. Next I used two L baskets and a bungie cord to hold the control box on to the wood top. Then finally I attached the cable chain to the base behind the machine using wire ties.

This completed the install of the machine to the cart but now I need to build a storage space on the bottom to house tools, bits and additional spoil boards for the machine. I will also need a location for cutting oil to setup a aluminum cutting mister system. That will come in the next few parts of the project so stay tuned!

Parts Used for the build:

Cart:https://www.rockler.com/rockler-material-mate-panel-cart-and-shop-stand
Swivel Casters:https://www.rockler.com/4-300-lb-polyurethane-caster-swivel-w-total-lock-brake
Plywood was 24 x 42 in
Metal: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt-2-1-4-in-x-1-1-2-in-x-48-in-Zinc-Plated-Offset-Slotted-Angle-801327/204225770
3/4 #10 wood screws 
and washers

Until next time Stay Nerdy!




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