Archive for the ‘CNC Foam Cutter’ Category

CAD (Computer-aided design)
Geometry authoring tool that involves software and sometimes special-purpose hardware. Current packages range from 2D vector based drafting systems to 3D solid and surface modellers.

CAM (Computer-aided manufacturing)
Considered as an NC programming tool wherein 3D models of components generated in CAD software are used to generate CNC code to drive numerical controlled machine tools

CNC (computer numerical control)
Refers specifically to a computer "controller" that reads G-code instructions and drives the machine tool.

CAD/CAM part programming
The computer calculation and creation of a toolpath based on part geometry information created in CAD.

Canned cycle
A predetermined machining sequence used to simplify programming.

Data
Information processed as the basis for calculations.

Database
Computer storage that holds data and is searchable

Detail Drawing
A drawing of a part giving a complete and exact description of its form, dimensions, and construction

Dimension
The desired measurement of a part

Documentation
A CAD process in which a part design is converted to a computer file or hard copy for reference and storage purposes.

Drawing Exchange Format
DXF. A standard storage format for personal computer-based CAD/CAM platforms

Driver
That portion of the electronic package that receives the stepping sequence from the translator and provides the switching of the windings in the stepper motor.

G-Code
Common name for the programming language that controls NC and CNC machine tools

Geometric Modeling
A modeling process in which a designer creates lines and text that represents the shape of a desired part. Geometric modeling is the first step in CAD.

Geometry
The measurement, properties, and relationships of the lines and points of an object that make up its shape

M Code
A code used to signal an action from a miscellaneous group of commands. M codes change cutting tools, turn on or turn off the coolant, spindle, or work piece clamps, etc.

Machine Control Data
Manufacturing instructions defined in CAM and enacted on a CNC machine.

Machine Control Unit
A small, powerful computer that controls and operates a CNC machine

Machine Tool
Powered mechanical device, typically used to fabricate metal components of machines by machining

Machining
The selective removal of metal or material

Numerical Control
The use of computers and special program instructions to execute the sequence of machining operations to make a part.

Part Program
A series of numerical instructions used by a CNC machine to perform the necessary sequence of operations to machine a specific work piece.

Personal Computer
PC. A computer designed for an individual user and commercial software. Desktops, laptops, and notebook computers are PCs.

Plotter
A large printer used to print blueprints. These output devices support vector graphics, unlike dot matrix and laser printers.

Post Processor
A software link in the CAD/CAM chain that communicates instructions from CAM to a CNC machine

Preliminary Blueprint
A design representing the rough dimensions of a specific part

Primitives or Primitive
Basic shapes such as cubes, spheres, cylinders, blocks, and cones that are combined in solid modeling to create a model of a part.

Prototype
The original test model of a part

Raster Image
A form of graphics in which closely spaced rows of dots form an image on a computer screen. Also known as bit-mapped graphics.

Ramping
The process of controlling the pulse frequency to accelerate or decelerate a stepper motor. Ramping increases the ability to drive larger loads at greater speeds by slowing the first series of pulses allowing the motor to overcome inertial loads and reduces overshooting by slowing the motor down more gradually than an unramped motor.

Scanner
A computer device that converts hard copy drawings into digital form

Software
The coded instructions, formulas, and operations that structure the actions of a computer

Solid Modeling
A type of geometric modeling based on solids in which all visible surfaces of a part are shown. In addition, solid modeling describes interior volume, mass, and weight.

Sub-Program
Acting as a part programming shortcut, a part program sequence that is called on as needed. Also called a subroutine.

Surface Modeling
A type of geometric modeling based on geometry only, in which all visible surfaces of a part are shown regardless of volume definition.

Step Angle
The angular increment the motor shaft will turn each time the windings (coils) are energized. The angle is specified in degrees. For a 200 step per revolution motor the step angle will be 1.8 degrees.

Step per revolution
The total number of steps to rotate the motor shaft 360 degrees. For CNC, 200 or 400 steps per revolution are usually used.

