Using festool MFT table as CNC base

[FrancisChie]

Did some quick mock up layout on sketchup, its nice that both components are available already on sketchup warehouse.

I'm going to convert my shapeoko 2 sooner once I get my build done and able to cut some custom adapter for the mounting. It should make my build area bigger and can still easily disassemble for storage.

[RobCee]

Great idea, but you may want to make it easy to remove, as you can make a much better table for the price of an MFT!

Given that you want to pursue the idea, I would think about the following:

• Make sure that the plates that mount the MakerSlides to the MFT are sturdy (probably steel).
  You will probably want an extra support along the Y-Axis, halfway down
  Although it is tempting not to have them, you will benefit from some end supports, even if they are not going all the way across. Without them it will have a tendency to rock, causing inaccuracies.

Alternatively, you can purchase the MFT worktop separately as Festool consider it a consumable. It is much less expensive but still has CNC cut dog holes on the useful pattern.

[FrancisChie]

Yes. My design goal is to be able to slide the whole gantry for quick removal. All wirings and controller are already within this assembly which makes it more easier to dissamble without disconnecting any motor wires.

I'm still using my MFT for cutting using festool plunge saw and don't want my MFT to be just CNC.

I was also thinking what you suggested to add middel support on Y axis but I think it might not be necessary, I measure the Y axis and its just around 1000mm and X is less than that. The 1000mm shapeoko 2 upgrade also does not add support between the railing but only for the cutting board area which festool is already sturdy on that area.

My end support will be the same end support of shapeoko but will be mounted on the end-side intead of the front.