choosing a spindle.

[routercnc]

Since you want to use long tools, don't get the 1.5kW version as it only comes with an ER16 collet and not ER20. That leaves 2.2kW or larger and larger wont really gain anything here so go for the 2.2kW spindle.

Typo through speed typing?! My 1.5kW water cooled spindle came with an ER11 which is max ~7mm or 1/4" collets. 2.2kW is usually ER20 so max ~13mm or 1/2" collets.
I can easily cut any wood with 1.5kW so power is not a problem, but to give best range of cutters I would also suggest 2.2kW water cooled.

Can't remember exact import duty but it was in the range of a few tens of pounds - still good value overall.

Chai trades under the name 'linearmotionbearings2008' on ebay. Good reputation, good communication.

If you go water cooled you'll the you might be asking next about cooling systems. In short nothing special is required so search this forum for methods used. I used a radiator and fan designed for overclocking water cooled PCs, but have discovered through use that this is overkill. Others have just pumped the water to a large metal bucket on the floor and been fine.

[Jonathan]

1.5KW WATER COOLED SPINDLE MOTOR ER16 & VFD DRIVE INVERTER 80mm Diameter | eBay

has any one had one from the Portsmouth supplier are they actually the same thing? the pictures all seam to vary and there is no mention of if its 3 or 4 bearings. I was going to get one from cnc4u but they are out of stock for 8 weeks till there next shipment.

Apparently all these spindles come from one of two factories. I wouldn't worry about the pictures.. just pick one. If you're application warranted getting a better quality spindle, then I'd suggest a specific one from www.aliexpress.com (which would cost quite a lot more), but for cutting foam / wood any of them will be fine.

Typo through speed typing?! My 1.5kW water cooled spindle came with an ER11, not ER16, which is max ~7mm or 1/4" collets

1.5kW spindles are available with ER16, but you're right - I meant to say ER11.

This thread is rapidly becoming a duplicate of this one, mainly due to me admittedly.