Large Format CNC Router Proposal

Sponsor

Bart Dring

History

2014-02-25 - discussion open on member list
2014-03-20 - open meeting held at PS1 to discuss the purchase
2014-04-01 - Announced
2014-04-08 - Vote passes

Background

The proposal is to buy a large format CNC router. The current CNC has work area and cutting power limitations that limit it to very small parts and slow speeds.

At an open meeting we discussed (3) possible options.

Build our own
Buy a used industrial machine
Buy a Shopbot

The consensus was buying a Shopbot was the most likely option to achieve our goal with minimal risk. A Shopbot is a turnkey solution with a 2 year warranty and has a smaller footprint than industrial machines with similar work areas. The included Shopbot CAM software is basically the same as the smaller machine so certifications will be easier.

Extra stuff:

Shipping
CNC Router
Dust collection - If a larger, shop wide dust collection system is desired the money would be transferred to that
Wiring - The power requirements (see below) are simpler that the bridgeport, but there will be expenses to do a proper and robust installation.

Receipts will be linked below.

Budget

$12,895 (#10108) PRSstandard
- Normal Work Area: 96"x 48"x 6"
- Movement Limits: 102" x 50" x 8"
- Floor Foot Print: 120" x 79" x 67"
- Recommended Clearance: 30" around all sides.
$2,619 (#12541) HSD 2.2HP 3 Phase Variable Frequency Spindle; 230v (single or 3-phase options) (includes 4 ER25 collets)
- Quieter than standard spindle
- Software controlled speed.
$600 Dust collector (may be part of larger area dust collection project)
$950 Shipping (ShopBot quote)
$900 Computer & Monitor
$400 Electrical
10% Buffer for additional shipping and install costs.

Quote: File:PdfFF76.pdf

Potential Locations

Along junk rack at the front of the welding area. This allows easy, non disruptive handling of large material.
In the wood shop. Matt Triano said (I believe) that he'll make room.

Electrical Requirements

220VAC 20Amp (single or 3 phase optional)

Shopbot PRS

Language

Authorize the board to spend $20,200 on a large format CNC router and related expenses. Authorization expires in 90 days.

PS:1, at the board's discretion, may take out a loan to cover up to the entirety of the purchase. The loan will be through Chase Bank or from a more competitive provider.

Receipts