Where can I buy a STEPCRAFT system if I live outside the USA? -

Where can I buy a STEPCRAFT system if I live outside the USA?

Please visit www.stepcraft-systems.com for a complete list of dealers around the world.

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Categories

Newest FAQs

3D Print Questions

Why my 3D printer head (PH40) goes into Stand-By mode while working

Why my 3D printer head (PH40) goes into Stand-By mode while working

The printers are going into standby and eventually shutting off because they are not receiving the correct signal from UCCNC that the machine is running. This is a very simple fix outlined below.

1.) Define pin outs in UCCNC –> CONFIGURATION –> I/O SETUP. On the left hand side you have “Current hi/low”. Those two pins should read “16” and “1”.

2.) Define pin outs in UCCNC –> AXIS SETUP –> SPINDLE. Bottom Left you have “M3 relay pin”. Change those values to “0” and “0” and uncheck the “spindle relay output enabled” if it is checked.

Categories: 3D Print Questions, Common Pre-Purchase Questions, Software Troubleshooting, STEPCRAFT Attachments and Accessories

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

Where can I find the M31 Macro for the Tool Length Sensor?

Where can I find the M31 Macro for the Tool Length Sensor?

The M31 Macro for the Tool Length Sensor is automatically installed when you use the STEPCRAFT Multi-Installer. The best way to make sure you are up to date with our latest profiles and macros is to download the STEPCRAFT Multi-Installer here. This installer will automatically install the most up to date profiles and macros.

If you find that after using the tool length sensor your end mill is slightly above or slightly digs into your material, you may need to preform a small adjustment to the M31 macro. To preform this adjustment, you can find the procedure here.

Categories: Automatic Tool Changer, Software Troubleshooting, Tool Length Sensor

Before You Buy A CNC Router

Why is My UCR201 Jog Pendant Not Showing Up In UCCNC?

Why is My UCR201 Jog Pendant Not Showing Up In UCCNC?

The UCR201 Jog Pendant requires the user to enable the plugin in the configuration window in UCCNC. If you are running version 1.2037 of UCCNC, you may find that the Jog Pendant does not show up in the configuration window. If this is the case, you simply need to update UCCNC to a newer version which can be found below…

UCCNC Version 1.2049 – http://www.cncdrive.com/UCCNC/download_UCCNC.php

After downloading and installing version 1.2049 of UCCNC, the Jog Pendant should now be visible in the configuration window and you can proceed with the rest of the setup!

Categories: Before You Buy A CNC Router, Education, Maintenance, RMC 100 Wireless Controller, STEPCRAFT Assembly Questions, STEPCRAFT Attachments and Accessories, UCCNC

Common Pre-Purchase Questions

What do I need to run the Oscillating Tangential Knife OTK-3?

What do I need to run the Oscillating Tangential Knife OTK-3?

The Oscillating Tangential Knife requires no special software outside of the standard CAD/CAM program used to design and create toolpaths. Cut2D, VCarve Desktop and VCarve Pro are all compatible with the OTK-3. As of May 2019, the only “special” software needed to run the knife is the free version 1.2110 of UCCNC.

Securing your workpiece for use with the OTK-3 may require use of a vacuum table or sticky table, as materials such as hard foam, cardboard, leather, cork and carpet can be tough to hold with traditional clamping methods.

Categories: Common Pre-Purchase Questions, Education

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

Why is My UCR201 Jog Pendant Not Showing Up In UCCNC?

Why is My UCR201 Jog Pendant Not Showing Up In UCCNC?

The UCR201 Jog Pendant requires the user to enable the plugin in the configuration window in UCCNC. If you are running version 1.2037 of UCCNC, you may find that the Jog Pendant does not show up in the configuration window. If this is the case, you simply need to update UCCNC to a newer version which can be found below…

UCCNC Version 1.2049 – http://www.cncdrive.com/UCCNC/download_UCCNC.php

After downloading and installing version 1.2049 of UCCNC, the Jog Pendant should now be visible in the configuration window and you can proceed with the rest of the setup!

Categories: Before You Buy A CNC Router, Education, Maintenance, RMC 100 Wireless Controller, STEPCRAFT Assembly Questions, STEPCRAFT Attachments and Accessories, 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 https://cam.autodesk.com/hsmposts? 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

Why is my laser positioning light is not visible?

Why my laser positioning light is not visible?

Turn the power key switch to the ON position.

Move the laser head approx. 20mm above work piece to focus positioning laser beam clearly.

