My team is learning to use a couple of CNC machines we recently gained access to, but we arent quite sure where to start. Does anybody know of some good resources for the basics of CNC? I can provide more info on the machines if needed, thanks!
What kind of machines are they?
A good place to start is NYCNC’s YouTube channel
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CNC stands for computer numerical control, but that could be applied to many kinds of machines. Chances are high that in FRC you are asking about a CNC router or a CNC mill. You could also be talking about a CNC lathe, but this would be less likely. There are other kinds of machines operated by computer numerical control as well.
Please describe the type of machines you are asking about. It would probably also help to provide the manufacturer and model if known. Something about the control system might be helpful too. What control software is being used on the machines?
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I think they are 2 mills and 1 plasma cutter. The plasma cutter is a Langmuir Crossfire, and the 2 mills are a Emco concept mill 55 and a technocnc lc series 4848. Im not sure what kind of software they use
I have experience with Techno Machines, I am more than happy to help with any questions you may have!
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The compatible software and post processors for the techno are listed here, but I believe there is an additional post processor for Fusion/Inventor if that is your CAM software of choice.
If you want an overview of how G-Code works, I’ve found the Haas programming workbook to be very helpful. This isn’t a prerequisite to get started but an understanding of the fundamentals is going to be very helpful to you in terms of avoiding crashes, understanding machine behavior, editing at the machine, troubleshooting code, etc.
I haven’t used it, but Titans of CNC is a very popular Youtube channel that has created an academy that I believe is completely free and has tons of exercises for beginning to advanced users to understand CAM.
In the past they focused on Fusion360 but have moved in a more commercial direction and now largely promote MasterCAM. I don’t know if their academy exercises focus on either or both, but both are available to you for free via partnerships between FIRST and Autodesk/Dassault Systemes.
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I teach Inventor CAM at both the high school and college level, I don’t have any videos recorded but would be happy to answer questions if you go that route.
+1. NYC CNC is a great resource and a lot of fun to watch!
Haas Tip of the Day is my favorite place to learn CNC. The info tends to be a bit skewed towards Haas machines but in the last several years they’ve gotten a bit more broad. Mark is so good at breaking down daunting concepts and explaining them in a useful, interesting, and fun way.
Probably not surprising that he’s an FRC mentor as well!
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Start with the owners/caretakers of the machines. They know best what their machines like and dislike. See if you can’t sit down with them for a couple hours to talk about it.
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