Introducing myself

[Chaz]

Hi,

I currently run a 3D printing business where we sell bits and kits - been looking at CNC for a while but went with the printers in the end and turned it into a small business.

I am currently relooking at CNC so help make parts for some printers that I have designed myself.

So I have some questions about using a Kress 1050 and if it will do light Aluminium work etc - but will just do a bit of reading and checking of posts for now.

Dont have a specific budget in mind - dont need anything too big - mostly smallish parts - I think max probably 300 x 300 x 100. Budget - say £1000 - 1500 ..... dont mind buying 2nd hand or assembling a kit either.

Fairly keen to see if one of our larger 3D printers (300 x 300 x 300 print area) could be converted to a light cnc machine. It will need a bit of work but not too difficult I think.

Thanks

[martin54]

Welcome to the forum Chaz, your biggest problem converting a 3D printer to use as a CNC machine is going to be making it rigid enough if you are intending cutting aluminium with it. Have a look through the build logs as it will give you a better idea.

[Chaz]

Welcome to the forum Chaz, your biggest problem converting a 3D printer to use as a CNC machine is going to be making it rigid enough if you are intending cutting aluminium with it. Have a look through the build logs as it will give you a better idea.

Understood. The frame that I have is fairly rigid but not enough so as it stands currently - perhaps light plastic work or similar - nothing more.

[Chaz]

Can anyone tell me if something like a Kress 1050 is suitable for light alu work or should I just go and look at the 2.2KW type spindles?

Thanks

[andrewbond]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OnlRMvJoycQ

Yes

[martin54]

If you are looking at a production environment for machining aluminium then a cress may not be your best option but for occasional use they seem to be ok as the video shows. Not used one myself so can't speak from personal experience.

[Chaz]

Thanks - its just a starting point - will check to see whats available once I am ready to buy.

So, taking a bash at my own design. Nothing special - keeping to basics - using this CNC as inspiration - will cost it all up and see what it will cost. Welcome to comment / crit etc. Inspiration from here (ie, this is what I am trying to copy). http://www.mycncuk.com/forums/router-build-logs/4764-jons-homemade-cnc-4.html

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8395/8747896639_9fa6a95de7_b.jpg

Thanks
8956

The bed is 120 x 30 profile, 1 meter long and 4 x 120 width. The other section is 120 x 60 profile - 480mm across and 200mm shorter segments for the sides. Of course still a load to do and look at.