![shotbot tools shotbot tools](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0300/8585/products/60-307_13748_large.jpg)
Bits break, and they usually break one after the other and after the other. I’ve also gone through my fair share of bits, more than half the time, I must admit, it’s my fault – if you try to cut corners and put in a screw where you think it’s safe… guess what, the ShopBot Desktop seems to have an internal homing system… it will find that screw and put the bit right in its path! I’ve been known to run through 3-4 bits in a 10 minute session of frustration then be fine for weeks on end using the same bit. These models really work best in my opinion if you are using softwood or maybe even hardwood… but plywood isn’t the best of materials unless you splurge for the expensive stuff. My goal with all these videos is to show proof that these models can go together, as a result I’ve been using (good one side) cheap plywood… the bad part, my fingers have gotten so many splinters in them that now I just “notice” I have one in my finger or hand instead of cursing as I use to do (especially not a good thing when you have hearing muffs on!). To recap, I learned and was taught once again the joy (toys!) and pain (splinters!) of playing actively with wood again!
Shotbot tools how to#
Six months later, I’ve learned how to “hear” if the machine is operating well (I thought Angus and Bill were joking when they told me this) and probably learned more about designing in general through prototyping than I did when I first started.
Shotbot tools trial#
If you are looking for a custom CNC shop able to mark all your tools, even big heavy ones with awkward shapes, is your only choice to get it done right and on time!ĬNCROi.Over the past 6 months, I’ve cut over 30 models and almost released an equal amount here on – considering I’ve never touched a CNC machine beforehand nor knew how to film with a camera (skill I’m still learning through trial and error) – it’s a pretty impressive hull! I was coming from the laser world where tolerances are a fraction of what they are for CNC routers, parts can share cutting lines and hold-downs… what’s that? I took a video of the whole process as well which you can view below. It’s hard to make-out the quality with just one photo so here are the same tools taken from a different angle so you can see how consistent the marking is.
![shotbot tools shotbot tools](https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4098/4863321229_781ce88487_z.jpg)
In this case, we used our fiber laser source instead of CO2… it’s great having options as to which laser type you hit the material with! Once the files are loaded-up into our Austrian Trotec Speedy 400 flexx, time to power-up the tube and get some laser marking done. Unlike my CNC router, no need to hold anything down. Essentially, it’s just placing both tools so they are in the right orientation.
Shotbot tools full#
My very first CNC machine was ShopBot’s Desktop CNC router, it’s an awesome machine and I can’t wait to “upgrade” to a full sheet router but until that time, I have to contend myself with laser marking some of its tools!īecause we have a full aluminium vacuum table, keeping things level isn’t a problem with these flat tools – the grid you see in other videos is for cutting and also has a professional cutting table to greatly reduce flashbacks.