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

Cutting aluminum and other soft metals

Cutting through metals requires strong end-mill bits as well as the need to keep the material cool. If you have ever used a drill press on a block or thick piece of metal, you will likely have made the mistake of scorching the bit (where it gets black and starts to squeal as it cuts). This is when the bit gets very hot and binds against the metal it is cutting. This can be addressed with some cutting oil or similar coolant. There are tons of videos on YouTube showing industrial CNC machines cutting into blocks to make things such as engine blocks, or you might have seen lathes milling metal as well. In both cases, you will see the workpiece being drenched in a liquid that has two purposes. First is to keep the end mill and material cool and the second is to carry away the chips, dust, and other debris away from the work area so those don’t interfere with the machining work.

For our desktop mills we have to rely on our dust shoes to collect...