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Aligning workpiece on CNC machine

Discussion in 'CNC Mills/Routers' started by IanC, Apr 14, 2019.

  1. IanC

    IanC New
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    I've got a Workbee CNC (with GRBL + CNCJS), which I'd like to use to cut some holes in an aluminium bed which will be used in a 3D Printer.

    I've got a 304x304x8mm cast aluminium bed that is the exact dimensions I need, but I need to get 4 x mount holes aligned right next to either edge of the bed.

    What would you recommend I do to align this piece correctly? If it's not aligned perfectly to the X/Y axes then I'll end up with holes drilled incorrectly. I was going to manually jog the machine and draw some temporary lines - which will be reasonable accurate.

    Is there a better way? Can I use an XYZ probe and somehow correct for any workpiece skew?
     
  2. Alex Chambers

    Alex Chambers Master
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    I use a fine (10 degree) engraving bit to scribe a 100 mm grid on my spoiler board.
    Alex.
     
  3. SpringBob

    SpringBob New
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    EstlCam can do this. They offer a very generous full function trial.

    Estlcam: 2D / 3D CAM und CNC Steuerung...
     
    Giarc likes this.
  4. IanC

    IanC New
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    I like this idea, I think I'll do this! :)
    Thanks, I'm testing EstlCam at the moment as it happens, but only for GCODE generation. Unfortunately, I need to keep the machine running CNCJS. Is there no other way to do this?
     
  5. Giarc

    Giarc OpenBuilds Team
    Staff Member Moderator Builder Resident Builder

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    I surface my spoil board and always leave a lip on the y axis edge. I know that when I place material - or spacer blocks to align material- along this edge, it is always parallel to the y axis and perpendicular to the x. You could do the same by attaching some thin material and cutting an L shape or just a parallel strip. It would take about 5 minutes.
     
    Colin Mccourt likes this.
  6. David the swarfer

    David the swarfer OpenBuilds Team
    Staff Member Moderator Builder Resident Builder

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    bCNC can probe and adjust for alignment... have not tried it myself yet, I just use a square off the edge of the spoil board.
     

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