IDCNC

IDCNC is a low-cost DIY desktop CNC milling machine designed with a strong focus on practicality, simplicity, and a clear, logical structure. The project was created so that assembly, use, and further modifications do not require complex engineering knowledge and remain intuitive for anyone with basic experience in 3D printing and DIY mechanics. The design avoids unnecessary complexity and is intentionally straightforward and easy to understand.

This version of the project is modified and improved. Large structural elements — primarily the gantry mounting and gantry-related parts — are intentionally split into multiple pieces for 3D printing, rather than being printed as single massive parts. This approach allows optimal placement of parts on the 3D printer build plate, simplifies printing, reduces the risk of defects, and improves the mechanical properties of the printed components. By breaking large elements into separate parts, it becomes possible to better control layer orientation and achieve higher stiffness where it is actually needed.

It is very important to correctly orient the parts on the 3D printer build plate. The orientation of each model directly affects print quality, the absence of defects, and the final stiffness of the part. Incorrect orientation can significantly weaken a component in load-critical directions, so it is strongly recommended to think in advance about layer direction to ensure strength where it is required during machine operation.

Infill can and should be adjusted over a wide range — approximately from 20% to 75%, depending on how the machine will be used and what materials you plan to cut. Lightly loaded parts can be printed with lower infill, while structural and load-bearing components should use higher infill values.

Special attention should be paid to parts that experience increased mechanical load or are located close to the spindle. Elements that are in direct contact with the spindle or operate in the heat-affected area should be printed from heat-resistant materials. PLA is not recommended for these parts; PETG, ABS, or various composite filaments are more suitable choices. Heavily loaded structural elements, including the main gantry mounting parts, should also be printed with relatively high infill to ensure sufficient stiffness and durability.

Most of the remaining parts can be printed from PLA. It provides adequate stiffness, is easy to print, and works well for this project when proper infill values and correct part orientation are used.

The IDCNC design is intentionally very simple: there are few parts, the assembly logic is obvious, and all nodes are easy to understand visually. For this reason, a detailed step-by-step assembly guide is not included in the current version of the project. If needed, such documentation may be added in the future if the project gains interest from the community and there is demand for more detailed instructions.

The project is fully open. It includes STL files for 3D printing and STEP files for editing, modifications, and remixes. The description also contains links to all required components, including parts that need to be printed or manufactured, as well as links to purchase standard components.

For machine control in this setup, I used an Arduino Uno with a CNC Shield, running GRBL firmware. There is a lot of information on YouTube on how to configure GRBL and get a CNC machine running, and I will also include a link to the GRBL documentation on GitHub for reference.

IDCNC is intended for working with plywood and wood-based materials, manufacturing printed circuit boards, and machining non-ferrous and soft metals. The estimated build cost is around 150 USD and may vary depending on region and selected components.

Thank you for watching.
List of components: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1kICcRHb-HDV_g57DRywbyeyG5wtM2x5IKCRrEDh5nZc/edit?usp=sharing
GRBL firmware on GitHub: https://github.com/gnea/grbl?utm_source

Useful links:

Firmware flashing & setup: https://youtu.be/hL2NtjQiJ5w

Stepper motors wiring (basics): https://youtu.be/7spK_BkMJys

Step-by-step setup & first run:
https://www.instructables.com/3020-CNC-Arduino-GRBL-CNC-Shield-V3/