3-21-2024 Q&A: Acrylic Edge Lit Sign Depths, Spindle Control, Circle Cutting, Moving Toolpaths, Nesting Objects, Z0 Clearance, Brass Cutting Bit, 3D Mode Zoom

Navigate the nuances of CNC machining with our comprehensive Q&A session from February 23rd. Dive into topics ranging from crafting detailed acrylic edge-lit signs with varied depth cuts for a 3D effect, to mastering the art of circle cutting in plywood without compromising your bit or project. Explore solutions for spindle control, toolpath optimization across sheets, and the intricacies of nesting objects in Aspire, including selective deletion within complex designs. Tackle challenges related to zeroing off the machine bed, choosing the right bit for cutting brass, and enhancing your 3D mode navigation skills. Whether you're a hobbyist or a seasoned craftsman, this meetup provides invaluable insights, tips, and techniques to elevate your projects, ensuring every creation is a masterpiece.

Questions Answered in this Q&A:

• 00:02:22 - Getting ready to cut the acrylic for this edge lit sign. The acrylic is half inch thick cast. I will be using a 60 degree v bit for the dog graphic and text. I plan to cut the dog graphic to a depth of cut of three eighths of an inch, and the text to a flat depth of cut of a quarter inch. And he says, am I correct in thinking that by using two different depths of cut, that'll give me a more 3D ish look to it?
• 00:14:52 - Do you have a post processor that tells the spindle not to turn on, or how do you do that?
• 00:27:02 - What would be the best toolpath to cut a circle on a three quarter inch plywood without destroying the bit or project?
• 00:38:19 - Is there a way to move the toolpath from one sheet to another?
• 00:41:08 - For some reason I can't remember or find how to nest objects. I know it makes images and cover work areas. I want to make the same design in the project, multiple vectors of the same image scattered on the work area. Now my problem is I want to make the name in the middle of the project and delete images that overlap names. I tried the icons in Aspire, but every time I did it, it would always delete the wrong side of the images.
• 00:57:22 - Having difficulty figuring out how to work with a Z0 from the machine bed. When I zero off machine bed, my bit does not rise up high enough to clear the workpiece. Can you refer me to a lesson that covers this subject?
• 01:01:05 - Recommended bit for cutting brass for a branding iron
• 01:20:50 - How to zoom in 3D mode?

Keywords:

acrylic edge lit sign, 60 degree V bit cutting, depth variation for 3D effect, post-processor settings for spindle control, circle cutting in plywood, toolpath management across sheets, nesting objects in Aspire, working with Z0 from machine bed, cutting brass for branding irons, zooming in 3D mode, two rail sweep, rotary project orientation, arranging files for selective carving, saving bent designs as clip art, depth control for ballnose bits, reducing product time, one-on-one classes, zero planes usage, troubleshooting Vectric software, CNC customization techniques, photo importing into VCarve, inlay creation, resizing projects for CNC, thread milling tutorials, digital fabrication insights, creative project solutions, interactive learning, educational content, woodworking techniques