To enable the positioning light, move the zero point sensor to the middle position and the light should turn on.

The positioning light is a class 2 laser with far less power (comparable to a laser pointer).

If your laser positioning guide wont turn on after following this procedure please contact our support team and they can guide you on how to fix this issue.

Categories: Laser Cutter/Engraver Questions, STEPCRAFT Attachments and Accessories

Maintenance

X-Axis Alignment for STEPCRAFT D.Series Machines

X-Axis Alignment for STEPCRAFT D.Series Machines

The following support videos will help walk you through aligning your X-Axis on a STEPCRAFT D.Series machine …

Here is a video showing you how to do the cleaning and greasing procedure

An Example of an Aligned Stepcraft Machine

How to strength-test your Stepcraft CNC

Homing Each Axis

Speed Test

Alignment-x-axis

X Axis Alignment – Disassembling the X Axis

X Axis Alignment – Setting the X Axis Rollers

X Axis Alignment – X Axis Lead Screw Nut Alignment

X Axis Alignment – Inspecting the X Axis Stepper Motor

X Axis Alignment – Reassembling the X Axis

X Axis Alignment – Final Adjustment and Testing

Categories: Maintenance, STEPCRAFT Assembly Questions

Project Design

Why is my project coming out incredibly small?

Why is my project coming out incredibly small?

If your project is coming out incredibly small in UCCNC (e.g. 1/10th the size designed) you are most likely using the incorrect post processor. Every post processor used with a STEPCRAFT machine should end in (mm). This is because UCCNC will only accept millimeters as a parameter! Even if your project is designed entirely in inches, the (mm) post processors will automatically do the conversion from inch to mm for UCCNC to properly interpret. This means that you can design in inches, millimeters or anything you choose, and the post processor will always do the proper conversions for you. It is a very common mistake to select the (inch) post processor when working in inches. This will NOT do the proper conversion and UCCNC will interpret every inch measurement as a millimeter measurement. This is why the project, when saved with the incorrect (inch) post processor, will come out very small.

Categories: Education, Project Design, Vectric Software (Cut 2D, Cut 3D, V Carve)

RMC 100 Wireless Controller

Why is My UCR201 Jog Pendant Not Showing Up In UCCNC?

Why is My UCR201 Jog Pendant Not Showing Up In UCCNC?

The UCR201 Jog Pendant requires the user to enable the plugin in the configuration window in UCCNC. If you are running version 1.2037 of UCCNC, you may find that the Jog Pendant does not show up in the configuration window. If this is the case, you simply need to update UCCNC to a newer version which can be found below…

UCCNC Version 1.2049 – http://www.cncdrive.com/UCCNC/download_UCCNC.php

After downloading and installing version 1.2049 of UCCNC, the Jog Pendant should now be visible in the configuration window and you can proceed with the rest of the setup!

Categories: Before You Buy A CNC Router, Education, Maintenance, RMC 100 Wireless Controller, STEPCRAFT Assembly Questions, STEPCRAFT Attachments and Accessories, UCCNC

Shipping Questions

Will ordering my D-Series machine assembled, delay the shipment?

Pre-Assemble machines are BUILT TO ORDER. Typical delivery times for a pre-built machine is up to 30 days.

*We typically ship KIT machines within 14 days of purchase.

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

Software Troubleshooting

Where can I find the M31 Macro for the Tool Length Sensor?

Where can I find the M31 Macro for the Tool Length Sensor?

The M31 Macro for the Tool Length Sensor is automatically installed when you use the STEPCRAFT Multi-Installer. The best way to make sure you are up to date with our latest profiles and macros is to download the STEPCRAFT Multi-Installer here. This installer will automatically install the most up to date profiles and macros.

If you find that after using the tool length sensor your end mill is slightly above or slightly digs into your material, you may need to preform a small adjustment to the M31 macro. To preform this adjustment, you can find the procedure here.

Categories: Automatic Tool Changer, Software Troubleshooting, Tool Length Sensor

Spindles and Routers

How do I connect my Remote Switchable Power Controller?

How do I connect my Remote Switchable Power Controller?

