Advice on a cnc router for newbie

[cp1976]

Hi,

I'm looking to produce custom children's beds out of mdf in quantities of around 20 a week. Anybody got any advice on what type of equipment i would need or would it be cheaper to outsource the cutting?

 

[custard]

Outsource.

There's quite a lot of competition amongst small and medium workshops who rushed in (too early in my view) and bought CNC kit that sits idle for most of the week.

 

[cp1976]

Thanks for your reply. What do you think i would expect to pay for cutting for something similar to whats in the pic in your experience? Looking at about 20 of them a week.

 

[Wuffles]

Thanks for your reply. What do you think i would expect to pay for cutting for something similar to whats in the pic in your experience? Looking at about 20 of them a week.

I see those being knocked out on local Facebook groups for around £200 retail, how much profit were you hoping to make after the associated bits and piece are added in? Genuine question.

 

[cp1976]

I've not seen them that cheap but feel free to point me in their direction. I would like something similar but to my own design

 

[custard]

It's not just about the volume. Who does the CAD drawings, do you want square edged cuts or rounded, do you want them sprayed?

Just google CNC and laser cutting, you'll find plenty of workshops in your area who'll be only too happy to receive your call!

 

[cp1976]

I have quotes for the cad and want them rounded and looking at getting them sprayed independently. I must have emailed 30 places and had about 6 replies with only 1 willing to even consider doing it believe it or not!

 

[Wuffles]

Here you go, first example I could find, it's a closed selling group so I couldn't link you the advert. https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/558 ... .35.38.png

 

[cp1976]

Thanks mate i know where they are from,

 

[petertheeater]

I think you need to consider using zero formaldehyde MDF. It is not that much more expensive especially factoring quantity. It could even give you the edge competitively. I use all manner of man made boards and am not against them. I always use Zero FMD MDF in kids rooms. Off - Gassing can exacerbate problems in some children and indeed adults. Others may have opinions on sprayed paint. I have on occasion let newly sprayed wardrobe doors sit in the workshop for a couple of weeks to let the fumes lessen.
Sealing unseen exposed MDF with a water based varnish or paint may help.