Quote Originally Posted by Christian Knuell View Post
Hi,



This machine is absolutely unsuitable for any metal (unsupported rails on XYZ and most likely timing belts for AB -> by far not enough stiffness).
For aluminum you may be able to build a small 5 axis machine from $10000 upwards - for steel at least double that number.

But mechanics are only one issue - software is another:
  • "Cheap" 5 axis software starts at about $5000 (I'm not joking).
  • Even if you manage to get a copy of such software it will be useless because you need someone to program a post processor for your machines kinematics.
  • Don't expect this kind of software to be easy to use - even CNC programmers with years of experience usually need to visit expensive training courses to use those programs.


5 Axis machining is absolutely out of reach for any hobbyist and even most businesses.

By the way: the part you've shown is possible with 3 axis as far as I can see - you just need to flip it once.
But even for just 3 axis you won't be able to find a machine with the ability to machine steel for just £1000.

Christian

An extensive and compelling reply. Thank you very much Christian, I really appreciate that.

I thought from the beginning of my research that a 3 axis machine would be enough for my needs - but as it often goes with research one thing leads to another and you somehow convince yourself you always need the next machine 'up' as it where.

What about the Boxford machines converted with Mach3? They're able to do mild steel from what their website and staff would have you believe. At my current stage taking something out and physically flipping it would be fine - how hard is this to do and align properly?

My budget is probably around £2500 but id obviously like to spend less than that if I can. And im happy to wait a bit to do so.

As another opinion, what do you reckon to this? (for Alu, not Mild)...

https://www.gumtree.com/p/other-misc...ine/1133751010

J