- Follow these steps to run a file on the ShopBot CNC Router.
- The machine should be turned on, and you should feel comfortable moving the gantry and spindle.
- Click here if you need help turning on the machine and moving the gantry and spindle.
- You should have already created a file in VCarve.
- You should have completed the spindle warmup routine.
- You should have your material loaded onto the bed and secured to the wasteboard.
- You should have your bit installed.
- You should have your X and Y zeroes set.
- You should have your Z zero height set.
- The dustboot should be attached and dust collection should be turned on when milling wood, composite materials, and plastic.
You can make machine reservations in the following ways:
Click to expand
- In person at the front desk
- Reserve a machine any time through our Mind Body Portal.
- Call the front desk during business hours at (410) 862-0424.
- Email us at frontdesk@openworksbmore.com. Please include your name, the machine you'd like to reserve, and the date(s) and times of the reservation(s).
Safety Check:
Sturdy, close-toed shoes must be worn at all times.
Long hair, jewelry, and loose clothing must be tied back.
Safety glasses and earmuffs must be worn while machines are running.
A dust mask or a NIOSH certified respirator is recommended.
For more information on shop safety visit Digital Fabrication under "Safety."
- Never place hands near the spindle or on the bed while the machine is running.
- Know the size of your material - length, width, and depth (thickness). Measuring tape and calipers are available in the tool chest. (Editor's note: include photo here).
- Check your tool parameters in VCarve, and always check your math for Feed Rate[^2] and Spindle RPM.[^3]
- Preview your toolpaths and verify your X, Y, and Z zeroes[^4] before you begin.
- Check the bed for damage and debris. Chips and sawdust can affect the level of your workpiece and quality of cut.
- Clear the table of any extra materials or tools before you begin.
- Secure your workpiece to the wasteboard[^5] using the pneumatic nail gun, screws, or the vacuum bed when using the Laguna.
- Very that your toolpath is clear and will not hit any hardware or fasteners.
Variable.
- ShopBot CNC router
- SB3 software
- .sbp file
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Open .sbp file in SB3.
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Start the spindle by pressing the "Start" button on the controller.
If you set your Z zero height to be above the material you can run a test cut to make sure everything looks OK. If you can detect no errors, reset the Z zero height to the top of your material and begin the true cut.
- Supervise cut while hovering over the "Stop" (Pause) button in the red Position window in case your file starts cutting in an unexpected way. Be prepared to engage the E-stop in the event anything goes wrong - this will cut power and cancel the job.