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docs.carbide3d.com
material using a given cutting tool) and feed rate for different types of materials and different sizes and types of end
mills:
docs.carbide3d.com/support/supportfiles/S3_feeds_250.pdf
Troubleshooting and How To Guides
Can’t Connect to Machine or Jog:
docs.carbide3d.com/software-faq/can-t-connect-to-machine-or-jog
Tightening Eccentric Nuts to Tension V-Wheels:
docs.carbide3d.com/support/tensioning-eccentrics
Power Supply Usage (Is it Working?):
docs.carbide3d.com/shapeoko-faq/power-supply-usage
Glossary of Terms
Collet:
Cone-shaped sleeve that holds an end mill in place in the router.
Eccentric Nut:
Often referred to as offset nuts, offsets, and eccentrics, are nuts with an attached spacer, serves as axle,
and off-center threads, creating a cam. They convert rotational motion into linear motion and are used in conjunction
with V-wheels to apply tension at the V-rail and eliminate carriage slop.
End Mill or End Mill Cutter:
Cutting tools used by a CNC machine. End mills are similar to drill bits, though, typically
they can cut in all directions. End mills come in several varieties, including square, ball nose, and V-bit, and many sizes.
Learn more about end mills here:
docs.carbide3d.com/tutorials/tutorial-tooling
.
G-code:
G-code (general, or geometric, code) is a CNC programming language that controls when, where, and how
the machine tools move across the workpiece. For example, when to turn on or off, how fast to travel to a particular
location, what paths to take, etc.
Gantry:
A multi-axis motion system of rails and carriages supported on the sides by, and spanning over, the
baseframe, giving the spindle overhead access to a workpiece.
PEM Nut:
Penn Engineering & Manufacturing Corp. brand fastener, providing self-clinching, permanent threads and
mounting points in thin sheet metal.
Slop:
Unwanted movement in the gantry at the carriages due to under tensioned V-wheels.
Toolpath:
A toolpath is the “route” the cutting tool will follow as it shapes the workpiece. We use Carbide Create,
Carbide 3D’s cross-platform CAD/CAM program, to define the toolpaths for a project.
Working Envelope:
A working envelope is the CNC machine’s range of movement across each of its three axes, X, Y,
and Z. This may extend beyond the Shapeoko’s front endplate.
Workpiece:
A workpiece is a stock piece, the sheet of material to be milled.
Machine-Use Log
It is good practice to keep a log of machine usage so you can track when adjustments are made, fasteners
are tightened, and parts are lubricated. Using your log to track use-time for specific end mills helps
determine when end mills should be relegated to rough work, resharpened, or recycled and replaced. A log is
a good place to keep a checklist of items that need to be inspected or verified before machining. Finally, you
can record all of your project settings and the specifics of each tool chain in your log. You can use the sample
machine-use log on the next page or make one that fits your specific work processes and needs.
Project Name
Dimensions
Dimensions
Setup Notes
Image
Date
Fixture(s)
Material 1
Material 2
Origin(s)
/
/
Start Time
End Time
Estimated (hrs/mins)
Actual (hrs/mins)
Total Project Time
Total Machine Hours
Operations and Maintenance Checklist
F
Workpiece Secure
F
PPE
F
Router
F
Lubrication
F
Wiring
F
Work Area Clear
F
Dust Extraction
F
V-wheels
F
Tram
F
Proximity Switches
F
End Mill Secure
F
Touch Probe
F
V-rails
F
Level
F
Stepper Motors
F
Collet Condition
F
Emergency Stop
F
Belts
F
Square
F
Bolts/Screws
End Mill
RPM
Feed Rate
Time (hours / minutes)
/
/
/
/
/
/
/
Total Cutter Time
Tool Chain
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
