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ShopBot Routers are they any good?
As can be seen from my previous posts in this forum, we’ve had some problems with our laser, still not fixed. We decided to sell the laser, and purchase a new CNC router. (We currently have an ancient Techno-Isel router, with 900W Kress spindle motor. This machine is not in good health! I assume it has got something to do with the linear bearings – will ask your advise on this later.
While Googeling routers to see if I can get parts, software upgrades etc, I game across a site for "ShopBot" routers in the USA. The product looks good, combined with affordable sofware bundles etc. Great price on the machine too. We’re now considering importing a PRT standard, 2,6 x 1,3m machine. Any one using them? Remember, I will have to do all my own software and hardware support on this machine, thus require something relatively straigtforward, and reliable.
We will mostly use it for engraving an cutting Perspex & brass. Maybe Supawood etc. if I can develop a market for it
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5 Replies
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Gert, whats wrong with the Isel, we run 5 of them , the oldest from 86!!
They are pretty good heavy duty engravers. Rubber Stamp and Engraving are the new agents , if your controller is playing up , they can help.
We run a Tekcel with a Perske High frequ spindle as our heavy duty machine. I would run something with local support , don’t think the shop bot is supported in SA. What applications are you looking to do with the machine? -
Basically I didnt know where to get our machine serviced. The controller seems fine, but the software is ancient! The machine will engrave, and suddenly plunge to a greater depth. Some local guy tried to service it, and "ball bearings" fell out. This must be from the linear bearings. Will give your lead a call. Thanks
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Gert , if the Z axis is acting intermittently , it’s most likely the X axis cable that has a break or a short , try swap cables with another axis to determine it. It could also be the card , swap cards too.
We run ours on Autocad as well as signlab. If you run signlab , you dont need the translation software.
The linear bearing housings are cheap , we actually have a few machines in mothballs and some spares , perhaps I can help. At any rate that are all adjustable at the bearing housing and the bearing rails are adjustable for backlash at the nut that pokes out at the end. We have never had a bearing issue. PS both the bearing that co along the guide rails and the ballscrew ones are adjustable.
Which machine do you have , we have 3x 1m x 500 and 3 x 500 x 500.
Techno-isel in the states also carry parts for em if RS&E is proving sticky.
You welcome to give me a ring bout the laser or the Isels – 021 592-4123.
Im onhly here till 11 today as we closing up , will be open on 15/1 next yr. -
Oops , I meant the Z axis cable , not x axis
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We have the 500 x 1000 machine, about 16 years old. Will give you a call after 15/01 – Enjoy your holiday!
We dont close down over X-mast. For some reason this is a very busy time for us, even with most of the factories closed down for the holiday.
PS It would take us about 2 months an R30k to fix our laser, same time and R60k to replace the laser unit. We’re selling the machine for R50k as is. The (potential) buyer is 800 kms away, and already runs a laser, so we’re not creating opposition for ourselves.
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