The HF500 manual says I should have an air pump, how come one did not come with my order? -

The HF500 manual says I should have an air pump, how come one did not come with my order?

The HF500 now comes with a new sealed bearing system which no longer requires the need for the air pump. The following note should have been included with your package.

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Newest FAQs

3D Print Questions

What are the Parameters for the Stepcraft PH-40 Printing Head in Cura?

What are the Parameters for the Stepcraft PH-40 Printing Head in Cura?

Cura does not come with the Stepcraft PH-40 as a pre-configured printer, and thus requires creating a custom printer profile (please see the PH-40 First Steps UCCNC manual for more information). Below is a PDF containing the parameters for your Cura profile. Please note that the nozzle diameter setting is dependent on what size nozzle is fitted to the print head.

Stepcraft PH-40 Cura Printer Settings

Category: 3D Print Questions

4th Axis

What software do I need to run the 4th Axis system?

What software do I need to run the 4th Axis system?

In order to use the 4th Axis, you need to have a CAM program that will support creation of the tool path for the 4th axis. Two possible solutions include:

Vectric VCarve Pro (the Desktop version does not support 4th axis). VCarve Pro has a Gadget that will allow you to take a 2D design and wrap it around a cylinder to create a round object. The following video shows you how:

The other option is to use Deskproto Multi-axis addition. This software will also allow you to create a 4th axis job. An added benefit of this program is that it allows you to take a solid 3D model (stl, obj) and place inside a workpiece and then you can carve that object out. See video below showing a Homer Simpson being cut out of foam.

Category: 4th Axis

Automatic Tool Changer

What is the collet range sizes that the HF-500 Spindle can accept?

What is the collet range sizes that the HF-500 Spindle can accept?

The HF-500 can support up to 8mm ER11 collets. The most popular in North America are 1/8” and 1/4”, but they have collets that range from 1mm to 8mm that will work. The ER11 is an industry standard that determines the overall collet size. ER11, ER16, ER20, ER25 are all common sizes. But the HF 500 and our Tool Changer tool holders for the MM-1000 are both designed for the ER11.

Categories: Automatic Tool Changer, Spindles and Routers, STEPCRAFT Specifications

Before You Buy A CNC Router

What is better, lead screw or belt drive?

The short answer is that both will work, however, if you are looking for high accuracy then a screw drive system will outperform every time.

Belt-Drive Systems

Belt drive systems are much cheaper to produce and require less expensive components to make them work. A belt drive system is usually a one to one ratio between motor movement and gantry movement. Meaning that there is no gear reduction so as the motor moves, the gantry will move an equal amount. Because of this, the motor on a belt drive system will usually be much larger than a same size lead screw driven system. Belts are also more susceptible to stretching and wear. This will always affect accuracy. If the belt stretches that will immediately translate into an inaccuracy at the bit into your workpiece. Some might argue that a belt drive system will move the gantry faster, but keep in mind that moving faster into a material and having stretch on the belt will cause deflection and the belt will act more like a spring thus increasing the risk for lost steps and positioning.

Screw-Drive Systems

A screw driven system usually consists of a threaded rod (screw) that is either an Acme-type lead screw or a ball screw. The motor will rotate the screw and the gantry is attached to the screw with some type of threaded nut (lead screw nut or ball nut). As the screw turns, the gantry is moved in the corresponding direction. The number of threads per inch will determine how many rotations the screw must turn for the gantry to move one inch. This gear reduction means that you can either use much smaller stepper motors to control the movement and still maintain a very high accuracy, or you can use a larger motor and move a larger mass as compared to using the same size motor in a belt driven system. You will find much better repeatability and accuracy in a screw driven system with minimal to no linear free play. Due to the costs of lead and ball screws and components, you will find that these type of drive systems will cost more than a belt drive system.

Summary

If you are looking for high accuracy, a more rugged design, or if you plan to cut harder materials like hard plastics, hard woods and metals, then you will want a system that uses a screw-drive. If you are just planning to cut thin, softer materials like soft woods and plastics and accuracy is not as important to you, and if you do not have a large budget, then a belt-drive system might be right for you. Always keep in mind when looking at purchasing a CNC system what you might need in the future. You might think that your immediate need to make model parts out of thin plywood, thin plastic and balsa wood might not require a screw drive, but maybe in the future you want to cut hardwoods, thicker plastics or metals, or you get a project that requires a high cutting accuracy – in this case you might be kicking yourself for not spending the extra few hundred dollars for the better drive system.