To connect your remote switchable power controller system, follow the diagram below…

Categories: Before You Buy A CNC Router, Maintenance, Spindles and Routers, STEPCRAFT Assembly Questions, STEPCRAFT Attachments and Accessories

STEPCRAFT Assembly Questions

X-Axis Alignment for STEPCRAFT D.Series Machines

X-Axis Alignment for STEPCRAFT D.Series Machines

The following support videos will help walk you through aligning your X-Axis on a STEPCRAFT D.Series machine …

Here is a video showing you how to do the cleaning and greasing procedure

An Example of an Aligned Stepcraft Machine

How to strength-test your Stepcraft CNC

Homing Each Axis

Speed Test

Alignment-x-axis

X Axis Alignment – Disassembling the X Axis

X Axis Alignment – Setting the X Axis Rollers

X Axis Alignment – X Axis Lead Screw Nut Alignment

X Axis Alignment – Inspecting the X Axis Stepper Motor

X Axis Alignment – Reassembling the X Axis

X Axis Alignment – Final Adjustment and Testing

Categories: Maintenance, STEPCRAFT Assembly Questions

STEPCRAFT Attachments and Accessories

Why is My UCR201 Jog Pendant Not Showing Up In UCCNC?

Why is My UCR201 Jog Pendant Not Showing Up In UCCNC?

The UCR201 Jog Pendant requires the user to enable the plugin in the configuration window in UCCNC. If you are running version 1.2037 of UCCNC, you may find that the Jog Pendant does not show up in the configuration window. If this is the case, you simply need to update UCCNC to a newer version which can be found below…

UCCNC Version 1.2049 – http://www.cncdrive.com/UCCNC/download_UCCNC.php

After downloading and installing version 1.2049 of UCCNC, the Jog Pendant should now be visible in the configuration window and you can proceed with the rest of the setup!

Categories: Before You Buy A CNC Router, Education, Maintenance, RMC 100 Wireless Controller, STEPCRAFT Assembly Questions, STEPCRAFT Attachments and Accessories, UCCNC

STEPCRAFT Specifications

Will the D-Series Machines fit into the enclosure with the Performance Upgrade Kit added?

Will the D-Series Machines fit into the enclosure with the Performance Upgrade Kit added?

Yes, the machines will fit into their respective enclosures if you decide to add the performance kit to the the machine.

The Performance Upgrade is a new product that allows you to convert your D-Series D.840, D.600, or D.420 to dual Y axis motors thus eliminating the drive belt and increasing performance from 50 mm/sec to 70 mm/sec.

For more information on the performance kits, please visit: https://www.stepcraft.us/shop?search=performance

Categories: STEPCRAFT Attachments and Accessories, STEPCRAFT Specifications

Tool Length Sensor

Where can I find the M31 Macro for the Tool Length Sensor?

Where can I find the M31 Macro for the Tool Length Sensor?

The M31 Macro for the Tool Length Sensor is automatically installed when you use the STEPCRAFT Multi-Installer. The best way to make sure you are up to date with our latest profiles and macros is to download the STEPCRAFT Multi-Installer here. This installer will automatically install the most up to date profiles and macros.

If you find that after using the tool length sensor your end mill is slightly above or slightly digs into your material, you may need to preform a small adjustment to the M31 macro. To preform this adjustment, you can find the procedure here.

Categories: Automatic Tool Changer, Software Troubleshooting, 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

Does the UCCNC installer contain a virus?!?

Does the UCCNC installer contain a virus?!?

Some virus protection software companies have flagged the UCCNC installer as possibly containing a “trojan virus”. Rest assured, there is absolutly ZERO threat of a virus contained within the UCCNC installer. We are working diligently with the creators of UCCNC and companies such as Norton to have this flag removed so our customers can have a smooth installation process. For now, you may need to turn your virus protection off to install the UCCNC.exe file. You can immediately turn the software back on as soon as the program has been installed. We apologize for the inconvenience! If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to give us a call directly at (203)556-1856.

Categories: Software Troubleshooting, UCCNC

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

Why is my project coming out incredibly small?

Why is my project coming out incredibly small?

If your project is coming out incredibly small in UCCNC (e.g. 1/10th the size designed) you are most likely using the incorrect post processor. Every post processor used with a STEPCRAFT machine should end in (mm). This is because UCCNC will only accept millimeters as a parameter! Even if your project is designed entirely in inches, the (mm) post processors will automatically do the conversion from inch to mm for UCCNC to properly interpret. This means that you can design in inches, millimeters or anything you choose, and the post processor will always do the proper conversions for you. It is a very common mistake to select the (inch) post processor when working in inches. This will NOT do the proper conversion and UCCNC will interpret every inch measurement as a millimeter measurement. This is why the project, when saved with the incorrect (inch) post processor, will come out very small.

