Using a CNC machine to double as a plasma cutter ?

[Danno]

I know some of you may think I've gone off the deep end, but give it some thought and give me an idea of some problems I may run into.
Here's my scenario;
I converted a Hurco KMB1 to run on Mach3, and the machine runs great. I would now like to build a small plasma table, and thought "why not use the CNC mill"??
This machine is just for hobby use, and I really don't use it that often.
I only want to be able to cut small brackets and was going to make a tray to fit over the machine table with either a thick metal bottom, or even 1-2 inches of water.
The machine would be protected from sparks with shielding. The torch head could be mounted on the spindle, and I would just have to program 0 RPM in CAD.
What do you think ?? Doable ?? Or am I smoking something ??Be gentle !!

[jimcolt]

Many users with cnc mills have adapted plasma torches to their machines. Often, a bracket is cantelevered off the edge of the mill, and a work holding bracket is done in a similar manner. This keeps the sparks, molten metal and fumes away from the critical components on your mill, and allows you to fabricate some sort of downdraft or water table smoke collector.

Choose a plasma that does not use high frequency starting....this can cause electrical noise issues that may wreck havoc on your cnc controller.

Jim

[Danno]

Thanks Jim;
I know what you mean about the high frequency !! I found out the hard way when I was halfway through machining a part, I decided to fire up my TIG to weld some aluminum. The CNC shut down instantly !!
I don't have enough room in front of the machine, and that's why I thought of fabricating a "box" to fit on the CNC table. I was kinda hoping that if I had an inch or so of water on the bottom of the box, that it would be sufficient to capture any sparks and debris.
Dan

[jemmyell]

Maybe they can sell you some mounting brackets.

-James