Steps for HOWTO Build a home made CNC machine (JGRO router)

Intro Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5 Step 6 Step 7 Step 8 Step 9 Step 10 Step 11 Step 12 Step 13

Step 12: Cut something out

Now the real fun starts! Building the machine is only the first step. There is a lot learn about how to CAD and CAM, how to hold-down the workpiece, use of the correct cutting tools and speeds.

Here is a simple test cut in left over MDF using the default G-code file in EMC2 AXIS. This pattern was cut using a carbide 2.5mm ball nosed end mill.

The leaf pattern is from the trial version of the Vectric Cut3D program. It was cut out using 6mm end mills. The first picture shows some problems with the Z-axis (a short circuit blew some resistors in the stepper driver- they have been changed!). The Y axis motor coupler also gave way half way through the finishing operation - but that is fixed now.

The last picture shows the leaf cut out properly. Time to get working on some guitar projects!

Images for this step (click to open full sized image)