Hey All,

I am totally new to this and need some guidance.

I need to build a cnc machine for making male plugs for composite moulds. These will be primerily made out of foam.

After some contemplating i think a router is the best option over a hotwire.

Can anyone reccomend a good kit for controllers and motors and also for the actual gantry itself to save building from scratch. I need to build this quickly but at the same time are on a budget.

If my CAD/CAM package supports G-Code output do i then need any software to control the machine or do the kits come with appropriate drivers to interface with the modelling software.

Any advice much appreciated.

Many thanks

The best inexspensive kits for motors and drives are at www.hobbycnc.com

The only machine kit that I know of is the one that Joe sells for his machine, but it only includes the wood and plastic parts.

You'll need control software to read the g-code and run the machine. Mach3 is the most popular. www.artsoftcontrols.com

Hi 51,
What wingspan are you desiring to cut? Knowing that will help define your cnc table size. I have quickly outgrown my JGRO table and often wish for more length in both the X and Y axis. I can cut a 30x15 inch block of material, but often wish those dimensions were larger.
Dave

Well initially looking to make sports models up to about 60" span and max chord probably about 20-25" but also want to route fuselages as well. Simular legnth 60-70".

Long term aim it to make up to 50% size so total span 140" at largest 2 piece, could even do the fuses in 2 or 4 parts as well i guess.

Im guessing as a glider dude you are well versed on the composite side of things, you are probably in a good position to direct me.

The aim is to route the male plugs from blue foam using the router (still trying to work out the best method of finishing these if you have any tips) then make the moulds from this. Does this sound like the right direction?? Will a 3 axis do the job or will i need something that cab tild the router as well?

Ideally i would like to buy a gantry kit if possible as i have looked at the plans and just dont have the time to cut the parts.

Look forward to your reply.

A51

51,
You are on the right track. You biggest decision is going to be which router table to build or buy. I run a JGRO DIY table, and i have only a 30 inch max span capability. Its a big drag not having a longer X axis.

If your budget can afford it, you should go the ShopBot table. There are multiple sizes to choose. They are a good chunk of money though.

If you plan to build an MDF table, then you should go with the Joe2006. Contact Joe, and buy a short kit from him. He cuts all the wood and ships it to your door. His table is not long enough though to do what you want done.

I wonder if he will build a longer version of his table for you.

Another DIY table that is long enough is called the MechMate. This is a steel table that requires some welding. It's modeled after the ShopBot. Plans are free. The have a separate Forum to support their group.

Hey GG,

Thanks for the advice, a real help!!! there are so many options out there its a bit of a minefield. Have emailed Joe through the yahoo group to get some prices on the JCNC. Do you use the hobbycnc electrics with that?

So where did you learn about composites are there forums to support that as well?

What technique do you use to produce your models?

What software do you tend to use? Ive got Autocad but having read through the forums it doesn;t seem to be mentioned that much. I also have rhino which looks good as well. Need to pick one and master it i think.

Im gonna checkout the shopbot and mechmate this weekend.

Cheers for now