I recently picked up the Sainsmart Genmitsu CNC 3018-Pro for $200 and am extremely impressed with the build quality and first test. I’m learning CAM via Youtube and trying to convert my cad files to grbl for milling.
That is impressive. Can you elaborate on bits, speeds and software and such that you used to make that? Also any of those Youtube links you have found useful. I have mostly been cutting out flat parts and leaving the detail to 3d printing. I need to expand my horizons 
Martin Sant said:
That is impressive. Can you elaborate on bits, speeds and software and such that you used to make that? Also any of those Youtube links you have found useful. I have mostly been cutting out flat parts and leaving the detail to 3d printing. I need to expand my horizons
I cannot take any credit for the awesomeness of the test print. The gcode for that dragon carving is included on the USB stick with the printer. I haven’t a clue as to how to do that myself as I pretty much just hit go! I’m converting SVG files with some success and watching videos about using Easel and Candle. So far, I cannot recommend any videos as I’m not even sure if I’m using the best software. I’ll post more here once I get a better handle on this. My first idea was to do container sides and roofs out of PVC and I’d really like to make these Hopper toppers to convert my Aristo coal hoppers for grain hauling.
I’m very interested in this thread. We have an older Gerber commercial 4’ x 8’ bed CNC router at work. The lead operator wants to retire and has taught most of the how-to to our designer, but they need a back-up operator and that could be me. The software currently in use to draw parts is ancient and horrible. I’m pretty sure the router drive software could be adapted to render design files from more modern / capable software.
We use it mostly to cut composite aluminum and foamed PVC board to create background shapes, individual letters and to carve signs from High Density Urethane foam and PVC board. I’ve inquired of the operator as to how fine detail he thinks it can do and got the answer: no clue; let’s try it. My only issue is the .25" shank bits for are expensive and they have no need to buy any of the small tip sizes. I’d like to carve brick from HDU foam.
I have been pushing for years to have someone come up with a rivet embosser using a CNC mill. With 2,000+ rivets on the EBT M-1, we need something to produce unique rivet patterns on strips of brass or styrene.
Pete Thornton said:
I have been pushing for years to have someone come up with a rivet embosser using a CNC mill. With 2,000+ rivets on the EBT M-1, we need something to produce unique rivet patterns on strips of brass or styrene.
I don’t think that would be too difficult. Any CNC type device should be able to handle by replacing the business end with a punch. The Cricut Maker would probably be easiest as it’s actually designed to emboss. Could probably make the panels for Amtrak cars and the like as well.
-Dan
So why don’t we have a folder of gcode files as a cooperative? Sub-folders by subject: building details, rolling stock, locomotive parts etc?
Wesley Stewart said:
So why don’t we have a folder of gcode files as a cooperative? Sub-folders by subject: building details, rolling stock, locomotive parts etc?
Very impressive idea. But, there IS human nature to consider.
- Most of this stuff is VERY hard for us older guys™ to even comprehend.
- Many people feel that since it took THEM a long time to learn something, it should TAKE everybody even longer to comprehend.
- Many folks just HATE sharing. I thought I was really naive about this, but it turns out that many folks want SOMETHING/ANYTHING to recompense them for the personal suffering that they encountered. Yep, even if they didn’t suffer.
- Sure, I’ll share, but I better get SOMETHING out of this SELFLESS gesture!
- There’s already a place where THIS is done, it’s called THINGIVERSE.COM.
- Probably something that I had NEVER even considered. YMMV.
BTW, Martin, VERY NICE work on that “Mobile Home”, even thought it was NOT referenced in you link (Oooh. Some OTHER GREAT work.).
Well done!
Thanks Bruce. I broke a lot of bits and melted lots of styrene before I started getting decent results. But it’s fun. Model Trains has all these hobbies-within-hobbies.
If anyone is interested, I don’t mind sharing - here is a zip of all of the files I used to make the mobile home. Everything is in there, the svgs, dxf and gcode files I made in inkscape/cambam and the 3d parts I printed on my ender3. It’s the first time I used a ball nosed bit on some of the cuts. The grooves in the siding are from that.
http://martinsant.net/mobilehome.zip
I also use a free 3d modeling program to make some of the shapes. You can get that here:
I can certainly relate to the older guy comment.
In terms of ‘what’s in it for me?’ I would think the exchange of files would be motive. At some point there are takers instead of givers; granted.
I’d give my (making this up) SPNG cab details in exchange for a flat car…etc.
Just a thought.
I collected a few items from thingaverse, but when it comes to Ender Pro printers
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=ender+3+v2&crid=P0B639DLNS3K&sprefix=ender%2Caps%2C233&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-o-p_5_5 there are a bazillion choices. How do you decide?
But that’s printing… what about routing?
-WES
Wesley Stewart said:
I collected a few items from thingaverse, but when it comes to Ender Pro printers
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=ender+3+v2&crid=P0B639DLNS3K&sprefix=ender%2Caps%2C233&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-o-p_5_5 there are a bazillion choices. How do you decide?
Many of those are actually the same - Just different vendors. I went with this one https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07GYRQVYV It works well for most things as is but you will more than likely find a need to modify and/or upgrade components. I upgraded the hotend and bowden tube to print ASA. 3d printers do require a bit of tinkering from time to time.
I just saw your thread Wes, thanks for starting it!
I’m enjoying what the CNC router users have to say, 'cause I only have the laser cutter.
From my limited knowledge, I’d like to take a whack at a list of the benefits of the two approaches, just because y’all have got me thinking.
CNC router:
- Can do 2D cutting (if you program for the kerf of the tool)
- Has DEPTH to its cutting (the Z dimension), not just 2D cutting
- Can cut materials the laser can’t (because of toxic offgassing while lasering)
- No flames involved
Laser:
- Has a cutting / kerf width so thin that it can be usually ignored; interlocking pieces can be separated by a single lasered line
- Can make very sharp inside corner cuts (minimal radius)
- Very quiet (most noise for me is from the exhaust fan)
- No sawdust involved, or dust collection system (though a good exhaust vacuum-blower is mandatory)
- Can engrave complex images (e.g., grayscale versions of photos)
I’m sure you guys can think of other benefits for one approach or the other, so please post them.
Thanks, Dan. So does it come with filament? What size/spec filament is required?
Filament is relatively inexpensive, just make sure you dont go too cheap. And keep it bagged when youre not using your printer, because it can soak up humidity and cause problems. I’m a big fan of Hatchbox filament, but I’ve also used Overture as well. Every filament takes a bit of dialing into get the temperatures correct, but you get used to fiddling with the printer.
Cliff - one thing I would add to the CNC side is that you can get a drag knife for it to cut vinyl and decals. I just got one for $20 off of Amazon but I have not tried it out yet as I’m not quite sure how to mount it.
Drag knife! Sound like a great tip!
Wesley Stewart said:
Thanks, Dan. So does it come with filament? What size/spec filament is required?
I believe it came with a small sample to test. It takes 1.75mm diameter. Beware though, Many do not hold up well outdoors.
This is standard PLA 60% infill and 3mm thick left outside on a sunny 88 degree day here in New England for about 3 hours.
Sorry, forgot we we talking about spindle machines.
Wesley Stewart said:
Drag knife! Sound like a great tip!
Haha I get it!