dual purpose cnc router

[junkmail]

I am looking to build a medium sized router in the 24 x 36" or so range and want to be able to cut a variety of materials sucha as solid wood, particleboard, mdf, and aluminum (up to 1/2" thick). I now the wood and wood substates will not be a problem, but how about the aluminum cutting on the same machine? What design issues / changes do you recommend - short of 2 seperate machines?

I am consudering using the data cut plans with slight madifications - anyone else use these?

Thank all

Dan

[Cold Fusion]

I am doing almost the same thing as you. Here are my plans. 30x30 table.

[InventIt]

Originally posted by junkmail ...wood, particleboard, mdf, and aluminum (up to 1/2" thick). I now the wood and wood substates will not be a problem, but how about the aluminum cutting on the same machine? What design issues / changes do you recommend - short of 2 seperate machines? Dan

Dan,
The few major issues seem to be rigidity, mass, (which comes with a ridged machine) and type of bearings. You'll need a heavy ridged machine. The cutter bit will have a tendency to chatter as it cuts. Your machine needs to absorb that vibration. Don't skimp on the bearings. Use large Thompson supported rod or THK linear rails. Also you’ll need at least 30+ IPM to keep the cutter bit from loading. Of course coolant helps also.

I can cut alum my machine. You may want to check it out.
http://www.cnczone.com/forums/showth...&threadid=2249

Search CNC Zone for “aluminum” or “milling” or “end bit”.