Categories: Before You Buy A CNC Router, Common Pre-Purchase Questions

Common Pre-Purchase Questions

How early do I need to order a machine assembly kit, to have it arrive before Christmas?

How early do I need to order a machine assembly kit, to have it arrive before Christmas?

We would recommend that you order at least 4 weeks before Christmas if you would like an assembled machine. Kit machines, we would recommend 2 weeks.

Category: Common Pre-Purchase Questions

Deskproto CAM Software

Does Deskproto Multi-Axis Hobby Edition have the ability to use the entire bed of the STEPCRAFT-2/840?

Does Deskproto Multi-Axis Hobby Edition have the ability to use the entire bed of the STEPCRAFT-2/840?

Yes, there are no size limitations to Deskproto Multi-Axis Hobby Edition. For more information on Deskproto Multi-Axis please click HERE

To Purchase a non-commercial hobby license please visit https://stepcraft.us/product/deskproto-multi-axis-hobby-license-non-commercial-use-only/

Categories: Common Pre-Purchase Questions, Deskproto CAM Software

Education

How do I install the UCR201 Jog Pendant for UCCNC?

How do I install the UCR201 Jog Pendant for UCCNC?

The UCR201 Jog Pendant requires version 1.2049 or higher of UCCNC. To upgrade from version 1.2037, which is included with our Multi-Installer, simply follow the directions below, or DOWNLOAD our guide.

Categories: Education, RMC 100 Wireless Controller, UCCNC

End Mills and Cutters

What is a surfacing bit used for?

What is a surfacing bit used for?

A surfacing bit typically has a larger than normal cutting diameter (1 to 3 inches) and are used to flatten or level uneven surfaces on your project material. They are also used to take the thickness of a material down to a final required size. For example, you might have a piece of rough cut lumber that measures 1 inch in thickness but you need it to be 3/4 inch thick. If you don’t have a surface planer in your shop then you can use a surfacing bit with a pocket tool path to plane the material down.

Another common use for surfacing bits is to clean up and level a spoil board. After continuous use your spoil board’s surface will have a lot of cuts in it and you might want to clean it up so it is perfectly smooth again. A surfacing bit is perfect for this, especially with machines where the spoil board is physically attached to the machine – you might want to prolong the use of it for as long as you can before replacing.

Leveling your spoil board is also important. If you are looking to engrave .005″ into a piece of metal and your bed is off by a couple thousandths from one side to the other or front to back, then the thickness of your engraved lines will vary. By using a surfacing bit, you will ensure that your spoil board is perfectly level in relation to your gantry which will result in a uniform engraving.

Note: Because of the larger diameter of a surfacing bit, it is important to note that you can not take as deep of passes or run as fast as you might with smaller end mills on most machines. Consult your machine’s manufacturer for assistance with proper speeds and feeds for surfacing bits.

Categories: End Mills and Cutters, Spindles and Routers, Working With Carbon Fiber, Working With Metals, Working With Plastics, Working With Woods

Fusion 360

Can I use Fusion 360 from Autodesk with my STEPCRAFT CNC?

Can I use Fusion 360 from Autodesk with my STEPCRAFT CNC?

Yes, you can use Fusion 360 with STEPCRAFT. There is a post processor that you can download for the CAM portion of Fusion 360 by going to http://cam.autodesk.com/posts/. STEPCRAFT (www.stepcraft.us) includes a free one year subscription to Fusion 360 when you purchase a CNC system.

Fusion 360 is a very powerful program that can greatly expand the capabilities of what you can do with a STEPCRAFT (or any CNC for that matter).

Categories: Fusion 360, Software Troubleshooting

Laser Cutter/Engraver Questions

What Vectric Post Processor do I use for the Stepcraft DL-445 Laser?

We have a special post processor that you need to use for the laser. You can download that file [here]

You need to place the file in the correct folder in your Vectric Program.

