Need expert guidance on rookie DIY build.

[Steeki]

Apologies for the very basic drawing using MS Paint. But it should show what I have in mind regarding the machine, and what is required for the product.

[Steeki]

Could I use the likes of a handheld mini drill as my cutting tool?

[GEOFFREY]

Could I use the likes of a handheld mini drill as my cutting tool?

5mm steel, 12mm slot drill!!! I don't think so. G.

[Steeki]

5mm steel, 12mm slot drill!!! I don't think so. G.

Right. Okay.

So what could I use?

[EddyCurrent]

Could I use the likes of a handheld mini drill as my cutting tool?

I wouldn't think so, also this needs thinking about more because it now seems overkill to build a 3 axis machine for such a simple operation.
It's made more difficult due to the pipe being steel, if it was wood for example I would make a larger tube to go over it, this larger tube would have the required slots already cut in it then I would use a router with a guide bush to follow the slots while cutting the workpiece tube inside, if you follow my drift.

[JAZZCNC]

Plasma is what you need. The forces to cut steel, even with Slot drill are much more than you probably realise if your suggesting to use Dremel type spindle.
The spindle will need to be slow spinning with plenty of torque. The Milling head will need to be very strong and clamp the pipe tight to handle the forces involved.

While Plasma cutter will cost more than spindle the cycle times for jobs will be much faster if you used plasma and the overall machine strength can be lot less as there are no cutting forces involved saving money on the build. These two things alone will outway the expense and pay back down the line.

No brainer to me Plasma is the way to do this.! . . . . . Just look around every machine doing this job uses Plasma or Laser.!!!