CNC Howto

There are a few steps involved in cutting an object using the CNC machine.

• Object design and export
• Conversion to machine instructions (GCode)
• Preparing the material and workspace
• Loading the design to the CNC and preparing the machine
• Cutting
• Cleanup

Design

You will want to design your object using a software that can export to a format that is standard for a CNC toolchain. These formats are

• DXF
• STL

Programs that are known to work well:

• Inkscape (DXF)
• OpenSCAD (STL)

Conversion

Converting intermediate format to gcode instructions go here.

PyCam / PyCad ?

CamBam ?

Rhino ?

Preparing your workspace

• Load your cutting material on the platform.
• Secure it.
• Make sure you are not obstructed.
• Know the location of the emergency stop button.
• Don eye and ear protection.

Load your design

• Plug a USB stick containing your GCode into the controller machine. Load it with Mach3.
• Power on the motors.
• Zero the machine.
• Make sure everyone is wearing protective gear.
• Turn on the router and the dust collector.
• Make sure you can stop the cut at any time by the emergency stop or using Mach3.
• Begin your cut.

Cleanup

• Turn of the machinery.
• Unload your material.
• Take off your protective gear.
• Clean the work surface.
• Remove your USB drive from the CNC Controller.
• Take photos and and describe your process to the mailing list.