Baby steps ... finally I was able to export a shape from Autodesk 3DS MAX(CAD) --> import into Vectrix Aspire to create & save a toolpath(CAM) (Post Processor KinetiC-NC)
Open this .nc file in the KinetiC-NC Controller software and run some previews. Still have a view errors most likely due to the fact I didn't set a zero point yet.
(Next task: how to set a zero point)
Why is he feed rate so slow? It's the first time I do this planing/surfacing on my CNC didn't want to force it
It turned out super smooth on both sides (and yes I increased the feed rate
Now I'm designing a organic pattern to carve out for the whole front of the door.
Will keep you updated.
I did the kerving on the CNC as well using a 2mm straight bit. Cutting into the 9.2mm plywood @ 8.2mm deep, it leaves 1mm plywood (birch layer) between the ribs. That went well without any breakouts. But the last profile to cut the kerft sheets to size was a bit problematic as the ribs are only 2mm thick and 8.2 tall a lot of breakouts. So had to cut them to size on my table saw, switched my blade to a 80 teeth one also used masking tape on the cut line to prevent breakouts. Had a better result but not perfect yet. Next time I will cut the material to size first then do the kerving on CNC. On that note one more thing the plywood needs to be totally flat onto your CNC bed to make sure you only leave 1mm over the whole surface. So I used my pinner to pin the plywood down to my MDF spoil board... My 50 cents as a CNC beginner....
I've been looking to buy one of these CNC machines for a little while now and would really like to know how're you finding it? Can you please tell me what is your workflow from getting CAD designs to CAM and gcode? Also have you used software other than Kinetic-NC?
I can't compare my CNC step machine with others as this is the first CNC router I'm using ever.
But to be honest I really love this machine and use it all the time. It was a big deal to get it into my workshop as it's big and heavy (250 KG +) but that's why it's extremely accurate and sturdy.
Like I mentioned never used a CNC router before but did allot of 3D printing (Ultimaker) I use 3D Studio max (CAD) for years to design my models and export as .stl Sometimes I do the same for Vectric Aspire (CAM) import 3D then create gcode. Or I use Vectric Aspire on it's own to design, save my file(s) and open it into Kinetic-NC to control my CNC step.
I had to change my mind set from 3D to layered 2D but it's getting better and again I love it....
It will be my first CNC machine too, hence why I'm keen to hear your experiences with both the machine and the company! What kinds of materials have you been processing? I'm looking more towards metals (CNC-Step claim the High-Z T series can cut steel) and have some concern that it won't be quite rigid enough. Have you tried working metal?
I had a few newbie issues and I contacted CNC-STEP GmbH & Co. KG support.
I could not get my remote control configured using a UK keyboard layout (mostly my own bad).
Created a ticked, next day support did a remote desktop (on my CNC connected PC) showed me how and what to do (in English although it's a German company) I was very pleased! But that's what I expect from a German company, quality, efficient and thorough.
I mostly work with all kinds of soft/hard wood and occasionally soft metals like copper, brass & aluminum (not thicker than 2 or 4 mm) and as you can guess & expect no problems at all.
But again I'm far from being an expert in anything CNC (learning every day)
Grtx Rain
PS. Totally un related but used my CNC for this project
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