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How does a CoreXY Gantry System Work?

2025-11-03 | By Andrew Kazour

3D Printer Motors Stepper

The CoreXY Gantry system is one of the most used gantry systems in the world. It is used for speed, efficiency, and mechanical simplicity by offering a unique way of moving the payload around the gantry. It keeps both motors stationary and uses belts to move around whatever is attached very accurately.

Image of How does a CoreXY Gantry System Work? CoreXY | Cartesian Motion Platform

Instead of each motor controlling only one axis directly, the belts are routed in a special crossed pattern so that the movement of one motor moves the payload diagonally, and the coordinated movement of both motors allows precise control of X and Y positioning. This design reduces the moving mass since the motors don’t travel with the gantry, allowing for faster and more efficient motion while maintaining accuracy.

The equations for moving the gantry are relatively simple! It is a simple equation to move in any direction by adding and subtracting the gantry movements together.

Image of How does a CoreXY Gantry System Work? CoreXY | Cartesian Motion Platform

One of the best parts of CoreXY is the implementation. You can use many different materials like fabric, metal, or strings, and it will still work, because at its foundation, the system depends on the geometry of its crossed-belt layout rather than the material itself. The two belts are routed in a specific pattern across idler pulleys and anchored to the moving carriage. When a motor turns, it either shortens or lengthens one side of a belt loop, which in turn shifts the carriage in a controlled direction.

Image of How does a CoreXY Gantry System Work?

Unlike a traditional Cartesian gantry, where each motor drives a single axis, CoreXY requires both motors to work in coordination to produce motion. For instance, moving purely in the X direction involves both motors spinning the same way, while moving in the Y direction has them turning opposite ways. Diagonal motion is achieved by varying motor speeds relative to one another, allowing for precise vector control.

Image of How does a CoreXY Gantry System Work? Cartesian                CoreXY

In conclusion, the CoreXY gantry system represents an elegant solution to the challenges of precision motion control. By using a crossed-belt configuration and synchronized motor operation, it reduces mass, improves speed, and delivers high accuracy compared to traditional Cartesian designs. Its flexibility in materials and construction methods also makes it accessible to both professional engineers and hobbyists alike. While it demands careful calibration to achieve peak performance, the benefits of efficiency, reliability, and adaptability make CoreXY a standout choice in modern fabrication systems such as 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines.

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