Think It. Make It. Podcast

Bob Warfield is a proven CNC expert and is the creator of www.CNCCookbook.com and the very popular G-Wizard Speed and Feed Calculator software. We are thankful for Bob taking the time to discuss his software, speeds and feeds and much more.

Bob discusses how he started CNCCookbook and what led him to starting the G-Wizard Calculator which started around 2007, which he wrote entirely on his own. He designed this software to accomplish three things:– To be the world’s best speeds and feeds calculator– Help people remember tips, which are built into the program– Wanted software that would optimize the numbers

We also discussed using CAD/CAM Wizards to generate a solid starting point for your feeds and speeds when setting up a job by answering a few questions in the wizard and it will give you a complete recipe for performing that CNC operation.

We also discuss tips for cutting aluminum on CNC router machines.

We discuss the effects of rubbing and excessive heat and how it adversely affects how the CNC cuts as well as shortening cutter life.

Chip clearing is very important in a CNC job as well because the heat is extracted from the end mill and material and is carried away in the chips.

We discuss the very popular topic of Climb vs. Conventional cutting.

We discuss using your ear to listen for the best speeds and feeds settings, and how this is not the best way to setup your machine.

We also discuss chatter, what causes it and how do diagnose it.

SPECIAL PRICING UNTIL JULY 1, 2019Save $10 off a 1 Year Subscription to G-WizardVisit www.stepcraft.us/gwizard for more info

LINKS

CNCCookbook.comG-Wizard Speed and Feed CalculatorTitans Of CNCWinston Moy (YouTube)Article – 11 Easy CNC Router Aluminum Cutting TipsAmana Tool

In this episode, Lars Christensen and myself talked about

Fusion 360 and the features and benefits that it has for CNC router users.   Lars has been with Autodesk for over 5 years

now and is known around the world for his Fusion 360 tutorial videos on YouTube

with over 100,000 subscribers. 

In this episode we discuss:

* Using Fusion CAM for CNC Routers vs. Conventional Milling Machines* Fusion 360’s unlimited use license for hobbyists and small businesses with under $100k/year in revenue* Fusion 360 is based off of mechanical CAD and uses HSM Works for CAM which was purchased by Autodesk* 90% of CAM operations that are required by CNC router users are found in the 2D CAM section including: 2D Adaptive Clearing, 2D Pocket and 2D Contour* Lars discusses possible future plans for more CNC router-related content in his videos* 4th axis capability within Fusion 360* Fusion 360 post processors and the Autodesk Post Library* Solidworks vs. Inventor vs. Fusion 360* Fusion 360 is able to open Solidworks files due to the “Any CAD” capability* Fusion 360 is cloud-based and has full support for the Mac operating system* Discussion of Feeds and Speeds within Fusion 360* Using Foam and cheap end mills when first learning* Using good quality end mills once you become more proficient and the benefits they have

LINKS FROM EPISODE

* Fusion 360 (Autodesk)* Stepcraft CNC* G-Wizard (CNC Cookbook)* Lakeshore Carbide* Amana Tool* Lars’s YouTube Channel* CNC Handbook (Free Download)

In this episode we discuss some basic things to consider and common questions from beginners when looking into getting a CNC. We go over the following:

* What computer/programming skills are required* What type of computer you will need* Kits vs Ready-to-Run vs DIY CNC machines* Spindles vs Routers* Your desired machine uses* Long term goals with the machine* Lead screw vs Belt drive systems* What level support will the company offer* Online support* Buyer Beware – When sales person slams a competitor’s machine

There are a lot of choices in the CNC world and we would be lying if we told you that we did not want you to buy a Stepcraft CNC, but no matter what you decide to buy, we are more concerned about educating people to make the best decision possible for their needs, budget, skill level and long term goals.

LINKS from episode:

Stepcraft – www.stepcraft.usVectric – www.vectric.com

Please let us know in the comments any questions or comments.

One of the great things about owning a CNC machine is that you can easily turn ideas into a small side, or even a full-time business. Once you learn the basics, all it takes is a little creativity and you can make not only crafty projects, but items that can be purchased by people as a keepsake or heirloom to remember times shared with loved ones on vacation. This is exactly what Chris Rauch has done with his business, Studio Creative, located on Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

Chris is a full time mechanical engineer and navel architect developing underwater robotics systems used for science applications and defense work. Having owned a CNC machine shop in the past, Chris new the possibilites that he could realize by owning a CNC machine with the ability to start a side business with the help of his son to create custom souvenirs for the tourists that visit Cape Cod each year.

This is the Notebook that Chris spoke about on the podcast. It is make from two different veneers that are laminated together after the design is lasered onto it.

Chris owns a STEPCRAFT D.840 CNC system with a MM-1000 Spindle and Automatic Tool Changer. He also purchased his system with the DL-445 Laser attachment so he can quickly change from laser projects to CNC milling/cutting projects.

