Industrial Desktop CNC ToolDance X1 Offers 5-Axis Machining Capability

ToolDance X1 Industrial Desktop CNC

With the rise of 3D printing, manufacturing plastic components is now possible for almost everyone. However, if you want to manufacture metal components such as a bracket, gear box housing or fixtures that require tolerance, you have to get to grips with CAM software, figure out how to clamp your stock, select the correct cutters and manually set your work offsets or outsource it which can take weeks. ToolDance a company founded by ex-DJI and Siemens engineers, aim to solve these issues by providing a compact desktop CNC solution with a 1500W spindle, fully automated CAM and 9 tool auto tool change.

The ToolDance X1 Industrial Desktop CNC machine

To ensure maximum rigidity, the machine features a cast aluminium alloy frame with strategically placed reinforcements. Whilst it does have a reasonable weight at 110 kg (243 lb), it definitely offers far more than expected. However, the campaign has finally launched on Kickstarter. To ensure maximum rigidity, the machine features a cast aluminium alloy frame with strategically placed reinforcements. This provides an impressive 400x265x180mm work envelope. The auto tool changer does take up some space but overall, it’s still pretty huge. The 1500W Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) Spindle can run up to 24,000RPM. Unlike most desktop machines the machine offers good torque at low speeds. The low torque allows cutting of Aluminium, Brass, Copper, Steel and Titanium. However, if you increase the speed of the spindle to near its max speed of 24,000RPM it can cut Wood, Acrylic and Plastics.

Flood Cooling Module

The frame is constructed of cast aluminum alloy and is reinforced along key load paths for maximum rigidity and minimum vibration for stable machining, consistent accuracy and clean surface finishes. The 9-tool ATC automates the whole process from roughing and drilling to finishing, chamfering, threading and engraving. Each job has the right cutter for it and support for tool shanks up to 10 mm. The built-in camera lets users check machining progress and machine status remotely at any time without interrupting the workflow. The tool changer has capacity for nine tools and a workpiece probe, reads an RFID tag on each holder and accepts shanks up to 10 mm and cutters up to 18 mm across. All three axs are driven by preloaded ball screws using closed loop NEMA 23 stepper motors with field-oriented control and 14-bit absolute encoders. The motion planning is done by an RTOS controller at 2 kHz. The base machine also features a probe, line laser sensor for stock mapping, a 1080p camera for job watching, a touchscreen and an MPG handwheel.

ToolDance X1 featuring ATC (automatic tool changer)

The base machine is 3 axis, bolt-on upgrades are later. There is a 4-axis rotary module for cylindrical work up to Ø120 x 160 mm. A 5-axis module adds simultaneous 5-axis machining for workpieces up to 110 x 110 x 105 mm, plus 3 + 2 positioning for workpieces up to 160 x 160 x 105 mm, useful for parts that would otherwise need several setups. It features an air-blast system, with an optional Flood Coolant module for coolant delivery and chip collection for heavier metal work, and a Dust Collection module to keep wood and plastic jobs clean. The machine offers a 400x265x180mm work envelope with the cast aluminium frame providing accuracy to within +/- 0.01mm. Air Blast is included in the machine meaning you can easily do dry machining. ToolDance have tested cutting 304 stainless steel and Grade 5 Titanium. The optional Flood Cooling Module will provide continuous coolant supply to the cutting area. Noise is also kept in check: ToolDance industrial desktop CNC was measured at 50 cm at under 70 dBA in typical operation while cutting aluminum, and under 65 dBA in quieter operation. ToolDance has been publishing its cutting tests instead of using renders. One video displays a part made from roughed to finished Grade 5 titanium (Ti-6Al-4V) with air cooling prior to inspection on a coordinate measuring machine (CMM). In another CMM test, a 160 mm feature on a single X1-machined part was measured at 160.0176 and 160.0193 mm, with selected straightness, perpendicular and concentricity results being less than 0.02 mm.

ToolDance X1 5-axis Expansion Module

The process starts by opening ToolDance Studio. This is the companies own CAM software and is free to download and use. It doesn’t require a subscription and all the main machining functions can be done offline. You can import either a STEP or STL file and the software will check if the part can be machined. This will highlight any areas that cannot be machined. AutoCAM will suggest clamping methods, select the correct tools and create the machining operations. It will then simulate the material removal to ensure everything is okay. However, if you’re a more experienced machinist you can take control of the process using Interactive Programming. Or you can import G Code from your own CAM Software. Plugins will be available alongside the Windows version of ToolDance Studio meaning you can import G Code direct from Fusion 360, Siemens NX and Mastercam.

List of Supported Materials

At launch you get a great deal on the base (X1) at just $2,999. The 4-axis module is $699. The 5-axis module is priced at just $1,099, the Flood Coolant module $799 and the Dust Collection module at just $599, with bundles such as the 5-Axis Clean-Cut Deluxe at $4,449. You can also pledge over time which allows you to spread your backer payment into 3 instalments. All shipping is DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) meaning there are zero additional costs once the item arrives. Shipping to the continental US will cost you a deposit of only $350, varies by region and is collected after the campaign. Deliveries are targeted for Q1 2027. Before launch, readers can also reserve a VIP spot with a fully refundable USD $30. This gives you 200 USD cashback per machine, plus 1-hour early access to the super early bird pledges. There are already over 4,000 people following the campaign page. The X1 industrial desktop CNC has a 1-year limited warranty (varies between regions). As with any crowdfund campaign delays can occur and details can change. The pledge on Kickstarter does not constitutes a pre-order. Click here to receive an alert as soon as the pledges open: “Notify me on launch”.