Does anybody know if anybody makes a direct drive spindle similar to that of the wood router spindles (perske/columbo style) for soft metals (aluminum). Basicly im looking for a low speed (<10000 rpm) wood spindle? oh, and affordable?

thanks.

I think that's a tough order to fill. I don't know a whole lot about all the motors out there but 10,000 rpm isn't a common speed. Generally too slow for wood, too fast for metal. Take a look at ebay, as there are many reconditioned spindles popping up and you might find something that fits the bill. I think you'll find that if it is capable of 10,000, and it is direct drive, it won't have much torque at slower speeds which may be a problem for aluminum.

Is belt driven out of the question? Sherline makes some nice variable speed units that are made to handle metal. With a belt switch, you have two speed ranges: 150-2,200 and 1,500-10,000 rpm. This covers a pretty good range. They are also affordable ($200-450). Only down side is they are limited to ER16 collets (3/8" max shank).

Carlo

Checkout Wolfgang Engineering on ebay, also checkout the Sherline commercial spindles, also a very good value. Then there is CNCONABUDGET.COM for additional spindles.