Spindle or Router for noise

Mostly Printed CNC - MPCNC Advice
#1

Bought my kit today! Finally caught it when everything was back in stock. I’m about halfway done with printing my parts and now I’m looking for a spindle or router. I’m sure this has been asked before so excuse me.
My main concern is noise level with my router. I know cutting material is going to make noise no matter what no matter which route I go. But for reduced noise level when idle and when the tool is moving what would my best choice be.
I want a good all around capable machine so I don’t want to limit my self on a spindle/router. But I also live in a somewhat close neighborhood so I don’t want to annoy the neighbors. I plan on making an enclosure as well.

Thanks in advance!

#2

Spindle is quieter, but like you said, all the noise comes from the material being cut and any dust collection you use.

Neither one will ever be that quiet.

#3

My next project, keeps shop clean and quieter. Most importantly…cheap.

#4

That’s a nice oven! I mean, enclosure.

#5

I have an enclosure and has the pink insulation foam board (1" and 1 1/2") from Home Depot for the sound dampening. Using my MPCNC during the summer, I found it got very hot inside…not enough to deform the PLA parts (yet), but there was a blast of hot air when I opened the door and the belts were looser. The temp outside the enclosure was around 80 degrees. I found I was running my rig with the door open, which defeats the purpose the enclosure in the first place. I decided that if I ever redo the enclosure, I’ll use sound dampening panels instead of the insulating foam.

I read some posts on this forum where someone had used both a 500 watt spindle and a DW660. He found the spindle much quieter but also underpowered compared to the DW660.

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#6

I was one of them that did this. This was my opinion too.

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#7

Looks like a fun project I might have to try this out!

#8

I’m thinking of building one just out of foam, like 1". I mean the box doesnt have to be structural. Maybe slap a fan on one side for venting due to the heat everyone mentioned. I could even do a frame out of 1x2s and then just use foam for the walls. now my brain is working…crap

Ah ha! I’m not the only crazy one.