[livemetal]

we have certain parts we would like start producing for hobby/professional needs, how can we come up with machine requirements to produce those parts?

Parts are med-high complexity, low-med volume runs, some in steel others in aluminum...

My instant thinking was – choose universal model but I’m doubtful it exists at all, because of materials and accuracy needs… How we should proceed with choosing right machine for our parts but not to be too limited.

[Jim Dawson]

First, what is your budget for a machine?

What is the work area required to machine your parts? Length x Width x Height

Then what accuracy is required? 1mm, 0.1mm, 0.01mm, 0.001mm?

Can you machine the parts with a 3 axis machine? 4 axis, 5 axis?

[livemetal]

Jim,

1) budget is around 30-35K for everything, means landed and installed.

2) currently the max size of the part was 8" x 4" x 2"

3) accuracy 0.01

4) base on my knowledge the ones we're currently sourcing are made on 3 axis machines

[Jim Dawson]

I think a Haas Mini would be about right. But plan for future expansion.

something like this
https://www.ebay.com/i/122976193329?chn=ps