[Antennas]

I just a small project to see how things are going on the new machine. It seems not bad but it is just not quite right. It doesn't cut the way the preview says it should with straight edges etc.. Have a look if you would and see what you think. It seems to not be missing steps, as I have calibrated the axis and they hit the mark every time..but...??

Compare the pics and see what you think is going on. Look at the inside of the letters for example. Especially the "C".

Andrew

[awerby]

This looks like poor cut quality caused by your machine's lack of rigidity. Basically, the tool is shaking a lot more than it should. Is this a machine you built yourself?

[ger21]

Looks like the angle of the bit you used to create the toolpaths may not be the same as the actual tool used to cut it out.

[Devastator]

Looks like the angle of the bit you used to create the toolpaths may not be the same as the actual tool used to cut it out.

+1 on that.

[ger21]

To be more specific, it looks like you created toolpaths for a 45° bit, and cut it with a 60° bit.

[Antennas]

You folks are correct!! Ger21 nailed it. I realized later that I had a toolpath for a 90 and used a 60 bit. What do ya know. I'll leave this here so others that might make the same mistake can find it.
Thanks folks!!

[ger21]

Yes, I meant 90° when I said 45°.

[Antennas]

Another question. I just cut another piece and it is much better, but it still has some issues. I had a square the bit to the table but I think I still need some alignment along the X axis. Do you guys have experience with a bit that isn't aligned and what kind of issues it has? Such as what it does to your cutting. I'll post a pic of what I have so far. The letters are V carved into the wood.
Attachment 248908

[Devastator]

Looks like general lack of rigidity and or backlash to me. Could also be bit deflection if you are taking too heavy of a finish pass. Typically you should only be removing a few thou on the finish pass.

[Antennas]

When you say finish pass. It was a V carve so it just did it's thing. Is there a way to do a V carve with a finish pass?

[Devastator]

When you say finish pass. It was a V carve so it just did it's thing. Is there a way to do a V carve with a finish pass?

I'm not familiar with how vcarve works, it probably calculates everything for you. In that case, I'd check all other factors of your machine, rigidity, backlash etc. Might also make sure you have a sharp cutter, looks like you got some tear out going on too, but that could be from chatter.

[Antennas]

I am checking it all. Another point is, I used an Amana engraving bit for a V carve tool path. Wow did it take a long time. Is that right or did I screw that up? It gave a very nice sharp cut but it took off very small amounts as it went along. Can I just tell Aspire that it's a 30 degree V bit instead of an engraving bit? I also read to tell it it was a 15 degree angle on the blade. It is the interchangeable shank with a 30 degree blade. Ooo so much to figure out. I like it though! Thanks in advance.

[ger21]

When you select your tool, you can set the Pass Depth.

[Antennas]

Yes I forgot about that Gerry. What would be a good way to determine if your machine is cutting properly? Almost like a test pattern, then I could check to see how it looks.
I also need to get some good bits. SO MUCH TO LEARN...LOL

Andrew

[Antennas]

Hey I also went into the vectors and looked closely. I edited it for a long time for straight lines and no bumps etc. Cut it again and I think it's almost perfect! !! Another lesson learned! !

[Devastator]

Can I just tell Aspire that it's a 30 degree V bit instead of an engraving bit? .

No, you have to get all of the exact geometry from the bit manufacturer, not just the angle, but the flat on the tip too if applicable. Otherwise, it is junk in, junk out. You might check into bits from drillman1 on ebay. I've had real good luck with the quality and you can't beat the price, especially when you are just learning. I broke a lot of really expensive bits at first.

[Sinnsvak]

There are big differences to bits, and you really do your self a favor by using some good quality sharp bits.

Btw I really liked your KTM logo, which program did you draw it in?

[Antennas]

Thanks Devastator, I'll get some bits. I need a new end mill as it burned up in the maple i cut. Oops.
Sinnsvak I drew it in Aspire by importing a picture and having aspire copy the vectors. It was B&W so it was easy. I have a Suzuki so that's next.
Thank you both.

[Antennas]

Still not quite cutting right with too many tool marks and stuff left over in the grooves after V cutting.
I dont know how to fix it.
Cant seem get my pic.posted....