Photos of Projects that Chris Made

Laser EngravingVery small detailed engravingMachining mold for carbon fibre partFinished Carbon fiber partCarbon fiber part as it came out of the moldCarbon fiber part curing in a vacuum forming fixtureMachining a moldAnchor Notebook made from veneer Sailboat notebook made from veneer

Products Mentioned in this Episode:

Amazon Canvas – www.amazoncanvas.comVectric Software – www.vectric.comStepcraft CNC – www.stepcraft.usAmana Tools – www.amanatools.comFS Wizard App – www.fswizard.com

Tips From This Episode:

Copy A Tool For Multiple UsesSometimes you have a tool that you use in different materials where each tool is has different feed and speed settings. You can make this easier by making copies of the tool in the Vectric tool library and simply rename the tool for the material or application that you have it setup for. Example, “1/8″ 2 Flute UpCut Endmill (For Pine)” and “1/8” 2 Flute UpCut Endmill (for Cherry).

The one thing I really love about this business is when we get to meet a customer and over time watch them start and expand a business that is centered around our product. Tony Donato and his son Anthony are a perfect example of this. When they got their first-ever CNC from us over 3 years ago, we worked with them as they learned this amazing craft. They have upgraded machines and now run a STEPCRAFT Q.204 and D.600 CNC machines. The work they turn out never ceases to amaze us.

Last summer they began FM Designs. (I will not tell you what “FM” stands for as you will have to listen to the podcast for that). This is a business that they both work on full time and the amount of products that they produce is incredible. Not only because of the volume, but because of the quality and creativity that they put into each piece they create.

In this episode we talk about their journey from the beginning through today and where they see their business going in the future. We talk about some of the hurdles and challenges as well as some solutions that they have achieved.

Projects Photos From FM Designs

Tips From This Episode:

STEPCRAFT 3D Touch ProbeWe discussed the STEPCRAFT 3D Touch Probe and how it can be used to not only location positions on a part, but it can be used to 3D scan objects so you can duplicate them on your CNC. This is a device that will work with any CNC system. More Info

STEPCRAFT Engraving PointThe STEPCRAFT Engraving Point is used to scratch engrave, or etch, designs into materials. Common applications are edge-lit acrylic signs and engraving into metal. The tool has an 8mm shank so it can be inserted into any spindle with an 8mm collet to quickly switch from milling to engraving on the same machine.More Info

Multiple Roughing PassesSometimes a complicated carving job requires a lot of material to be roughed out before you can start actually performing the fine detailed finish 3D carving. It’s common to use as large diameter tool as you can to reduce the speed, but that will also mean there is more material left for the finish ball nose end mill to remove, which can add unnecessary stress to the tool. So a solution is to run more than one roughing operation. Start with a large end mill and then go to 1/4″ or even 1/8″ and then you can machine with the ballnose mill. This is also commonly known as “rest machining” and many CAM programs have the ability to create tool path operations for this.

Links From This Episode:

FM Designs – www.fmdesigns.usFM Designs Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/FM-DesignsVectric –

Have you ever been thinking, “What would be a really cool way to market my business or product?” Well look no further! Sent Into Space is an extremely innovative company in Sheffield, England that specializes in sending items into space. Projects can range from science and meteorological testing experiments to bottles of gin.

Marketing photograph taken for Panasonic

With the use of weather balloons, tons of experience and knowledge and a host of technology, one main aspect of their company is marketing for businesses. By attaching a logo or product to one of their balloons along with a host of camera equipment, they are able to supply their customers with professional photos from earths upper atmosphere with the blackness of space as the background.

Getting ready to launch a balloon.

Jack Bryan, who completed his MscEng in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Sheffield. He specializes in novel additive manufacturing techniques for both plastics and metals. Involved with electronic and communication engineering societies. He started at Sent Into Space in May of 2017. Jack is the person who handles much CNC work for the company.

Sent Into Space has a STEPCRAFT D.840 CNC machine with a HF-500 spindle and a Hot Wire Cutter. Additionally they purchased a DL-445 Laser Attachment for specialized cutting and engraving applications. They use their CNC for making custom foam inserts to protect delicate equipment as well as custom bracketry and mounts for holding objects securely for the 3-4 hour trip into space and back.

Contact Information

Sent Into Space – www.sentintospace.comAscension Flights – www.ascensionflights.comFacebook – https://www.facebook.com/SentIntoSpaceTwitter – https://twitter.com/Sent_into_spaceInstagram – https://www.instagram.com/sentintospace/YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/sentintospace

I am very excited to put this podcast together for you fellow CNC’ers in the world. The CNC and 3D printing industry has been a passion of mine for a very long time and after launching several other podcasts in my past relating to various topics, I decided that it was time to launch a show for fellow CNC enthusiasts, makers, beginners and professionals.

I am the Director of STEPCRAFT, Inc. located in Torrington, CT and while my obvious primary focus when it comes to hardware is STEPCRAFT, my intentions with this podcast is to make sure we have information, stories and advice that applies to anyone interested in CNC, no matter what equipment that you use.

My first few episodes start off with interviews with STEPCRAFT customers, and yes, the do talk about their machine, but please don’t let that deter you if you own a different machine. It is their stories and how they use their machines that is important and informative. Sure, if I had my way, everyone would own a STEPCRAFT CNC, but I know that there are many options in the industry and I want this podcast to be about the applications, projects, and other general information that will appeal to everyone.

I want this to be YOUR podcast! So PLEASE send me emails and comments letting me know what you would like to hear on future episodes and if you would like me to address specific questions, please let me know!

Thank you again for taking the time to have a listen and I hope that you will become a regular listener.

-Erick Royer Director Stepcraft, Inc.