I have ordered an AltMill 4x2, and at the time I ordered the available addons - The Vortex Rotary Axis, and the Spindle and Dust Shoe Kit. I just watched Andy Lee’s Sienci Labs Monthly Production Update May 2025. And now I am concerned about tariffs on these add-ons and also uncertain whether the Spindle kit is the right spindle for an AltMill in any case.
First, a simple question: Is the “Vortex Rotary Axis - 48” Rail with Close Loop" ($520.99) covered by the USMCA like the AltMill (tariff free)?
Second, and more importantly, after watching Andy Lee’s video I understand that the spindle and VFD are Chinese made. So will I be hit with the China tariffs (145%) for this!? Also, Andy seemed to say that this spindle is under-powered for the AltMill anyway (and I want to cut aluminum). So, I’m thinking it would be wise to cancel this part of my order. I have 220V power available in my shop, so I’m not limited to 110V spindles. There seem to be a bunch of 2.2KW 80mm spindles w/VFD on Amazon. Would any 80mm (round) spindle work? How do I know if the VFD is compatible with the AltMill? Any recommendation here for which one to get?
All opinions appreciated. TIA!
I can’t answer your technical questions but I believe it is recommended that you get a water-cooled spindle if you’re cutting a lot of aluminum. The reasoning is that you don’t want aluminum shavings getting inside an air-cooled spindle. Not sure if that’s fact or fiction though.
There’s a video of Sienci staff cutting an aluminum guitar. You should enquire to see what they used for that.
As for the tariffs question, exempt items were listed at the link shown in this page: All is Fair in Love and Trade War – Discussing the Ongoing Trade War and Tariffs (April 11, 2025) | Sienci Labs
I’m Canadian and I like to shop on AliExpress. I used a 2.2kw 80mm spindle on the mk2. My altmill is almost ready. I watched their 4.5kw spindle test video. I found a 4.5kw for$550 plus $300 for the vfd. A 6kw is just a bit more. I’ll have to get a 50amp 240v. I definitely want the 6kw.
I think the items that are not covered under the USMCA are not available for purchase to US buyers. I currently use a 65mm 1.2 KW spindle and have no issue cutting aluminum. I think that he meant that the Altmill can handle a bigger spindle and the 1.5 does not tax it. The 1.5 still has good power. Im with you, I would rather have 220V too but I would rather buy a complete package for warranty and support purposes. There is a link in the blog that states what falls under the USMCA. I posted a link to it below.
USMCA list