Introducing myself

[Chaz]

Hi,

I currently run a 3D printing business where we sell bits and kits - been looking at CNC for a while but went with the printers in the end and turned it into a small business.

I am currently relooking at CNC so help make parts for some printers that I have designed myself.

So I have some questions about using a Kress 1050 and if it will do light Aluminium work etc - but will just do a bit of reading and checking of posts for now.

Dont have a specific budget in mind - dont need anything too big - mostly smallish parts - I think max probably 300 x 300 x 100. Budget - say £1000 - 1500 ..... dont mind buying 2nd hand or assembling a kit either.

Fairly keen to see if one of our larger 3D printers (300 x 300 x 300 print area) could be converted to a light cnc machine. It will need a bit of work but not too difficult I think.

Thanks

[martin54]

Welcome to the forum Chaz, your biggest problem converting a 3D printer to use as a CNC machine is going to be making it rigid enough if you are intending cutting aluminium with it. Have a look through the build logs as it will give you a better idea.

[Chaz]

Welcome to the forum Chaz, your biggest problem converting a 3D printer to use as a CNC machine is going to be making it rigid enough if you are intending cutting aluminium with it. Have a look through the build logs as it will give you a better idea.

Understood. The frame that I have is fairly rigid but not enough so as it stands currently - perhaps light plastic work or similar - nothing more.

[Chaz]

Can anyone tell me if something like a Kress 1050 is suitable for light alu work or should I just go and look at the 2.2KW type spindles?

Thanks

[andrewbond]

Yes

[martin54]

If you are looking at a production environment for machining aluminium then a cress may not be your best option but for occasional use they seem to be ok as the video shows. Not used one myself so can't speak from personal experience.