Source
r/hobbycnc•
NameLost

Shapeoko XXL with spindle motor vs Dewalt router

I'm looking at getting a Shapeoko XXL soon and was considering getting the version with a Dewalt router, BUT I saw that I could get a water cooled spindle motor for not significantly more (relatively speaking), I was wondering if that would be a better idea. I like the idea of more power, better control and potentially much quieter. Is there any reason NOT to go this way from the start?

https://smile.amazon.com/MYSWEETY-Cooled-Spindle-Converter-Collet/dp/B01N1EJEQ1

Posted Feb 9, 2019, 4:13 AM UTC

76
BSSwoodshop•

I went with a 2.2kw liquid cooled spindle from the start with my xxl. I’m very happy that I did. I never actually used a trim router as a spindle before that though so I can’t give a comparison. Routers are crazy loud though and my spindle barely makes a sound. I also like that I don’t need to deal with a router power cable. I used 16 AWG speaker wire to power my spindle and i ran the wire through the drag chain. You do have to deal with tubing and a pump for the liquid cooled spindle but I mounted a small pc pump and pc radiator+fan to the gantry and ran those wires through the drag chain also.

here’s my post about it on the carbide 3D forum.

5
WillAdamsShapeoko 3XL/Nomad 883 Pro•

The spindles are an added complication and potentially a source of additional EMI which may cause disconnects.

4
NameLostOP•

If I get the Shapeoko with the Dewalt router, does it come with the normal router base too or just the motor part?

1
WillAdamsShapeoko 3XL/Nomad 883 Pro•

You get a commercial router package with the router base ( https://www.dewalt.com/products/power-tools/routers-planers-and-joiners/routers/114-hp-max-torque-variable-speed-compact-router/dwp611 ) --- for a while there were bare motors available, but it turns out they were made by stripping a package and were supposed to be a service center part.

2
bikesbeers•

Water cooled spindle! The loudest part is cutting but I enjoy not having to wear hearing protection when setting up. The common Huanyang Chinese VFD is a little bit of work researching how to set up but works well. Little bit of soldering. My experience is from a $200-$300 range 1.5kw 110v water cooled spindle from eBay.

Ups -Much quieter than a router(most important for myself)

Downs -Heavier, I’m not sure how rigid the Shapeoko is or how rigid you can make it

Items to buy on top of spindle VFD -Coolant I used automotive but I have friends who use computer coolant but it’s more money

-Pump Cheapest harbor freight is about $6

-Hose

-Larger drag chain Didn’t think of this and have my coolant lines zip tied. I run my spindle cable from the roof of my enclosure with dust collection

Shielded cable

Wires

Edit: didn’t see the link, you get most of the stuff I listed

4
Comms•

If noise is a problem, build an enclosure. MDF does a fine job of sound dampening. Even an acrylic front (so you can watch it) does a great job of dampening the sound. Your vac is going to be way louder anyway (put that in an enclosure too).

Also, definitely go with a spindle.

2