what is the best spindle for the ox cnc router large | Forum

For a 2.2kW spindle I would go water cooled. I use one and it works great. Silent, until it starts to cut!

With a water cooled spindle you will need, pumps, piping, sump or radiator and etc. I use computer cooling fluid instead of water because I did not want the spindle to rust or etc. I also picked up a nice flow meter that has a digital thermometer in it, similar to this:

Just know that a big spindle (i.e., 2.2kW) is heavy. This means when your machine is running there is a lot of momentum with any changes of direction. This can be mitigated by adjusting the acceleration settings and have it slow down and speed up when changing any direction (makes a great sound when running, a little like music!)

Also most 2.2kW spindles need a VFD to drive them. Make sure the VFD is compatible with your controller and software. One of my machines has a Gecko G540, Mach3 and a VFD + 2.2kW Spindle. A good combination that works really well. 

One more thing; buy lots of bits!

I like to cut using small bits (1-2mm) and they break! Usually as a result of human (i.e., me) error - I jog the machine into the work material and snap the bit, or cut/plunge too fast.

Good luck, and let us all know how you go!

I keep coming across triple bits, seem to cut a lot smoother and a little faster from my endless hours on utube.

What are you cutting and what size bits are you thinking of? Are you carving (2.5D) or cutting out (2D)?

There are a lot of different types of bits (end mill, ballnose, vbits), sizes (size of collet and bits) and flute types (straight, upcut, downcut, compression) and flute number.

I 2D cut perspex PCBs and aluminum and like to cut slowly with end mills. Usually between 0.5 to 5mm in DIA and with 2-4 flutes. With perspex need to get the swarf out quickly so it doesn't overheat and melt. With AL a smoother finish is most important consideration.

I recommend, like you say, buy quite a few as they are easy to break or blunt (especially the 0.5mm or 1mm!!), and do a few test cuts.

Take a look at:

Tool Materials and Geometry

Cheers,

I will be cutting polyethylene, custom wood and maybe some aluminium...