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

Summary

The focus of this chapter was on some basic settings for your CNC machine and how to optimize them. We have also learned how to confirm our machine is operating to expectations by running some test patterns. As we progress and your experience with your machine grows, you will develop your own test workflow as well as optimum settings for your projects, materials, and end mills. There are many variations here because not all of our 3018 machines are the same (and if you are using something other than a 3018, you definitely have your own tweaking to do).

The next chapter is the opener for a series of special projects. We will have the opportunity to try our hand at setting cut depths and/or depths per pass and look at how we might make the same thing out of different materials. This will allow us to investigate the settings we have discussed here and see what the effects are when we cut soft wood, hardwood, foam, acrylic, and other materials.