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MAKERSPACE MODULE: INTRO TO CNC MACHINING

This required introductory course takes you on a CNC machining journey from digital concepts to tangible creations. Mastering the Nomad 3 Desktop CNC Mill opens up a world of possibilities. Learn to use it and bring your ideas to life with precision and ease.

learning objectives
CNC Machining Basics

What is CNC Machining?

CNC Machine in Action

Where is CNC Machining Used?

CNC Types & Materials

Compatible Materials

Types of CNC Machines

CNC Axis Machines

The Nomad 3 Endmill CNC

About our Machine

Basic Anatomy

Toolpaths

CNC Safety

Understanding Safety Guidelines

Resources

CNC Cookbook

Mech Forged

Thomasnet

WHAT IS cnc machining?

  • CNC Machines:
    • Use G-code to control machine movements
    • Controls lasers, grinders, punch presses, lathes, and bending machines
    • Produces high-quality parts
    • Offer Consistent quality and precision every time.
  • Simply put, CNC, or Computer Numerical Control Machining, controls the movement and actions of machines like lasers, grinders, punch presses lathes and bending machines to produce high-quality precise parts. It can do all this with minimal human intervention, making it a cornerstone of modern manufacturing
  • Because CNC Machine controls the movement of factory tools down to fractions of a millimeter, CNC Machines are really good at creating a wide variety of parts with consistent movements across multiple runs.

CNC MACHINE IN ACTION

where is cnc machining used

Aerospace
In the aerospace industry, CNC machining is crucial for creating complex and precise components essential for aircraft and spacecraft.
Automotive
The automotive industry relies heavily on CNC machining to produce engine parts, custom components, and high-performance parts that meet stringent quality standards.
Healthcare
CNC machining plays a significant role in healthcare, manufacturing medical devices, surgical instruments, and prosthetics with high precision.
Electronics
In the electronics sector, CNC machines are used to fabricate intricate parts for electronic devices, including circuit boards and enclosures.
Art & Design
Artists and designers use CNC machining to create intricate sculptures, furniture, and custom designs, allowing for high levels of detail and creativity.

COMPATIBLE CNC MATERIALS

  • Hardwoods: Oak, Maple
  • Softwoods: Pine, Cedar

Uses: Ideal for furniture making, decorative items, prototypes, and detailed carvings due to their durability and ease of machining.

  • Thermoplastics:  Acetal,
  • Polyoxymethylene, Delrin
  • Polycarbonate
  • Cast Acrylic
  • High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)

Uses: These materials are versatile and easy to machine, suitable for signage, display stands, enclosures, and custom parts.

  • Renshape
  • Machinable Wax
  • Linoleum

Uses: Ideal for creating prototypes, architectural models, and detailed carvings due to their ease of machining and excellent strength-to-weight ratio.

  • Aluminum
  • Steel and Stainless Steel
  • Copper
  • Brass
  • Brass and Copper Sheets
  • Sterling Silver

Uses:

Metals are used for making machine parts, intricate metal components, jewelry, and prototypes, providing strength and precision.

These materials give you many options to create anything from detailed prototypes to personalized gifts and functional parts.

Selecting the right material is not just about achieving the desired outcome in your projects; it’s also about maximizing the capabilities of the Nomad 3 Desktop CNC. By considering the hardness, density, and flexibility of each material, you can improve your machine’s settings to enhance performance and extend its lifespan. 

1. Material Properties

Hardness: Hard materials like metals (aluminum, brass) require specific settings on the NOMAD 3 to ensure clean cuts without damaging the tool or material. Soft materials like plastics (acrylic, HDPE) can be machined with greater speed and less force.

Density: The density of a material affects how much resistance it offers to the cutting tool. Denser materials need slower speeds to support accuracy and prolong tool life.

Flexibility: Flexible materials like certain plastics and composites may need specialized fixtures or supports to prevent movement during routing, ensuring precision and reducing waste

2. Application Considerations

Material Suitability: Choose materials based on the final use of the machined part. For example, use durable, hard materials for parts requiring structural strength and softer, more adaptable materials for prototypes or artistic projects.

NOMAD 3’s Versatility: Leverage the NOMAD 3’s ability to handle diverse materials to experiment with mixed media projects or to innovate in your design choices.

3. Practical Tips for Material Selection

Test Cuts: Always perform test cuts with new materials to calibrate your settings accurately. This ensures that the actual project will be executed with the highest quality.


Consult Material Guides: Use material guides and resources to understand the best practices for each type of material you plan to machine on the NOMAD 3.


