About 17 years of evolution and this DIY CNC Router is almost perfect. Join me on this walk around where I explain why I changed from MACH 3 to Centroid Acorn for the controller. What changes I made on the machine over the years to make it much more flexible for the various applications I have for the router. See a one of a kind, automatic tool change system that uses a common 2.2kw collet type spindle. There is plenty to see and hopefully some good ideas can be had along the way.
Watch a demonstration of a DIY Automatic Tool Changing system. This video shows an isolation milling demonstration using 10 tools, all automatically changed without user intervention. This Automatic Tool Changing System uses a convention collet chuck that is common on many spindles used for CNC Routers. The tools used are common carbide tools used for PCB milling. These tools use a plastic identifier ring on them. The tools do NOT need to be pre-set to a specific length or projection as the machine measures each tool length before starting the cutting operation.
An Automatic Tool Changing Spindle made from a Chinese, air cooled, 2.2kW, 24,000 RPM, ER Collet spindle. Sounds impossible but it's not, and yes, it works and works good. Take a few moments to see what is possible and see if you are up to the challenge of making something like it.
Explanation of how this tool magazine contributes to an Automatic Tool Change system on a CNC Router using an ER collet type spindle. An Automatic Tool Changing Spindle made from a Chinese, air cooled, 2.2kW, 24,000 RPM, ER Collet spindle. Sounds impossible but it's not, and yes, it works and works good. Take a few moments to see what is possible and see if you are up to the challenge of making something like it.
This video explains the mechanical Actuator for tightening and loosening the collet on an Automatic Tool Change System. This ATS is based around a 2.2kW ER20 collet type spindle that is very common on CNC routers. This video explains the mechanical details of the actuator, its design, etc. In part 2, the electronics and software (macros and Micro software) is explained. If you haven't done so already, please subscribe so that more content like this can be created for you.
This video explains the electronics and code used for the Actuator for tightening and loosening the collet on an Automatic Tool Change System. This ATC is based around a 2.2kW ER20 collet type spindle that is very common on CNC routers. Covered in this video is the components selected and why, and code to control the actuator. Code covered is Micro Python for the PICO and Macro for the Centroid Acorn controller. If you haven't done so already, please subscribe so that more content like this can be created for you.
In this video, Chris explains all the details of the Automatic Tool Measuring function that is part of the Automatic Tool Change System. Tool length measuring and part height sensing is critical for obtaining quality engravings and PCBs. In this video you will see how these sensors were designed and why the decision was made to make versus buy. Also covered is how the system works, how the control is configured, and the macro program is explained. If you haven't done so already, please subscribe so that more content like this can be created for you.
Build this craft size paint booth for your shop to improve your painting quality and safety. Constructed from common materials and designed to vent out a typical shop window, this will be a great addition to your shop. Chris DeHut takes you through all the steps and offers plenty of suggestions and alternatives. There is also a companion video project showing you how to make the LED lamps used in this project.
Follow along in this video to see how you can Make a Precision Drill Press from Bits and Pieces. Chris presents the process, the machines used, the materials used and some pointers along the way.
If you are unfamiliar with either 3D Printing or CNC Milling (routing), watch this video to gain insight into both processes. Learn about the fundamental differences and when to use which.
After 6 months of use, was this update worth it? In Sept. 2022, I upgraded my CNC router with closed loop stepper motors and drives. This video answers the question "Was it worth it". After 6 months of use, was this update worth it? In Sept. 2022, I upgraded my CNC router with closed loop stepper motors and drives. This video answers the question "Was it worth it".
In this video, Chris provides and overview of the CNC Carving process and explains the work flow. Topics briefly covered are: Using Fusion 360 to create the G-Code from STL file, Tooling selection, Work holding options, and review of the cutting process. This is a great watch if you are considering CNC carving.