Quote:
Originally Posted by AdamHeard
The biggest variable being what to do for a spindle, followed by what controllers to buy for our existing (200V 100-300W) AC servomotors.
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Spindle: You can initially go with a wood router (1 to 1.5 HP) with a variable speed controller, and stick with 1/4" shank mills, to save costs and get a feel for what it can do. Easily mills aluminum, steel not so much.
Later, you can engineer a real quill once you learn the kinds of rigidity and precision required. For now, a reasonably rigid Z axis with perhaps 6-12" of travel will be fine. (Trust me: approach this like a robot - build a low-investment prototype first, then redesign after learning the lessons)
Controllers: Obviously you use a computer to 'control' it, with software like MACH3. What you're looking for a nice "driver" board, and possibly a power supply as well. eBay can be your friend here, several companies such as Omron, Mitsubishi, Panasonic, etc. make boards that will drive your motors. Plan on looking carefully for one that drives 200V AC at over 1.1 A (220W - buy one a little bigger). For three phases expect to spend $300-800, more if new.
There's a lot of expertise here, keep asking questions.