Looking for a Mentor in Durham, NC

[bml6116]

Hello,

I am just starting to learn about CNC equipment. My ultimate goal is to build a CNC router for my woodworking shop.
I do have a little, but dated, background in instument control/lab automation. My first goal is to convert my manual mill (Webb) and Lathe (Namsun) to CNC and then utilize this equipment to build a CNC router. My hobby shop is fully equipped for woodworking and fairly well equipped for metal working (Mig, Stick welders, plasma cutter, grinder, press, bandsaw, cutoff saw, abrasive wheel, etc).
So, I am looking for someone with some experience in CNC, metal working, possibly with experience in converting a manual machine to CNC. My greatest weakness is the lack of knowledge and experince in electronics to share experiences, discuss ideas, etc.

Cheers,
Bernhard

[dfair]

Hi Guy, We have three of these "shade tree" motion control projects going
at one time. Here in Big D . Go Laacrose Town. Got lathe one completed that you would like to see. It does big wood...... Dfair35821@aol.com

[jogilliam]

ShopBot Tools is in Durham - they make a CNC router - you could go have a look. www.shopbottools.com

[bml6116]

Originally Posted by dfair Hi Guy, We have three of these "shade tree" motion control projects going at one time. Here in Big D . Go Laacrose Town. Got lathe one completed that you would like to see. It does big wood...... Dfair35821@aol.com

Yes, I would like to see the lathe! Email sent.

Bernhard

[bml6116]

Originally Posted by jogilliam ShopBot Tools is in Durham - they make a CNC router - you could go have a look. www.shopbottools.com

I have stopped by ShopBot to look at their routers a while ago. Also went to some shops that use them. The users I visited seem to like it: simple design, pretty rugged, low cost, easy to use.

But - and there is always a 'but'- the cost for their low end model is around $9k (4'x8', and that is pretty stripped down). The frame seems a bit weak. Rails for the gantry are above the table, can only be loaded from the end. All axis run on rack and pinion.

Not counting my time, materials for a more elaborate sytem with ball screws, Mach3, Rhino, solid steel frame, full access table should run about $6k.

Also, like to learn about all that stuff and like to build it myself.

Cheers,
Bernhard

[NC_jimbo]

"Not counting my time, materials for a more elaborate sytem with ball screws, Mach3, Rhino, solid steel frame, full access table should run about $6k."

Hey I'm kinda thinking about the same type machine but I don't mind the high gantry end loading design. I have procured new THK rails on Ebay over the last 3-4 months for all my axis for a 60x30x8".

Would like to chat about local solutions for metal supplies, milling, and other topics.

Me=Electrical engineer, extensive woodshop, Miller MIG.

[bobhillis]

Hi, I'm in rougemont NC. I have a little garage shop, 4" lathe, Enco mill, AC/DC welder etc. I am building a CNC router.

[bml6116]

Originally Posted by NC_jimbo "Not counting my time, materials for a more elaborate sytem with ball screws, Mach3, Rhino, solid steel frame, full access table should run about $6k." Hey I'm kinda thinking about the same type machine but I don't mind the high gantry end loading design. I have procured new THK rails on Ebay over the last 3-4 months for all my axis for a 60x30x8". Would like to chat about local solutions for metal supplies, milling, and other topics. Me=Electrical engineer, extensive woodshop, Miller MIG.

NC_Jimbo,

Good to hear that there is someone else in the neighborhood building a Router.
sent you a pm.

Cheers,
Bernhard

[bml6116]

Originally Posted by bobhillis Hi, I'm in rougemont NC. I have a little garage shop, 4" lathe, Enco mill, AC/DC welder etc. I am building a CNC router.

Bob,

Hello neighbour! My place is a bit in the country side, about 6m or so from Rougemont. We need to get together! With NC-Jimbo we may have a local chapter!!
Sent you a pm.
Cheers,
Bernhard