Hi Alastair, We don’t recommend modifications to exceed the machine limit, as higher speeds may affect machine accuracy and reliability. The WorkBee Z1+ is designed around the lead screw system to prioritise precision (up to ±0.1mm achievable) rather than very high travel speeds. That said, you may be able to improve overall job times by optimising feeds, depths of cut, tooling, and CAM strategies depending on the material being machined. Feel free to reach out to us if you need any help with this.
Hi Graham, Thanks for your order! For the 1500 x 1500mm WorkBee Z1+, the recommended minimum workbench/table size is 1700 x 1700mm. According to the Ooznest dimensions guide, the overall machine volume is approximately 1645 x 1625 x 510mm, so you’ll want at least that much clear physical space around the machine. We’d also recommend allowing some additional clearance around the sides and rear for cable routing, maintenance access, and dust extraction if you plan to use it. You can find the full dimensions guide here: WorkBee Critical Machine Dimensions Let us know if you have additional questions!
Hi Elliot, we're sorry for the delay. This kind of issue is often related to the Y-axis lead screw or coupling on the near side. If the spindle feels loose, it’s worth checking that the lead screw is properly secured in the flexible coupling and that the bearings and mounting points are tightened correctly. We’d also recommend ensuring both Y-axis motors are wired and configured correctly, as they should move in sync rather than one pulling the other. If you are still having this issue, please contact our technical support team via https://ooznest.co.uk/help/. Hope that helps!
Hi Lloyd, Sorry to hear about the issues you are having. If you go to Control > Console you can see the full error. We have made a guide on solving the Outside Machine Limits error here: Outside Machine Limits Troubleshooting Give that a read and let me know if it does not solve your issue. (Please note if you have an M3 error, this error is not the reason why your job is not running. The M3 error is just trying to set the speed on a spindle. But with the WorkBee we use manual speed control router heads.) If the issue continues, reach out to us directly so we can help you further: https://ooznest.co.uk/help/
Hi Ezra, Sorry for the delay in our reply. If your G-code file is loading successfully but no toolpath is visible in the preview, this is usually related to how the file is being displayed rather than an issue with homing or probe calibration. We recommend checking that the correct visualisation settings are enabled in the G-code viewer, such as ensuring the preview mode is active and that the view is zoomed appropriately to fit the workspace. It’s also worth confirming that the file you’re using is one of the provided project files from our website and hasn’t been modified, as these are set up to display correctly with the recommended software. If the issue continues, reach out to us directly at https://ooznest.co.uk/help/
Hi Pete, It sounds like the machine may not have the correct size set in the firmware. Please check this step in our guide: Step 3 – Set Machine Size — it’s easy to miss during setup. If you've already done that and the issue continues, feel free to reach out to us directly at ooznest.co.uk/help and we’ll be happy to assist!
Hi Ralph, Mounting 2 vertical 20x60 extrusions onto 20x20 horizontals with free-moving gantry plates is absolutely doable. To help you choose the right gantry carriages, we’d need a bit more info—like where you want the carriages positioned and how they’ll be used—so we can recommend the best option. Please send us a rough sketch of your project at help@ooznest.co.uk As for locking them in place, you can use sliding extrusion nuts in the slot with M5 screws and aluminum spacers to build a simple stop. While we don’t currently stock hand-operated knobs, you might find “M5 knobs” with threaded studs from local or online hardware suppliers, which would replace the M5 screws for easy manual adjustment. I hope this helps and looking forward to hearing from you!
Hi Ted! Yes, you need to factor in post-processing. The Duet Controller uses RepRapFirmware, which requires G-code with full modal commands on every line (e.g., G1 X... Y... Z...). FreeCAD may not have a built-in Duet-compatible post processor, so check the FreeCAD forums or consider using another CAM tool to generate compatible G-code. Learn more here: http://docs.duet3d.com/User_manual/Machi... I hope this helps but let me know if you have additional questions.