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New Member Ontario GTA

C

code-guy

New Member
I just signed up before asking some questions about getting a bench mill.

I'm a retired software developer. I started out as a CNC programmer in a mould shop. Then I moved on to developing CAD/CAM software. I drifted away from manufacturing later in my career.

I've also got a little manual machining experience. I'm thinking about getting a bench mill with the intention of converting it to CNC at some point.

I've been reading some of the posts here, on and off over the years. There is some great information to be found, so thanks for that.

That's all for now.
 
Welcome aboard and enjoy the ride. I joined for the same reason. The Forum was very helpful and I ended up with a RF45 clone (1,000 lb bench top mill). I’m very satisfied with my choice. Keep a close eye on the classified section - members often spot a good deal and let other know.
 
CWret said:
Welcome aboard and enjoy the ride. I joined for the same reason. The Forum was very helpful and I ended up with a RF45 clone (1,000 lb bench top mill). I’m very satisfied with my choice. Keep a close eye on the classified section - members often spot a good deal and let other know.
Click to expand...
Thanks!

A RF45 clone is one of the options I am considering. I know that more mass generally gives better results. But I am intimidated by the size.

Rather than insulating my garage, I'd like to get a machine down stairs to my basement. I plan on disassembling whatever I get for the trip downstairs. But I'd like to keep the chunks less than 200 lbs.

Do you have any sense of the heaviest part of a RF45 clone?
 
code-guy said:
Do you have any sense of the heaviest part of a RF45 clone?
Click to expand...
Sure do, I actually tore it all apart to do my granite pour in the base.
Broken down, nothing is more then 200 lbs. The table seemed close to it, but that's probably my memory failing. I think it was past 200lb with the X and Y axis table together.

If you have it apart I highly suggest a epoxy granite pour in the base, and a bit in the column it self.
And you may not want to hear it, but an equally heavy or rigid base will help a lot. I used 1/2" plate and made 3 levels plus used 3"x3" HSS with 3/8" wall for the legs. That base it self helped tremendously to deaden vibrations and sound. I have no clue what it weighs, but I am unable to kick move it or even flip it up or wiggle it around.

Food for thought.

Welcome to the forums
Gluck
 
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