Project Information
Few years back I created an outfeed table for my Sawstop tablesaw and router, I took care to add a MFT-like surface for clamping (see LJ post here: https://www.lumberjocks.com/projects/348778)
Later on I bought a used CNC mill (Tormach PCNC1100) and used it in few projects to carve wood but always felt limited by the (relatively) slow spindle at 5400rpm and more importantly the X-Y enveloppe (18" x 8").
So I decided to build a CNC router with a bigger work surface, and what better place than an outfeed table to house such a contraption.
Fast forward a few months - I have machined all the connectors on my mill and lost a few night sleep configuring the electronics, cabling the machine (and labeling every cable along the way…).
The machine works great - I have used it in many projects already and has changed the way I woodwork, here are a few examples:
I realize this is not a woodworking furniture post but this tool has enabled many such projects that I will share next
Later on I bought a used CNC mill (Tormach PCNC1100) and used it in few projects to carve wood but always felt limited by the (relatively) slow spindle at 5400rpm and more importantly the X-Y enveloppe (18" x 8").
So I decided to build a CNC router with a bigger work surface, and what better place than an outfeed table to house such a contraption.
Fast forward a few months - I have machined all the connectors on my mill and lost a few night sleep configuring the electronics, cabling the machine (and labeling every cable along the way…).
The machine works great - I have used it in many projects already and has changed the way I woodwork, here are a few examples:
- if I need to make a curve on multiple pieces, I would before make a template on MDF/plywood (bandsaw, sanding) then transfer the curve to all pieces, cut the bulk with the bandsaw and use a template bit to route the profile of the template. Now I CAD my curve and let the CNC cut the profile while I work on the joinery. For more than 2 parts it's a faster and more repeatable solution.
- I can decorate and engrave a piece in minutes
- armed with a large router bit I can flatten very wide slabs
I realize this is not a woodworking furniture post but this tool has enabled many such projects that I will share next