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Sorta OT/ Online Machine Shop

570 views 7 replies 6 participants last post by  dave 
#1 ·
I read about this operation in my local newspaper yesterday. Seems like a pretty good idea, if you have something truly unique to design and have machined. If you have the time (turn around was mentioned to be 30 days) but not the tools or talent, it might be the best solution available. Give it a look.

emachineshop.com
 
#2 ·
That's a great idea, but...this is one of those things where I'd rather walk into a local shop with my drawing and have the opportunity to discuss the design before it's made. It's always good to support your local machinists and business too since they are always in danger of being taken over by Walmart like everyone else


Nice to know the option is there though.
 
#3 ·
Dan, being one of those local machinists, I appreciate your consideration. What's significant here is that this outfit has computer-controlled equipment behind them, which the little shops can't afford. The shops that do have that equipment have to keep it running, and don't like to bother with onesies and twosies.

Occasionally I design something that would like a part that can only be done practically on CNC equipment. Most of the time I design around it, but once I needed rear caliper brackets that would have been VERY difficult to make on a hand-cranked machine. I sent the CAD files to a local shop which charged $990.00 to make two. And I supplied the material!

So it's nice for me to know that there's a place I can use in the future that may not be so expensive. That will free me up as a designer.
 
#4 ·
Dang Jim,,,,, Talk to tater in the future, he works in a place that is really reasonable.... Couldn't imagine a caliber bracket running that high even for a one off. As for the machine shops, I am in with a couple and find that my parts get machined very reasonably.
 
#5 ·
In reply to:

Talk to tater in the future

[/ QUOTE ]

What he said!!!
CNC, 4-axis, up to 110" travel.
Oh, and the boss is a Jeeper, so you can probably get the family discount.

And, if you come over to pick it up, we can wheel all weekend, and you can write it off as a business trip!!
 
#6 ·
Well, that's good to know. I'll remember that for the next time.

In the case I mentioned, the saving grace was that the shop owner was a high school buddy of my customer, who told me to take the design there. When I picked up the parts I told the owner to send the bill to Al. I expected him to do it real cheap if not free for his buddy. Shows what kind of pals they are.

 
#8 ·
I down loaded the CAD software from emachineshop. I have Solidworks on my computer also. The emachineshop CAD software is not really for a beginner, but if your willing to spend the time, it's not a real tough CAD to learn. It's also nice to know some basics about machining when using the emachineshop CAD, like the different types of machines; lathes, mills, waterjet, ect.
dave
 
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