Stepper motor
A device that translates electrical pulses into precise mechanical movement. The output shaft may deliver rotary or linear motion.

Title Block
A portion of a blueprint that contains information such as the company name, part name, part number, designer, scale, and material.

Tolerance
A blueprint specification indicating an unwanted but acceptable deviation from a given dimension

Toolpath
The series of coordinate positions that determine the movement of a tool during a machining operation.

Translator
An electronic device that converts pulses into the correct switching sequence, which will operate the motor one step for each pulse received.

Unipolar
A bifilar wound motor. The current flows only in one direction through each winding. Normally there are two winding per bobbin and eight bobbins per motor. Usually is a 5, 6 or eight wire motor. One or more common leads are used per winding. Has less torque than a bipolar stepper motor but is simpler to drive. Bipolar stepper motor- just two windings. The electronic controls reverse the current alternately between the coils. This motor has more torque but requires more electronic controls.

Vector Graphics
A form of graphics that uses geometric formulas to represent images. Vector graphic images are more easily manipulated than raster graphics when dealing with CNC.

Wire Frame Modeling
A type of geometric modeling in which the edges of a part are represented by solid lines

Working Drawing
A drawing of a part providing data for manufacturing

X-Axis
An axis that is left or right. All movement left of a zero point is minus (-X), all movement right of the zero point is plus (+X).

Y-axis
An axis that is at right angles to the X-axis and intersect the zero point of the X-axis. All movement further away from the zero point is plus (+Y). All movement closer than the zero point is minus (-Y).

Z-axis
An axis that is vertically perpendicular to the X-Y zero point. All movement above the zero point is positive (+Z) while all movement below the zero point is (-Z).

CNC refers to the computer controls of a machine. With the help of a program code, it will be easier to replicate same parts. It is a great innovation in the field of manufacturing that makes mass production more efficient and practical. That is why companies, large or small, must exert effort to find a CNC machine that will best suit their needs.

Here are some tips on how you can get the best CNC machines.

- Buy and choose with the help of buyers representative. A buyers representative has been made to cater to the following needs and give advantages to CNC machine users -

1. To allow users to save time in negotiating

Most people who would buy CNC machines will have to settle with getting quotations from two to three manufacturers to save time and to avoid the hassle of talking to a lot of sales representative.

By asking professional help from someone who knows a lot about CNC machines and manufacturers, you will just coordinate with only one party- the buyers representative. They will be the one who will shoulder all the talking and negotiations for you.

And since they regularly collect updated quotations from the CNC machine manufacturers, it will take lesser time for you to get information regarding the CNC machine of your choice.

2. To check the quality of the products that they are referring to buyers

Buyers representatives exert effort to check that the machines that they will be referring to buyers are of good quality.

3. To offer a large variety of machines from different machine manufacturers

Most people do the common mistake of asking for quotations from the well- known (and expensive) brands in the market when they have the options of buying other brands that are as efficient yet cheaper than the ?mainstream? brands.

Buyers representative offer quotations from less prominent CNC machine manufacturers that has cheaper price as well. In this way, the buyers representative also gives equal playing fields for all CNC machine manufacturers, both in the large- scale and medium scale.

4. To allow buyers opportunities to get the best deal for their money and save some too.

All buyers would like to get the best thing that their money can buy. Also, all buyers would also prefer to save their hard- earned money without sacrificing efficiency and quality. Here are some ways buyers representative can help you save money -

- The buyers representative only charge 5 percent of the cheapest CNC machine that meets the buyers requirements. That is a small price to pay for the assurance that you will get a wonderful CNC machine that will cater to your needs.

- The buyers do not have to settle in buying prominent brands and pay for the brand name. With lesser money to spend, one can get a machine as efficient as the prominent brands.

- By forming buying groups, buyers representative can also negotiate with manufacturing companies to give discounts to prospective buyers.

- With greater competition among the manufacturers, there will be better quality of products and more affordable prices.

