CNC Mill Introduction: Difference between revisions

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This is the content required for an introduction to our [[Introduction for::CNC Router|CNC router]] - '''reading this does NOT replace the mandatory session with a [[tutor]]!''' It will make it a lot quicker though ;-)
This is the content required for an introduction to our [[Introduction for::CNC Mill|CNC mill]] - '''reading this does NOT replace the mandatory session with a [[tutor]]!''' It will make it a lot quicker though ;-)


If you need this introduction, please reach out to the following tutors: [[Tutor::User:Pakue|Patrick]], [[Tutor::User:NitramLegov|Martin]], [[Tutor::User:Johannes|Johannes]]
If you need this introduction, please reach out to the following tutors: [[Tutor::User:Sebastian|Sebastian]],  
 
Before you get this introduction, please make sure you already have the [[Handheld Router Introduction]], this will help you understand the machine much better and is required before using it.
 
Let's begin! First off, make sure you have read the machine's manual, if available (check its "InfoBox" in the wiki for instructions how to find it).


Before you get this introduction, please make sure you already have the [[Handheld Router Introduction]], this will help you understand the machine much better and is required before using it. For CNC beginners, it is recommended that you start with the [[CNC Router Introduction|CNC '''router''' introduction]] and gain your first experience on the [[Workbee CNC]].


== Safety ==
== Safety ==
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|-
|-
| sharp, fast spinning bits ([[End Mills|end mills]] or - rarely - certain [[Router Bits|router bits]]) ||
| sharp, fast spinning bits ([[End Mills|end mills]] or - rarely - certain [[Router Bits|router bits]]) ||
* stay clear of the CNC router when in operation
* You MUST stay clear of the spindle when in operation
* unplug the router when changing a bit or touching the chuck for any other reason
* You MUST unplug the spindle when changing a bit or touching the chuck for any other reason
* insert your mill as far as you can afford for maximum strength
* You MUST insert your mill as far as you can afford for maximum strength
|-
|-
| strong forces acting on the workpiece that might make it move || secure your workpiece properly - see [[CNC Router Workholding|CNC router workholding]]
| strong forces acting on the workpiece that might make it move ||
* You MUST secure your workpiece properly - see [[CNC Router Workholding|CNC router workholding]]
|-
|-
| [[File:Danger_-_hand injury.svg|left|50px]] the machine has no live sensors and will execute its code regardless of what gets into its way  
| the machine has no live sensors and will execute its code regardless of what gets into its way  
* heat generated during improper use can even [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4tpxgZUYGSI set the machine on fire] [[File:danger - fire.svg|50px]]
* heat generated during improper use can even [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4tpxgZUYGSI set the machine on fire] [[File:danger - fire.svg|50px]]
||
||
* home the machine (set its absolute maximum positions) before executing '''any''' movements
* You MUST reference the machine to the workpiece (relative maximum/starting positions) before starting the router
* reference the machine to the workpiece (relative maximum/starting positions) before starting the router
* You MUST monitor the CNC router closely when in operation
* monitor the CNC router closely when in operation
* You MUST keep an eye on the cables that come from above - are they securely out of the machine's paths?
* keep an eye on the cables that come from above - are they securely out of the machine's paths?
*You MUST let end mills cool down before handling (risk of burning yourself)
|-
|-
| hitting "pause" or "stop" in a control program will still let at least the current line be executed || push the emergency shutdown button if '''anything''' goes wrong
|[[File:Danger_-_hand injury.svg|left|50px]]powerful motion system can crush your fingers ||
* You MUST stay clear of all moving parts while the machine is running
|-
|-
| lots of dust that could harm your health or settle down on machine parts, possibly hindering movements || use the shop vac (with cyclone separator for collecting waste and [[Dust Shoe|dust shoe]] to connect to the router) as well as the room's air extraction (for fine dust)
| hitting "pause" or "stop" in a control program will still let at least the current line be executed ||
* when using the room air extraction, make sure the vent next to the door is open so replacement air can flow in
* You MUST push the emergency shutdown button if '''anything''' goes wrong
|-
| lots of dust that could harm your health or settle down on machine parts, possibly hindering movements ||
* When milling wood or plastics, you SHOULD use the dust shoe and connect a shop vac.
* When milling metal, you MUST NOT extract the metal chips with a vacuum.
* You SHOULD position the wooden or acrylic U-shaped box over the work area to reduce the risk of flying chips towards the user and to protect the rails.
|-
|When milling metal, hot chips can fly towards user
|
* You SHOULD always place the U-shaped guardrail over the table.
* Even with the rail, chips can fly towards you. You MUST stay clear and you MUST wear eye protection.
|}
|}