Tool Selection: Match the tool to the material. Use sharp, carbide tools for harder materials to reduce wear and specialized plastics-cutting tools for acrylics and similar materials to prevent melting or chipping.

common types of cnc machines

Different types of CNC machines are designed for various manufacturing needs, from industrial operations to desktop applications:

CNC LASER CUTTER

A CNC laser cutter is a type of computer-controlled machine that uses a high-powered laser beam to cut, etch, or engrave materials with precision. It's ideal for creating detailed designs and patterns on a wide range of surfaces.

Key Features:
Uses focused laser light for clean, accurate cuts
Works with materials like wood, acrylic, leather, and more
Great for engraving text, logos, and intricate graphics
Ideal for signage, crafts, prototyping, and personalization

Laser cutters are widely used in both industrial settings and maker environments for their speed, precision, and versatility.

CNC mill

A CNC mill uses rotating cutting tools to remove material from a solid block (called a workpiece) to create precise shapes and features. It’s commonly used in metalworking, manufacturing, and prototyping.

Key Features:
Cuts and shapes metal, plastic, and other materials
Ideal for creating complex parts with high accuracy
Performs drilling, boring, and contouring operations
Widely used in engineering, fabrication, and product design

CNC mills offer high precision and repeatability, making them essential for many industries.

CNC lathe

A CNC lathe spins the workpiece while cutting tools shape it, making it ideal for creating cylindrical or round objects. It’s commonly used for parts like shafts, bolts, and rings.

Key Features:
Turns material while stationary tools cut and shape it
Best for round or symmetrical parts
Commonly used with metals, plastics, and wood
Supports threading, facing, and tapering

CNC lathes are valued for their efficiency and precision in producing uniform parts.

CNC router

A CNC router is similar to a CNC mill but is optimized for cutting softer materials like wood, plastic, and foam. It’s often used in sign-making, cabinetry, and artistic projects.

Key Features:
Uses spinning bits to cut and carve flat or 3D designs
Great for wood, MDF, plastic, and soft metals
Often used for signs, furniture, and decorative work
Works from digital design files for consistent results

CNC routers are a favorite in maker spaces and workshops for their ease of use and versatility.

  1. **3-Axis CNC Machines
    These machines move a tool in three directions: X (left to right), Y (front to back), and Z (up and down). They are suited for general milling and cutting tasks.
    Common Uses: • Milling flat surfaces • drilling holes • cutting shapes from sheets.
  2. **4-Axis CNC Machines
    4-axis CNC Machines add the ability to rotate on the A-axis (around the X-axis), allowing for more complex designs and undercuts.
    Common Uses: • Complex geometries • sculptures • advanced engineering components
  3. **5-Axis CNC Machines
    5-axis CNC Machines have two additional axes (A and B) that allow the cutting tool to approach the workpiece from almost any angle, providing maximum flexibility.
    Common Uses: • High-precision manufacturing in aerospace • Automotive industry • Research applications

The Nomad 3 Desktop CNC Mill is a powerful, compact machine perfect for beginners. Easy to use, it excels at precision cutting, engraving, and milling.

Create a wide range of projects, including custom jewelry, signs, gifts, and models, with ease and accuracy.

the basic anatomy of the nomad 3 desktop cnc

Understanding the basic anatomy of the CNC will help you operate the machine safely and effectively. Each label is taken directly from the manual to ensure accuracy and clarity. Click on the nodes on the graphic below to learn more about each part. Additionally, you can view and download a PDF of the parts labelled HERE.

nomad 3 front view

The Spindle Motor:
The Spindle Motor is responsible for driving the spindle, providing the necessary power to rotate the cutting tools at high speeds.

The Spindle: 
The Spindle holds and rotates the cutting tools.

Endmill: 
The Endmill is a type of cutting tool that is held and rotated by the spindle.

Bitsetter:
The BitSetter automates the process of setting tool lengths, ensuring accurate tool changes.

Interlock:
The Interlock is a safety feature that prevents the machine from running under certain conditions, such as when the door is open, or safety protocols are not followed.

Table:
The Table is a stable, moving surface that supports the wasteboard and the material being cut.

nomad 3 side view

BitZero v2:
The BitZero v2 is a tool used for precise material positioning and zeroing.

USB Port:
The USB Port allows for data transfer and connection to the computer controlling the CNC router.

Power Cord:
The Power Cord supplies electricity to the machine, ensuring it operates correctly.

Understanding the basic anatomy of the CNC will help you operate the machine safely and effectively. Each label is taken directly from the manual to ensure accuracy and clarity. View and download a PDF of the parts labelled HERE.

