I haven't used anything like the enclosure pictured. It looks to me like
there's a cutting lube supply tube going to the tool holding device mounted
on the spindle.

That may be a constant flow type of delivery, and considering the high
speeds that should be used for small diameter cutting tools, the cutting
lube could get slung outward for a significant distance.

The cabinet would be practical for mister or cold air applications, too.

So keeping a significant mess inside the cabinet would be the major benefit,
it seems.
So if someone needed to have their mini mill in the kitchen or somewhere
clean, the cabinet would likely keep most of the mess contained.

I don't know how effective the metal cabinet would be at reducing noise,
especially if the machine isn't mechanically isolated from the cabinet
(speaker cone).

I've used heavy duty clear vinyl for lots of covers, and it sews relatively
easily if the correct type of needle is used. I had gotten some cutting
needles from an upholstery shop, that the owner recommended for sewing most
heavy materials with (straps, for example).
I found that the cutting type needles would pass thru the vinyl easily
without the vinyl wanting to cling to and ride up 'n down with the needle.
The heavy clear vinyl I used was 8 and 12 (which I think was .008" and .012"
thick), and it makes great covers for lots of items.

WB
..........
metalworking projects
www.kwagmire.com/metal_proj.html


"Bob La Londe" wrote in message
...
http://www.cadcamcadcam.com/images/v.../enclosure.jpg

Any of you guys use something like this?

What is the benefit or perceived benefit?

I was thinking I might make a vinyl cover for my mill to keep dust and
other shop particle out of the slide surfaces and screws to reduce
abrasive wear and increase the life of my machine. Now I am wondering if
an enclosure might be better. As I type I am thinking also that it might
reduce working noise while running a CNC program. I've got a sewing
machine and a welder on standby. LOL.