[tgdavies]

I've been following the 6040 thread with interest.

I don't have room for a 6040 at present, and the envelope of the 3040 would do for 90% of what I want to do.

I will mostly be milling prototyping board and various plastics, but I would also like to do 3mm aluminium and thin brass.

What's the limiting factor for the 6040's cut depth and feed speed when it comes to Aluminium machining? Is it rigidity or is it spindle power?

Am I going to be able to machine Aluminium like a 6040 with a 3040 and a 230W instead of 1.5kW spindle?

[stallified]

I was having the same argument with myself. (space the big issue)
I figured if the 3040 only does 90% of the job...it's a job not finished.
So I grabbed a 6040 and very glad I did.
I managed to squeeze it into a small store room with dust extractor and ventilation.
It gives me a lot more options and power so I don't really stress if it is up to the job.

Now it has it's own soundproof room with external extraction system.

I do a lot of Australian Hardwood machining and a bit of copper and brass engraving.
Keep it cool and clean, you should get a few years service out of it.

[tgdavies]

I ended up getting a 6040 and I'm very happy with it, although most of the work I've done would have fitted in a 3040.