Small batch aluminium casting of uprights

[Rick1.8t]

The Wookie said:

Ahh, didn't realise you could do that with a VMC!

Some machines have electronic probing so can perform a CMM function in-machine and relay info directly to the control, useful if machining odd-shapes that need to be located for each part (Not ours, we don't have any need for that kind of functionality)

We just use a probe and effectively use the machines 'DRO' to locate dimensions and then just record them and put them into your CAD software - it would only work with locating simple dimensions though, doing a complex surface would take hours!

[foggy]

So it seems the best plan is to measure up the key dimensions of the wheel bearing and wishbone fixing points to have them to hand as insurance in case of needing to machine up a new billet upright.

Thanks for your input one and all, and apologies for disappearing for a while - I started the thread during some time on my hands whilst my lady was being induced into labour, and as you can imagine things got a bit busy as time progressed...

[rich888]

So congratulations may well be in order, followed by 6 months of utter chaos and sleepless nights... forget about aluminium castings and concentrate on sleep and nappies...

Seriously though, if you are able to focus a little bit on the original task, take a look at www.shapeways.com if you have a 3D drawing which will enable you to have a 3D printed item produced from your CAD drawing in a variety of materials. It won't be as strong as machining from a solid billet but may be strong enough for your requirements.

[foggy]

Aye, this is kiddie no. 2 so we have half an idea what we're letting ourselves in for.

[generationx]

For cast parts it is always the pattern costs that are the biggest bit. If you plan to make a large batch parts then, of course, this is greatly offset due to economies of scale.

Quaife does a lot of this sort of work but will want minimum quantities:

http://quaife.co.uk/

The foundry they use most frequently is Brooks Crownhill (who also machine parts):

http://www.bcplimited.co.uk/index.php