That is hard to say, because it is territory that I havn't tested before. I design these things on gut feel and then see what they do in the shop. Part 10 30 455 was designed long ago and there I think 1/8" might be okay.

But, I released the drawing for 10 40 432 before I had really tested the design. Ideally I was wanting it thicker (5mm [3/16"]) but was worried that a bending company wouldn't manage all those bends neatly, so I went down one thickness. It might well be that 1/8" is sufficient. To test it, slide the z-slide all the way to one end, then push-pull that end with about 35kg [80 lbs] force in the x-direction and see if the spider is flexing.

I'll try to setup a test later today. I'll use a dial indicator. I know there will be some flex so we will need a control test from someone that has a thicker spider, and we will need to mirror the 2 test.

Can you rig a horizontal dial, base to the Y-car, "finger" to the spider between the upper pair of rollers?

I think so. It will be about 3 hrs until I get back.

With the dial indicator positioned like we agreed (finger as close to the bent stop as possible) I applied the pressure just above the spider on the gauge plate. I put approx 80 lbs in one direction along the X, then the same in the other direction along the X. The total movment was .007". This did not seem like a lot of movment. Where I applied pressure could also have added a little, because of the leverage of the guide wheels thru the gauge plate bla, bla, bla.

What is your overall feeling - is your plate stiff enough?

I'll post the results when I make my first cuts.

I will be out of town for the next 10 days:(. I am going to try my sons laptop w/wireless, if I can figure it out maybe I can keep in touch.

Just so everyone knows, I have one set set of parts on hand that I can ship out. This is my last set, I will not be doing any more. If someone wants to grab these real quick.........$350 shipped......email me for details.

Again...ONLY 1 SET....these are already cut, and being bent right now, so little or no wait time.

I am interested....how would you like payment?
Best Regards,
Sean.

All Sold.