Thoughts on Sorotec alu-line machine

[NordicCnc]

I've built a lot of machines that are used for mold or model making for wind tunnels etc in blocks of high-density foam or modeling clay and they use long tapered endmills that are 100mm or longer so, in this case, the rails on front plate design won't work as it cannot lift the tool clear of a tall block of foam.

These machines are designed at the outset for a specific purpose to do a specific job or jobs using similar materials within a known size range. The problem is that if you want an all-round machine to cut all materials and with larger material size range then there will always have to be some kind of compromise unless you take a radical approach and design outside the box so to speak.!

If you are using conventional build designs, which you are, then the machine will be compromised in some area it's as simple as that and there's no getting around it.!

If you want to explore outside the box then you can have a machine that will cut the complete range of materials without any compromises on cut quality and material size range other than the cutting area will be a little less in long-axis direction for the same size machine. I can be done but it's a completely different design that will cost more money.?

Regarding the budget I have planned to stay within 6000-7000€. I have already bougth the 180W JMC servos and power supplys. What is left of the budget is then 5150-6150€.

I am definately going for an all round build. Requirements are:

- 180W JMC servos.
- Work area of approximately 1000x1000x200mm. More is appreciated. Work area is needed for making furniture occasionally, custom signs etc.
- The machine needs to be moveable later when I build my own garage. I am currently using my fathers. This is why I am opting for aluminium profiles instead of a welded frame.
- Machine needs to be able to handle aluminium with good finish. The idea is that I could also potentionally use it to build a VMC later that would be for milling aluminium and steel.
- ATC spindle would be nice but it is not a requirement if it means that my budget will not be enough in other more important areas. I am looking at Jianken ATC spindles but I am open for suggestions!

Have I shoot myself in the foot with the JMC servos?

From where should I buy linear rails, bearings and ball screws? I have heard good things about BST automation.


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[JAZZCNC]

I have already bought the 180W JMC servos and power supplies. What is left of the budget is then 5150-6150€?

Cannot comment on the JMC servo's as I've never used them but power is power and 180W isn't massive so you'll have to be mindful of the weight and mass your moving around.
The budget is healthy though so definaltely possible to build a very nice machine.

The machine needs to be moveable later when I build my own garage. I am currently using my fathers. This is why I am opting for aluminum profiles instead of a welded frame.

Well if that's your main reason then it's the wrong way to think because while Aluminium is lighter than steel the total weight of machine this size will still be heavier than 1 or 2 men can handle safely so you'll still possibly need some lifting equipment. So why not just build the best machine you can and don't worry about the weight too much.

- Machine needs to be able to handle aluminum with good finish. The idea is that I could also potentially use it to build a VMC later that would be for milling aluminum and steel..

Again I wouldn't let this dictate the design of this machine because a VMC worth the effort requires building from steel and this machine won't machine steel to any great accuracy.

If it was me I'd look more along the lines of using this to make money and learn CNC then buy a used VMC that you can retrofit with new components. Or buy old Iron manual Mill and retrofit it to CNC. Both these options will be much better and far easier done than trying to build a VMC with a Router, no matter how well built it is.!

From where should I buy linear rails, bearings and ball screws? I have heard good things about BST automation.

Yes BST is a great place to buy from. Fred is the most helpful and trustworthy Guy I've ever dealt with and I highly recommend him.
Send him a message with your requirements asking for a quote including shipping and he'll get back to you quickly with a price. Mention Dean from Uk sent you and it may help with the price.

[NordicCnc]

Cannot comment on the JMC servo's as I've never used them but power is power and 180W isn't massive so you'll have to be mindful of the weight and mass your moving around.
The budget is healthy though so definaltely possible to build a very nice machine.




Well if that's your main reason then it's the wrong way to think because while Aluminium is lighter than steel the total weight of machine this size will still be heavier than 1 or 2 men can handle safely so you'll still possibly need some lifting equipment. So why not just build the best machine you can and don't worry about the weight too much.



Again I wouldn't let this dictate the design of this machine because a VMC worth the effort requires building from steel and this machine won't machine steel to any great accuracy.

If it was me I'd look more along the lines of using this to make money and learn CNC then buy a used VMC that you can retrofit with new components. Or buy old Iron manual Mill and retrofit it to CNC. Both these options will be much better and far easier done than trying to build a VMC with a Router, no matter how well built it is.!




Yes BST is a great place to buy from. Fred is the most helpful and trustworthy Guy I've ever dealt with and I highly recommend him.
Send him a message with your requirements asking for a quote including shipping and he'll get back to you quickly with a price. Mention Dean from Uk sent you and it may help with the price.

I will test the servos on my existing router that I built 10 years ago. That should give me a good indication of what they can handle.

What I meant by being able to move it was to get it out through the door. A welded steel frame that size wont fit out through the door haha! The weight itself is not an issue for the frame.

About the VMC, that is a good point. Maybe buying a manual mill and converting it would be the way togo. Also I know CNC, I am an educated CNC operator and has used many differeny CNC mills and lathes.

Thanks for the tip! Ill mention you and request a quotation! Thanks mate!

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