So we have had a bit of progress.
Got the Chinese Z axis in the mail today, Its look pretty well built for the price, not that I really have anything to compare it to, But I'm pretty happy and hope it will do the job.
I've also realized that I will need to get a plate machined that will bolt on to the Z axis and connect the breakaway torch.
I'll have to wait for the breakaway to get measurements and see who I can get to do it.
I also received the timing belt tensioner things in the mail.
I hooked a motor up to the x axis and connected up to my old controller to see how it stands up.
It seams to work ok. I'm not sure it will last and I may move to using rack and pinion (and a reduction system if I can find one)
But for the time being I think it will suffice, plus I already have all the gear here so will cost me nothing.
So while I'm waiting on the magic box from Candcnc I started looking into plasma cutters.
I have read so many threads all over the internet regarding a plasma.
My old machine has a 100amp BOC (australian Brand) unit. and while this is a good cutter for hand held, its not great for mechanical work.
From everything I've read hypertherm is the way to go.
Originally I had my heart set on a powermax 65, stupid me was looking at US prices and thought yeah I could make that price work.
Then I went to a local dealer and they told me I'd be looking at AU$5500 for a 65.
I cant justify that price. the 65 would be nice with the new torch and the serial port that lets the computer set air pressure and amps. But its just too expensive.
and the fact that i rarely cut anything over 12mm (1/2 in) I figured I could get away with a powermax 45.
So I got one priced up AU$3400, Still expensive but I could manage it.
Then I thought what if i could find a second hand unit.
The only one I could find was a powermax1000 g3. (never heard of it)
After some research found out its an older unit, but can be upgraded to the new duramax torch.
Hmm now I don't know what to do, I can get the 1000 for AU$2000, just waiting on a price for the torch.
The question I have.
I'm guessing that the price of the powermax1000 with the duramax torch is going to come very close in price to the new powermax45
Which would be a better way to go?
I know the duramax has fine cut consumables which could come in handy with thinner material.
But I'n guessing that the 1000 would need a voltage divider to connect up to the Candcnc THC, plus its a second hand unit
I don't know which way to go.
I've got a couple of weeks till my stuff from Candcnc ship so need to figure this out before then so I can organize which connection kit I will need.
Tell me your thoughts people, what would you do in my position?