1-31-2023 Q&A: Z Height Zeroing, Text Alignment, 3D Texture, Tool Selection, and More!

In a dynamic Q&A Meetup, CNC enthusiasts and learners dove into a range of intricate topics, from mastering the art of zeroing CNC machines for precise project setups to splitting 3D dishes and aligning text with a fourth axis. The session also unraveled the nuances between V-bits and engraving bits for optimal tool choice, alongside strategies for crafting 3D objects and managing Vectric software views for streamlined project editing. Discussions extended to practical machining tips, including chip load calculations and addressing static electricity in dust collection systems to ensure workshop safety. Whether tackling advanced 3D modeling in Vectric VCarve Pro, exploring combined modes for creative project outcomes, or seeking solutions to unique CNC challenges, this meetup provided invaluable insights and shared community wisdom for both beginners and seasoned operators.

Questions Answered in this Q&A:

• 00:00:32 - When zeroing off the machine bed and putting my machine at the zero x y and then loading my Aspire design that's set up to run using the machine bed as zero. Where do I put my machine at for the z height before starting?
• 00:04:24 - Looking for some help with a 3D dish he has and he wants to split it to be able to make it into like a lid.
• 00:10:24 - He wants to know he's new to fourth axis CNCing. He's using a next wave and he says on this machine it makes more sense to wrap on the y axis as it gives me nearly 48 inches for the workspace between the headstock and Tailstock. I'm having trouble with text alignment no matter what I do.The text is going around the Y axis. I would like to have the text to go to align with the Y axis rotating. The text isn't working.
• 00:16:32 - Add texture to the outside of this dish he has over here on the left. He wants to add texture to the flat areas on the perimeter, but he wants the center of the dish to still be smooth.
• 00:28:05 - When to use a v bit or engraving bit. What's the difference between the two? What application decide when you would use what bit?
• 00:32:31 - Making a simple pencil box with no lid and he's making these ribs in between, how do I tell Vectric to cut the ribs as 3D objects, but keep the pocket tool path from cutting into the ribs?
• 00:39:33 - Where it says view options and you can put the 2D on one side and the 3D view on the other side or vice versa, but how do you just like shut off like the 3D view?
• 00:40:45 - On the drawing side see where it says sheets. I have inadvertently disconnected that tab and it comes up with a separate box and it, and I don't even remember how I fixed it like that.
• 00:46:23 - Sometimes to get my chip load correct at 18,000 RPMs, I need to increase my inches per minute over a hundred inches, although the tool library recommends 50 inches per minute. Is this correct?
• 00:48:48 - I have a vacuum system that I just put on my machine, are those things like a fire hazard?
• 00:57:29 - I'm having trouble when to use add subtract and combine mode. Do you have a great video to help understand this?
• 00:59:20 - Do you have something for Advanced 3D for VCarve Pro?

Keywords:

zeroing CNC machine, Aspire design setup, 3D dish splitting, fourth axis CNC text alignment, dish texturing, V-bit vs engraving bit, pencil box ribs 3D cutting, Vectric view options, sheets tab management, chip load calculation, dust collection system, static electricity in CNC, grounding wire kit, advanced 3D modeling, Vectric VCarve Pro, 3D combined modes, toolpath optimization, CNC troubleshooting, custom project adjustments, Vectric tutorials, precise machining tips, feed and speed recommendations, Vectric software navigation, workshop safety, CNC customization, creative problem solving, community learning session