Categories: Education, Project Design, Vectric Software (Cut 2D, Cut 3D, V Carve)

Working With Carbon Fiber

What is the total usable Z height on the D-Series CNC?

What is the total usable Z height on the D-Series CNC?

The D-Series 420, 600 and 840 all have a max Z height of 140mm (5.51″). However this does not represent the maximum height of material you can process. From this height you need to subtract the spindle collet nut stick out as well as the length of the cutting tool you are using.

The following represents the spindle and spindle nut stick out you get on a D-Series machine with the HF-500 and MM-1000 spindles

HF-500: 31mm (1.22″)
MM-1000: 38.6mm (1.52″)
MM-1000 (with single spacer): 32.56mm (1.28″)
MM-1000 (with dual spacers): 26.34mm (1.04″)

NOTE: This is the case with just about every CNC machine on the market, not just STEPCRAFT CNC. Most all CNC machines will have spindle and spindle nut/tool holder stick out that takes away from the usable Z height.

So if you take into consideration the MM-1000 with dual spacers, you would have a total Z height of 140mm (5.51″) minus 26.34mm (1.04″) leaving you with a new max Z height of 113.66mm (4.47″).

Now depending on what you intend to do, you can use this new value to plan your project. If you want to cut all the way through material, you would need to have a tool that is long enough, which you would further subtract from the new Z height value.

Example 1: New Z Value is 113.66mm (4.47″), if you divide that number in half, that would mean you can use a piece of material that is 56.83mm (2.23″) thick and the tool would have to stick out 56.83mm (2.23″) as well.

NOTE: This would also mean that the cutting height of the tool would have to be a min of 56.83mm (2.23″) or you run the risk of rubbing the shank of the tool on the material.

Example 2: If you intend to only engrave on top of a piece of material, then your tool stick out can be much less. If you use an engraving blank that sticks out say 12mm from the bottom of the collet nut, then that means you can have a max material height of 101.66mm (4″).

NOTE: please keep in mind you should also allow for a couple 2-3mm of Z height clearance for rapid, non-cutting moves on the CNC as well. So you would subtract another 2-3mm from the above numbers in a practical application.

Visual Example, Kress spindle with double 5mm spacers

TWO SIDED MACHINING – For thicker material

One way that you can increase your max material thickness that you can cut through is using double sided machining.

Example: You can take your new Z value of 113.66mm (4.47″) and divide that into thirds. This would mean you can have a material thickness of 75.33mm (2.96″), or two-thirds and using a cutter with a length of 38mm (1.49″) you can cut one side of the project and then flip it over and cut the other side – so you are using a shorter cutter to cut through a thicker material by cutting each side.

Here is the profiles of the MM-1000 (top) and HF-500 (bottom)

The HF-500 has a stick out from the bottom of the orange tool holder to the bottom of the collet nut of 31mm.

The MM-1000 without spacer rings has a stick out from the bottom of the orange tool holder to the bottom of the collet nut of 38.6mm.

The MM-1000 with a single spacer ring has a stick out from the bottom of the orange tool holder to the bottom of the collet nut of 32.56mm.

The MM-1000 with dual spacer rings has a stick out from the bottom of the orange tool holder to the bottom of the collet nut of 26.34mm.

Example:

Categories: Before You Buy A CNC Router, Common Pre-Purchase Questions, Spindles and Routers, STEPCRAFT Specifications, Working With Carbon Fiber, Working With Metals, Working With Plastics, Working With Woods

Working With Metals

What is the total usable Z height on the D-Series CNC?

What is the total usable Z height on the D-Series CNC?

The D-Series 420, 600 and 840 all have a max Z height of 140mm (5.51″). However this does not represent the maximum height of material you can process. From this height you need to subtract the spindle collet nut stick out as well as the length of the cutting tool you are using.

The following represents the spindle and spindle nut stick out you get on a D-Series machine with the HF-500 and MM-1000 spindles

HF-500: 31mm (1.22″)
MM-1000: 38.6mm (1.52″)
MM-1000 (with single spacer): 32.56mm (1.28″)
MM-1000 (with dual spacers): 26.34mm (1.04″)

NOTE: This is the case with just about every CNC machine on the market, not just STEPCRAFT CNC. Most all CNC machines will have spindle and spindle nut/tool holder stick out that takes away from the usable Z height.

So if you take into consideration the MM-1000 with dual spacers, you would have a total Z height of 140mm (5.51″) minus 26.34mm (1.04″) leaving you with a new max Z height of 113.66mm (4.47″).