Start with an Idea
Design Phase
  1. Idea:
    • Start with a concept. Think about what you want to create and sketch out your ideas on paper. This step helps you visualize your project before moving on to the digital design.
  2. Drawing:
    • Use CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software to create a detailed digital model of your idea. CAD software allows you to draw your design with precise dimensions and details.
  3. Toolpaths:
    • In this step, you'll prepare your design for the CNC machine. Toolpaths are essentially the routes that the cutting tools will follow to shape your material. The software helps you decide the best paths to cut, drill, or engrave your design accurately.
Machining
Machine Phase
  1. Transfer Toolpaths:
    • Convert your CAD design into G-code, which is the language CNC machines understand. This code tells the machine how to move to create your design. Transfer the G-code to the CNC machine using software like Carbide Motion.
  2. CNC Machining:
    • Set up your CNC machine by securing the material you'll be working with. Load the G-code into the machine and start the machining process. The CNC machine will follow the toolpaths to cut and shape your material according to your design.
  3. Final Project:
    • Once the machining is complete, you may need to do some post-processing. This can include sanding, polishing, or assembling parts to finish your project.
Start with an Idea
Design Phase
  1. Idea:
    • Start with a concept. Think about what you want to create and sketch out your ideas on paper. This step helps you visualize your project before moving on to the digital design.
  2. Drawing:
    • Use CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software to create a detailed digital model of your idea. CAD software allows you to draw your design with precise dimensions and details.
  3. Toolpaths:
    • In this step, you'll prepare your design for the CNC machine. Toolpaths are essentially the routes that the cutting tools will follow to shape your material. The software helps you decide the best paths to cut, drill, or engrave your design accurately.
Machining
Machine Phase
  1. Transfer Toolpaths:
    • Convert your CAD design into G-code, which is the language CNC machines understand. This code tells the machine how to move to create your design. Transfer the G-code to the CNC machine using software like Carbide Motion.
  2. CNC Machining:
    • Set up your CNC machine by securing the material you'll be working with. Load the G-code into the machine and start the machining process. The CNC machine will follow the toolpaths to cut and shape your material according to your design.
  3. Final Project:
    • Once the machining is complete, you may need to do some post-processing. This can include sanding, polishing, or assembling parts to finish your project.

types of toolpaths

Toolpaths are the programmed routes that CNC machines follow to cut or shape material. There are various types, including contour, pocket, and drill toolpaths, each designed for specific tasks. Properly using toolpaths can significantly reduce machining time and improve the quality of the final product.

Understanding toolpaths and how they work with the Nomad 3 Desktop CNC with Carbide Create or Carbide Motion will bring your projects to the next level!

Pocket
  • Creates recessed areas by removing material within a defined closed boundary.
    • Example: A tray with inset area for parts to fit into.
Countour
  • Cuts the outline of your project using both inside and outside cuts.
    • Example: Cutting a project's outline.
Drill
  • Creates holes in the material.
    • Example: Drilling the keychain hole.
Inside Cut
  • Frequently used for cutting out internal shapes or features from a workpiece.
    • Example: Cutting out an internal petal shape for a flower.
Outside Cut
  • Commonly used for cutting out the external shape or outline of a workpiece.
    • Example: Cutting out the overall shape of the project.
Engrave
  • Adds fine details or text.
    • Example: Engraving detailed patterns or names on the keychain surface.

UNDERSTANDING SAFETY GUIDELINES

PPE
  • Protect your eyes & ears!
  • Always wear safety glasses and hearing protection when the Nomad 3 is in use.
  •  
  • Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from Debris
  • Hearing Protection: Prevent hearing damage.
emergency stop
  • Use the Power Switch to Stop Quickly!
  • Emergency Stop: Power switch
fire safety
  • Fire Extinguisher: Keep a fire extinguisher handy in case of an emergency.
  • Attend Machine: Never leave your Nomad 3 unattended while it is machining.
tool safety
  • Handle with Care: End mills are sharp
  • Secure End Mill: Ensure the end mill is securely held
  • Proper Storage: Follow proper handling and storage guidelines.
door safety
  • Close Door: Keep the protective door closed during operation
  • Hands Off: Never reach into the machine while its running.
Congratulations on completing the first steps of our CNC Machining journey!

Let’s quickly sum up our CNC journey:

  1. First, we learned the basics.
  2. Then, we found out about components, operations and capabilities.
  3. Next, we understood the workflow.
  4. Lastly, we talked about safety.

Now, you’re all set to dive into the next step toward creating your own CNC project!

knowledge check

To ensure everyone uses the CNC Machine safely and responsibly, completing this short quiz is mandatory before you’re able to book time for the machine.