Just trying to get started. My son and I bought a Two Trees 450 Pro just to learn the basics and see how we might incorporate CNC to our different projects. We plan to upgrade as we become more knowledgeable.
He is a design engineer, very experienced in Solid Works and modeling. He does very complex 3D printing projects.
I weld and do custom woodworking. Not experienced in computer design.
We have managed to cut a couple of basic projects using Carbide Create Pro, which we purchased. I have been through several tutorials and tried to search the forum.
Questions:
use or advantages of using 80w spindle vs. 800w router that we purchased? When would we choose one over the other?
I created toolpaths using 2 different bits. I expected the spindle to stop for tool change. It stopped cutting but the spindle was still turning. Should I use the REST or how do I stop it, change bit, and restart?
After a bit change, should I re-zero the Z axis to the work surface or use the probe to accommodate any bit length differences? Then how do I continue the project?
Thank you for your simple explanations as I need baby steps.
I will be back seeking more help as I progress.
Burt
Unfortunately, those questions seem to be specific to the machine you purchased and the software for it.
Using a trim router is a matter of convenience, a spindle should afford greater precision, less runout, &c. but no idea about the 80W unit you cite since we don’t sell it.
This is a function of the post-processor and the communication/control software — Carbide Motion would stop the spindle on seeing a tool change, move to the front to allow the tool change, then measure the new tool and calculate the Z-axis offset to maintain the Z-axis zero.
If your machine has a BitSetter or equivalent and it is enabled, configured, and the software manages it, then the tool length offset will be measured as noted above — I suspect you will need to write out separate files for each tool and re-do the Z-axis zero for each file
Regarding question one, I definitely prefer the spindle when comparing it to the router. It’s much quieter, has less runout, offers greater torque, and can even be water-cooled (although I personally use an air-cooled one). These are all features that trim routers lack.
Given the choice, I’d always choose the spindle over the trim router.
Hello,
In reference to a spindle being quieter, ( Yes Agreed ) but depending on your dust collection system and location it may not make much of a difference.
Peace to you All.
I was thinking the router would be more powerful and used to remove more material per pass. So maybe, if doing a sign with lots of wide/deep cuts, that would be the time to change.
Also, so far I’m doing as Will suggests to make separate toolpath files and re-zero each time. Maybe someone will reply with a better solution. I wonder if I could edit the g-code file to add STOP or some command to allow bit change, zero the Z axis, then resume.
Anyway, we are making progress! Cutting a few more versions of the same project in order to see the results of our changes.