Hello. We are looking for a CNC for making stencils for PCB solder paste. These are generally made of thin plastic or thin stainless steel (<0.3mm).

We plan on importing from China since we do it all the time anyway, will save a bundle, and most machines are made there anyway.

It is my understanding that there is no chance of doing metal, no matter how thin, with a small laser CNC, so I guess that is out of the question. Of course, we can go with a regular CNC instead of laser if it can give us the precision we need (see below)

The most important feature is the ability to cut very fine features. For those unfamiliar, 0402 parts are about 1mm x 0.5mm, and QFN leads can be as close as 0.4mm. So basically we need to be able to cut with 0.1mm precision or better with repeatable accuracy. We don't need a very large work area, maybe 300mm square at most, but don't have a problem with a larger machine if it makes more sense. We don't have any other plans for the machine right now, but any added capabilities would obviously be a bonus. For example, the ability to route simple PCBs. But accuracy is really the most important thing here.

Here are a couple of stencil examples to get an idea of what I'm talking about here.
http://www.circuitsathome.com/wp/wp-...SO_stencil.jpg
http://www.smtnet.com/media/images/accuframe1.jpg

So, can anyone give me an idea of a model we should be looking at? We are hoping to spend <$5k, but are willing to spend more if we can get a better return on investment by spending more. We have been talking with Gweike and Jcut, but it is hard to get straight answers and I'd like to get some from people not interested in selling us stuff If not a specific model, what laser power? We are thinking 60w or 80w would be ideal, but aren't 100% sure even after scouring these forums. Thanks in advance!