What tools are required to build a STEPCRAFT CNC machine? -

What tools are required to build a STEPCRAFT CNC machine?

We have a free video from our Assembly Course that explains it: http://www.stepcraftsupport.com/edu/lesson/tools-required/

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Newest FAQs

3D Print Questions

Are there any specific 3D Scanners that work best with STEPCRAFT, or any other CNC?

Honestly, No. Most 3D scanners are capable of generating and saving files in common 3D file format. That is really all that is required for STEPCRAFT. The resolution will vary, though, from scanner to scanner and typically the more expensive they are, the better the scan resolution:

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

Categories: 3D Print Questions, Common Pre-Purchase Questions, Project Design

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4th Axis

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

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Automatic Tool Changer

Does the Automatic Tool Changer require an air compressor?

Yes, it will require a small air compressor that is capable of outputting 110 PSI of air pressure. We use a small pancake compressor from Harbor Freight that we got for $119.00. They have pricing that ranges and sometimes you can get it for even less money. The direct link to the product is: https://www.harborfreight.com/3-gal-13-hp-100-psi-oilless-pancake-air-compressor-61615.html

Note: You will need a 1/4 in. FNPT x 1/4 in. I/M Steel Plug fitting to match your compressor’s hose. Here is one from Home Depot: http://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-1-4-in-FNPT-x-1-4-in-I-M-Steel-Plug-12234HOM/205330359

This is the fitting we use with our compressor from Home Depot 1/4 in. FNPT x 1/4 in. I/M Steel Plug. **Your air compressor may vary.**

**RECOMMENDED:** Central Pneumatic 6 gal. 1.5 HP 150 PSI Professional Air Compressor

Category: Automatic Tool Changer

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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

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Common Pre-Purchase Questions

Can I use Solidworks CAD/CAM software with a STEPCRAFT CNC?

Yes, you can use Solidworks CAD. Simply output the files in formats that are compatible with Vectric software (DWG, STL, etc.). As for the CAM part of Solidworks, as long as you can out put standard G Code, we find that it will work without problems. If there is a post processor for Mach 3, you can use that and the G Code will have the proper formatting for Stepcraft.

Category: Common Pre-Purchase Questions

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Deskproto CAM Software

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

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Education

What is G-Code?

G-Code is the generic name for CNC machine control language. It is the way that you can tell a computerized machine (CNC machine) to make something. G-Code consists of instructions that tell the CNC machine where to move, how fast to move and what path to follow. As the machine is following the G-Code, it is continually removing material (except in the case of a 3D printer, where it is adding material) leaving behind a finished part.

You do not need to know how to program G-Code to run many of today’s personal desktop CNC machines. STEPCRAFT recommends using CAD/CAM software like Fusion 360, Vectric VCarve, Cut 2D or Cut 3D or Deskproto. These programs have an intuitive graphical interface that allows you to set all of the parameters for your job and then the software will output a fully-formatted G-Code file that you can load into your CNC’s machine control program to run the job.

It is, however, not a bad idea to learn the basics of G-Code so if there was ever a problem with a job, you can quickly reference the code and see and understand what the machine is doing (or supposed to do) for the given G-Code commands.

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

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End Mills and Cutters

Are the end mills in the Starter Tool Set carbide or HSS?

The ball nose and square nose end mills are all carbide. The engraving blanks and diamond bits are HSS

Category: End Mills and Cutters

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Fusion 360

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

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Laser Cutter/Engraver Questions

Will the milling and laser tools work on other metals besides aluminum?

Yes, they will also machine brass and copper. STEPCRAFT machines are only designed for machining of non-ferrous metals. So you can not mill steel, stainless steel, etc.

Also note that the laser will NOT cut metals. you can use it to engrave but it will NOT cut!

Categories: Common Pre-Purchase Questions, Laser Cutter/Engraver Questions, Working With Metals

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Maintenance

How come my STEPCRAFT CNC kit did not come with lubricant?

There is a very good change that your kit DID come with lubricant but you skipped past it in the box. The white container for the lubricant blends well with the white styrofoam from the kit dividers. There is a round pocket that is specifically designed to hold the lubricant container. Please look for this. If you still can not find it, then email support@stepcraft.us

Categories: Maintenance, STEPCRAFT Assembly Questions

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Project Design

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)

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RMC 100 Wireless Controller

What is “MPG” on the STEPCRAFT RMC 100 Wireless Controller?

The term “MPG” stands for Manual Pulse Generator and is basically and electronic hand wheel. Selecting “MPG Mode” will allow you to rotate the wheel and move the axis on the machine in steps based on the indents in the wheel. This is a great way to move the spindle around, specifically when setting the starting position for each job.

Categories: RMC 100 Wireless Controller, STEPCRAFT Attachments and Accessories

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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

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Software Troubleshooting

What post processor do I use for Vectric programs (VCarve, Cut 2d, Cut 3D, PhotoVCarve)?

From the dropdown list in Vectric programs, you will look for the following

If you have an Automatic Tool Changer: Stepcraft UCCNC ATC Arcs (mm) (*.txt)

If you do not have an Automatic Tool Changer: Stepcraft UCCNC Arcs (mm) (*.txt)

If you have an older version of Vectric software and the STEPCRAFT post processors are NOT in the dropdown list, please use the following:

If you have an Automatic Tool Changer: Mach2/3 ATC Arcs (mm) (*.txt)

If you do not have an Automatic Tool Changer: Mach2/3 Arcs (mm) (*.txt)

Categories: Software Troubleshooting, Vectric Software (Cut 2D, Cut 3D, V Carve)

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Spindles and Routers

What is the difference between the Kress, HF-500, Dremel and Dewalt spindles?

