8-29-2023 Q&A: Bit Selection, Material Cutting, Toolpath Optimization, and More!

In our CNC Q&A Meetup, we dived deep into the practical aspects and challenges of CNC machining, covering a spectrum of topics that are essential for both novice and experienced users. Key discussions included optimizing the use of spiral ramps with trim routers, strategies for cutting American red oak without tearouts, and advanced techniques for successful inlays using a 30-degree V bit. We also tackled the intricacies of handling STL files in Aspire, particularly focusing on reducing the runtime for complex projects like Egyptian chess pieces. Furthermore, the call offered valuable insights into selecting the right bits for fluting toolpaths, integrating laser courses into the curriculum, and the benefits of incorporating a search bar for easier access to previous meetups. Whether you're troubleshooting a specific issue or looking to expand your knowledge on efficient toolpath strategies, material handling, or software tips in VCarve Pro 11.5, this meetup provides a comprehensive resource.

Join us to explore these topics and more, ensuring you have the tools and knowledge to elevate your CNC projects.

Questions Answered in this Q&A:

• 00:01:32 - Do we just use the spiral ramp with a Makita trim router for boring bits?
• 00:03:24 - Cutting American red oak.
• 00:09:26 - After watching the inlay videos, I gave it a try two times, but I had no success because of tearout with the 30 degree v bit. I believe it's the depth of cut and how small the detail is. I'm wondering if I can change the start depth to half the depth and try two passes?
• 00:12:22- Is a spiral bit the same as a normal end mill?
• 00:13:06 - I have downloaded Egyptian chess pieces, STL files. I'm getting a 6 hour runtime on the roughing toolpath. How in the world can I cut down that to at least 3 hours, This is a rotary project?
• 00:18:59 - How do you set the estimated time on a 3D project to get the closest time it will take to cut out?
• 00:21:07 - In VCarve Pro 11.5 how could I make the freehand drawing tool follow the bitmap?
• 00:25:58 - Saving files in VCarve 11.5 with multiply files when using a post processor without a automatic tool changer.
• 00:30:55 - I would like to see a laser course in the master library.
• 00:32:17 - Can you recommend other bits for fluting toolpaths besides ballnose?
• 00:33:56 - Can you put a search bar into the meetup replays?
• 00:36:06 - Do you know if American red oak is harder to cut pockets?
• 00:52:05 - Can any STL file be cut with VCarve Pro?
• 00:52:42 - Doing a project with different heights, want to make sure to raise the bit to travel safely over the highest part of the material. How to set a safe Z to make this happen on a job?
• 00:55:04 - He's making these pieces here, it's a button, but he's trying to avoid this sharp edge here, he wants it more of a rounded edge. 

Keywords:

spiral ramp, makita trim router, american red oak, inlay videos, tearout, 30 degree v bit, spiral bit vs end mill, egyptian chess pieces, stl file, roughing toolpath, estimated time, 3d project, vcarve pro 11.5, freehand drawing tool, multiple files, laser course, fluting toolpaths, search bar, meetup replays, pockets in red oak, stl file with vcarve pro, safe z travel, rounded edge button