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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Dec 2005
    Posts
    1

    Using a CNC Router on Aluminum

    Hello-

    I'm building a CNC router (based on the Solsylva design). I was wondering what I would need to do to create a machine capable of cutting aluminum. The specific project I have in mind involves cutting irregular-shaped holes in a 1" piece of 5052 aluminum plate.

    Regards-
    Eric

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Mar 2003
    Posts
    35538
    Ideally, you'd want a machine far more heavy and rigid than one made of wood, and with "real" linear bearings instead of rollerblade bearings, and the ability to use flood coolant. Having said that, you may be able to do what you want by taking very light passes. Just be sure to keep the chips clear, so you're not re-cutting them.
    Gerry

    UCCNC 2017 Screenset
    http://www.thecncwoodworker.com/2017.html

    Mach3 2010 Screenset
    http://www.thecncwoodworker.com/2010.html

    JointCAM - CNC Dovetails & Box Joints
    http://www.g-forcecnc.com/jointcam.html

    (Note: The opinions expressed in this post are my own and are not necessarily those of CNCzone and its management)

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Aug 2004
    Posts
    2849
    Just to add to Gerry's list....ballscrews, linear rails of size 25 (2 trucks per rail), servos, rigid spindle (minimum would be something like the R8 mini-mill spindle that most of us have modified), etc.

    If you have a small cut envelope, you might be better off getting one of the larger bench-top mill drills and CNCing it.

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