CNC Machine?

Create a review for a woodworking tool that you are familiar with (Shopsmith brand or Non-Shopsmith) or just post your opinion on a specific tool. Head to head comparisons welcome too.

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rutpoule
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CNC Machine?

Post by rutpoule »

I've seen at least a couple posts referencing work people have done with their CNC machines. My sons' school has started a "Maker Space" and is looking to add a CNC machine to their equipment. This would be used by middle school students (or possibly upper elementary), for small projects, so a benchtop model would probably be sufficient. They have a small budget, so price is also a big consideration. I've looked at the X-carve, which has an attractive price and the software is free. The Easel software looks easy to use, and though it may not have a lot of capability, it looks about right for this application. The X-carve can be ordered with all the parts, so once assembled, it should be ready to go. I'd like to hear from the CNC owners out there, what you have, what you like about it, especially if you have an X-carve or it's predecessor, the Shapeko. I know some people build their own CNC machines, but I think for the school, a purchased solution would fit their needs better so they won't have to tinker with it too much. I'd also be interested in the features people have either found useful or wish they had.
roy_okc
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Re: CNC Machine?

Post by roy_okc »

I would highly recommend looking at commercial CAD/CAM software. Vectric now has 'Desktop' versions of Cut2D and VCarve (would only need one) for small machines (under 24x24"), $150 and $350, respectively. With the new version of VCarve supporting 3D file import, you get a lot of features for your money. Students could optionally use free/open source CAD tools (Inkscape for 2D, other stuff for 3D) at their leisure elsewhere and import the files into the CAM software, make final adjustments, etc., save the CAM design software and generate the gcode. I played with one of the low cost CNCs recommended tools, just to see how good/bad it was; it would do for simple things, but would be rather unpleasant for more complicated projects involving multiple bits, complex cuts, etc., and, I believe, would turn most people off if they didn't know that better solutions existed. About like putting a 1950s rusty dull saw blade backwards on a nice new PowerPro and expecting good cuts.

I agree, a good kit would be much better than trying to design/source/build their own while the assembly would still be a learning experience for the teacher and perhaps students. There is also the new Shapeoko 3; apparently the Shapeoko team and Inventables parted ways some time back. The SO3 uses much beefier extrusions and is about the same price as the XCarve by the time you figure spindle costs, etc. A nice thing about these is that some DIY expansion is a possibility without buying a new machine.

Also, a benchtop in the sizes of the SO3/XCarve would address many needs. Mine is larger, but I could probably count on one hand the number of proejects I've done thus far that couldn't be done on one of these. That will change later as I get into the projects for which I built the machine as well as other ideas I have in mind.
Roy

Mark V/510, Mark V/500 with parts for 510 upgrade, bandsaw, jointer, belt sander, DC3300 w/1 micron bag
Sawstop 3HP 36" PCS w/router table insert
Home designed and built CNC router, another CNC router :D desktop size
CNCed G0704 milling machine
Laser engraver
Way too much other stuff and not enough space :rolleyes:
fitzhugh
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Re: CNC Machine?

Post by fitzhugh »

I recently joined a makerspace - not middle school in this case - and have been reading a bit here and there about cnc (I'm there primarily for the woodshop).

I gather that a school may be able to get a machine at a steep discount, or just possibly donated by company that makes them. It is worth looking into, at least.

MEDUSA4 - cad program - has a different business model. You can use the software for free but they charge a small fee to convert the files to a format that can be used to drive a cnc machine. However, they offer this free for students at schools and universities. I believe it is done at a school level rather than a student level, which would be better since it doesn't mean the kids have to each set up accounts. I believe it is a full professional level tool.

Lastly, if at all possible the adults involved should reach out to the local makerspaces (adult versions). The members would be a great source of guidance and quite possibly material support. I searched "makerspace Rochester MN" based on your sig and it actually looks like there is a lot of activity around there, including an art room type makerspace at a library and I think two or three full ones. I could be wrong - didn't chase the links through.
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paulrussell
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Re: CNC Machine?

Post by paulrussell »

My CNC is homebuilt, and my software solution is Vectric Aspire. However I would not recommend that to a school. I would strongly suggest the CNC Shark which comes with a version of Vectric V-Carve. There is a huge user base and both company and user support.
richardrouse
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Re: CNC Machine?

Post by richardrouse »

I have a denford and davinci cnc mills in my classroom. IMOH, a maker style cnc machine is not really appropriate for the classroom because these get a ton of traffic.. at least 30 times the use that one in our own shops might get.

The wear and tear on the drive components is a lot higher than one would expect.

I don't really recommend the Denford mill, as their customer service is horrible. It is a british company and not very likely to spend time face to face if you have issues. However, the machine is solid.. so if the teacher knows what they are doing, they shouldn't have many problems.

Forrest Scientific has some cheaper options that can put a good cnc controlled router in the classroom.

Do they intend to design in software like Inventor and then process in a post? there are some really user friendly options that integrate really well with solidworks and inventor. and are free.
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