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 and engraving soft metals

Metals present a similar challenge to cutting hardwoods. Your endmill has to go through stronger material with the added problem that the metal-on-metal contact can generate lots of heat (you will generate heat with hardwood too, but more so with metal). When you cut metal, you can use air assist to keep your bit cool or keep spreading lubricant on your workpiece. Either way, if you thought cutting wood created a mess, cutting metal creates an even bigger mess. This is why I use a 3018 with a dust shoe hooked up to my shop vacuum whenever I am cutting metal. The 3018 is not really suited to cut large pieces of metal, but you can cut small parts so long as you go slow and make enough passes. For my purposes here, I am cutting a part to replace a plastic part on BumbleBee. The larger BumbleBee is meant to machine larger parts, but because some of its critical parts are made of plastic, it can’t really handle metal. However, I can have the 3018...