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

We learned a number of things in this chapter. We, again, learned how to adapt a design for our own purposes and use some basic ideas to use parts we could find in place of parts we could not. We also had a sneak peek at what it takes to convert a CNC-ed part to a 3D-printed part. Finally, we assembled a 4th axis that we can now use to machine or engrave cylinders of various sizes. One thing we did not take into account in this chapter is nonlinear cylinders, and this project is really meant for surfaces that are consistent – that is, the cylinder’s work area does not have a changing diameter. However, there is nothing stopping you from working on a cylindrical surface that does have a changing diameter – you just would have to set the CNC machine to work each linear segment separately.

Let us now move on to the next chapter and look at creating a “poor man’s 4th axis” for our 3018. This will allow our 3018 to cut things such as...