On 3 Feb 2005 09:42:59 -0800, wrote:

Good info, thanks all.

Yaa, I meant *twice* the machining time of the 50k machines

I would be fine with a used machine but don't want something that will
require a lot of maintenance costs of course.

Does the ALLIANT CNC VERTICAL MILL W/ANILAM CRUSADER M EQUIPPED WITH:
9" X 42" fit the bill as far as ability to hold this tolerance and also
the run time?

I might be pursuaded to go with an enclosed machining center for a
little more money since it may work better down the road. What are my
price options for the smaller units and also for the less expensive
(I'm assuming import) units? Used prices but not for worn out stuff.
What are the top places to watch for these as they become available?

Thanks again guys.

Joe



I've programmed and run several Alliant w/ Anilam Crusader (circa 1985-90)
as well as well as later Fadals (1993+) and Bridgeport EZ Track (1998). Did
R&D, as well a 3 axis Aluminum molds. Neither of the knee mills could hold
+/-.001 without a lot of work and very careful setups. You needed to
consider ALL aspects of the problem if you really wanted to hold your
required tolerances. The Fadal could hold .001" on 3 axis w/o *too* much
trouble.

I'm sure you could find a used 3 axis knee mill in the $7k range, but that
machine would probably have been "ridden hard and put away wet." It won't
hold the tolerance you request (without a lot of extra work, and then only
just maybe).

Spend more money and you'll be happier in the long run. JMHO. Also, please
consider if you *really* need +/-.001" Are you making matched dies?
....duh, I guess not if they're aluminum. But my point is that .001" is
pretty tight to hold day in, day out with any kind of efficient speed.
--
Skuke
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