Buying Alpha versus Standard

[kencraft]

We looked at the PRSalpha and PRSstandard 48 x 96 at IWF. I will be cutting hardwood molding and veneer plywood at first. I am looking for the advantages and disadvantages over these two machines. So far I am told the alpha is better, but will the standard work just as well. I am a custom mill shop and lumber supplier looking to expand products and services.

[harryball]

Alpha translates to more pushing force before loosing steps and faster cutting speeds. This means for production you can cut faster. The Alpha also uses a closed loop system, this means when it misses a step it knows (i.e. pushing beyond its limits or striking something). The Standard will simply try to keep moving not realizing it has lost steps.

While the Standard can certainly do the job, the Alpha can do it faster. One caveat to that is if you are cutting 3D or small parts. With small movements the ramping will never let the Alpha get up to speed. In such cases the Standard will often perform at or close to the same speed as the Alpha.

Another good question to ask shopbot would be what is the cost to upgrade a Standard to an Alpha. Depending on your needs it may make sense ot start with the Standard and upgrade later or sell the standard and buy new.

/RB

[Gary Campbell]

Ken...
For us the Alpha is the only option. We are a professional shop, even tho we do not do production cutting on sheetgoods, having the power of the alpha outfitted with a spindle, is virtually a must for the professional.

Hardwoods take power to push a bit fast enough to not burn. Its like comparing a big PC router to a lesser priced no name. You can fit the same bit, you can cut the same wood, but when you have to depend on the tool to get it out the door and get paid, get the good stuff.
Gary

[harryball]

As Gary points out, need of production implies an alpha. Gary made it sound like the Standard might not cut hardwood but I don't think he intended it that way. The Standard will cut hardwood but with the lower push force you will have to make more passes (less cutting per pass) to move fast enough to prevent burning etc... This is fine in a light use or hobby atmosphere but will become frustrating in a production environment.

Use economics and production needs of your situation to make the choice. IMHO having a Standard for a year or so is better than having no bot. But waiting an additional 4 to 6 months to afford an Alpha while you make do is a wise decision.

/RB

[thewoodcrafter]

With an Alpha you will be able to cut 2 - 4 times faster than a standard. The next thing you need is a spindle to be able to take advantage of that speed.

[erik_f]

Or you could buy two standards with routers for nearly the price of a spindled Alpha.