Selecting the right CNC Mill - Advise needed

[Rich05]

Hi all this is what I need what machine(s) should I be bidding on?

Working space = 2 Car garage, one phase hopefully but looking into a 3 phase conversion.

Budget = $13,000

X travel = 13 inches long, but part is 25.5 inches so a big X Travel would be best, so the part does not need to be moved around to cut it from one end to the other.

3 Axis machine.

Controller?? No idea, we have G-Code made up from PC though allready most of the time.

Lastly I want to make parts without allot of hastle, not skilled in CNC machining so its going need to be a machine that does not need allot extra work to get it to operate, user friendly?.

So basically there is allot of things here, the machine can't be monster, can't be $20,000, can't be run down old machine that drives me crazy, has to be able to do machine shop quality work, has to be able to do fairly large parts, easy to use. Don't want to have to ever upgrade the machine.

I know this is expecting allot so far everything looked at on ebay allways falls short in one spec. or another. either its a 2 axis, or too big, too expensive, or x travel is too short etc.

Thanks R.

[Geof]

Originally Posted by Rich05 ....I know this is expecting allot.... Thanks R.

I think most people would agree you are expecting too much. You need to either double your budget (at least) or greatly lower your expectations. Someone with a lot of experience can make that experience substitute for hard cash and get something cheap and make it work adequately. If you do not have the knowledge and experience you need to buy right the first time.

[Rich05]

i am looking for used machine.
any ideas of the closest machine to what i need.

i have seen bridgeport EZ track for as low as 18k so how is my budget half of what it needs to be. or is Bridgeport machines EZ track not good for what i specified ?

[Caprirs]

I bought my two VMCs for $25K including both machines, rotary phase converters, vises, and CT30 tool holders. Travels are 14 x 10 x 14, 10K rpm, rigid tapping, flood coolant, etc. They are Dynamechtronics DM4400M machines with Mitsubishi M3 controls. They fit under the garage door by removing the Z axis servo. http://evlgt85.com/gallery/maschinen

The key is that I used to work for Dyna. I know the machines, I know the previous owner, and I can fix them myself. There have been problems with them but my knowledge allows me to fix them quickly.

How comfortable are you doing machine repair? There are good deals to be had on used machines that need a little work. However, this can be treacherous sailing for many. Typically, shops don't get rid of machines until the machine is not profitable.

[Rich05]

nice machines indead. would you be willing to part with one?, you look like your are in S. Cal. tell me if you would like to sell one?

i have no machine servicing experience so a machine that is malfunctioning regularly would be a problem..

[Caprirs]

I'm in Phoenix actually. Not interested in selling at this time. Besides, you would be better off with a longer travel in X by your description of your part. The VMCs typically go from 20 x 16 and then jump in size to 30 x 16 which also makes them impossible to get through a garage door. I think a CNC knee mill will be your sole option as that's the only thing I can think of with sufficient travels and still get in the garage. I would guess a Servo or Anilam control which are easy to use.

Do you need a tool changer? How many parts do you need to run? You say "machine shop qaulity work". What sort of precision are you looking for?

[Rich05]

don't know how much precision, getting the knee mill is the right option I think your right, but man those machines look sweet..


OK so I am going to buy on Monday morning a 1996 Bridgeport 2 axis EZ Track for $12,000. The owner is a really nice guy he lives in my town and is willing to do some handholding.

The machine is only a two axis the seller told me a 3 axis will not be needed. So basically I am around 10k a bit over.

What do you think? I know thats an open ended question

[Caprirs]

To me, that sounds like a lot of money for that kind of machine. I say that because VMCs can be had for that price. For example, this Bridgeport VMC. I'm not a fan of these Bridgeports for serious production because they are lighter and less rigid than a Haas. However, that doesn't make them bad machines. They may be perfect for your application because of the size and features. That machine would be an order of magnitude better than a knee mill if you can get it in the garage door.

I ask about the quanities and precision because you can get gantry router machines for a lot less money that are 3 axis and have travels around 48" x 48". There are no tool changers, no rigid tapping and take only light cuts. However, they can be ideal for certain applications. Single phase power, fit under any ceiling, less expensive.

[davo727]

How about one of these: http://www.industrialhobbies.com/ Their standard cnc mill ready to go is $9000.00 comes with everything, even the computer. X travel 30inches, Y-12 in , Z 20 inches! And it will fit in a garage no problem. Dave

[Rich05]

So basically $12,000 is too much for a 1996 EZ track, 2 Axis?

Is it a huge plus to have the 3rd axis? Is this something that most people want to have after getting confortable with the CNC process?

This is a tough decision...

[DRD]

12k is alot for the machine yor looking at.
What type of parts are you going to make?
The 3 axis machine will come in handy down the road for sure. You will soon find out, the machine will limit you in how fast parts can be machined. There will be a learing cuve on any machine you purchase. I would be looking used vmc with a tool changer.
At the minium, a nice knee mill with a 3 axis control on it , would be a great starter machine.

Good luck.

[davo727]

2 axis cnc is going to suck, If you are going to spend the money go with 3 axis from the start.