Chapter 5. Joining Methods

If the title of the chapter seems strange, let us explain. The CNC machine you'll be building is made up of 26 varying-sized pieces of MDF material. Those pieces have to somehow be connected in such a way that the machine doesn't fall apart. Keep in mind that your CNC machine will be moving-the z-axis will be moving up and down and side to side on both the y-axis and the x-axis. Often these movements will start and stop quickly. Your CNC machine must be able to withstand the twisting and bending and other stresses required for its operation. Wood glue simply won't do, and the mechanical way of fastening has the added benefit of disassembly. This is a machine, so we're going to treat it like a machine.

This short chapter ...

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