I have been doing some rapid prototyping at work (small pieces of science equipment), using a laser cutter and 3D printer, but may have an opportunity to get a CNC mill as well. I am looking at the Taig MicroMill DSLS3000 with 4th axis rotary table. This system is relatively inexpensive, as lab equipment goes, so I would prefer to design a fairly complete setup now and have everything I am likely to need, rather than leaving things out to save a few dollars and then have to deal with the hassle & paperwork of chasing things down one at a time later.
I have not done CNC machining before (although hopefully the 3D design work I've been doing for the 3D printer & laser cutter will shorten the learning curve), and have not purchased a system before, so I am looking for suggestions as to what you would include in a good general-use setup. The main objective is to get a versatile system that "just works" and does not require a lot of babying. The 12" x 5.5" x 6" travel will cover the size range I expect to need and a bit more, and the "Complete system package 2a" here: Specials looks pretty good, although I think maybe the vise might be a bit small. Does anyone know if the precision milling vises from littlemachineshop.com (for example LittleMachineShop.com - Vise, 4" Precision Milling, Heavy) are easily fitted to the Taig table? And what else would you get as part of the set (e.g. cutters, parallels, etc)?
Finally, with the 4th axis, how much extra capacity would having a separate lathe give me? I could potentially propose something like the Taig lathe as well, if I thought having one would significantly increase my flexibility. If you have both, how much do you use the lathe?
Thanks!
Mark