James's Review in the United States
The STS1325 is a popular choice for stone CNC routing, but like any machine, it has its strengths and weaknesses. After more than a month of debugging and operating it, I would like to give it an objective and fair review. Here's a breakdown:
Pros
Versatility: STS1325 can handle a wide variety of stone materials, including marble, granite, artificial stone, bluestone, and more. This makes it suitable for various applications, from 2D countertop cutting to 3D relief carving (sculpting).
Work Area: The 1300mm x 2500mm working area (4' x 8') accommodates standard stone slabs, reducing the need for pre-cutting and maximizing material usage.
Powerful Spindle: The high-power spindle offers efficient cutting and engraving even on hard stones.
Water Cooling System: The water cooler helps extend the life of the cutting tools by reducing heat and friction during operation.
Affordable Price: More budget-friendly compared to some high-end stone CNC routers, making it accessible to smaller businesses and workshops.
Cons
Software Compatibility: Limited compatible software, potentially requiring additional learning curves.
Dust and Debris: Stone cutting generates a significant amount of dust and debris. While a water cooling system helps, a robust dust collection system is essential for a clean and safe working environment.
Maintenance: Like all CNC machines, regular maintenance is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. This includes lubrication, cleaning, and potential replacement of parts.
Technical Expertise: Operating a CNC router requires some technical knowledge. While user-friendly interfaces are becoming more common, understanding basic CNC principles is beneficial.
Support & Availability: Depending on your location, accessing technical support or spare parts for STYLECNC machines might be challenging compared to more established brands.
Conclusion
The STS1325 is a solid choice for businesses or individuals looking for a capable and reasonably priced stone CNC router. Its versatility and efficient cutting capabilities make it suitable for various applications. However, consider the potential drawbacks, such as software compatibility, maintenance requirements, and the need for a good dust collection system, before making a decision.