Quote Originally Posted by Grambot View Post
So, it seems that building a machine is the way to go here?

I'm wondering what the sort of costs would be for my needs - At least 500mm x 200+mm x 120mm, capable of +-0.1mm on wood and aluminium. And then some sort of enclosure, and dust extraction?
Nearly impossible to answer accurately because don't know your skill level and how well equiped you are.
The cheapist way is to build frame using steel box section but this requires you are equiped with welder etc. Knowing how to weld also helps but believe it or not isn't exactly vital.? if your prepared to have a go then quite easy to learn with just few days practise.

There are some key areas on machine, like Z aixs that are quite difficult to make without some machining work so you will probably have to pay someone to do this if not equiped with machines to help.

Like Gerry says Extraction is Very important on router and even more important if enclosed. You'll need serious vacuum system if enclosing, little Henry type Vac won't cut it if removing large amounts of chips.

For Good machine with reliable quality components (not including Vacuum system) then you realisticly need to budget for Minimum of £2K with £2.5k being probably closer to the mark.
If your well equiped and can use your tools then along with some savy buying you can get this down.

What you MUST NOT do is Rush the build or be tempted to Buy Cheap Electronic kits you see on Ebay Etc. This is sure fire way to waste money and at best end up with under performing machine. Worst case you end up with Night mare basket case of machine which will deflate and turn you off CNC for life.!!
Doens't need to be this way and if you have patience along with the good sense to ask and listen then you'll build machine that will fill you with pride and put huge smile on your face.

Suggest you start looking around the Forum at differant machine style etc and read the Build threads front to back. Then start thread of your own outlining what you have in mind regards style and Components. Then when we will come along rubbish all your suggestions, kick it about bit, flip it, then Bing bang before you know it you'll have Cunning plan and away you go.!

The secret to SUCCESS is NO BUYING, NO RUSHING and most of all NO SHERKIN.? By this I mean do the research, learn whats needed and don't try to take short cuts. Design the machine Make Plan then Start building.

Don't be afraid to ask any question no matter how stupid it may seem. We ALL will have asked it at some time.
No one here will Mock or berate you for Stupid question but we will take the Piss out of you if don't ask it and get it wrong. .

Go for it don't be afraid. BUT be HONEST WITH YOUR SELF, Ask self if sure you have the skills and mind set to do this. . . . If not you will Fail.!