- If getting help from buyers representative is not your choice, you can always do it yourself. The general rule in buying CNC machines is to be familiar with all the parts first then everything else will follow.

1. Make sure that the following parts are intact and correctly attached to the CNC machine to ensure the perfect working condition of the machine -

- the safety shield (a plastic that cover that protects the working space),

- the tool or drill bit (the part that does the cutting),

- spindle shaft (the part that holds the tooldrill bit),

- the spindle motor (the part that drives and controls the cutter),

- the vertical or upright column ( holds the pieces together) and

- the control box.

2. Always look for the emergency stop button in your CNC machine. This is to ensure that when an error is made, the machine can be stopped manually to prevent further damages from happening.

3. Big control guides are preferred so it will be easier for user to refer to it. It will also be helpful for operators who have poor eyesight too.

4. The plastic that comprises the shield must be made from sturdy polycarbonate.

 

About the Author:

For more great cnc related articles and resources check out http://cncinsider.info.

 

CNC machines are used in a variety of industrial settings and in woodworking shops. Most are out of the price range for the individual user, but can be purchased used for about half the price. These machines increase speed and accuracy when doing large jobs or repetitive tasks.

How CNC Machines Work
CNC machines are used in a variety of industry, manufacturing processes and woodworking shops. CNC routers are used for drilling holes. Some machines have the capability of holding several tools. This allows them to perform more than one operation at a time. They save time and improve accuracy.

CNC stands for Computer Numerated Control. This technology was first seen in the 1970s. The machines need to be programmed and set up properly before operation. Once the initial set up is completed, they are fairly easy to operate and keep running.

In CNC routers, they can be programmed to drill holes in an automatic fashion. This is faster and more accurate over several pieces than in manual drilling. The results are more uniform. This method is very beneficial for larger jobs that require a lot of drilling. Manual drilling can become tiring and when the operator becomes tired, the results can become inconsistent.

Types of CNC Machines 
A CNC lathe is a good piece of equipment for cutting wood. These come in models ranging from fifteen to forty horsepower. The amount of power you need depends on the amount of wood you will use with the lathe. The best models operate in several different modes, from completely manual to all CNC. This allows you to tailor the machine?s operation for each project.

A Bridgeport mill is the best in milling technology. Mills are used in many industries, both large and small shops. They are efficient and reliable. Bridgeport mills are built to last a lifetime. However, they are very expensive. The price is out of the range that most people can afford.

The CNC mill is a specialty piece of equipment. It uses computer programming and robotics for accurate operation. The results are more accurate than any person could ever achieve. For this reason, Bridgeport mills are often used in the airline industry. Once the specs are entered, the CNC decides which tools need to be used and automatically changes the tools as needed.

Engraving equipment is made to engrave a variety of materials including glass, stone, metal, wood, composites and many others. The machines mark and engrave with more accuracy than could ever be achieved by hand. Everything from large signs to small lettering can be done, depending on your needs.

Buying Used units
CNC equipment is very expensive and out of the price range of most people. Buying used CNC electronics is an affordable option for some people. You can save nearly 50% or more on some equipment. Be careful when buying used, you want to be sure the equipment is in good condition.

A better option is to look for refurbished equipment. These machines have been inspected at the factory. Any broken or damaged components are replaced. In many cases, the machine is painted and new decals are applied. It?s like getting a new machine for a significantly reduced price. Often, you will get a one year warranty with reconditioned equipment. This gives you time to be sure it is working properly and if not, you can get it fixed for free.

 

About the Author: Charles Mahoney publishes many articles for the website http://www.inside-woodworking.com . He writes on topics from CNC technologies and other areas in this field.

The operators of the present-day CNC cutting machine demonstrate many of the same skills as those possessed by various traditional craftsmen. The operators of the CNC cutting machine include the men and women who design and make cabinets, woodwork, signs, and a whole range of metal, solid surface and plastic objects. The manufacturers who employ these operators know how important it is to have a good quality CNC cutting machine.

