Can I reasonably make these parts with CNC router?

[Rob Gunn]

Steve, The parts that you are showing that you need to machine are doable on the ShopBot. BUT If I were in your shoes, I would look at a small used CNC Mill. I have 25+ years as a toolmaker and the parts that you need would best be done on a more accurate and heavy duty machine. Don't get me wrong, I love my ShopBot and I do a lot of sign work and woodworking project but the ShopBot is just not as rigid as what I would want when it comes to true part manufacturing. Just my 2 cents worth...

[bearcat]

Steve,

A design thought would be to split the block lengthwise - left side / right side - then each side could be completely machined in the same operation and then a use few Pastite screws for quick assembly.

The DeskTop is a very capable machine. I've setup and run the current generation of larger ShopBots in production and am also using a DeskTop in production for smaller HDPE and acrylic parts. The DT cut quality, accuracy, and repeatibity is the best.

Ed

[gus]

Steve, You could also make the rack and the gear.

Check out this, it will export several formats.

http://woodgears.ca/gear_cutting/template.html

Gus

[gundog]

Steve,

A design thought would be to split the block lengthwise - left side / right side - then each side could be completely machined in the same operation and then a use few Pastite screws for quick assembly.

The DeskTop is a very capable machine. I've setup and run the current generation of larger ShopBots in production and am also using a DeskTop in production for smaller HDPE and acrylic parts. The DT cut quality, accuracy, and repeatibity is the best.

Ed

This is how I would do it. I cut a lot of UHMW but if you need a smooth finish I don't believe the SB will get you a good finish in UHMW. My finish is usually pretty rough in UHMW.

Mike

[Dennis Rech]

Micheal, thanks for your input, that's kind've what I had in mind, but I'm very new to CNC. I see you have a Buddy -- that one kind've scares me because it appears the tables is wood supported by rollers; i.e. you have a plywood on metal system, is that true? Do you have Z accuracy issues?
Steve

I have an older Buddy and it came with a 1/2 inch thick aluminum table.
I always thought that ShopBot made an error when they ceased providing the aluminum table. Financial reasons likely. I also have a power stick so I know about wood tables.
There is no reason that an aluminum table cannot be fitted to the newer Buddies. The aluminum table even came provided with a grid pattern of threaded holes. This is handy when I am working small items in that I can screw down a machinist vise directly to the table and hold the parts like a machinist would.
At one of the ShopBot camps, it was mentioned that the table is still an option. If you do the sort of work that would benefit from a metal table, you might want to give them a call.
Never a warp, nor a sag or need for resurfacing.