Book Image

A Tinkerer's Guide to CNC Basics

By : Samer Najia
5 (1)
Book Image

A Tinkerer's Guide to CNC Basics

5 (1)
By: Samer 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)
11
Chapter 11: Building a More Capable CNC Machine

Branches of CNC machining

CNC manufacturing can be traced back to the 1940s, when the first numerical control (NC) machines started to appear (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_numerical_control), and methods to automate handcrafted fabrication can be traced to three centuries ago. I’m sure you’ve seen videos of these machines perhaps fabricating the engine block for a car or cutting and shaping sheet metal. For all intents and purposes, a CNC machine is a type of robot. It takes stock material (a sheet of wood, a block of aluminum) and turns it into a product ready to be assembled or finished very quickly, very accurately, and, most importantly, repeatedly. CNC machining made fabrication at scale possible.

With the advent of desktop computing, more commonly accessible materials, and smaller, more powerful components, it also became possible to bring CNC machining to the home workshop. Now, anyone with a good guide can put together a robust desk or bench-top...