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

The final assembly

We now can proceed to complete the assembly of the 4th axis (again, note, that I don’t need the tail stock, but if you need it because you have a very long cylinder to machine, you should build it in exactly the same way we did the main component).

We start first by mounting the pulleys on the motor and the chuck shaft. We also need to install the 8 mm collar on the chuck’s shaft, between the plates. Do not tighten the grub screws on the collar just yet. As an option, if you have enough shaft clearance, you can put a collar on either side of the plate to hold the chuck securely against the bearing, even though you have glued it into the bearing’s bore. Here’s how the 60-tooth pulley and collar fit on the chuck. This is just for illustration; you will need to assemble this element with the plates in place.

Figure 9.15 – The chuck and pulley assembly (without the front and rear plates)

Figure 9.15 – The chuck and pulley assembly (without the front and rear plates)

Next, secure...