Need Help Selecting A Router

[xirdneh1234]

Hey guys,

 

Our company is looking into purchasing a 3-Axis Router. The parts being processed are composite (Carbon Fiber, G10, G11, etc...) and we will do mostly trimming. Only one part will be made from sheet that is .1" thick G11. Currently the parts are done on a HAAS when we have time between other metallic parts, or they are hand trimmed which is even less desirable as it pulls our skilled labor away from lay up.

 

I really just need some input on which companies are worth while to look into (or other companies to run from). I see from using the search function that Thermwood & Multicam don't appear to be held in high regard, which is what we were looking at. 

 

Here are some of the requirements for those of you that might be more familiar with specific offerings from companies:

 

Largest part - 30" x 60"

Z travel of at least 10"

Needs to be true 3 axis capable (one part requires 3d contour type toolpaths)

Dust collection system as a standard or optional feature (needs to keep carbon from going all over the place)

Would prefer smallest machine possible (60" x 60" table preferable), we have limited shop space

Tightest tolerance is +/-.0005" on .25 wide x .275" long slots, if that means slow feedrates so be it, the HAAS it would replace can only do 15ipm and hold that.

Toolchanger is a must, at least 5 tools

Some sort of safety feature to prevent limbs from entering the machines travel area during operation, or some automatic E-stop function if that were to happen.

HSK-63F would be nice but not a requirement

 

Hopefully the router is cheaper than the HAAS that's doing them now but we have no issues with paying for quality equipment. 

 

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

 

[RaiderX]

I have seen haas routers accomplish what your looking to do with good reliable success. sounds like you are already familiar with the brand and control and support is good where you are located.

not too familiar with any other brand newer routers, all the rest were odd ball old machines.

 

hope that helps?

[xirdneh1234]

Thanks Raider, we looked at the HAAS offerings and were a little put off by the size (travel and machine size). We will keep them in consideration if nothing better comes up.

 

Thank you.

[Rstewart]

Ask the members here Awbade and Mowens   

[mkd]

i've only worked with thermwood routers. they are good with Siemens control in the background. phone/ email support is good. on site service is an issue needing to fly technicians to your location, so haas wins big here.

 

seems like that tight tolerance can be tool controlled and not really based on CNC accuracy.

[xirdneh1234]

Anyone heard anything on Onsrud routers? I contacted the sales and info department but just at first glance they look pretty well built in comparison to some of the "lightweight" routers.

 

Mkd,

 

Thanks for the feedback on the thermwood, Nice to see that you've had what sounds like a positive experience.

 

Rstewart,

 

I will message them, Thank you.

[Guest]

Onsrud... we've got a customer machining Tesla body and chassis parts out of aluminum with 'em. So far so good. :

[Mick from CNC Software Inc.]

If you are near Las Vegas the AWFS show is starting next Wednesday through Saturday and there will be a metric tonne of routers on display from machine builders world-wide. Oh and I'll be there at the Mastercam booth so make sure to stop by if you or someone from your organization is attending.

[Thee Awbade™]

I msged him with some info about our machines for Carbon cutting. 

 

I've heard decent things about Onsrud as well. 

[xirdneh1234]

Thank you everyone for the feedback. I've got some good leads now for who to talk to. I just met with a Multicam salesman but will also be talking to Onsrud and a few others.

 

It looks like we'll be looking at a larger machine than originally planned, mostly because no one makes something for our little parts that is industrial grade.

 

Mick, wish I had started my search earlier, I probably would have been able to go!

[Greg Williams]

A company I do some work for just purchased a new Flexicam XL router, Cuts Ally no probs

 

http://www.flexicam.com/en/component/content/article/34-products/routers-3-a-4-axis/50-flexicam-xl.html

[mkd]

A company I do some work for just purchased a new Flexicam XL router, Cuts Ally no probs

 

http://www.flexicam.com/en/component/content/article/34-products/routers-3-a-4-axis/50-flexicam-xl.html

some pretty cool control options; all the big players.

 

pretty bad a$$ 5 axis head available too. HSK63 on a router....wow