A good quality CNC cutting machine has a cutting table that covers the area bounded by a length of four feet and a width of eight feet. A quality table can handle satisfactorily a standard 4 x 8 plate of metal, wood, plastic, glass, or stone. A table that lacks a sufficient length or width will make it necessary for the operator to repeatedly reposition the plate. Operators of the CNC cutting machine refer to such repositioning as indexing.

A good basic CNC cutting machine does both plasma and oxyfuel cutting. Refinements on a basic cutting machine might provide it with the ability to perform other functions, functions such as:

-spotting holes for drilling
-drilling aluminum
-cutting a shape in the sides or end of tubing
-routing wooden shapes.

Other modifications on a CNC cutting machine might be directed at installation of the equipment for laser or water jet cutting.

The selection of a CNC cutting machine will be primarily determined by the nature of cutting that will be performed by the machine operator. For some operations, it will be necessary to do only straight cutting. For other operations, the cutting machine must perform bevel cutting. Bevel cutting allows the operator to trim, reduce, shave, and pare the material in the plate.

Both types of cutting will subject the CNC cutting machine to a fair amount of wear and tear. The manufacturer therefore needs to purchase a machine with adequate customer support. Such support should include the availability of spare parts. An absence of spare parts could require that the electronics of the CNC cutting machine undergo a retrofitting.

A need for retrofitting would deprive the operator of important production time. The need for retrofitting would diminish the quantity of goods that could be sold to the consumer. The need for retrofitting leads to a decrease in the amount of time that the operator will be spending at the CNC cutting machine. That is why the availability of spare parts for a malfunctioning CNC cutting machine remains one of the two chief concerns of the manufacturer. A second prime concern is the size of the cutting table.

The operator of a CNC cutting machine that needs to spend a large percent of time indexing will not have much time to spend on the actual cutting. Hence, the manufacturer will have much less product. Fewer products from the manufacturing facility translate into fewer products on the shelf. Consequently, the need for operators to spend time indexing can prove a detriment to the company?s bottom line. A good sales volume reflects the well-planned purchase of a CNC cutting machine.

 

About the Author: Peter Vermeeren is the owner and webmaster of: Machines and Tools and Airsoft GOT | Tactical Gear | Military Supplies

Here is the table of contents to the book I recently wrote about CNC Basics.  The book’s title is "Learn CNC Secrets."

Learn CNC Secrets Table of Contents

CNC Safety. 9

A few ideas to keep you safe in the shop: 10

Foreword. 11

CNC Knowledge Levels    11

One last note before we get going: 12

CNC Intro. 13

Questions, Questions and a few more Questions. 13

My CNC Story    13

My Initial Thoughts on CNC        14

Little Did I know             15

Other things I had to learn along the way: 15

So, where am I at today?    16

CNC Machines I own today:  16

CNC Hobby Growth Story    17

Why do people get into CNC?    17

Production CNC – Professional CNC – Manufacturing CNC. 18

Here are a few jobs on the professional side of the house: 18

Hobby CNC     18

Here are a few elements that have brought people into the CNC Fold:  19

What personal attributes will help you with CNC?. 20

CNC Process Overview: 22

Quick Explanation of the Process. 22

There are basically five elements to a CNC Project that you need to know:  22

Design    23

Here are some important elements of design that need to be answered:  23

CAD     25

3-D Design    25

Here are some examples of 3-D drafting/design software: 25

2-D Design    25

Here are some examples of 2-D drafting/design software: 26

CAM      26

Here are some examples of CAM software: 26

Using CAM Software    27

Here is an example of some G-Code: 27

Control  27

Here is a brief description of the two types of motors generally used in CNC:  28

