CNC. Own One?

[Sign-Man Signs]

We are think about adding a CNC machine to our tool inventory. Can't decide on which is better vs cost effective. 48 x 48 or 48 x 96 bed? Anyone own on of these? If so which model? Any info will help. We contacted a few of the sales reps but as you know everybodies is the "Best on the Market".

 

[zmatalucci]

I don't have one yet. However I think my dilemma would be either a 4'8' or go with a 5'-10'. A 4'-4' is just way to small IMO, how would you do a 4-8?
It's just like everybody that bought a 30" printer now wants a 54" so they dont have to tile 4-8's.

 

[Sign-Man Signs]

Yea, that's our problem. 4 x 4 would be great for doing letters and such along with logos. Guess we have it decide which is best. I don't know if we would ever route a whole sign or not. Hoping someone on the forum has already made the trip and can help out.

 

[SignManiac]

5'x10' Multicam here. If you're going to get into CNC then buy as much as you can realistically afford. I would not invest in anything smaller than 4'x8' at a minimum.

Do as much research as possible before signing on the dotted line. There is a lot you need to know besides what size table to get. Power requirements, vacuum hold down, dust collection, software, 2-1/2D, 3-D, feed rates, bits, materials you can cut, space requirements, tech support response time, etc. etc.

 

[Sign-Man Signs]

Thanks for the input.

 

[Westcoast Sign Guy]

If you going to buy one and can afford it I STRONGLY recommend a 5'x10'. Everyone who has bought a 4x8 always wishes they could have bought a larger footprint cut.

Also don't buy a machine where you hear 6-10" per second. Rarely will you go above 2.5" per second for sign fabrication.