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Hi,

In the last couple of weeks I've been working on something really great: a low cost CNC mill:
Since I'm getting more and more into "DIY Domotica" lately, this CNC mill seemed like a good tool to have. My goal is to be able to create my own (not-too-complicated) PCB's with it and be totally independent of what you can buy. Make it yourself!
Read some more about it here: http://blog.hekkers.net/tag/mantis-cnc-mill/

nice job!!

would it be possible to cut metal with it?
(i would like to be able to make some patchpanels for pro audio equipment)

That's not an easy question...

Depends on the thickness and hardness of the material (copper, aluminum, steel?)
The rotary tool that came with this Mantis is a GBM-132EM (8k-30k RPM, 130 Watt, 2.4-3.2 mm)
I can't tell anything about the quality yet; I've seen better. I have a Proxxon Micromot for example, which looks more robust than this GBM (Intergamma). But I can't say anything conclusive yet until I've seen this one working.

You could consider adjusting the wooden holder to fit another brand/model rotary tool, just as long as the dimensions are OK.
Maybe in a couple of weeks, with some more experience (still 0.0 now), I can tell you more.

Very nice !! 8o)....

Forget steel with a wooden frame.... even aluminium would be a hard job.

I regret i was to late with aplying to this workshop.
happy milling ;o)

This workshop will not be the last, so if you're interested, keep an eye on their site.

For those interested in the Mantis: I've made some progress this weekend.
I managed to surface the spoil board; now, after solving some issues, I'm ready to start creating my first object!
http://blog.hekkers.net/2010/11/21/surf ... oil-board/

Update.
I did a first (quick & a bit dirty) test yesterday. Results are good enough to go on and spend more time on it

http://blog.hekkers.net/2010/12/15/firs ... he-mantis/