[LindleyWood]

So... I want to use a cnc to cut surfboard frames and burn logos onto wood. I know I need to make a machine with an articulating head, but don't know where to start. Anyone have any noobie tips? This place is overwhelming!

[awerby]

I don't think you really need an articulating head for doing surfboards, and unless you want to burn all the way around a piece of wood without refixturing, it shouldn't be necessary for that either. (Usually, people use laser cutters for that sort of thing). Look for plans or kits to build a 3-axis router large enough for your needs; I like the Mechmate; but there are lots of them.

[LindleyWood]

Ok. That would work for cutting out wood templates too?

[victorofga]

yes a router works for the ""frame type"" also works for foamcore..

you can cut the frames, and make openings into them.. very easily.. you don't have to use template with router..
your computer will hold all templates, you pull it up place material on table and start to cut.. I believe within an hour or so all rib and the main can be cut with router... (with experience)

you also can make a lot easier the fins..


frametype looks a lot work compared with foamcore..

with router, and cnc tech you can build very symmetric stuff.. with no effort..

your workers can spend more on finishing- polishing..

laser can be more effective on some type of work..
mainly cutting shapes.. laser requiring no workholding like router..

[LindleyWood]

That is awesome! I was thinking of a laser for burning logos onto the wood, is that a viable option?

[victorofga]

yes laser can burn or say etching, also can cut trough...
it is pending on the energy level applied in a task..

I mean same energy level what etch a granite, might cut trough materials like paper or thin wood..

using a greyscale pic or say heightmap, you can even achieve relief effect..

but in my opinion, at this moment you need rather a router than a laser.. with a router you can engrave logos, same permanent than a burned mark..

after assembling the board you can mill the whole surface ... so your workers ""only"" sanding..

all shaping task will be made by the router

[LindleyWood]

That is an excellent idea. Now for cost what would I be looking at for a minimum starter cnc router?

[victorofga]

just go with the least expenses..

SALE CNC Router Milling, CNC Laser, CNC plasma machine, China, Servo Motor Drive, UK, USA, Italy, Spain, Thailand

you might as the 6 or 8 in Z for... plus 300

and a handheld control about 150-200

import will cost about 1500

get a program for 150 like ac express or deskproto

additional cost some spoilboard a dust vacuum, endmills... tough you get some with the router so you can start virtually immediately..

with these you can make your board already.. faster than by hand.. tough you have a learning curve..
while machine works on the surface, takes several hour mightbe a day, but you can go on other works..
this is a robot actually that works without supervising..

cnczone will help you trough on this..

what alexlee posted that's also a great setup... ask him also what his machine would cost..

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about a 2 years ago I made surfboard model... if I find it I post over here so you can see it..

[victorofga]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dSzvmArnjY#t=51

heres a youtube video... the router looks very much as alexlee posted..

[LindleyWood]

Thanks!