Buying '94 Thermwood C53 and could use some advice

[Bryan Knott]

Hello all,

QUESTION (crash course):
How easy/intuitive is to to import AutoCAD DXF into old (circa 1994) MasterCAM software, and set up the NC file to run on the router?

BACKGROUND:
I am close to pulling the trigger on a 1994 Thermwood C53. 10hp spindle, 25hp Quincy pump for Vac hold down, Jet 1.5hp on board dust collection, power draw bar for quick tool change and 91000 super controller with OS2. Legacy components but still runs well. Old version of MasterCam. Current owner still unfamiliar with the system mostly having only bought it about a year ago and it doesn't really fit into his operation (he is switching to a laser cutter).

I custom manufacture poker tables and casino equipment. All designs are in AutoCad 2D (DXF) and right now I rent time on Biesse Rover with AlphaCAM as the intermediary between my DXF and the NC file. Very simple to set materials, tool selection, path and sequence.

All of my parts are "per sheet" 3/4" veneer core maple plywood. Most everything is a simple cut through the board with either 1/4" or 1/2" down shear tool generating concentric ovals with occasional pocketing and some shallow cuts. Very seldom do I use a 1/8" down shear tool for a channel (shallow) cut for ple or something.

THANKS FOR ANY AND ALL ADVICE....

Bryan Knott
Off Tilt Custom Poker Tables

[Will Williamson]

Why waste your time and money on obsolete technology. Go lease yourself a new thermwood you will be cutting parts and making money day one. That is a decision you will never regret.

[Bryan Knott]

Why waste your time and money on obsolete technology. Go lease yourself a new thermwood you will be cutting parts and making money day one. That is a decision you will never regret.

Hi Will,

That's obviously one way of looking at it - but as a small 1 person operation not sure I can afford to lease a 45k+ machine on my production volume. a 6k - albeit much older system but operational machine - in a product niche that ebbs and wanes with the market might be a better decision...

That is IF I can get DXF files easily converted via MaseterCAM or another CAM software and posted to the Thermwood - hence my question...

[Forrest Chapman]

Bryan, it looks like things have been upgraded at some point as the 91000 controller didn't come out until early 2000's. It would be interesting to see if it has a belt driven spindle or direct drive. I don't think the belt drive units had auto tool change capabilities. At first glance I believe it will do anything you want it to though.

Find out what type motor it has, version of windows, version of controller software and we can make a better assessment.

Forrest

[Bryan Knott]

Bryan, it looks like things have been upgraded at some point as the 91000 controller didn't come out until early 2000's. It would be interesting to see if it has a belt driven spindle or direct drive. I don't think the belt drive units had auto tool change capabilities. At first glance I believe it will do anything you want it to though.

Find out what type motor it has, version of windows, version of controller software and we can make a better assessment.

Forrest

Hey Forrest!

Thank you! I am checking on the full specs and have yet to actually demo the unit (hoping to this week). Owner says it runs on OS2 (archaic, I know). Trying to confirm the actuall controller. Tried posting a pciture...No ATC - but there is a power draw bar with BT30 collets for quick change (no wrench)

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[Michael Kowalczyk]

i would not use DXF file unless absolutely necessary. DWG is a better file . less segments machine runs smoother. just my Humble opinion. With the money you save you can get a new controller GEN 2 and be up and running. if it is a belt driven motor call Thermwood to see what it would take to upgrade it to a HSD with ATC capabilities and get a table mount tool changer. I have a 2002 C40 and 2002 C42 both run win 2000 and 91000 THM 5.05