I found a site, OnlineMetals.com. Their 304 stainless tubing costs $71.78 for a five foot length. On the other hand, aluminum 6061 tubing costs $28.16 each for a five foot length. Is anyone getting away with the aluminum tubing? They tell me that it can’t be bent by hand.
I’m not an expert by any means, but my understanding is that it isn’t about the metal bending, but the bearings grinding into the surface. Aluminum will wear down faster than steel or stainless.
Good point, David. I need to find the balance between price and quality. Is anyone on this forum expert in finding that balance?
I went with ordinary mild steel, not stainless. I also got a bit thicker wall since I was going bigger than normal but that would be optional.
So far it hasn’t been an issue and I’m happy with my choice. As long as your climate isn’t super humid you should be able to get away with it.
I too just went with cheap steel. My machine has a 24"x24" cut size.
I went with the cheap electrical tubing from the L big box store on a 24" x 18" cutting surface, works like a charm.
Yep, Ryan is. He made it using EMT conduit to start with. I’m assuming this is for an MPCNC, not a low rider.
That’s a rip off price. Shop local. $5/foot stainless 1” OD .065 wall last week at Metal Supermarket. $100 out the door for 20 feet, plenty for my build.
Aluminum won’t work. The steel bearings will destroy the aluminum tubing.
Stainless is more rigid. Even better is a small build. Large rigid build I believe is the low rider. More rigid than that will cost you a few G’s.
If you have to buy online, I recommend McMaster Carr. High quality hardware site. $40 for 6 feet of .049 stainless. Only problem is they don’t show you the shipping charge until after they bill your order. For something like this, it’ll be a hefty shipping fee. But you’ll get quality stuff.