AltMill CNC: Latest Innovations and Updates | Sienci Labs

Hi everyone. Daniel is here with the latest updates on the AltMill CNC.
For more information, visit our AltMill landing page.
sienci.com/alt...
Interested in being among the first to order? Fill out the form linked below. Join our AltMill CNC mailing list for the latest on development, news, and all things AltMill-related.
Order Survey
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Mailing List
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Chapters
1:06 - AltMill prototype overview
5:36 - Spindle support on the AltMill
6:08 - Assembly overview
7:07 - Closed loop stepper motors
8:22 - Controller
9:57 - Accessories
11:17 - Machine Specifications
11:28 - Table leg height
11:29 - Spindle support, continued
14:55 - AltMill initial batch production and preorder
15:49 - Estimated pricing
16:28 - Table setup
17:03 - Machine rigidity
20:26 - Machine speed demonstration
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[@bkgoddard]

I am looking forward to the speeds and rigidness of this design. I want to take my CNC to a higher level and I believe you guys have hit the mark.

[@SienciLabs]

We listened to what we heard people saying and tried to nail it! Thanks for the vote!

[@GoodYearForLiving]

I'm watching this product closely and have the March 27th live stream marked on the calendar. I think you guys are becoming next level and changing the industry for the better. Keep up the good work.

[@SienciLabs]

Dang! Thanks Kevin!! We really appreciate the kind words and support! We hope we're making a positive difference too!

[@JNewellworks]

Cannot wait to get one! Nice work Sienci Labs!

[@SienciLabs]

Ah thanks for the kind words ❤️

[@splinterfingerswoodworking8995]

You guys are absolutely amazing to bring a machine with the capabilities of this at such an affordable price compared to other companies in this class I hope to one day own a altmill

[@SienciLabs]

Thanks so much for the kind words! We strive for exactly what you described!

[@iwannaapple7190]

What is the price?

[@CollegeHustler]

Wow! Can’t wait to buy this with the vortex addition when I get back from my army deployment! 🤩

[@jackwagonww]

Great job. Really enjoyed hearing about the machine.

[@BuckysCustoms]

Lots of really cool features on this! Really excited to get mine! Great work!

[@SienciLabs]

Thanks Dana! We appreciate the kind words, as always 😀

[@cpace123]

I added linear rails to my Sienci long mill about 2 years ago. The mod was pretty easy, and I personally saw a lot of improvement on my cuts.

[@tooljack4439]

great job guys. I've had the LongMill for nearly 4 years. Still love it. If I had a bigger shop, I'd get the AltMill asap.

[@SienciLabs]

Thanks @tooljack4439! We're glad you love your LM! Maybe one day the AltMill will find a home in your shop too! 🤞

[@The_Olivier]

great job... are you planing on having a smaller version of it? like a 24x48? or something like that.

[@boko.youtube]

There is lots of talk! I hope so too! 🤞

[@LYTOMIZE_Woodshop]

Awesome update. Time to save up for my second machine!

[@SienciLabs]

Thanks for watching! You can do it!

[@StephenGrant-no1dz]

Looking forward to place my order!

[@SienciLabs]

Us too 😉

[@gregreinhardt1293]

This thing looks awesome!...I'm buying one.

[@villageidiot8718]

I believe limit switches are an absolute must. Sh!t happens, and I want the stepper to STOP when it does. I really wish I could afford one of your machines. Very interesting video. Oh, and the machine is nice too 😀

[@bfreebabi5398]

This is what I really need...

[@jimsk9s]

Very excited about this machine!

[@SienciLabs]

Thanks! Us too!

[@TheAyotteMan]

I'd like to know more about the table itself. Do you all have a video you can post that focuses on the table and its rigidity?

[@ryanm2214]

Admittedly I was concerned about it being a pre-order still in June until I read a blog regarding supply chain shortage of the harness. Being in the automation distribution realm, I know it's a thing and can understand. Do you folks intend to stock up on any replacement parts / repair kits etc?

[@parleyk4503]

So cool to see! Can’t wait for the release!

[@SienciLabs]

Unlessh the Kraken!

