Hello everyone I’m new to this CNC thing so need a little help. Does anyone know what the best starting point for the 120 diamond bit on Carbide create Pro. I’m making a led lit sign with clear cast acrylic and just was wondering if the settings that are in the bit an good starting point?
I wrote a bit about using this at:
I started playing with drag bits too, very fun. I don’t have the Carbide 3d bit, but I imagine its very similar. Mine is a 90* bit. I use a DOC of .03" and feed rate of 15 IPM. I’ve been doing smaller designs on stainless, so you can probably go faster. I started with a piece of scrape and tested various settings until I got what I liked. Mine also has a set screw so you can pre-load the head.
I use the default CC depth of cut and speeds for the drag bits on cast acrylic.
I use the Top of stock for zero.
I found the real adjustment is in how many turns did you compress the spring.
I use 3/4 to 1 1/2 turns.
Cast acrylic has varying thickness, so light features may fade (not cut as much) when in a valley.
Make sure the tip compresses evenly, just push the tip to check for a “catch” in the motion.
A little light oil if it is hanging. It is sharp, so beware.
Running a path for a second time will change the look to a point.
If you etch the backside, make sure you mirror the geometry/path .
I have very limited experience with adding LED’s, ( how many, spacing, lumens ).
Trial and error is king.
Here is a good link from the past. I have to try a mirror …
Look up Mc Etcher in the search field
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Thanks for all the help
You are very welcome.
When you have something that works, post it so others can learn ( myself included).
Ok I will post it I’m going to do different bit test peaces and I will post what I find out
Ok so update I found out that with the diamond engraving bits you set the screw to be able to push the bit setter without the bit moving. An I like to use .15 depth of cut and crosshatch. The only thing is if I didn’t use a brush to constantly brush the acrylic away from the bit the lines would be uneven. Air works to.
And now your are a professional. Very clean. Congrats !
For the debris, keep it dry (any fluid will make it stick together ).
I have a deep Sweepy and vacuum ( 4" hose, Mullet cyclone and a Stealthsonic vac).
I keep the bristles near the surface, you can hear the vacuum start to change pitch.
That seems to keep it pretty clean.
Awesome job.
I had been in Chattanooga 30 years ago a few times to support CAD systems at the former Combustion Engineering facility. Had dinner at the Choo Choo .
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