Archive for the 'CNC' Category

The CNC Revolution Will Not be Televised

Thursday, October 4th, 2007
Max Wilson's CNC Router

Not long ago CNC (which stands for computer numerical control, by the way) machines were so expensive that only large companies could own them. But we’re in the middle of a full-fledged CNC revolution, reaching all the way down to the grassroots level. Now a dedicated average Joe whip up a precise fabricating tool with little more than some plans, basic tools, and a PC.

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It’s Just Cool: Epilog Mini 18 Laser Engraver

Monday, September 10th, 2007

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Imagine this: how cool would it be if you had a printer-like device that could “print” a picture from your computer onto a piece of marble tile, a slab of wood, or even a sheet of plate glass?  You don’t have to imagine: Epilog makes all kinds of laser etching and engraving equipment, and their smallest and most affordable model — the Mini 18 — would easily fit in your shop.

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Hot or Not? Craftsman’s CompuCarve

Thursday, August 30th, 2007

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Craftsman introduced the CompuCarve last year to great fanfare, but we have yet to try one out — or hear much from reliable sources who have.  We’re hoping some of you Toolmongers may have first-hand experience with one.

If you own (or have owned) one, let us know about your experiences in comments.  Is this as powerful a tool as it seems?  How difficult is it to use, and what are its realistic limitations?

Craftsman CompuCarve [Sears]

CNC Plasma Cutters: A Poor Man’s Waterjet

Thursday, August 2nd, 2007
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Don’t have $100k to drop on an abrasivejet?  This CNC plasma cutter kit from Torchmate will give you at least a tiny bit of the ‘jet’s functionality at a fraction of the cost.  But this kit isn’t for beginners: you’ll need to bring your own steel — and fabrication skills.

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