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General Mach Discussion / NEWBIE: Far along..but need some help...please..please..
« on: September 14, 2008, 08:46:56 AM »
OK, I have a custom 4-Axes CNC for guitar building. It is made from extruded aluminum and uses a Bosch Colt. I will be cutting exotic hardwoods.
1.) I have tested the G-Code and started to make my first cuts. Mach3 defaults to 1.5 in the feed rate. What does the 1.5 represent? I hear people talk about 60 to 120 "ipm" for feed rates. Does that mean I change the 1.5 to read 60? Does that 1.5 Mach3 default represent the "inches per minute"?
What are conservative/safe feed rates for cutting hardwoods with a 4-flute 1/4" end mill at about 25,000 rpm?
2.) Also, I think I understand the setting for zero, but when I want the tool to "return" it doesnt. What can I be doing wrong? How can I set it so it is saved forever?
1.) I have tested the G-Code and started to make my first cuts. Mach3 defaults to 1.5 in the feed rate. What does the 1.5 represent? I hear people talk about 60 to 120 "ipm" for feed rates. Does that mean I change the 1.5 to read 60? Does that 1.5 Mach3 default represent the "inches per minute"?
What are conservative/safe feed rates for cutting hardwoods with a 4-flute 1/4" end mill at about 25,000 rpm?
2.) Also, I think I understand the setting for zero, but when I want the tool to "return" it doesnt. What can I be doing wrong? How can I set it so it is saved forever?