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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Apr 2012
    Posts
    2

    Cast Aluminum and extruded Mill Build

    I have for a long time wanted to do a little mix of foundry work to build a small/mid size bench top mill so far here is what I got.

    Base and supports are Cast aluminum all other parts will be cast aluminum
    Column is 4x6x1/4x24" 6061 rectangle tube later to be filled. I went this route as it was to be the easiest ...
    20mm linear rails throughout X rails 23.75" Y 15" Z20.5" I get the rails free from work when systems get upgrades some are like brand new, so I have a small stock pile
    still making changes and decisions as I go so I am constantly adjusting cad.....

    This weekend if its not snowing or raining I plan to make the patterns for the X axis bed way and table top. I am still trying to decide is it want to cast "T" slots as. The slots require making sand cores hmmmm.

    anyway here is a few pics nothing to special Enjoy

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Nov 2009
    Posts
    13

    Re: Cast Aluminum and extruded Mill Build

    Very nice!

    Most of us are stuck removing material to get what we want.

    What do you have in mind for a spindle?

    You may want to consider running a piece of allthread through the column at each corner and put a heavy plate inside the casting and on top of the column and bolting it all together. That should really increase the stiffness.

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Apr 2012
    Posts
    2

    Re: Cast Aluminum and extruded Mill Build

    Thanks!
    Casting is actually nice. It does take a little wood work to get the parts accurate but pays off when your holding a nice fresh cast
    as for the column thanks for the idea its the thinnest part on this machine at a 1/4" wall all the cast parts machine Base 3/4" + I was able to knock out the X axis base Z axis bearing plate and the VERY THICK table top

  4. #4
    Join Date
    May 2005
    Posts
    3920

    Re: Cast Aluminum and extruded Mill Build

    Nice build and props for going with castings. Waiting to see the entire machine together and running.

    About those used linear retails, just how many do you have? Are you willing to part with them?

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Aug 2014
    Posts
    161

    Re: Cast Aluminum and extruded Mill Build

    Quote Originally Posted by wizard View Post
    Nice build and props for going with castings. Waiting to see the entire machine together and running.

    About those used linear retails, just how many do you have? Are you willing to part with them?
    no hes not, I pmed him weeks ago

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