The software was complex and so instead I bought the Trend Mini to begin my learning process, much easier to get to grips with. I will still use the Mini for small work and mould making but I wanted to do larger stuff so I have gone back to the Stepcraft. A quick phone call to the supplier revealed that the construction was fine and all that was need was a fine tuning of the 'y' axis - the grotty noises disappeared. At the same time I purchased upgrades to the machine adding new spindle, spindle speed control box, a 4th axis with tailstock and an enclosure which I am still waiting to be delivered.
I had to partially deconstruct the machine to do axis tuning and to install the 4th axis control board. I had some help to alter the software installation. After a few teething problems the machine is set up and ready to go.
I can now extend my work to include smallish 3d sculptural pieces, textural panels and experiment more with bowl forms. A couple of pics and a quick vid below show parts of the new setup.
2 comments:
Ah Phil, I wish I'd known you were having CNC issues, would have been happy to help. Interested to know how you get on with the Stepcraft and what software you use. I am considering a bigger machine in the future. (wizer)
Sorry not to have replied before, only come here occasionally and missed this.
Haven't yet used the Stepcraft! Comes with UCCNC software as the controller. have Ventric and Deskproto to produce gcode.
Software problem mentioned was pin identification in UCCNC on the lathe attachment.
Trust things are good for you
Best wishes to you and the family
Phil
Post a Comment