I have my lr4 running the carbide3d router (er11 version) it is definitely not loud, my dust collection system makes more noise, my vacuum table pump makes more noise. You should not really need a spindle with vfd in my opinion
The carbide router is actually 60 usd, the full spindle kit will be +220usd minimum.
If the spindle is a must: go aircooled. An water-cooled one you will need to manage 2 coolant lines extra.
Here are some useful links for you:
You can get the module from elecrow too
For the spindle vfd: get one of the models listed in the fluidnc wiki (that will save you money/time)
Also, does anyone have any experience or advice re: air vs water cooled? I’m in a hot and humid country so thinking water cooled might offer better cooling and it seems fairly simple to setup, just a few hoses and pumps.
Other than managing hoses, get a 65mm spindle no matter what, 80mm spindles creates another issues for the lr. Im in a very humid hot country too (Dominican Republic).
My advice would be to follow the LowRider golden path. Get a carbide3d / makita (most popular) / kobalt router and use it until that is your limitation. I’d hate for you to build the whole LR and then get stuck not being able to use it because you are troubleshooting a spindle and VFD for unrealized gains
Thanks, I think you’re right, I can always look at spindles in future when I’m up and running I guess. Depends how much the wife and neighbours complain when the Makita is going.
You linked my thread on this earlier so you probably already read. I promise that the noise will be louder from your dust collector or the bit like Jonathan said.
After you build and use your LR, if noise is still a concern you would be better off investing in a quieter dust collector, sound proofing your shop, buying a better door between the shop and house, adding a laser (lol) etc.
but you really should get two because it might be the only chance you get:
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the ER-11 Conpact Router marked down so much?
We expected the ER-11 router to be really popular, but it turns out that most people don’t want to pay extra for it. We’ve decided to clear out our inventory and focus only on the Carbide Compact Router foring forward.
He already have a really good spindle. But yes the carbide router is such a steal (it has passed with honor the 8h+ test of work Monday/Saturday for mire than 3 months in my shop)
Actually a little update. I bought one at the $60. It was supposed to be the ER-11 but actually I got the normal precision one they sell for $80. They did include the ER-11 collets and chuck but they don’t fit the one I got. No issue since they also sent the 1/8 and 1/4 precision collets.
Anyway I let him know and they were great and said just keep it. I noticed also the Makita is now at $150 locally.
Carbide 3D has been very responsive, and I love the router they sent. Very happy for $60. It is absolutely identical in every way to the Makita.
