01-09-2025 Q&A: Virtual Z, Component Combining, and Collet Maintenance

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In this Q&A session, we explored topics including handling convex wood slabs with Virtual Z, combining components in Aspire for STL export, and maintaining collets for precision CNC work. Discussions also touched on software tips, such as managing version compatibility in Vectric and utilizing SVG/DXF exports.

Key Tips Learned in this Q&A:

• Using Virtual Z for Convex Slabs: Machines like NextWave CNC allow Virtual Z setups to adjust for uneven surfaces, enabling even-depth carving without flattening the slab​.
• Combining Components in Aspire: To prevent separation during 3D printing, use the "Bake" or "Create Component from Visible Model" feature in Aspire before exporting STL files​.
• Collet Maintenance: Clean collets regularly and consider replacing them every six months if heavily used. Use tools like spindle cleaners from Precisebits.com​.
• File Management with Vectric: Save older project versions separately to avoid compatibility issues. When transferring designs between software, DXF files maintain dimensions better than SVGs​ .

Questions Answered in this Q&A:

• 00:07:17 - How can I carve a design at equal depth on a convex surface?
• 00:25:00 - Is there any shortcut to transferring your old projects into the new version?​

Keywords:

virtual z, convex carving, vectric file compatibility, collet maintenance, aspire stl export, svg vs dxf, 3d modeling, cnc tips