Quote Originally Posted by Chaz View Post
Thanks again all. Problem is no 3 phase at home. I could run a VFD for the spindle. Cant help but get the feeling Im biting off more than I can chew :-(

Mmmmm. I dont know enough about whats good and what bits are good and the potential money pit is big I think, especially if I need to start to retrofit parts.
It's not difficult but does require some knowledge and plenty of research before commiting.

IMO all the machines you have shown so far are cheap (with exception of Denford) chinese imports. They are badged up with someone elses name on but all the same low quality machines.
I think you will be disspointed with the results and you will in the end up either chasing away problems they have and wasting money doing so or selling on.! . . . All cases you'll still Blow money.!!

Old machine and retro fit will serve you better in long run. Also You'll more than likely sell it for more than you payed if you ever do move on or upgrade.

To be honest for your needs with aluminium and plastics which requires higher spindle rpm/feeds I'd build a very strong Fixed Gantry machine and put the money into using good components and ATC spindle before waste on those Chinese Import Milling machines.
The mills will always perform below par for cutting aluminium and plastics compared to strong machine built and spec'd for the task.

Retro fitting a old machine with a high RPM spindle 8k plus would be only choice between building or buying. No way would I consider Small mill for cutting aluminium unless it had high rpm spindle and used Linear bearings.!!