Machine Controllers    29

Machining    30

Here is a list of common tooling: 31

CNC Process Conclusion    32

The five things to master with CNC are: 32

Design. 33

Introduction to Design    33

Where do good design ideas come from?. 33

Know what you want before you build it 34

What are the limits?    34

Part vs. Art   35

Designing on Paper   35

Designing with a Computer   35

My Design Computer Setup    36

Design Software. 37

What I used to do                     37

Why use Design Software?    37

Here are some advantages of using Design Software: 37

Here are some disadvantages of using Design Software: 37

My Definition of Design Software  38

Here are some examples of work for “Creative” Design 38

Commonly used Creative Design Software. 40

What is your Vector, Victor?    40

Vector Images:  41

Raster Images:  41

Raster to Vector Software    42

File Types You Will Deal With    42

Examples of Different File Types  43

What do I really need to know?    44

CAD. 45

What is CAD?    45

Print Reading and Drafting    46

How do I translate my design into the computer?. 48

Different Design Views    48

The main print or design views are: 48

Here are some photo examples of the different design views: 49

Tools in CAD     51

How do I choose the right CAD program for me?. 53

Types of CAD     53

2D CAD     53

2.5D CAD     54

3D CAD     54

2D, 2.5D and 3D Photo Examples  54

CAD Design Process    56

Designing Parts    56

Designing Sub Assemblies    57

Designing Groups    57

Designing the Machine    57

FMEA Analysis?  What?    58

CAD Software Price Points    59

Hobby CAD Software    59

Professional CAD Software    59

Examples of Commercial CAD Software Programs. 59

What is CAD/CAM?    60

CAD/CAM Article    60

CAM.. 64

What is CAM?    64

How do I pick a CAM program?    65

The different types of CAM Software. 65

Here are the most common types of CAM Software. 66

What are tool paths and how do you create them?. 66

Process of CAM      67

Here are the CAM Steps:  67

Define Material  68

Define Stock Size    68

Define Coordinates    69

Define Tool  70

Define Feeds and Speeds    70

Simulate Machining    72

Tool Paths    73

Post Process    75

So what does CAM Software cost?. 76

Hobby CAM Software    76

Professional CAM Software    76

CAM Software Photos:  77

CAM Programs    78

Art CAM Programs    78

Art CAM Program Examples    79

Machining Simulators    79

CNC Simulator Examples:  79

G-Code. 80

What is G-Code?    80

You will see many variations of the G-Code name like: 80

Are there other “Codes?”    80

Here are some examples of G-Codes. 81

Why does G-Code Change?    81

What is an M-Code?    82

G-Code Example    82

2” Square G-Code    84

Do I need to be a G-Code Expert?. 84

Post Processing??? – Now you have me worried.  With all the variations in G-Codes and M-Codes, how will I ever keep it straight?… 85

Here are some screen shots of lists of post processors that you can select in your CAM Program       86

Controlling. 88

Definition    88

Control Computer   88

How is the Control Computer used?. 89

CNC Control Software    89

Quick List of control software    90

Machine Controllers    91

Here are some example controller prices. 92

Prices    92

Buying a completed CNC Machine. 93

Here are some examples of some Machine Controllers. 94

Internal Machine Controller Parts. 97

Control Pendants    98

Photos of Pendants    99

Machining. 101

Machining Overview      101

Machining    101

Here are a few of them:  101

Different types of machining    103

Here are a few examples:  103

Chips?    105

Different Sources of Tooling:  106

Photos of Different Types of CNC Machines: 107

Keeping your shop clean    115

Here are some examples:  115

Tool Offset   116

Zeroing the machine out   117

The final “Part”    117

CNC Mainstream.. 120

How do you know we hit the mainstream?. 120

End Results of CNC. 121

CNC Glossary. 126

 

From time to time I will get an email from an expert telling me this or that is not perfectly, technically correct.  Usually I agree with them.  What I have tried to present is how I learned CNC and how I made this stuff work in my mind.  Think of it as a Layman’s Guide to CNC vs. a PHD Doctoral Thesis with years of Data Collection and Analysis on the topic.  My point is always to teach, not gain recognition in scholarly journals.