Aspiring machinist needs advice on tools for starting side business

[newfvaper]

I'm aspiring machinist (complete newb)that will be taking courses soon. I need a machine that can mill steel tube 30-16mm tubes with a 20 by 0.5 mm and 7 mm by 0.5 mm threading .Is there a machine that exists that is in an average persons budget? Or will I have to find a shop where I can use the equipment?



My ultimate goal is to make a side business selling mechanical ecigarette and atomizers that are based on my design. Or even small runs for client designs.

Sorry for the newb question but I know some Cncs are crazy expensive but if it's affordable I'd like to start saving money now.

 

[Jwest7788]

Hey @newfvaper

For something that small, pretty much any actual metal lathe should be able to get it done.

Search: Seig C0 (Lathe)
--> "baby lathe" pretty cutesy by normal machining standards, but if you're just working with really small stock, it should be fine.

Sieg X1 (mini milling machine)
--> Same here, should be more than fine for small tubes etc.


Just double check the capacities here: http://www.siegind.com before you commit to buy

Sieg also has dual mill lathe machines, like this:
http://www.siegind.com/products_detail/&productId=52.html


Sherline is another brand that makes small machines like this.


Best of luck!

JW

 

[Alexander]

Have a look at this machine on kijiji. I dont know the guys personally but i did go have a look at this machine 6 months ago. I was there with a friend buying other stuff off them they seem open to offers. It is not a great machine but it would easily make your parts. Full cnc you just stand back and watch after you get the first one done.

http://www.kijiji.ca/v-power-tool/c...er/1181521214?enableSearchNavigationFlag=true

 

[Jwest7788]

Have a look at this machine on kijiji. I dont know the guys personally but i did go have a look at this machine 6 months ago. I was there with a friend buying other stuff off them they seem open to offers. It is not a great machine but it would easily make your parts. Full cnc you just stand back and watch after you get the first one done.

http://www.kijiji.ca/v-power-tool/c...er/1181521214?enableSearchNavigationFlag=true

This machine is pretty much exactly what you need, cnc lathe of the right size. Particularly if you're planning on doing runs of many of the same part.

If you get a rhythm though you could use a manual machine pretty effectively too, but not nearly as fast.

JW

 

[Bofobo]

These parts sound small enough to do on the smallest of lathes and mills, having dissected a few e-cig units myself I see no problem with using machines like my cx704 (lathe) and cx605 (mill) both manual are re branded seig machines available at BUSYBEE tools, cutters, attachments (like chucks (3jaw, 4jaw,drill) and collets/holders/arbours
Measuring tools (mic/dial/callipers/feelers/guages etc) and many other items I deem as essential I still require, has run me up over $4000 and I have 2800 hours of shop experience before spending a dime, I can tell you that the controls on small machines are also small and close together and I have made several modifications to alleviate this but they are small. The Cnc versions would be a better investment given the size and repeat ability of your specified item however no matter how cheap you try to go it's going to be thousands of dollars and months of shopping. Most shops are just going to want your money, this "proto space" place may be what you should start with. Not that you need to do what I say but you asked and I have spent the last 6months doing just what you are trying.