Post by seanathan on Feb 1, 2016 22:00:59 GMT -5
I recently purchased an AR1 to use for prototype mechanical components and molds. I picked this machine because of a strong quality for the cost, but I was still targeting as much cost savings as possible with this purchase. Therefore, I was not going to spend $160 on the KentCNC dust shoe sold by Axiom. I have access to larger machines at techshop so this was the perfect option as a home machine to expedite my prototype times. Because I have cost reduction in mind with this system, I wanted to dust boot to be under $50, and I wanted it to be as small as possible so that it doesn't hit my clamps and fixtures.
The materials list is as follows:
- HDPE Sheet - $12
- Tanis 2" Flexible Brush - $20
- Rare Earth Magnets - $4
- Misc Screws and Zip Ties - <$1
The machined piece parts look like the following:
The finished setup worked very well. I tried to get fancy with the vacuum port, but it could probably be more efficient. It still picks up the plastic cuttings pretty well and keeps at least 99% from flying all over the place with the 2" brush.
Notice I also use regular Mill style bar clamps. That's because the axiom clamps haven't worked at all for me on plastic. The spoil board is too high, the space in the front of the machine too short and plastic is too slick. The clamp bar set also keeps the knobs out of the work area better when set up properly. I am working on converting to just nuts as well since the knobs on the Axiom clamps are so big.
Overall the machine has worked really well. The only cons are the fact that it uses a crappy bosch colt and the 200 IPM rating published online is a complete lie. After speaking with tech support, they agree that it would be unlikely to travel much over 100 IPM. This means 1/4" and larger tools will easily overheat and dull.
The materials list is as follows:
- HDPE Sheet - $12
- Tanis 2" Flexible Brush - $20
- Rare Earth Magnets - $4
- Misc Screws and Zip Ties - <$1
The machined piece parts look like the following:
The finished setup worked very well. I tried to get fancy with the vacuum port, but it could probably be more efficient. It still picks up the plastic cuttings pretty well and keeps at least 99% from flying all over the place with the 2" brush.
Notice I also use regular Mill style bar clamps. That's because the axiom clamps haven't worked at all for me on plastic. The spoil board is too high, the space in the front of the machine too short and plastic is too slick. The clamp bar set also keeps the knobs out of the work area better when set up properly. I am working on converting to just nuts as well since the knobs on the Axiom clamps are so big.
Overall the machine has worked really well. The only cons are the fact that it uses a crappy bosch colt and the 200 IPM rating published online is a complete lie. After speaking with tech support, they agree that it would be unlikely to travel much over 100 IPM. This means 1/4" and larger tools will easily overheat and dull.
