Hello all..
I am a total newbie..
I would like some direction.. I am interested in building/buying a small CNC router table ( I believe that is what I need ) .. This is all very new to me.. but I am facinated by the possibilities...
Needs/Wants:
I need the ability to cut, drill , etch up to 1/8" aluminum, lexan and acryllic
My hobby is extreme computer modding.. and creation I will use the tool to cut custom pieces in aluminum, and acryllic.. to create water cooling parts and decorative front panels for the cases.. although I am not creating surgical equipment.. I would like some level of accuracy..
From the wealth of information and photos here.. I have decided that a 24 x 24 table would be a good size for my needs..
I know budget is a concern.. and I have no real world idea of what this little project would cost.. I have alloted around 1500.00 ( US) give or take..
here are the questions..
1.) Is a CNC router table what I need..
2.) Is this dollar figure realistic..?
3.) Would I be better off buying a " kit" or plan to build this..
4.) How and where do I get started..
5.) do I need separate machines to cut the product and another to drill or shape holes ..?
I know these may sound like dumb questions.. but with all of the information here I have gotten a bit confused..
I have no experience in CNC machining at all.. I have a small Engineering background ( college ) ..I am good with my hands and most all tools..
here are the tools that I have at home to utilize
Most all common hand tools
complete tap and die tools
drill press
table saw
small routing table
Mig/Tig welder with argon capabilities 120 volt 80 amp miller
and a garage that has been cleaned out.. and is ready for a new project.. lol
I have been designing the various parts in cad.. and paying a local plastics company HUGE amounts of money to do the cutting for me..
I have signed up at the local college for night classes in the programming side of this..
eventually I would like to make and use a router table.. and a lathe..
I need some direction..
thanks guys..