[@roberth1858]

I have a concern having the ball screw exposed to chips and dust with no way covers. Any plans to cover that area?

[@puromike]

Yes offer a full package like the beginners package. that’s an awesome idea. A discount for repeat costumes would be nice lol. This will be my 3rd machine from you guys lol

[@SienciLabs]

We really appreciate the love and support! ❤️ We're still working on what to include for the launch.

[@ClintonCaraway-CNC]

I hope you will be able to purchase the base machine and add things like your preferred controller and spindle.

[@kenbouchard834]

I was thinking the same thing! Adding a Masso controller and the PWN ATC system would really make this the ultimate machine for the price.

[@roy-pm2ns]

I can’t wait to get one !

[@SienciLabs]

We'll have more updates as things progress. Stay tuned!

[@southernjoes8372]

Nice looking system definitely beefier than my MK2 48x30. I like the fact you guys went with closed loop motors and ball screws. oh what size ball screw are you using?

[@SienciLabs]

I believe they are 16mm ball screws on the X and Y, 12mm on the Z

[@shughes599]

Gonna go look for it but what is the rigidity of a mk2 compared to this?

[@wiremonkeyshop]

Any plans for a smaller version? Also, backlash and repeatability numbers? Also, what firmware are you running. I'm guessing this is an ESP32 based board. FluidNC?

[@emostorm7]

I'm comparing this to my Onefinity (non-elite), and wow -closed loop, spindle option, sub 3K price, 4x4 :0. I almost got a longmill instead of a OF, but ball screws. However, now, Altmill, way to go guys. Wonder if i can incorporate that spindle kit with my OF..? Will it be available separately? Either way, gratz.

[@SienciLabs]

Thanks for the love! We're still working out all the kinks! ❤️

[@chrishayes5755]

looking forward to seeing direct comparisons vs onefinity elite. your machine looks real nice!

[@jamesyon5818]

I was seriously thinking of purchasing ONE of the competitors machines. Now that you all came out with this machine I have changed my mind. I have an original longmill and a MR 4x4 which is poorly engineered . It looks like you all blew this one out of the water. looking forward to making this my next purchase.

[@SienciLabs]

That's awesome news James! Thanks for the support!

[@ryanm2214]

I too was solidified on ONE and now, not so much lol. This Altmill package looks stellar.

[@danconnelldesigns3168]

I see the machine is moving with the spindle not spinning. Is that a setting in gsender, or is there a separate way to control the spindlem? I am interested in using a drag knife. Will this machine support that?

[@SienciLabs]

Yes spindle control is fully independent, it can be on or off when moving the machine around. Drag knives that mount straight into the spindle collet are totally doable to implement, then just use a design software that supported making drag knife toolpaths

[@thebunnyluvr]

Will the super board support auto tool change? That's my next upgrade while owning a 2.2kw spindle

[@SienciLabs]

What sort of ATC system are you thinking of using?

[@markgibson3815]

You mentioned one plug to the wall is it gonna be 220 or 110 and where could I get more information about the power voltage usage because I’ll be bringing in Electrician to my shop soon

[@SienciLabs]

Power for motion/control of the machine will be through 110V at the wall, and we’re planning to offer a spindle for 110V power as well.

[@endlesslybrowsing6559]

Great price. Id snag one if they were available right now. Unfortunately i need to purchase within the next week or two.

[@boko.youtube]

It's ok you can just sell it :)

[@graveurgraveur2691]

Nice machine!

[@SienciLabs]

Why thank you 😀

[@billysmether6237]

The ball screws do not like dust at all. You have to have a vacuum system. Thanks.

[@SienciLabs]

Yes we’re currently working on a dust collection system for this machine!

[@yepididthis3475]

@@SienciLabs For the dust collection port, can you also include a fitting size for a 6" fitting? I run a heavy dust collection system and have to keep modifying tools to keep up.

[@robmurphy643]

Excellent.

[@chrismcn]

Chopping at the bit to get!😊😊

[@SienciLabs]

That's what we like to hear!

[@about2acres824]

Question. Why is the AltMill only showing the 1.5KW spindle option but in the video the he stated that the machine had a 2.2KW?

