Hi everyone,
I am very new to the forms. I saw the Rascal CNC and am interested in building one. I was wondering if the stock spindle and steppers would have enough power to easily cut 3/8in HDPE with a 1/4in bit or other thicker milling jobs? I would also be using it to cut foamboard so I am looking for something that can do both. If the stock components would not work well, could I use a Bosch or Dewalt router instead? Would I need to upgrade the steppers as well for the extra weight and cutting thickness?
Thanks for any input you can give me.
I don't own one of these (looks neat though) but i do run a Shapeoko 3 XXL with a Dewalt 611 router. To answer your question, it depends on what your definition of "easily cut" is, and what your goal. This is a slower spindle than your average router, my Dewalt peaks around 24000 max and the Bosch 1716 i just got does about the same, but it has torque behind it so you should be able to spin a 3 or 4 flute 1/4", i'd just be conservative on your speeds. If you're doing pocketing operations (cutting a large depression) then this is good. If you are not, and either doing details or simple cutouts i'd probably just recommend getting some 1/8" bits and collets, which this will also handle. If you're trying to pay off the machine and want speed for rough cuts, i'd recommend going with a Dewalt, as the higher rpms and lower torque let it excel with an 1/8" bit. That and replacement parts are a short drive away if you fry something.
Steppers should be fine, the Shapeoko 3 runs Nema 23s with a beefier frame, and upgraded nema 23s are pretty handy.