A Tinkerer's Guide to CNC Basics : Master the Fundamentals of CNC Machining, G-Code, 2D Laser Machining and Fabrication Techniques

Get started with CNC machining using this hands-on, part-color guide that tells you exactly what you need to know without overloading you with useless theoryKey FeaturesGet started with the basics of CNC machining and set up your own computerized workshopExplore loads of do-it-yourself projects to practice what you've learnedTake advantage of the potential of home machining thanks to the power of CNCBook DescriptionUntil recently, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines belonged to the realm of heavy industry, but as technology becomes cheaper and smaller, these machines now can be used in home workshops. It's not easy to get started, though, but thanks to this guide, you'll be ready to take on a variety of projects in no time. A Tinkerer's Guide to CNC Basics contains everything you need to get set up at home with computer-controlled machining and fabrication. Sparing you the theory, this project-laden guide helps you learn by doing. Once you've got to grips with the principles of CNC and installed the 3018 Pro CNC machine, you'll gradually move from simple projects such as basic engraving to more complex milling and machining techniques. You'll even learn how to upgrade your machine to accomplish more sophisticated designs. The plethora of projects in this book will keep you busy and give you the practice you need to get started with your computerized workshop. By the end of the book, your computerized home workshop will be one step closer to realization, and your machining skills will be taken to the next level.What you will learnConfigure, calibrate, provision, and test your CNC machineAdd a laser engraver to your machine for finer precision cuttingUse the machine to fabricate new components for itselfExplore the design impacts of carving on a rotary axisAdapt other machines for CNCEngrave opaque and semi-opaque materialsCool your machine with an air assist systemDesign and develop a customized laser mountWho this book is forThis book is for tinkerers, hobbyists, and craft aficionados comfortable using hand tools, aspiring to accelerate or develop more complex and challenging projects. Before starting this book, you should be comfortable around basic shop tools, as well as have a basic understanding of computers. While the book will speak to the specifics around the electronics of CNC machines, the terms used, such as motherboard, USB, positive/negative terminal, and power supply should not be too daunting to understand. Cover Title Page Copyright and Credits Dedication Contributors Table of Contents Preface Chapter 1: The What and Why of CNC Branches of CNC machining Differing approaches to motion in CNC machines How CNC works and when to use it What is G-code? Safety considerations for CNC and lasers Summary Chapter 2: Setting Up and Configuring the 3018 CNC Machine Technical requirements Anatomy of a CNC machine Making the build-versus-buy decision Buying a pre-built unit Building your own unit Configuring, calibrating, and testing your CNC machine Step calibration Firmware flashing software G-code sender software Running your first test cut Summary Chapter 3: Understanding Material Properties before Making the First Cut Cutting hardwoods, plywood, and balsa Cutting foam and composites Cutting plastics and PVC Cutting aluminum and other soft metals Selecting the right end mill Summary Chapter 4: Making the First Cut Securing the workpiece Selecting test patterns Configuration settings End-mill diameter RPM or spindle control and feed rate Cut depth and multiple passes Different settings for different operations Summary Chapter 5: Full CNC Workflow with Different Materials Technical requirements Getting to G-Code from a drawing Cutting softwoods such as balsa and light plywood Cutting hardwood Cutting and engraving soft metals Working with foam Engraving your workpiece and setting depths Summary Chapter 6: Upgrading Your CNC Machine Installing end-stops Emergency stop switch Installing a Z-probe Adding a rotary axis Plotters and drag knives Summary Chapter 7: Enclosures Panels, cleaning, and access Removable and non-integral enclosures Integrated and permanent enclosures Build versus buy, materials, and designs Summary Chapter 8: Project: Building a CNC Laser Cutter and a Plotter Laser cutter/engraver Endstops and electronics Plotter Summary Chapter 9: Project: Building Your Own 4th Axis Design is the starting point Fabrication The final assembly Installation and settings Summary Chapter 10: Project: Adding a Laser to the 3018 Selecting a suitable laser toolhead Mounting adjacent to the spindle Mounting in place of the spindle Laser-cutting software Laser head installation examples Summary Chapter 11: Building a More Capable CNC Machine Building a bigger 3018 Standardizing and simplifying your structure Eliminating the moving table Use multiple motors An all-metal Z axis A more robust controller board Scaling up Summary Chapter 12: Future Projects and Going Bigger and Better The ShapeOKO The OX Hot wire foam cutters CNC lathe A fifth axis Summary Index About Packt Other Books You May Enjoy A Tinkerer's Guide to CNC Basics is what you need to get your home workshop up and running. Packed with hands-on projects and bereft of the dense theory that you really don't need to know, this guide will get your set up in no time.