JD Y axis linear rails

[xtremerode]

I’m seriously considering a JD Plasma table but I’m concerned about the Y axis linear rail system. It looks like the round bars with bearings that roll on top have no sweep to keep plasma and other dust off of them.

It’s seems like debris would just get ground into the guide wheel and rails and quickly loose it’s smooth operation. If anyone has long term experience with these tables I would love to hear your thoughts.

[weldguy]

I do not have a JD table but mine is similar but using v rail and I have found it doesn't matter if you have wipers or not the plasma dust gets everywhere. The solution on any of these machines in my opinion is routine cleaning. I blow the dust off and wipe down the rails with a scotchbrite pad every day, takes less than 2 minutes and ensures the bearings have a clean, smooth surface to ride on.

[xtremerode]

Thanks for your response

[Ironken]

I have one and the contact area between the rollers and rails is small. The shmoo usually falls off. I have cut a cubic shit ton of material and forgot to wipe them down with no issue. Generally, I will wipe down with WD-40 every week or so.....unless I forget. The rail and roller setup on this machine is very robust.

[robertspark]

what sort of rails and carriages are they?

wd40 is not a very good lubricant.... it's a penetrating oil.

you may be better with a way oil or silicon lubricant

[Ironken]

what sort of rails and carriages are they?

wd40 is not a very good lubricant.... it's a penetrating oil.

you may be better with a way oil or silicon lubricant

They are simply 1" or so CR round with radiused wheels that ride on them. No lube needed, I just use the WD to stop rust. I have gallons of Vactra #2 way lube for lube on other equipment if I need. Here are the only pics I have.....kinda crappy.

[jason510]

I am new to cnc plasma, and just bought a 5x10 table from JD2. I got it all hooked up yesterday, and hopefully get to cut something out this weekend.