What is an avid capable of? (Example feeds and speeds)

[subnoize]

@double0jimb0

Cast iron has a lower modulus than steel, so cast iron is not used to increase stiffness-dependent performance

Hmmmm, I do apologize for the confusion. The exact quote was;

@subnoize

When you get into rigid CNC machines the material is cast iron, not steel. Specifically gray cast iron.

I probably should have use the phrase “machines with dovetail ways” instead. My statement was never meant as a comment on the modulus of cast iron.

@double0jimb0

Cast iron is used because of its superior dampening properties

Yep, I have noted this elsewhere when the discussions about building custom base or how to mitigate the ringing in our machines.

Avid Leg Kit to weak?

Call me a stick in the mud but welded steel isn’t the answer either. All of my rigid steel cutting machines have cast iron bases. In fact, the only steel on these things is the coverings for all the electronics and stuff. What you want is an ASTM A48 Class 40 (Dura-Bar anyone?) cast iron base. It is cheap. It is easily machinable. It has dampening characteristics which reduces ringing (thank you large graphite crystals). It is also very stiff and resistant to flexing. You can get it cast using…

And while we are at it I will also clear up the one above, casting creates geometry that is less prone to flex when compared to folded and welded sheet steel.