Potential Live Shaft Changes

Another thing I've learned during the CNC kit testing is that even though the coil spring dimensions are in the BOM, the different materials have a significantly greater impact on spring stiffness and axial preload than I expected.

The LDO-supplied springs were much softer than what I was used to from my 1.5-year experience with the Ali springs from the sheet BOM. This drop in preload immediately led to issues in one of my XY joints, where the press-fit live shaft pulley's flange started rubbing against the F695 bearing. This noise can even be heard in my Flow Rate Test 1 videos.

So I started looking into options where we don't even have enough stroke length for that to happen. It led me to M5 disc springs, which have a really tight ID, and they seem to distribute the load more evenly than 3-wave washers. It's also crucial not to have any exposed sharp edges right next to the belts.

Obviously, on the sheet metal gantry, where plate thicknesses vary a lot, this solution will require more accurate shimming in general compared to coil springs.

If you're looking for the easiest solution, I'd probably recommend the printed, slightly compressible spacers from the printed BOM, which are the best of both worlds.

Anyone who wants to give these disc springs a try, here's the link (10x5.2x0.25mm): www.aliexpress.com/item/1005001651111139.html