Do do this, open your program (V Carve, Cut 2D, etc)

In the FILE Menu, select OPEN APPLICATION DATA FOLDER

Look for a “PostP” or “My_PostP” folder

Copy the laser post processor file (downloaded above) Into both of these folders.

NOTE: if you copy the file into the My_PostP folder then when you open your Vectric Program, only the post processors in this folder will show. So I always recommend copying the post processors for my CNC into this folder so when you go to create a G Code file, you will not have to scan though a ton of files for other machines. If you do not want to use the My_PostP folder then simply copy the above Laser profile into the PostP folder and you will see it in the list of post processors.

ALSO, you will need to restart the program for the post processor to be visible in the list

Categories: Laser Cutter/Engraver Questions, STEPCRAFT Attachments and Accessories, Vectric Software (Cut 2D, Cut 3D, V Carve)

Maintenance

How do I Test a Faulty Stepper Motor?

How do I Test a Faulty Stepper Motor?

When troubleshooting a faulty stepper motor, it is important to be weary of incorrect or shorted wiring. While inspecting your connections and wires may be required, there is a simple process that can save you some time and effort when testing your system’s steppers. Included below is a short PDF that covers the signs of a damaged or shorting stepper motor, and how to quickly diagnose the issue.

Stepper Motor Testing

Categories: Maintenance, STEPCRAFT Assembly Questions

Project Design

Can you scan your own design and create a tool path to cut the object out on a CNC (Image Tracing)?

Can you scan your own design and create a tool path to cut the object out on a CNC (Image Tracing)?

Vectric software, such as Cut 2D and VCarve have the ability for you to import a bitmap image and then use a function called “Image Trace” to create a vector around the image. You can then adjust and modify the vector to your liking. From there you can select the vector(s) and create a tool path for the CNC machine to cut around. You can also vary the depth of the cut to meet your specific needs.

The following video show you how to do this:

Categories: Common Pre-Purchase Questions, Project Design, Vectric Software (Cut 2D, Cut 3D, V Carve)

RMC 100 Wireless Controller

How do I install the UCR201 Jog Pendant for UCCNC?

How do I install the UCR201 Jog Pendant for UCCNC?

The UCR201 Jog Pendant requires version 1.2049 or higher of UCCNC. To upgrade from version 1.2037, which is included with our Multi-Installer, simply follow the directions below, or DOWNLOAD our guide.

Categories: Education, RMC 100 Wireless Controller, UCCNC

Shipping Questions

Will ordering my machine assembled, delay the shipment?

On average, if we have machines in stock, we can ship kits within 48 hours of purchase. If machines are in stock, it will take an average of 5 working days to ship.

Categories: Common Pre-Purchase Questions, Shipping Questions, STEPCRAFT Assembly Questions

Software Troubleshooting

How do I Recover My UCCNC License File?

How do I Recover My UCCNC License File?

If you have misplaced or lost your UCCNC license key file, the process of recovering it is fast and easy. The serial number located on one side of your UC100 corresponds to your hard-coded license key, as shown below. Simply contact our support team and provide them with this serial number, and you will receive your recovered license file as an email attachment.

Categories: Software Troubleshooting, UCCNC

Spindles and Routers

What is a surfacing bit used for?

What is a surfacing bit used for?

A surfacing bit typically has a larger than normal cutting diameter (1 to 3 inches) and are used to flatten or level uneven surfaces on your project material. They are also used to take the thickness of a material down to a final required size. For example, you might have a piece of rough cut lumber that measures 1 inch in thickness but you need it to be 3/4 inch thick. If you don’t have a surface planer in your shop then you can use a surfacing bit with a pocket tool path to plane the material down.

Another common use for surfacing bits is to clean up and level a spoil board. After continuous use your spoil board’s surface will have a lot of cuts in it and you might want to clean it up so it is perfectly smooth again. A surfacing bit is perfect for this, especially with machines where the spoil board is physically attached to the machine – you might want to prolong the use of it for as long as you can before replacing.

Leveling your spoil board is also important. If you are looking to engrave .005″ into a piece of metal and your bed is off by a couple thousandths from one side to the other or front to back, then the thickness of your engraved lines will vary. By using a surfacing bit, you will ensure that your spoil board is perfectly level in relation to your gantry which will result in a uniform engraving.

