How much should it cost?

[dmgdesigns]

First thanks for all the great information. I have been reading for quite a while and joined a short while ago.
Now, I have decided to build a machine. This will be a production machine for our small business. I purchased the DATA-Cut plans with the Digital Group option thinking that this would make getting parts machined a little easier and cheaper. It is the size we need so minimum modification is required. It looks to be a very sound and well designed machine. I am sure to get the right product out of the machine I would be better off having the parts machined in a shop. That being said does anyone have a ballpark figure as the cost of machining the aluminum flat stock. I was wondering how I should react when a price is quoted.
A( Laugh, thinking this person is not serious then excuse myself.
B( Smile, put on my poker face and think OK that is a good starting point.
C( Grin, and get it in writing.

If someone in the Houston area is interested in a small job like this let me know.

[Hobbiest]

First thing to find out, (ofcourse I don't know the machining operations required for this table) is whether the pieces are to be machined on a mill, or cut out with a plasma cutter. A plasma cutter/laser will invariably make much shorter work of sheet cuts than a mill, but the equipment may incure higher hourly fees. Find out what the shop rate is per hour. Most shops should be around $60-70 or so, depending on the area ($70 in CA for example, $60 in OR). Here is the most important part though. Make sure that you stay on them about the job. Some shops will horse around and take a long time because they don't view it as a priority. The biggest thing is realizing how your budget will be offset by your new machine

[Cold Fusion]

Hello dmgdesigns, I also live in Houston. My router is also for my small business and I need a person to machine my aluminum frame. As of now I'm having a cnc shop that I know do it. Only problem for you is they are in Colorado. I could get a quote if you email me basic info.

BTW, what part of Houston do you live in?

[dmgdesigns]

Yes a current hourly rate is what I was looking for. Hobbiest I know what you mean by "Not a priority". That is why I was wanting to get an idea of the rates shops charge. I had a small job I needed mill work on lasts year. I took it to a couple of places and was quoted some outrageous prices. I assumed they did not have time for a customer who would probably not return. I worked as a machinist from 75 to 91. I am ashamed to say I was guilty of this as well. Karmic justice I guess. We charged 37.50 when calculating labor back then.

The job will be basic mill work on aluminum plate for the table top and gentry parts. Basically the parts that require close tolerances for alignment purposes. Sizes will be .5" to 1" 6160. The largest piece is 35" X 60" .5" plate with 40+ holes 3 sizes and counter bores.

Cold Fusion I live in League City south of Houston. I read your post "Where to buy aluminum" Did you find a low cost place in Houston?