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A Tinkerer's Guide to CNC Basics

A Tinkerer's Guide to CNC Basics

By : Najia
4.7 (10)
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A Tinkerer's Guide to CNC Basics

A Tinkerer's Guide to CNC Basics

4.7 (10)
By: Najia

Overview of this book

Until recently, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines belonged to the realm of heavy industry, but as technology becomes cheaper and smaller, these machines now can be used in home workshops. It’s not easy to get started, though, but thanks to this guide, you’ll be ready to take on a variety of projects in no time. A Tinkerer’s Guide to CNC Basics contains everything you need to get set up at home with computer-controlled machining and fabrication. Sparing you the theory, this project-laden guide helps you learn by doing. Once you’ve got to grips with the principles of CNC and installed the 3018 Pro CNC machine, you’ll gradually move from simple projects such as basic engraving to more complex milling and machining techniques. You’ll even learn how to upgrade your machine to accomplish more sophisticated designs. The plethora of projects in this book will keep you busy and give you the practice you need to get started with your computerized workshop. By the end of the book, your computerized home workshop will be one step closer to realization, and your machining skills will be taken to the next level.
Table of Contents (15 chapters)
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11
Chapter 11: Building a More Capable CNC Machine

How CNC works and when to use it

The CNC machine is operated by an onboard controller that runs three or more stepper motors and the toolhead. Stepper motors have a lot more torque and can be controlled with greater precision than ordinary electric motors. Motor control is measured in fractions of revolutions, which allows for excellent precision in movement. Using precision leadscrews (or pulley/belt systems), the motors move a gantry along the Y axis while the toolhead moves left and right on the gantry (the X axis). The Z axis is nothing more than a small gantry that moves the toolhead up and down, typically with a leadscrew.

The commands being passed to the controller on the CNC machine are called G-code. The commands passed to the controller (either via the onboard software or a computer passing G-code to the controller) move the toolhead to various locations in all three axes and runs the spindle motor so that the milling end can then cut into the material as desired. The...

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