FLA-100 2'x3' 80/20 metal mill - Must see!

[CNC74]

Hello all,

I have been in the process of planning and building the FLA-100 from FineLine Automation for a last couple months and have recently completed the basic build with the help of many members here at CNCZONE.

I would like to share the learning experiance with all interest parties that might be considering building an FLA-100 or are already in the process of building one now.

Here is a youtube link to my build running some G-CODE in mid air.

[nomedia="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_2oYInF-4A"]YouTube - Fla-100 first test. Roadrunner gcode![/nomedia]

[CNC Lurker]

Congrats on movement, bet that felt good.

Now time to start tweaking it.

[CNC74]

[CNC74]

[zeeway]

Looking good, but your machine and shop are way too clean. Let's make some chips and dust!

Angie

[CNC74]

Check out last weekends activities:

[sirkossorg]

Congrats on your first cut! Looks good. I remember that feeling. Mine was about 6 months ago, and it was Wile E. Coyote with an eighth-inch bit in particle board.

You have entered into an expensive and hair-consuming hobby. Welcome to the club.

[CNC74]

Hey all,

I have been testing the FLA-100 using V-CARVE PRO 6.0 and the results have thus far been quite promising!

I spent a good bit of time working with ARTCAM and MASTERCAM in addition to my initial evaluation of VCARVE PRO 6.0 and found that for what I am doing at this time VCARVE is far easier and superior at the functions I require of it. (Thnaks to Angie for the recomendation!)

I have attached a couple picture below for your veiwing pleasure..
I am still learing how to handle multiple tool paths with multiple bits to complete the project (in this case its the Mayan calendar)(Angie HELP!!!!!!!!)
I tried to cut the whole releif with a 1/4" 90 DEG V-BIT and the second it started to cut the pockets I knew I had done something wrong and stoped the job. It is getting there though and I am highly satisfied with the performance of the FLA-100 thus-far.

If anyone has some tips on what bits to use in VCARVE for spacific tool path types like pocketing - profiling - etc etc.. and or has previously cut the Mayan aztec calendar before please post your bit selections and experiance.

[zeeway]

Hey all,

I have been testing the FLA-100 using V-CARVE PRO 6.0 and the results have thus far been quite promising!

I spent a good bit of time working with ARTCAM and MASTERCAM in addition to my initial evaluation of VCARVE PRO 6.0 and found that for what I am doing at this time VCARVE is far easier and superior at the functions I require of it. (Thnaks to Angie for the recomendation!)

I have attached a couple picture below for your veiwing pleasure..
I am still learing how to handle multiple tool paths with multiple bits to complete the project (in this case its the Mayan calendar)(Angie HELP!!!!!!!!)
I tried to cut the whole releif with a 1/4" 90 DEG V-BIT and the second it started to cut the pockets I knew I had done something wrong and stoped the job. It is getting there though and I am highly satisfied with the performance of the FLA-100 thus-far.

If anyone has some tips on what bits to use in VCARVE for spacific tool path types like pocketing - profiling - etc etc.. and or has previously cut the Mayan aztec calendar before please post your bit selections and experiance.

Some thoughts....you can do the v carving with 45 degree bits, but 60 degree bits are my preference as they give you a deeper cut. For pockets and profiles, I try to use 1/4 inch downspiral bits - these work most of the time. If you design has a lot of small tight corners, you may have to use an 1/8 bit - but try to avoid that as it takes forever.

As far as multiple toolpaths with different tools, I will generate the toolpaths that use tool A (as an example)...cut that toolpath; and then generate the toolpaths that use Tool B, cut that,etc. Hope that is clear. Of course, you have to rezero each new tool you put into your router.

Angie

[CNC74]

THANKS ANGIE!!

Question: I am in need of a few common bits that don't seem to be availible locally and was wondering two things.

1. WHere is the most reputable place on the net to pick up decent bits?


2. Since I am going to be making an order anyway for the bits I already know I need, I was wondering what are some of the most common bits that someone doing sign work and 3d carving shouold have in thier toolbox?


Thanks!!!!!

[zeeway]

The laser point 60 degree v bit from CMT is a good one - you can buy it from Amazon.com among others (free shipping on a lot of stuff).

I have had good luck buying spiral bits from eagleamerica.com. I also bought a 1-1/2 endmill from them for surfacing my table. Hmm, I also bought some big ball nose bits fromt hem for special projects.

And I have it on good authority that Centuriontools.com is a good one.

For 3D carving - here are the best (and prices to prove it - beckwithdecor.com for 1/8 ball nose, 1/16 ball nose and 1/4 ball nose.

A 60 degree vee bit and a 1/4 downspiral will take you a long way. If you make big signs, you may also need a 1/2 inch end mill. And for some stuff you will want a 45 degree v bit.

The stuff sold on ebay is hit or miss, but the prices are good.

I would suggest starting out with just a few bits, and add as you need them.... as the dollars can add up quite rapidly.

Angie

[CNC74]

Help,

I am looking for some different size collets for my Hitachi M12VC router.

A google search garnished more questions than answers with regard to any other sizes beyond the 1/2" and 1/4" sizes.

I would like to find a 3/8" collet and any smaller ones if they are avalible. I know I can get a kit from precise bits but its very expensive so I am considering it a last resort at this time. I also see the spacers that are availible but everyone is screeming about the rounout issues while using them.

Any idea?