Re: Digest Number 6

"Brett Gober" <bgober@...> wrote:
Subject: Re: Minimill spindle

I am researching a minimill setup for machining detailed plastic injection
dies in aluminum or magnesium. I have found answers to most of my questions,
but I'm stumped when it comes to spindles. I'm looking at a system from
Model Master http://www.modelmaster.com/products/a2p.html but I would like
to find some options for the supplied spindle. The air spindle pictured on
their web site is no longer offered. I'm told that the spindle supplied is
made by them (???) and is powered by a flexshaft motor. The motor doesn't
seem to be so important but I would think that something as important as the
spindle would be better to be purchased from a company that specializes in
precise spindles. I was told that their option for a high speed air spindle
is $2700. Sounds high, but I really don't know anything about what spindles
go for. Sooo my question for the group is where can I go to learn about
spindles that would replace the stock spindle on this machine. What makes a
spindle good or bad? I would like it to be highly accurate and high speed
with a 1/8" collet. I don't think I care if it is motor driven or air. I
think the mounting hole for it is 1". Any info on small spindles is greatly
appreciated as I am totally ignorant on this subject.

Brett

[CNC Junior sells one as an option for their machines for a lot less ($545)
, but I don't know if it would fit the Modelmaster. It is rated at 30,000
RPM, which is medium fast- do you need more? I don't know a lot about it,
but if you're interested I could find out for you.]

Andrew Werby

Andrew Werby - United Artworks
Sculpture, Jewelry, and Other Art Stuff
http://unitedartworks.com