# CNC Machining

## Machine

**Custom build inspired by V1 Engineering Low Rider**

A CNC router custom-built by a friend, based on the Low Rider design by V1 Engineering. The Low Rider is a mobile CNC platform designed for cutting sheet materials like plywood, MDF, and plastics.

### Controller

**SKR Pro** - Main controller board
- Documentation: https://docs.v1e.com/electronics/skrpro/

## Setup Status

- [ ] Initial assembly complete
- [ ] Software configured
- [ ] First test cuts done
- [ ] Calibrated and dialed in

## Hardware

### Spindle/Router

**Makita Router**
- Variable speed control with dial settings
- RPM dial settings reference: see `attachments/makita-rpm-dial.jpg`
- (Add RPM values for each dial position when available)

### Tool Changes

- **MuscleChuck 1/4"** - Quick-change collet system
  - [ ] Ordered
  - [ ] Received
  - [ ] Installed
- **1/4" Collets** - For MuscleChuck
  - [ ] Ordered
  - [ ] Received
  - [ ] Installed

### End Mills & Bits

| Tool | Type | Use | Parameters | Notes |
|------|------|-----|------------|-------|
| | | | | |

**Tool Selection Reference**
- Yvain's tool definition overview: see `attachments/tool-reference-yvain.jpg`

### Engraving Tools

- **CFH Brandmalkolben Set 30W (BM 245)** - Wood burning tool for engravings
  - Alternative: Laser engraver solution
  - [ ] Ordered
  - [ ] Received
  - [ ] Tested

## Software

### CAM Software

- **Estlcam** - https://www.estlcam.de/index.php
  - Tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJD_d1TBbxQ
  - **Mac Installation (via Crossover):**
    - Install using Crossover (straightforward process)
    - **Trackpad Fix:** Estlcam freezes when using Mac trackpad for scrolling. To alleviate:
      1. Go to the bottle where Estlcam is installed → click Run command
      2. Type `regedit` and hit Run
      3. Navigate to `HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Wine\Macdriver`
      4. Right click → New → String Value, name it `UsePreciseScrolling`
      5. Right click → Modify, set Value Data to `n`
      6. Close Registry Editor and Run command window

### Firmware

- **FluidNC** - G-code interpreter
  - Supported G-codes: http://wiki.fluidnc.com/en/features/supported_gcodes

### Sender Software

## Cutting Parameters

### Speeds & Feeds

| Material | Bit Diameter | Flutes | Spindle RPM | Feed Rate | Plunge Rate | