Archive for the ‘Engraving’ Category

Engraving? Types And Varieties

Engraving is a piece of carved structure, which is made with incisions designed into a hard and flat surface by carving grooves on it. The results of engraving are decorative objects that provide unique decor to the surrounding arena. You can carve engravings on materials like silver, gold, copper, relief print block, wood or copper. With proper backgrounds, different types of engravings truly add a touch of wonder and variety to room decor.

Process of engraving

The process of engraving is purely scientific. The engravers use a hardened steel tool called burin to cut design into the surface, mostly that of copper. The burin cuts a unique quality of line that is characterized by its steady appearance and clean edges. The gravers often use angle tint tool that is more commonly used in printmaking. When the gravers have to carve on larger areas, they use Florentine liner tool that carves multiple engravings. While flat gravers are particularly used for doing fill work on letters, the round gravers are used specially on silver, nickel and steel to create bright cuts. However, other tools like roulets, burnishers and mezzotint rockers are used particularly to bring in a texturing effect.

Engravings are used on different forms like paintings, postage stamps, walls and other items.
Following are the different types of engravings:

Modern engravings

These types of hand engravings are basically available in the firearms and other metal weaponry, musical instruments and jewelry pieces. In most of industrial uses like production of Intaglio plates for commercial purposes, hand engravings are often replaced with CNC engravings done by milling machines.

Laser engraving

It is a practice of using lasers to engrave, mark or etch on an object. Although laser engravings are more applicable on ?laserable? materials like polymer and novel metal alloys, they are mostly applicable on materials like plastics, coated metals, stones and glasses, woods and natural materials.

Music engraving

This is the art of drawing music notations at high quality. In the early 20th century, music staff paper was printed onto vellum or onionskin, which makes it possible to easily rectify any type of mistakes done while engraving. With the advent of personal computers, hand engravings have basically become a past. Now individual parts of an orchestral score can be easily extracted and printed using numerous computer programs.

To decorate your home and office, you can use hand engravings and give an aesthetic touch to the d?cor.

 

About the Author:

Sharon Albright is the owner of Engraving Site. Read more articles on Engraving and visit her recommended resources.

Originally posted 2007-11-16 10:18:06. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

 We have talked quite a bit about cutting pumpkins with CNC.  Here are some photos and the press release for the company doing it.

 

 

Have you carved the pumpkins yet? A company in Fraser, Michigan, has come up with a novel way to quickly make pumpkins into jack-o-lanterns. By using CNC waterjets they have turned the tradition of spending hours carving pumpkins into an activity that takes a fraction of a minute. Yes, it is a bit ridiculous but the pumpkins look really cool.

Fraser, MI (PRWEB) October 29, 2007 — Halloween is this week. Have you carved the pumpkins yet? A company in Fraser, Michigan, has come up with a novel way to quickly make pumpkins into jack-o-lanterns. By using CNC waterjets they have turned the tradition of spending hours carving pumpkins into an activity that takes a fraction of a minute. Yes, it is a bit ridiculous but the pumpkins look really cool.

"Actually, my kids came up with the idea," said Tom Monroe, Jr., of FluidCut, a waterjet cutting service. "They always see the amazing things we cut with the waterjet so they asked me to use it for their pumpkins. We cut everything from cutting glass sculptures for artists to armor for military tanks. Cutting pumpkins isn’t a problem."

Using water to cut food is nothing new. Much of the packaged food you find in the grocery store is cut with ultra high-pressure waterjets. However, carving the pumpkins with the waterjet does have its difficulties. The water is so powerful it cuts through both sides of the pumpkin. There are tricks that FluidCut uses to alleviate that problem.

Waterjets use ultra-high pressure water to cut almost any material. When cutting hard materials like copper, glass, or granite tile, an abrasive is added to the water. The most commonly used abrasive is the mineral garnet. Monroe said for pumpkin carving only water is needed.

Carving the pumpkins with the waterjet allows FluidCut to cut designs that are not possible with a knife. The kids’ favorite is the Homer Simpson jack-o-lantern, because the eyes and tongue are cut in a continuous spiral so it looks like they are popping out of Homer’s head. Adults seem to like the pumpkins with portraits of classic Hollywood stars like Marilyn Monroe and James Dean cut into them. You can see more pictures of the extreme pumpkin carving at the Halloween link at www.FluidCut.com.

The machine can carve pumpkins in seconds, but Monroe said he has to get back to work cutting other things like marble floor inlays and aluminum machine parts for his customers. Carving pumpkins with the waterjet does make some amazing jack-o-lanterns for Halloween but Monroe added he still is going to take an hour or two to carve some pumpkins at the kitchen table. "No matter how fast I can cut them on the waterjet, or how cool they look, I’m not about to give up the tradition of carving them the old fashioned way with my friends and family."

 

Originally posted 2007-11-11 17:26:34. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Engraving Tool has radius tip for cuts with rounded bottom. October 17, 2007 – Conical Ballnose Engraving Tool may be used for standard engraving projects and for 3D profiling and surface machining. Shank diameters of 1/8, 11/64, 3/16, and ¼ in., with lengths varying from 2-6.5 in., tip radius of .005, .010, and .020 in., and angles of 30° and 60° are available. Device can be used with 2L Spring Loaded Engraving Toolholder, CNC milling machines, hand held engraving machines, and industrial marking equipment.

Press Release Release date: September 21, 2007 Conical Ballnose Engraving Tools for Standard and Reverse 3D Engraving Applications are Now Available Source 2L inc. – Hudson, Massachusetts – 2L inc. announced today that it is accepting orders for its’ high performance, Conical Ballnose Engraving Tools. The Conical Ballnose Engraving Tool offers dual functionality. It may be used for standard engraving projects and for 3D profiling and surface machining. "Testing has demonstrated that the 2L Conical Ballnose Engraving Tool can withstand higher cutting forces than standard Ballnose Endmills or tapered Ballnose Endmills," noted the company spokesman. "For example, a 0.010" Radius Conical Ballnose Engraving Tool was able to withstand plunging 0.010" deep at 55,000 RPM and 300 IPM in aluminum and make at least 200 passes over the surface while a similar diameter standard tapered Ballnose Endmills broke almost immediately."  "This added strength makes the tool ideal for today’s demanding 3D profile work in difficult to machine materials," added the spokesman. "Machining numerous passes at small depths of cut and high speeds yields products with fine surface finishes that would be unobtainable using standard tools." Conical Ballnose Engraving Tools are similar in style to the well known and used Standard Conical Engraving Tool, but with a radius tip which produces a cut with a rounded bottom. The tools are available in shank diameters of 1/8", 11/64", 3/16" and 1/4" with lengths varying from 2" – 6.5", Tip Radius of .005", .010" & .020" and included angles of 30 and 60 degrees. The Conical Ballnose Engraving Tool can be used with the patented 2L Spring Loaded Engraving Toolholder, CNC milling machines, Hand Held Engraving Machines, and Industrial Marking Equipment. The 2L Engraving and Cutting Tool product line continues to grow, offering a wide variety of high quality, precision made solid carbide engraving, cutting, milling, and burnishing tools. Orders can be placed by contacting 2L at (978)567-8867 or by visiting www.2Linc.com. Please refer all inquiries to: 2L inc. 4 Kane Industrial Drive P.O. Box 105 Hudson, MA 01749 (978)567-8867 www.2Linc.com About 2L inc.: Since 1998, 2L inc. has been designing, developing, manufacturing, and distributing innovative Engraving, Workholding and Industrial Products. All of our products are proudly made in the USA.

Company Information: Name: 2L inc. Address: PO Box 105 City: Hudson State: MA ZIP: 01749 Country: USA Phone: 978-567-8867 http://www.2linc.com

Originally posted 2007-10-17 23:04:59. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

 

Engraving is a piece of carved structure, which is made with incisions designed into a hard and flat surface by carving grooves on it. The results of engraving are decorative objects that provide unique d?cor to the surrounding arena. You can carve engravings on materials like silver, gold, copper, relief print block, wood or copper. With proper backgrounds, different types of engravings truly add a touch of wonder and variety to room d?cor.

Process of engraving

The process of engraving is purely scientific. The engravers use a hardened steel tool called burin to cut design into the surface, mostly that of copper. The burin cuts a unique quality of line that is characterized by its steady appearance and clean edges. The gravers often use angle tint tool that is more commonly used in printmaking. When the gravers have to carve on larger areas, they use Florentine liner tool that carves multiple engravings. While flat gravers are particularly used for doing fill work on letters, the round gravers are used specially on silver, nickel and steel to create bright cuts. However, other tools like roulets, burnishers and mezzotint rockers are used particularly to bring in a texturing effect.

Engravings are used on different forms like paintings, postage stamps, walls and other items. Following are the different types of engravings:

Modern engravings

These types of hand engravings are basically available in the firearms and other metal weaponry, musical instruments and jewelry pieces. In most of industrial uses like production of Intaglio plates for commercial purposes, hand engravings are often replaced with CNC engravings done by milling machines.

Laser engraving

It is a practice of using lasers to engrave, mark or etch on an object. Although laser engravings are more applicable on "laserable" materials like polymer and novel metal alloys, they are mostly applicable on materials like plastics, coated metals, stones and glasses, woods and natural materials.

Music engraving

This is the art of drawing music notations at high quality. In the early 20th century, music staff paper was printed onto vellum or onionskin, which makes it possible to easily rectify any type of mistakes done while engraving. With the advent of personal computers, hand engravings have basically become a past. Now individual parts of an orchestral score can be easily extracted and printed using numerous computer programs.

To decorate your home and office, you can use hand engravings and give an aesthetic touch to the d?cor.

About the Author

Sharon Albright is the owner of Engraving Site. Read more articles on Engraving and visit her recommended resources.

Originally posted 2007-11-17 10:18:08. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

THE CARVEWRIGHT PATTERN DEPOT

CarveWright is excited to announce the launch of our much-anticipated CarveWright Pattern Depot. This one-stop shop will feature hundreds of new and unique patterns. The CarveWright Pattern Depot will be the largest searchable pattern library available to CarveWright owners. The unique "try-before-you-buy" option allows users to try any design before purchasing it through the CarveWright Pattern Depot. Continue to check the "Depot" often because new patterns will be added regularly. The official launch will be Wednesday, November 28th!

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).

Titanium needs special machining facilities that are now provided by a variety of machining companies. Titanium is a metal that is closely associated with the aerospace industry. The industry relies heavily on parts that are machined from solid titanium metal. Titanium can be machined in a highly economical manner if the shop procedures are duly set up such that it allows leeway for those physical characteristics that are common to the metal. The factors that need consideration are not that complex. However, they are imperative to the successful handling of titanium.

One of the most important factors would be the different grades that titanium comes in. These would be because commercially pure titanium and its various alloys all will not have completely identical machining characteristics. Another thing that has to be kept in mind in case of titanium machining is that this metal has extremely low thermal conductivity. Due to this the dissipation of heat is inhibited and thus an extremely efficient application and use of coolants is required.

So for titanium machining, tool maintenance and quality work can be achieved by using a rigid machine set up with a quality coolant. Apart from that proper and sharp tools with slower speeds as well as heavier feeds are required. The use of tools that are really sharp is essential as if the tools are dull it will tend to accentuate the build up of heat. This will in turn cause undue premature failure of tools. Carbide tools are known to be the most effective when it comes to turning titanium metal.

When carbide is unavailable, cast alloy tools can be used as a substitute. Titanium machining can thus be achieved with the right set up and conditions.

Some technology allowed humans to use machines and program codes to do things that had been done manually. CNC is one of these technologies.

CNC routers have been of great help in many fields (signage- making, 3D moldings and furniture, just to name a few). In that regard, it would be very helpful for its users to know how to get the best deal and quality on their next purchase of CNC routers.

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

1. Buying CNC routers from a manufacturer would be more advisable than buying from distributors.

Buying from a manufacturer will give consumers the following advantages -

- The guarantee that the sales representative knows a lot about the product. Who would know the product better than the manufacturers themselves?

- Consumers can buy the items at a cheaper price too, since there are no third parties or go- betweens involved in the transaction.

Just make sure that you know the nearest service center of the company so that you know where to go to in case you need follow- up services from them.

2. Visit multiple stores to try the different CNC machines.

- It would be advisable that you have materials that you can work on when you try the machines. Bring these materials home to see that of the products can give the quality of workmanship that you are looking for.

- Also, it would be advantageous if you can also check the machines ease of usage and your comfort while you are using the product. These things will help a lot in deciding that router you will use.

3. It is advisable to buy a new CNC router.

New CNC routers are more efficient, and the quality of work can be assured. Of course, not all circumstances would allow businesses the endeavors of having a new CNC router.

In case you would buy used CNC routers, here are the things that you need to look for -

- At least one year warranty from the seller just as an assurance that you would not have to shoulder repair expenses within that period.

- Make sure that all of the upgrades necessary for the machine have been done.

- Ask if it would be possible for repairs to be done after a year and ask how much it would cost.

4. Consult your vendor regarding your CNC router needs so that you will not buy something less than what you are expecting or something more that can add up to your expenses.

5. Test the durability and the reliability of the CNC routers.

These are the two qualities that a CNC router must be able to meet. All the parts of the router should be sturdy enough to carry on the heavy work. Minimal vibrations must be felt during operations, and the cuts must be precise, accurate and smooth. You must know these things before buying the product, and not after you purchase it.

6. Get the software that is easy to learn, manipulate, program and fix during errors.

When using CNC routers, operators will be dealing with programs and codes that tell the machine what to do. That is why it is a basic requirement for the operators to be accustomed to the software that he is using. Most of these things he will learn during trainings and product testing.

7. Consider workspace and the jobs to be done in buying CNC routers.

Materials that CNC routers are working on vary in characteristics such as hardness. Your CNC routers may do the job easily on this product, will have a hard time working on another. These things must be taken into consideration when buying CNC routers.

Also, workspace is another issue. Make sure that your workspace can accommodate the machine that you will be buying.

8. Price is relevant to the CNC router and the future profit that it can bring you.

Do not get a CNC router just because it is cheap. Think long term.

Your CNC router is the key in making the most out of your business. So give it your best shot to follow these tips to get the best CNC router to cater to your needs!

 

About the Author:

For more great cnc router related articles and resources check out http://cncportal.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.

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