CNC Machining
Contents
CNC Machining at Narwhal Labs
What is CNC?
CNC is an abbreviation for "Computer Numerical Control". Using "g-code", machines use coordinate-based commands to move and perform tasks. While many tools at Narwhal Labs use CNC technology such as our laser cutter, vinyl cutters, and 3D printers, CNC will most often refer to CNC routers and milling machines. Designs are created using CAD (Computer Aided Design) software and code to run the machines is generated using CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) software.
Our CNC Routers and Equipment
Narwhal Labs is equipped with an AvidCNC PRO2448 and PRO6096 CNC routers, both with a 2.2kW (3HP) spindle, a NEMA34 electronics package, proximity sensors, a corner finding touch plate, mach 3 and 4 control software, and a complement of tools and tooling courtesy of AvidCNC and Bits&Bits.
AvidCNC Cycle Start Checklist
- Locate the emergency stop
- Home all axis on the machine
- Confirm material dimensions
- Preview toolpaths/Run simulations
- Secure workholding
- Check router bit installation
- Verify work coordinate system (WCS)
- Review Mach 4 & G-code
- Test the spindle
- Re-install dust shoe
CNC Router Etiquette
- CNC routers can be very loud and make unpleasant sounds. Check with others in the room before running
- Please work with staff if you need to do long (1+hr) operations on a CNC.
- CNC routers, even with dust collection, can throw dust and chips. Please be considerate of others that may be near by or that may be doing epoxy or finish work that is negatively affected by dust.
- Always clean up the CNC after your work. Another person should be able to use the machine without cleaning up from a previous user.
- Use ample workholding and tabs in your programs. Flying parts can be dangerous to you and those around you, and can damage tooling or the machine.
- Please inform staff of any broken tools/tooling or machine faults so we can keep things running for all members. You will not be penalized for accidents.
Software
Our CNC routers operate on Mach 3 and Mach 4 control software.
We also have a license of vCarve Pro MakerSpace Edition that is located and running on our loaner laptops and the laptop for the CNC router. You can use the free trial version of vCarve Pro with our makerspace ID plugged into the help->about section of the software (contact our staff for the ID). The free trial with makerspace ID added enables all features except G-code posting and has no time restrictions.
While Narwhal Labs does not endorse any specific CAD or CAM software package, our staff has some experience with Autodesk Fusion 360 and vCarve Pro and may be able to help you with this software if needed. Fusion 360 is a full-featured CAD and CAM package that is free for personal and education use.
| Software | Link |
| vCarve Pro | https://www.vectric.com/products/vcarve-pro |
| AutoDesk Fusion 360 | https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/personal |
All CAM software and packages require a "Post-Processor" to generate code that our machines will understand. The latest post-processors for vCarve and Fusion can be found below.
| Software | Post Processor |
| vCarve Pro | https://www.cncrouterparts.com/support/software/downloads/vectric/ |
| AutoDesk Fusion 360 | https://www.cncrouterparts.com/support/software/downloads/fusion/ |
| SheetCAM | https://www.cncrouterparts.com/support/software/downloads/sheetcam/ |
Feeds and Speeds
Feeds and speeds refers to the feed rate, spindle speed, and plunge depth of your CNC program for a specific bit. We maintain a list of suggested feeds and speeds for specific materials and tooling at the page linked below.
Main article: CNC Router Feeds and Speeds
Tool Libraries
Narwhal Labs maintains tool libraries for Fusion 360 and vCarve pro. These should be used as a guideline for known and safe operation. They are updated periodically with new tools and enhanced cut settings. Please ask about feed rates, spindle speeds, and cut depth if you're unsure about your cut or CAM work.
| Software Package | Tool Library Link |
| Fusion 360 | Fusion Tool Library |
| vCarve Pro | vCarve Pro Tool Library |