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* [https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/blog/top-8-milling-tools-new-cnc-machinists/ top milling tools for new CNC machinists]
* [https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/blog/top-8-milling-tools-new-cnc-machinists/ top milling tools for new CNC machinists]
* [https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/blog/cnc-programming-fundamentals-g-code/ G-Code fundamentals]
* [https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/blog/cnc-programming-fundamentals-g-code/ G-Code fundamentals]
* [https://github.com/grbl/grbl/wiki/Interfacing-with-Grbl Interfacing with Grbl] (Please take special notice of the "Other Grbl Messages" section)
* Our list of [[G-Code Senders|G-Code senders]]


== Recommended Watching ==
== Recommended Watching ==
* [[CAM]], virtual setup: [https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=GuEV1D0Obac how to prepare your model and place it in a virtual workpiece in Fusion 360 ''(DE)'']
* [[CAM]], virtual setup: [https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=GuEV1D0Obac how to prepare your model and place it in a virtual workpiece in Fusion 360 ''(DE)'']
* machine setup: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQPUg0IgrrE how to set up a job on the WorkBee CNC]


== Demonstration ==
== Demonstration ==
The tutor will show you these steps in detail:
The tutor will show you these steps in detail:
# at the machine
 
#* selecting the right bit
# Machine Explanation
#* inserting a bit
#* Explain the main components of the machine
#* turning the machine on '''and off''' (easy to forget!)
#* Explain the emergency switch vs. stop switch on remote jog wheel
# Machine setup
#*turning the machine on '''and off'''
#* homing the machine (setting absolute "0" positions)
#* homing the machine (setting absolute "0" positions)
#* setting the relative "0" position on your workpiece
#*selecting the right bit
#* connecting and turning on dust extraction
#* inserting a bit (note: unplug spindle!)
#** paper trick: go down until a piece of paper is ''just'' held in place by the mill's tip
# [[Fusion 360]] setup
# on a computer
#* Draw a simple pocket
#* generating [[G-code]] from a design in [[Fusion 360]]
#* Set-up the machine in Fusion using files from Github (machine + post processor)
#* Using [[CNCjs]] for uploading the code to the CNC router
#* Create a tool
 
#*Set up a tool path
You should then be able to do a small practice cut together with the tutor.
#* Export the tool path to USB
 
# Setting up the workpiece
 
#* Securing your workpiece on the bench #* How to protect the T-groove table
== Interfacing with the CNC Router ==
#* Setting the relative "0" position on your workpiece
 
#* connecting and turning on dust extraction (only for wood or plastic workpieces)
=== General ===
#Execute the job
Grbl provides a serial interface via USB. The baud rate needs to be set to 115200. <br /> 
#* how to load and run the tap file from USB
As mentioned in the suggested reading section, it is a good idea to make yourself familiar with the fundamentals of [https://github.com/grbl/grbl/wiki/Interfacing-with-Grbl interfacing with Grbl]. <br />
#*note: "cut air" first to make sure coordinates are set up correctly
In any case, if you want to start a job with the CNC router, you have to execute these steps: <br />
#Cleaning & storage
# Make sure the router is off
#*Clean inside and outside the box with brush and vacuum cleaner
# Insert your desired bit into the router
#*Storage below machine
# Turn on the CNC Control Unit
#*Cover machine with sheet
# Make sure the emergency stop is not pushed
# You should hear howling. If you don´t, please push the emergency stop and release it
# Use [[CNCjs]] to connect to the machine.
# Perform a homing cycle ($H). You might have to release the machine first ($X).
# Use the manual controls to bring the machine to the X/Y origin of your job.
# Use the manual controle to bring the machine to the Z Origin of your job <br /> ATTENTION: Nothing prevents you from [https://www.instagram.com/p/BklN8j4niEL/late driving "into" the spoilboard] or your workpiece now. So make sure you move carefully and slowly!
# Zero the machine
# Move the router up a bit on the Z-axis
# Turn on the router with your desired speed
# Start your job
# Carefully watch your job. Use the [[Shop Vacs]] to get rid of dust during your job. <br /> If anything goes wrong, push the emergency stop!
# Once your job is done, turn off the router, home the machine and clean up.
 
