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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

Plotters and drag knives

Upgrading the 3018 to be able to make precise drawings or cut vinyl, cardboard, and paper mechanically is the least complicated modification you can make to your 3018. For the most part, you are replacing the spindle (temporarily) with something to hold a pen/sharpie or a blade. The rest is controlled by the software and G-code. Consider: If you have no traversal in Z other than to raise or lower the toolhead, your drawing is rendered entirely in 2D (no depth to worry about), so it is reasonable to think that your 3018 can draw and cut using the same software. You would just have to work on the process of raising and lowering the toolhead where appropriate.

While these modifications are certainly simple enough and absolutely reversible, you should know that the machine will appear to operate slowly. This is because the 3018s use leadscrews in all axes and those are meant to move a heavy toolhead at a reasonable rate for cutting. In the case of these upgrades...

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