Now depending on what you intend to do, you can use this new value to plan your project. If you want to cut all the way through material, you would need to have a tool that is long enough, which you would further subtract from the new Z height value.

Example 1: New Z Value is 113.66mm (4.47″), if you divide that number in half, that would mean you can use a piece of material that is 56.83mm (2.23″) thick and the tool would have to stick out 56.83mm (2.23″) as well.

NOTE: This would also mean that the cutting height of the tool would have to be a min of 56.83mm (2.23″) or you run the risk of rubbing the shank of the tool on the material.

Example 2: If you intend to only engrave on top of a piece of material, then your tool stick out can be much less. If you use an engraving blank that sticks out say 12mm from the bottom of the collet nut, then that means you can have a max material height of 101.66mm (4″).

NOTE: please keep in mind you should also allow for a couple 2-3mm of Z height clearance for rapid, non-cutting moves on the CNC as well. So you would subtract another 2-3mm from the above numbers in a practical application.

Visual Example, Kress spindle with double 5mm spacers

TWO SIDED MACHINING – For thicker material

One way that you can increase your max material thickness that you can cut through is using double sided machining.

Example: You can take your new Z value of 113.66mm (4.47″) and divide that into thirds. This would mean you can have a material thickness of 75.33mm (2.96″), or two-thirds and using a cutter with a length of 38mm (1.49″) you can cut one side of the project and then flip it over and cut the other side – so you are using a shorter cutter to cut through a thicker material by cutting each side.

Here is the profiles of the MM-1000 (top) and HF-500 (bottom)

The HF-500 has a stick out from the bottom of the orange tool holder to the bottom of the collet nut of 31mm.

The MM-1000 without spacer rings has a stick out from the bottom of the orange tool holder to the bottom of the collet nut of 38.6mm.

The MM-1000 with a single spacer ring has a stick out from the bottom of the orange tool holder to the bottom of the collet nut of 32.56mm.

The MM-1000 with dual spacer rings has a stick out from the bottom of the orange tool holder to the bottom of the collet nut of 26.34mm.

Example:

Categories: Before You Buy A CNC Router, Common Pre-Purchase Questions, Spindles and Routers, STEPCRAFT Specifications, Working With Carbon Fiber, Working With Metals, Working With Plastics, Working With Woods

Working With Plastics

What is the total usable Z height on the D-Series CNC?

What is the total usable Z height on the D-Series CNC?

The D-Series 420, 600 and 840 all have a max Z height of 140mm (5.51″). However this does not represent the maximum height of material you can process. From this height you need to subtract the spindle collet nut stick out as well as the length of the cutting tool you are using.

The following represents the spindle and spindle nut stick out you get on a D-Series machine with the HF-500 and MM-1000 spindles

HF-500: 31mm (1.22″)
MM-1000: 38.6mm (1.52″)
MM-1000 (with single spacer): 32.56mm (1.28″)
MM-1000 (with dual spacers): 26.34mm (1.04″)

NOTE: This is the case with just about every CNC machine on the market, not just STEPCRAFT CNC. Most all CNC machines will have spindle and spindle nut/tool holder stick out that takes away from the usable Z height.

So if you take into consideration the MM-1000 with dual spacers, you would have a total Z height of 140mm (5.51″) minus 26.34mm (1.04″) leaving you with a new max Z height of 113.66mm (4.47″).

Now depending on what you intend to do, you can use this new value to plan your project. If you want to cut all the way through material, you would need to have a tool that is long enough, which you would further subtract from the new Z height value.

Example 1: New Z Value is 113.66mm (4.47″), if you divide that number in half, that would mean you can use a piece of material that is 56.83mm (2.23″) thick and the tool would have to stick out 56.83mm (2.23″) as well.

NOTE: This would also mean that the cutting height of the tool would have to be a min of 56.83mm (2.23″) or you run the risk of rubbing the shank of the tool on the material.

Example 2: If you intend to only engrave on top of a piece of material, then your tool stick out can be much less. If you use an engraving blank that sticks out say 12mm from the bottom of the collet nut, then that means you can have a max material height of 101.66mm (4″).

NOTE: please keep in mind you should also allow for a couple 2-3mm of Z height clearance for rapid, non-cutting moves on the CNC as well. So you would subtract another 2-3mm from the above numbers in a practical application.

Visual Example, Kress spindle with double 5mm spacers

TWO SIDED MACHINING – For thicker material

One way that you can increase your max material thickness that you can cut through is using double sided machining.