We made a video to fully answer this question.

NOTE: The new HF500 spindles NO LONGER come with an air pump as we use sealed bearings and the pump is no longer required.

Categories: Common Pre-Purchase Questions, Spindles and Routers

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STEPCRAFT Assembly Questions

What tools are required to build a STEPCRAFT CNC machine?

We have a free video from our Assembly Course that explains it: http://www.stepcraftsupport.com/edu/lesson/tools-required/

Category: STEPCRAFT Assembly Questions

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STEPCRAFT Attachments and Accessories

What STEPCRAFT attachment will I need to cut thin sticker-type foil to make stickers or stencils?

The STEPCRAFT Drag Knife will work fine for this. Please see: https://stepcraft.us/product/drag-knife/

Category: STEPCRAFT Attachments and Accessories

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STEPCRAFT Specifications

Does STEPCRAFT support helical interpolation?

Yes, you can easily do spiral (helical) ramping with most standard CAM software programs, which will generate the G Code for you. Vectric programs, such as Cut 2D and VCarve support this with the click of a button.

Category: STEPCRAFT Specifications

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Tool Length Sensor

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 a few steps to getting the sensor installed and configured properly.

1. Connecting to the mainboard:
Remove the Rubber plug on the front end plate of the machine and run wires inward through the chassis. Run the wires along the channel and through the grommet the X and Z wires are run. Connect the sensor wires to the mainboard in the two open positions between the emergency stop switch wiring and the X/Z end switch (Refer to the manual section 9.6.) Leave enough slack to be able to move the sensor throughout the work area.

2. Replacing the Macro file:
UCCNC needs instructions to be able to properly use the sensor. Download the replacement M31.txt file (listed below) to the machine profile macro folder. For example for a Stepcraft 2 Model 300 the folder is C:\UCCNC\Profiles\Macro_Stepcraft2_Model300 If you have a 3D printing head and plan to use the sensor with that as well make sure to copy to the 3D profile folder as well. You will need move the existing file first as it is set to read only and will not let you successfully copy the file otherwise.

Download the latest macro file here: http://www.stepcraftsupport.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/M31.txt

*Note: Opening the M31.txt will allow you to fine tune the height based on personal preference. Edit the newZ value (default 33) adding to the value to lower the Zero height. Since the setup will be separate for the 3D printer profile, you may want the print head slightly higher for 3d printing to avoid dragging.
3. UCCNC Setup:
Now we need to edit the profile for the machine so that it knows the tool sensor is connected. In the is C:\UCCNC\Profiles\ find the .PRO file for your machine. First right click on it and choose properties. On the properties box there will be an option for read only, make sure that box is not checked. Click apply and close the window. Now when you change the setting in UCCNC it will be able to save and be stored for each time you open UCCNC.

Go to the configuration tab and I/O setup from there. You will see the choice for “Probe pin:” change that to 10, and “Port:” to 1. At the bottom of the page click Apply settings, and then Save Settings.

4. Verify switch function and setup:
Almost there, to verify the switch is operational and that it is properly configured open UCCNC click on the diagnostics tab. Press the sensor switch directly and you should see I10 and Probe light up in green. I10 is showing that the switch is working and Probe is showing that it is correctly configured.

5. 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

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Touch Probe

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)

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UCCNC

How many computers can I install UCCNC on?

There really is no limit, you just need to make sure you have the license file for the UC100 parallel to USB interface installed on each computer in the C://uccnc folder. The limitation is not how many computers you can install it on, it’s the fact that you can really only “use” it on the computer that has the UC100 connected to it. So if you have 5 computers with UCCNC installed, you would have to move the UC100 from computer to computer and connect to the CNC in order to use that computer. The software is linked to the UC100 hardware.

Category: UCCNC

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

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

The following video show you how to do this:

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

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Working With Carbon Fiber

Is the STEPCRAFT CNC system able to engrave or cut through carbon fibers?

Yes, the STEPCRAFT CNC will cut carbon fiber very well and very accurately. However, due to the hazardous nature of the carbon dust, STEPCRAFT has a Milling Bath that can be used where you cut the Carbon in water and the water captures the dust not allowing it to become airborne. You can see the Milling Bath here: https://stepcraft.us/product/milling-bath-840/ (They are available in sizes for the 420, 600 and 840 machines)

The following videos show you how well a STEPCRAFT can do with Carbon Fiber:

Categories: Common Pre-Purchase Questions, Working With Carbon Fiber

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Working With Metals

Will the milling and laser tools work on other metals besides aluminum?

Yes, they will also machine brass and copper. STEPCRAFT machines are only designed for machining of non-ferrous metals. So you can not mill steel, stainless steel, etc.

Also note that the laser will NOT cut metals. you can use it to engrave but it will NOT cut!

Categories: Common Pre-Purchase Questions, Laser Cutter/Engraver Questions, Working With Metals

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Working With Woods

Is the chuck reversible on the 4th Axis unit?

Yes you can remove the three tabs from the chuck and put them in the opposite way to allow for a larger opening for larger stock, up to 2 inches in diameter.

To remove them, simply turn the inner ring behind the chuck counterclockwise and the threads will push the chuck tabs out. Then you can flip them around and while putting pressure on them turn the inner ring clockwise and they will be threaded back in.

This is with the chuck tabs in the inside position for smaller diameter stocks.

Here are the chuck tabs in the outer position to accommodate larger material sizes.

Notice the steps in each chuck tab to accommodate various size materials.

Categories: 4th Axis, Working With Woods

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