Note: Because of the larger diameter of a surfacing bit, it is important to note that you can not take as deep of passes or run as fast as you might with smaller end mills on most machines. Consult your machine’s manufacturer for assistance with proper speeds and feeds for surfacing bits.

Categories: End Mills and Cutters, Spindles and Routers, Working With Carbon Fiber, Working With Metals, Working With Plastics, Working With Woods

STEPCRAFT Assembly Questions

How do I Test a Faulty Stepper Motor?

How do I Test a Faulty Stepper Motor?

When troubleshooting a faulty stepper motor, it is important to be weary of incorrect or shorted wiring. While inspecting your connections and wires may be required, there is a simple process that can save you some time and effort when testing your system’s steppers. Included below is a short PDF that covers the signs of a damaged or shorting stepper motor, and how to quickly diagnose the issue.

Stepper Motor Testing

Categories: Maintenance, STEPCRAFT Assembly Questions

STEPCRAFT Attachments and Accessories

What Vectric Post Processor do I use for the Stepcraft DL-445 Laser?

We have a special post processor that you need to use for the laser. You can download that file [here]

You need to place the file in the correct folder in your Vectric Program.

Do do this, open your program (V Carve, Cut 2D, etc)

In the FILE Menu, select OPEN APPLICATION DATA FOLDER

Look for a “PostP” or “My_PostP” folder

Copy the laser post processor file (downloaded above) Into both of these folders.

NOTE: if you copy the file into the My_PostP folder then when you open your Vectric Program, only the post processors in this folder will show. So I always recommend copying the post processors for my CNC into this folder so when you go to create a G Code file, you will not have to scan though a ton of files for other machines. If you do not want to use the My_PostP folder then simply copy the above Laser profile into the PostP folder and you will see it in the list of post processors.

ALSO, you will need to restart the program for the post processor to be visible in the list

Categories: Laser Cutter/Engraver Questions, STEPCRAFT Attachments and Accessories, Vectric Software (Cut 2D, Cut 3D, V Carve)

STEPCRAFT Specifications

What is the collet range sizes that the HF-500 Spindle can accept?

What is the collet range sizes that the HF-500 Spindle can accept?

The HF-500 can support up to 8mm ER11 collets. The most popular in North America are 1/8” and 1/4”, but they have collets that range from 1mm to 8mm that will work. The ER11 is an industry standard that determines the overall collet size. ER11, ER16, ER20, ER25 are all common sizes. But the HF 500 and our Tool Changer tool holders for the MM-1000 are both designed for the ER11.

Categories: Automatic Tool Changer, Spindles and Routers, STEPCRAFT Specifications

Tool Length Sensor

How do I setup and install the Tool Length Sensor on my STEPCRAFT CNC?

How do I setup and install the Tool Length Sensor on my STEPCRAFT CNC?

The Tool Length sensor is a great addition to your Stepcraft 2 machine, saving time in zeroing the Z axis. There are two ways to connect your Tool Length Sensor to your machine.

1. Using the Quick Connect 3.5mm Jack:
Your Tool Length Sensor comes with a 3.5mm male headphone jack. Most are already installed, but if you find your jack is not installed, refer to the soldering instructions included with the sensor. Simply plug the male jack into the female jack on the back of the main board. To check to make sure your sensor is functioning, under the UCCNC Diagnostics page, your “Probe” indicator should light up green when pressed and go away when disengaged.

2. Wiring Directly to the Main Board:
If you do not have a 3.5mm male or female jack (not included on older versions of the mainboard), you can wire your Tool Length Sensor directly to the main board. Strip the two wires at the end of the snesor (brown and white are the two most common) and install directly to the board terminals. The correct terminals are listed on the board itself and in your machine manual.

Using the sensor:
After homing your machine setup your machine with some test material and place the sensor on top. Move the axis over the sensor and zero all. Now press the tool probe button from the main screen. The Z axis will lower slowly until it contacts the sensor. It will then retract and calculate the Z zero taking into account the height of the sensor. Move the sensor out of the way and you can now click Go to Zero. The Z axis will lower to the calculated height for the work material.

Categories: STEPCRAFT Attachments and Accessories, Tool Length Sensor

Touch Probe

Can I use a 3D scanner to create 3D models to carve as well as 3D print?

