3-14-2024 Q&A: Text Cutting, Router Bit Databases, G-Code Transfer, VCarve Depths, Laser Engraving, GLTF to STL, Sheet Guidelines, Plywood Fraying, PC Recommendations, Tool Dragging

In our comprehensive Q&A Meetup on March 14th, we navigated through an array of intriguing topics tailored to CNC enthusiasts and Vectric software users. From intricate discussions on embedding text within letters and optimizing your tool database, to the technicalities of transferring G-code to Mach3 and addressing depth challenges in VCarve, the session was rich with insights. We explored laser engraving on acrylic, converting GLTF files to STL for seamless integration, and shared effective strategies for setting up match fit spoil boards. Additionally, the meetup delved into creative approaches for 3D carving in plywood, leveraging grayscale imaging for design precision, and unraveling the mysteries of Vectric software settings. This vibrant session not only answered specific technical questions but also inspired innovative project ideas, making it a must-watch replay for anyone looking to push their CNC projects to new heights.

Questions Answered in this Q&A:

• 00:03:58 - Just asking for a quick follow up on that. He sent me the file. So what he's trying to do is, instead of the way I was doing it, was putting the letters the text inside of the letters, he wants to rather cut the letters free from the text. So basically have no text inside of these letters, the bigger letters. So he's wondering how to do that.
• 00:15:09 - Can you recommend a good tool database that would give me needed data on router bits?
• 00:30:59 - How would I transfer G code from Vectric to Mach3?
• 00:33:30 - I've generated a wooden bank. A 3D of the concept from SketchUp is pictured in the file below, the bank sheet. I don't understand why the first tree level would only let me VCarve to a depth of 0.02 inches. And then I had to do a weld and profile cut to the cut out the final shape. Whenever I increased the depth of VCarve toolpath, it cut down through the entire tree.
• 00:50:10 - Can you laser engrave acrylic or do you need to laser paint?
• 01:07:03 - Found a free converter from GLTF to STL and he's wondering how it would work with that Polycam.
• 01:10:08 - Can I place guidelines on one sheet, then a different and separate guidelines on other sheets?
• 01:13:53 - Doing a 3D carve in 3.25 inch plywood, Getting a lot of fraying on levels of the plywood depending on the direction of wood grain. Using a 16th inch tapered ball nose with a 10 percent stepover, looking to reduce my sanding time to smooth out fraying. Less stepover or maybe a specialty bit.
• 01:19:02 - Searching the database for PC recommendations.
• 01:19:34 - Using VCarve Pro, Mach 3, CNC parts router. I was doing a four inch block the other day after zeroing the material and then starting a machine. The bit would drag across the material. Would that be VCarve Pro setting or Mach 3 setting?

Keywords:

text inside letters, tool database for router bits, transferring G code to Mach3, 3D modeling in Vectric from SketchUp, VCarve depth issues, laser engraving acrylic, converting GLTF to STL, placing guidelines in Vectric, plywood 3D carving, PC recommendations for CNC, Vectric and Mach 3 settings, static electricity in CNC, grayscale imaging for 3D design, flat-bottom V Bit, setting XY zero, importing tool data, starting carvings, rest machining issues, STL texture application, fuse glass holder design, match fit spoil board setup