=== Different G-Code Senders ===
Since our CNC router is based on Grbl, there are multiple software options for G-Code senders. <br/>
In the CoMakingSpace, we are using [[CNCjs]] for interfacing with the CNC Router.


{{Waiting List}}
{{Waiting List}}


[[Category:Introductions]]
[[Category:Introductions]]

Latest revision as of 22:00, 9 February 2024

This is the content required for an introduction to our CNC mill - reading this does NOT replace the mandatory session with a tutor! It will make it a lot quicker though ;-)

If you need this introduction, please reach out to the following tutors: Sebastian,

Before you get this introduction, please make sure you already have the Handheld Router Introduction, this will help you understand the machine much better and is required before using it. For CNC beginners, it is recommended that you start with the CNC router introduction and gain your first experience on the Workbee CNC.

Safety

Personal protection: Protection - goggles.svg Protection - hearing.svg

Dangers Precautions
sharp, fast spinning bits (end mills or - rarely - certain router bits)
  • You MUST stay clear of the spindle when in operation
  • You MUST unplug the spindle when changing a bit or touching the chuck for any other reason
  • You MUST insert your mill as far as you can afford for maximum strength
strong forces acting on the workpiece that might make it move
the machine has no live sensors and will execute its code regardless of what gets into its way
  • You MUST reference the machine to the workpiece (relative maximum/starting positions) before starting the router
  • You MUST monitor the CNC router closely when in operation
  • You MUST keep an eye on the cables that come from above - are they securely out of the machine's paths?
  • You MUST let end mills cool down before handling (risk of burning yourself)
Danger - hand injury.svg
powerful motion system can crush your fingers
  • You MUST stay clear of all moving parts while the machine is running
hitting "pause" or "stop" in a control program will still let at least the current line be executed
  • You MUST push the emergency shutdown button if anything goes wrong
lots of dust that could harm your health or settle down on machine parts, possibly hindering movements
  • When milling wood or plastics, you SHOULD use the dust shoe and connect a shop vac.
  • When milling metal, you MUST NOT extract the metal chips with a vacuum.
  • You SHOULD position the wooden or acrylic U-shaped box over the work area to reduce the risk of flying chips towards the user and to protect the rails.
When milling metal, hot chips can fly towards user
  • You SHOULD always place the U-shaped guardrail over the table.
  • Even with the rail, chips can fly towards you. You MUST stay clear and you MUST wear eye protection.

Suggested Reading

Besides these safety notes, you should read about the different end mills (and router bits, if you want to try those) to know what you're doing! Different materials usually require different mills, and the feedrate depends on the mill as well as the type of material.

Recommended Watching

Demonstration

The tutor will show you these steps in detail:

  1. Machine Explanation
    • Explain the main components of the machine
    • Explain the emergency switch vs. stop switch on remote jog wheel
  2. Machine setup
    • turning the machine on and off
    • homing the machine (setting absolute "0" positions)
    • selecting the right bit
    • inserting a bit (note: unplug spindle!)
  3. Fusion 360 setup
    • Draw a simple pocket
    • Set-up the machine in Fusion using files from Github (machine + post processor)
    • Create a tool
    • Set up a tool path
    • Export the tool path to USB
  4. Setting up the workpiece
    • Securing your workpiece on the bench #* How to protect the T-groove table
    • Setting the relative "0" position on your workpiece
    • connecting and turning on dust extraction (only for wood or plastic workpieces)
  5. Execute the job
    • how to load and run the tap file from USB
    • note: "cut air" first to make sure coordinates are set up correctly
  6. Cleaning & storage
    • Clean inside and outside the box with brush and vacuum cleaner
    • Storage below machine
    • Cover machine with sheet

Waiting List

This introduction takes longer than many others and usually can't be done spontaneously during regular opening times. If you would like to receive it, please add yourself to >> this list << and we will find a good time once a few members are on it!

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