Hi Again,

As I said in my last post, I am a total, total, total noob here.  If I wanted to make parts out of aluminum, what type of machine would I need, could I build it?

Thanks,
Chris

Well that is a pretty open question(;-) What type of parts what type of alum is this production or just hobby. Now HOW big are your parts(;-) and what shape considerations are you talking. SImple 2.5d parts 3d parts 4th/5th axis machining?

It all depends, (;-) TP

Hobby definitely.  I would start small, do some badges and stuff for friends, would eventually like to make some small models.  You mean there is more than one type of aluminum?  (total noob, remember)

Thanks,
Chris

Hi Chris,

The "router" type of construction is ideal for wood and plastics.
The "mill" type of construction is ideal for metals.

Although each will, to a certain extent, do each others job it would not be ideal.

In general, home construction of a "milling machine" requires specialist machinery and knowledge so it is best to buy a mill and if necessary do the CNC conversion yourself. The "router" is relatively easy meat for home construction and requires a bit of skill but is not rocket science.

Hope this helps,

Tweakie.

Thanks Tweakie, I think I'll keep it simple for now and not let my dreams go to to my head and wallet!

Chris

I'll keep it simple for now and not let my dreams go to to my head and wallet

Reading is free but we all want help the economy so speed read and start spending.

RICH

Reading is free but we all want help the economy so speed read and start spending.

Not sure about that Rich - We have been told that it is our spending that has got us into debt. 

Tweakie.

Quote

Reading is free but we all want help the economy so speed read and start spending.

Not sure about that Rich - We have been told that it is our spending that has got us into debt. 

Tweakie.

But in reality its the tossers in the investment banks that have got us into trouble and will do so again because we are either too scared or too thick to do anything about them
Hood

"Tossers" I am really surprised at you Hood - They are called "Bankers", or at least it rhymes with Bankers 

Tweakie.