Can I use a 3D scanner to create 3D models to carve as well as 3D print?

Yes, models created with a 3D Scanner are typically saved in common 3D formats like a .stl. These files can be imported into CAM programs like Vectric Cut 3D, Vectric V Carve and Deskproto where they can be assigned tool paths to carve the object out of a material. This is commonly done with two tool paths: Roughing and Finishing, using a standard end mill and a ball nose end mill, respectively.

These files created from a 3D scanner can also be used for a 3D printer.

Here is a good article with a list of the best 3D scanners for 2017: https://pinshape.com/blog/the-11-best-3d-scanners-on-the-market/

STEPCRAFT also has a 3D Touch Probe which can be used for 3D scanning. The following videos show how that works:

Categories: 3D Print Questions, Common Pre-Purchase Questions, Touch Probe, Vectric Software (Cut 2D, Cut 3D, V Carve)

UCCNC

How do I install the UCR201 Jog Pendant for UCCNC?

How do I install the UCR201 Jog Pendant for UCCNC?

The UCR201 Jog Pendant requires version 1.2049 or higher of UCCNC. To upgrade from version 1.2037, which is included with our Multi-Installer, simply follow the directions below, or DOWNLOAD our guide.

Categories: Education, RMC 100 Wireless Controller, UCCNC

Vectric Software (Cut 2D, Cut 3D, V Carve)

What Vectric Post Processor do I use for the Stepcraft DL-445 Laser?

We have a special post processor that you need to use for the laser. You can download that file [here]

You need to place the file in the correct folder in your Vectric Program.

Do do this, open your program (V Carve, Cut 2D, etc)

In the FILE Menu, select OPEN APPLICATION DATA FOLDER

Look for a “PostP” or “My_PostP” folder

Copy the laser post processor file (downloaded above) Into both of these folders.

NOTE: if you copy the file into the My_PostP folder then when you open your Vectric Program, only the post processors in this folder will show. So I always recommend copying the post processors for my CNC into this folder so when you go to create a G Code file, you will not have to scan though a ton of files for other machines. If you do not want to use the My_PostP folder then simply copy the above Laser profile into the PostP folder and you will see it in the list of post processors.

ALSO, you will need to restart the program for the post processor to be visible in the list

Categories: Laser Cutter/Engraver Questions, STEPCRAFT Attachments and Accessories, Vectric Software (Cut 2D, Cut 3D, V Carve)

Working With Carbon Fiber

What is a surfacing bit used for?

What is a surfacing bit used for?

A surfacing bit typically has a larger than normal cutting diameter (1 to 3 inches) and are used to flatten or level uneven surfaces on your project material. They are also used to take the thickness of a material down to a final required size. For example, you might have a piece of rough cut lumber that measures 1 inch in thickness but you need it to be 3/4 inch thick. If you don’t have a surface planer in your shop then you can use a surfacing bit with a pocket tool path to plane the material down.

Another common use for surfacing bits is to clean up and level a spoil board. After continuous use your spoil board’s surface will have a lot of cuts in it and you might want to clean it up so it is perfectly smooth again. A surfacing bit is perfect for this, especially with machines where the spoil board is physically attached to the machine – you might want to prolong the use of it for as long as you can before replacing.

Leveling your spoil board is also important. If you are looking to engrave .005″ into a piece of metal and your bed is off by a couple thousandths from one side to the other or front to back, then the thickness of your engraved lines will vary. By using a surfacing bit, you will ensure that your spoil board is perfectly level in relation to your gantry which will result in a uniform engraving.

Note: Because of the larger diameter of a surfacing bit, it is important to note that you can not take as deep of passes or run as fast as you might with smaller end mills on most machines. Consult your machine’s manufacturer for assistance with proper speeds and feeds for surfacing bits.

Categories: End Mills and Cutters, Spindles and Routers, Working With Carbon Fiber, Working With Metals, Working With Plastics, Working With Woods

Working With Metals

What is a surfacing bit used for?

What is a surfacing bit used for?