[@SienciLabs]

For some of our earlier testing, we had left on a 2.2kw spindle so that we could try to push the limits of the machine. Most of the cutting shown here could still be done with a 1.5kw spindle. The machine is even more capable with spindles more powerful than 2.2kw, but offering anything above 1.5kw requires 220/240V power and would be a limitation for many in a home garage/workshop without this.

[@about2acres824]

@@SienciLabs What cuts can you not do that you are showing on YT?

[@imeach2897]

​@@SienciLabs what about countries with "real electricity" 220/240v 😂😂

[@boko.youtube]

Yes.

[@BinoyJacob992009]

What's the maximum thickness material can work on this machine?

[@SienciLabs]

Good question! 5.5" Max Z travel. If you'd like to read up on more details for the AltMill please check out the link below! sienci.com/altmill/

[@chLaozi]

What is the vice or workholding tool used here? Thanks.

[@SienciLabs]

The vice shown in some of the aluminum cutting clips is just a no-name 4" (wide) milling vise

[@THRILLLYFEENTERTAINMENT]

Demonstrating on hardwood would be nice!

[@SienciLabs]

We have other videos on our youtube channel cutting hardwoods and other materials as well so I'd recommend checking those out!

[@boko.youtube]

Woop woop 🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@TheAyotteMan]

Can any new owners comment on the quality of the table?

[@alistairfurnell126]

Will it ship to New Zealand

[@chrispelletier3661]

Looks awesome!

[@SienciLabs]

Thanks! We think so too! 😎🙌

[@keithclark8030]

I am new to this. Can this do 3-D cutting?

[@SienciLabs]

Hey Keith, check out the videos on our KZbin channel, we have lots of 3D carving exzmples done by AltMill

[@Townie001]

I thought the vfd spindle was being developed with the altmill?

[@SienciLabs]

Check out what Andy has to say about the VFD spindle/AtlMill scenario on our blog! sienci.com/blog/

[@roberth1858]

Nm I guess it helps to watch the whole video lol. How are the way covers coming ?

[@SienciLabs]

Glad we could help ;) Way covers? Can you clarify?

[@roberth1858]

Yes way covers are also called bellows. It’s to cover the ball screw shaft so debris does not get in the XYZ axis.

[@garyprice48]

Do you offer the table it sits on?

[@SienciLabs]

Yes, it's a part of the package. Check out the link below for all the info. sienci.com/2024/03/15/altmill-launch-and-production-schedule/

[@LKMKully]

Any idea how deep my pockets have to be for purchase of this unit, with everything Ill need to start up?

[@SienciLabs]

We're expecting it to be appx $3-4000. Check out the AltMill page for more info! sienci.com/?s=altmill

[@cuzzman01]

When you do your rigidity test it may be better to mount a solid bar instead of the spindle. Some of that deflection will be in the spindle and tool. Take that out of the equation, it's the X and Z axis rigidity that's important.

[@SienciLabs]

We use similar methods to isolate components for testing during designing/prototyping. With an infinitely rigid spindle and tool the machine would certainly be even more performant, but in this case we prefer to show people what practical rigidity results they might see since no spindle or tool is perfect!

[@DrBrian0450]

I am already on the purchase list.....when will you be either taking a deposit or having it for sale?

[@SienciLabs]

Tentatively scheduled for late March!

[@emilelacasse3367]

will the Altmill SBL be available separately

[@SienciLabs]

It will be, but it's still tbd if it will be at the same time as when we launch the AltMill. Thanks for your interest!

[@carld4621]

Nice!

[@SienciLabs]

Ty!

[@ron0126]

My credit card is out of my wallet and waiting on the ordering window to open.

[@SienciLabs]

Thanks for the love! We appreciate the support 🙌

[@iwannaapple7190]

Y'all do realize the word Altmill sounds a lot like the word "Altright"? I like it. Very much like mine except it looks more capable.

[@craigrholmes]

Money set aside, take it pleeeeeease.

[@SienciLabs]

Thanks Craig! We appreciate the love! ❤️

[@SienciLabs]

Thanks Craig, we appreciate the love! ❤️

[@boko.youtube]

Storage!!!!!!!