I'm a student at the University of Colorado. I took their intro to machining course, and have since used the university's machine shop a number of times. I have been making parts which were relatively simple, but there are more complicated pieces (for instance, with circular profiles) that I'd like to make. I've done a good deal with electronics and more with programming. Given this background, I would like to purchase/build a 3-axis CNC and start making some more complicated parts. I've looked some into possible avenues, from modifying a Bridgeport-type or mill/drill to purchasing a dedicated CNC (Emco, Dyna Myte 2400). There are probably options I haven't even considered. Thus, I would really like some input from people with experience - What are my options, and what would anyone suggest doing? Are there any kits which are particularly good? Are there any dedicated CNC Mills which are particularly good in the price range?
My goal is to have a three- or four-axis CNC that can mill mainly aluminum (and a little steel). The maximum part size I hope to make is 12"x5"x5" (though a little bigger is obviously always better). I do not mind a big machine (I even looked into a Bridgeport), but I realize these are difficult to find at this price range, and I do only have single-phase power. I am a student, and I don't have a lot of time to invest in a big project (a couple of weekends would be fine, but a month-long project seems too long). I'm hoping to spend around $3000 for the machine and initial tools required, but would be willing to spend a little more for a four-axis CNC mill or a CNC to which I could add a fourth axis in the future. I would appreciate any suggestions and help you may have.
Intended Applications: making PCBs, making aluminum/steel pieces for cars/quadcopters/robots, making electronics housings (not just boxes, but more complicated structures), making models of various spacecraft, etc.
One last note: I do not care about brand names or new/used status (for instance, I'd be open to purchasing something through the auctions on this site), but I would like to be sure that upkeep of the machine won't be more work than machining the parts by hand.
Thank you for any help you can give.
Yavin
My goal is to have a three- or four-axis CNC that can mill mainly aluminum (and a little steel). The maximum part size I hope to make is 12"x5"x5" (though a little bigger is obviously always better). I do not mind a big machine (I even looked into a Bridgeport), but I realize these are difficult to find at this price range, and I do only have single-phase power. I am a student, and I don't have a lot of time to invest in a big project (a couple of weekends would be fine, but a month-long project seems too long). I'm hoping to spend around $3000 for the machine and initial tools required, but would be willing to spend a little more for a four-axis CNC mill or a CNC to which I could add a fourth axis in the future. I would appreciate any suggestions and help you may have.
Intended Applications: making PCBs, making aluminum/steel pieces for cars/quadcopters/robots, making electronics housings (not just boxes, but more complicated structures), making models of various spacecraft, etc.
One last note: I do not care about brand names or new/used status (for instance, I'd be open to purchasing something through the auctions on this site), but I would like to be sure that upkeep of the machine won't be more work than machining the parts by hand.
Thank you for any help you can give.
Yavin