CNC Router Purchase for a box maker

[shep1]

Before I plunge into a purchase, I thought it wise to seek the advice of this forum.
Firstly, my needs are quite specific and they are:

1. I make jewellery boxes
2. I want to include a carved logo in the base (outside) of the box
3. The material I use is always wood
4. The woods I use are generally hardwoods
5. The dimensions of the base are no greater that 200mm by 300mm
6. The thickness of the base is no greater that 12mm
7. The size of the logo will be less than 120mm by 80mm
8. I can carve the base piece separately before I assemble the box
9. I would like to carve letters and simple geometric shapes to a depth of approximately 2mm to 3mm

I have been looking at CNC engravers and my budget is up to $500 (preferably less). I am not inclined to go with a Laser Engraver as I prefer the appearance of a CNC routed logo.

I also recognise there may be additional costs for software.

Thanking you in anticipation

Shep1 (John)

[fletty]

Hi shep, I don’t own a CNC router/engraver but frequently get logos and lettering done by others. My most memorable was the family crest and names engraved on to 8 chair backs. Even at mates-rates done via the forum, I paid $80 each for a total of $640. If you can get a router that does what you want for ~$500, I think you would be well ahead?
fletty

[woodPixel]

How many boxes are we looking at? Huge production levels? :)

[shep1]

Dead right Fletty, the economics are in my favour, even with my modest output.

[shep1]

Aaah woodPixel, I should have included this basic piece of info. I would probably not exceed 25 boxes in a year.

[shep1]

Dead right Fletty, the economics are in my favour, even with my modest output.

BUT the trick is finding the right bit of kit that will meet my needs

[shep1]

For anyone who is interested, I have now purchased a Chinese 3040 CNC Router

[fletty]

For anyone who is interested, I have now purchased a Chinese 3040 CNC Router

:woot::wtg:

[shep1]

Thanks Fletty
Hope it is the right way to go. Time will tell after I have connected up a soon to be acquired pc (mac family here)

[woodPixel]

Details! Details!

[ericks2]

I have a 6040, been great for over seven years.....that is after i upgraded the electronics. All the best with your machine:)

[Sir Stinkalot]

For anyone who is interested, I have now purchased a Chinese 3040 CNC Router

Be sure to provide a review (including photos) when you have had a play. I’m sure plenty will be interested.

[Pauls321]

Shep, how did you go with your new 3040?,........I am curious

Paul

[ericks2]

Yes i would like to know too:)

[shep1]

Paul/ericks
Sorry for the late reply, just got back from 4 weeks OS (hard life !) Now I am in the process of researching the best CAM software to use with Mach3. I have previously run a few basic trials with Gcode through the USB connection and everything seems to work OK. Just needed to get the direction of travel sorted. I now have a trial version of Meshcam which looks like it might meet my needs (at present) - will try and get it spitting out some code for Mach3. I hope that isn't problematic.
Will provide further updates when I learn something useful
Shep