A surfacing bit typically has a larger than normal cutting diameter (1 to 3 inches) and are used to flatten or level uneven surfaces on your project material. They are also used to take the thickness of a material down to a final required size. For example, you might have a piece of rough cut lumber that measures 1 inch in thickness but you need it to be 3/4 inch thick. If you don’t have a surface planer in your shop then you can use a surfacing bit with a pocket tool path to plane the material down.

Another common use for surfacing bits is to clean up and level a spoil board. After continuous use your spoil board’s surface will have a lot of cuts in it and you might want to clean it up so it is perfectly smooth again. A surfacing bit is perfect for this, especially with machines where the spoil board is physically attached to the machine – you might want to prolong the use of it for as long as you can before replacing.

Leveling your spoil board is also important. If you are looking to engrave .005″ into a piece of metal and your bed is off by a couple thousandths from one side to the other or front to back, then the thickness of your engraved lines will vary. By using a surfacing bit, you will ensure that your spoil board is perfectly level in relation to your gantry which will result in a uniform engraving.

Note: Because of the larger diameter of a surfacing bit, it is important to note that you can not take as deep of passes or run as fast as you might with smaller end mills on most machines. Consult your machine’s manufacturer for assistance with proper speeds and feeds for surfacing bits.

Categories: End Mills and Cutters, Spindles and Routers, Working With Carbon Fiber, Working With Metals, Working With Plastics, Working With Woods

Working With Plastics

What is a surfacing bit used for?

What is a surfacing bit used for?

A surfacing bit typically has a larger than normal cutting diameter (1 to 3 inches) and are used to flatten or level uneven surfaces on your project material. They are also used to take the thickness of a material down to a final required size. For example, you might have a piece of rough cut lumber that measures 1 inch in thickness but you need it to be 3/4 inch thick. If you don’t have a surface planer in your shop then you can use a surfacing bit with a pocket tool path to plane the material down.

Another common use for surfacing bits is to clean up and level a spoil board. After continuous use your spoil board’s surface will have a lot of cuts in it and you might want to clean it up so it is perfectly smooth again. A surfacing bit is perfect for this, especially with machines where the spoil board is physically attached to the machine – you might want to prolong the use of it for as long as you can before replacing.

Leveling your spoil board is also important. If you are looking to engrave .005″ into a piece of metal and your bed is off by a couple thousandths from one side to the other or front to back, then the thickness of your engraved lines will vary. By using a surfacing bit, you will ensure that your spoil board is perfectly level in relation to your gantry which will result in a uniform engraving.

Note: Because of the larger diameter of a surfacing bit, it is important to note that you can not take as deep of passes or run as fast as you might with smaller end mills on most machines. Consult your machine’s manufacturer for assistance with proper speeds and feeds for surfacing bits.

Categories: End Mills and Cutters, Spindles and Routers, Working With Carbon Fiber, Working With Metals, Working With Plastics, Working With Woods

Working With Woods

What is a surfacing bit used for?

What is a surfacing bit used for?

A surfacing bit typically has a larger than normal cutting diameter (1 to 3 inches) and are used to flatten or level uneven surfaces on your project material. They are also used to take the thickness of a material down to a final required size. For example, you might have a piece of rough cut lumber that measures 1 inch in thickness but you need it to be 3/4 inch thick. If you don’t have a surface planer in your shop then you can use a surfacing bit with a pocket tool path to plane the material down.

Another common use for surfacing bits is to clean up and level a spoil board. After continuous use your spoil board’s surface will have a lot of cuts in it and you might want to clean it up so it is perfectly smooth again. A surfacing bit is perfect for this, especially with machines where the spoil board is physically attached to the machine – you might want to prolong the use of it for as long as you can before replacing.

Leveling your spoil board is also important. If you are looking to engrave .005″ into a piece of metal and your bed is off by a couple thousandths from one side to the other or front to back, then the thickness of your engraved lines will vary. By using a surfacing bit, you will ensure that your spoil board is perfectly level in relation to your gantry which will result in a uniform engraving.

Note: Because of the larger diameter of a surfacing bit, it is important to note that you can not take as deep of passes or run as fast as you might with smaller end mills on most machines. Consult your machine’s manufacturer for assistance with proper speeds and feeds for surfacing bits.

Categories: End Mills and Cutters, Spindles and Routers, Working With Carbon Fiber, Working With Metals, Working With Plastics, Working With Woods

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