Z mounted 4th axis

[EddyCurrent]

It would certainly not be appropriate to convert the item you linked to for use with a spindle. There should be no problem using it mounted on the machine bed because standard software would work fine and I can't see much disadvantage from a machining point of view compared to your proposed conversion other than larger stock size might be accommodated.
It may be that a robot arm is your desire so it might be best to investigate that route instead.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Fanuc-s-42...item233934e868

[Jonathan]

Beat you to it on that one:



Over two years later, I've still not thought of anything worthwhile to make with it. You could program it with CNCtoolkit, or common sense if simple stuff.

[charlieuk]

Beat you to it on that one:



Over two years later, I've still not thought of anything worthwhile to make with it. You could program it with CNCtoolkit, or common sense if simple stuff.

Good work there Jonathan! Mounting to the bed is not a option unfortunately with the size of material i am working with It would be great for cutting surfboards or more specifically stand up paddle boards and other craft like from foam, it would work very well for that as you get very deep rails and near verticals that mean you have to have very long cutter so being able to come from the side would help with that a lot.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9zYrr4jNfWI

[Clive S]

Beat you to it on that one:



Over two years later, I've still not thought of anything worthwhile to make with it. You could program it with CNCtoolkit, or common sense if simple stuff.

Good way to snap your spindle cable off though ..Clive