google-site-verification=IeLGoSyj5HiwG7s_aLNP1m6KC6F-d74khE88_w4WnNU Build your own Hot Wire CNC Foam Cutter
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Hot Wire CNC Foam Cutter - Build Your Own



Interested in building a low cost CNC hot wire foam cutter ? well this is the right place

Here we will post pictures and instructions of how to build a low cost foam cutter.

This design is the 4th generation foam cutter and I think that this design is the least

expensive and the fastest to put together, most parts can be found in your local hardware store, like Home Depot..

The first prototype was made out of wood, but didn't look "professional" enough, so I decided to go with a more robust design made of steel.


The design can be modified to almost any size. Keep in mind that for longer travel you will need a longer lead screw. The problem with a long lead screw is that because it its own mass, it will "wobble" in higher speeds.

One way to overcome this problem is to move to a larger diameter lead screw.

Another way is to move to a chain or belt driven design. Belt driven machines are usually 8' and longer but require the use of micro-stepping. 

An example of a machine larger then 8 foot would be a surfboard foam cutter.

Some surfboards are up to 12 feet in length, the only way to cut these boards would be a belt driven or chain driven mechanism.


We started out building a machine to cut wing cores, but soon after we discovered a huge interest In the machine for other industries - like moldings, architectures, surfboards, Logos, props, packaging, Willow Sills, Casings, Wainscoat , Fascia, Crown, Parapets, Wallcaps, Pediments, Quatrefoils, Columns


Based on this design you can modify it to build a Plasma cutter, and a CNC router, Plotter flat bed printer and linear slides.

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