Example: You can take your new Z value of 113.66mm (4.47″) and divide that into thirds. This would mean you can have a material thickness of 75.33mm (2.96″), or two-thirds and using a cutter with a length of 38mm (1.49″) you can cut one side of the project and then flip it over and cut the other side – so you are using a shorter cutter to cut through a thicker material by cutting each side.

Here is the profiles of the MM-1000 (top) and HF-500 (bottom)

The HF-500 has a stick out from the bottom of the orange tool holder to the bottom of the collet nut of 31mm.

The MM-1000 without spacer rings has a stick out from the bottom of the orange tool holder to the bottom of the collet nut of 38.6mm.

The MM-1000 with a single spacer ring has a stick out from the bottom of the orange tool holder to the bottom of the collet nut of 32.56mm.

The MM-1000 with dual spacer rings has a stick out from the bottom of the orange tool holder to the bottom of the collet nut of 26.34mm.

Example:

Categories: Before You Buy A CNC Router, Common Pre-Purchase Questions, Spindles and Routers, STEPCRAFT Specifications, Working With Carbon Fiber, Working With Metals, Working With Plastics, Working With Woods

Working With Woods

What is the total usable Z height on the D-Series CNC?

What is the total usable Z height on the D-Series CNC?

The D-Series 420, 600 and 840 all have a max Z height of 140mm (5.51″). However this does not represent the maximum height of material you can process. From this height you need to subtract the spindle collet nut stick out as well as the length of the cutting tool you are using.

The following represents the spindle and spindle nut stick out you get on a D-Series machine with the HF-500 and MM-1000 spindles

HF-500: 31mm (1.22″)
MM-1000: 38.6mm (1.52″)
MM-1000 (with single spacer): 32.56mm (1.28″)
MM-1000 (with dual spacers): 26.34mm (1.04″)

NOTE: This is the case with just about every CNC machine on the market, not just STEPCRAFT CNC. Most all CNC machines will have spindle and spindle nut/tool holder stick out that takes away from the usable Z height.

So if you take into consideration the MM-1000 with dual spacers, you would have a total Z height of 140mm (5.51″) minus 26.34mm (1.04″) leaving you with a new max Z height of 113.66mm (4.47″).

Now depending on what you intend to do, you can use this new value to plan your project. If you want to cut all the way through material, you would need to have a tool that is long enough, which you would further subtract from the new Z height value.

Example 1: New Z Value is 113.66mm (4.47″), if you divide that number in half, that would mean you can use a piece of material that is 56.83mm (2.23″) thick and the tool would have to stick out 56.83mm (2.23″) as well.

NOTE: This would also mean that the cutting height of the tool would have to be a min of 56.83mm (2.23″) or you run the risk of rubbing the shank of the tool on the material.

Example 2: If you intend to only engrave on top of a piece of material, then your tool stick out can be much less. If you use an engraving blank that sticks out say 12mm from the bottom of the collet nut, then that means you can have a max material height of 101.66mm (4″).

NOTE: please keep in mind you should also allow for a couple 2-3mm of Z height clearance for rapid, non-cutting moves on the CNC as well. So you would subtract another 2-3mm from the above numbers in a practical application.

Visual Example, Kress spindle with double 5mm spacers

TWO SIDED MACHINING – For thicker material

One way that you can increase your max material thickness that you can cut through is using double sided machining.

Example: You can take your new Z value of 113.66mm (4.47″) and divide that into thirds. This would mean you can have a material thickness of 75.33mm (2.96″), or two-thirds and using a cutter with a length of 38mm (1.49″) you can cut one side of the project and then flip it over and cut the other side – so you are using a shorter cutter to cut through a thicker material by cutting each side.

Here is the profiles of the MM-1000 (top) and HF-500 (bottom)

The HF-500 has a stick out from the bottom of the orange tool holder to the bottom of the collet nut of 31mm.

The MM-1000 without spacer rings has a stick out from the bottom of the orange tool holder to the bottom of the collet nut of 38.6mm.

The MM-1000 with a single spacer ring has a stick out from the bottom of the orange tool holder to the bottom of the collet nut of 32.56mm.

The MM-1000 with dual spacer rings has a stick out from the bottom of the orange tool holder to the bottom of the collet nut of 26.34mm.

Example:

Categories: Before You Buy A CNC Router, Common Pre-Purchase Questions, Spindles and Routers, STEPCRAFT Specifications, Working With Carbon Fiber, Working With Metals, Working With Plastics, Working With Woods

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