Tmate
Well-Known Member
While we would all like to have the space in our shop for a 4' x 8' or larger CNC plasma table, exhaust system, etc., many of us do not. Still, we should not deny ourselves such a fabulous, time saving process just because we don't have the ideal location for it.
I solved this problem years ago with a 2' x 2' table I could roll out of my garage in a couple of minutes to cut a shape. Besides eliminating the normal space requirements, this also solves the dilemma of how to deal with plasma dust. Get 8 to 10 feet or so outside and the problem goes away. I was doing prototype work out of my home at that time, and the parts for virtually every bracket I needed could be cut on this small machine. When the business grew and we moved to a commercial facility, the CNC electronics and motors were simply transferred to a larger table.
I'm retired now, and recently built a similar 2' x 2' machine. This one I keep outside under my deck under a vinyl fire pit cover. The compressor and plasma cutter are just inside the basement door, 10 feet away. It takes 5 minutes to hook up the cables and mount the torch. The cover adequately protects the unit from the weather, even in winter.
The first picture shows the initial machine that was on casters and rolled out of my garage. The second is my current machine.
If anyone is interested, I can post photos of some of the parts and shapes cut with this little machine, none of which are for sale.
I solved this problem years ago with a 2' x 2' table I could roll out of my garage in a couple of minutes to cut a shape. Besides eliminating the normal space requirements, this also solves the dilemma of how to deal with plasma dust. Get 8 to 10 feet or so outside and the problem goes away. I was doing prototype work out of my home at that time, and the parts for virtually every bracket I needed could be cut on this small machine. When the business grew and we moved to a commercial facility, the CNC electronics and motors were simply transferred to a larger table.
I'm retired now, and recently built a similar 2' x 2' machine. This one I keep outside under my deck under a vinyl fire pit cover. The compressor and plasma cutter are just inside the basement door, 10 feet away. It takes 5 minutes to hook up the cables and mount the torch. The cover adequately protects the unit from the weather, even in winter.
The first picture shows the initial machine that was on casters and rolled out of my garage. The second is my current machine.
If anyone is interested, I can post photos of some of the parts and shapes cut with this little machine, none of which are for sale.
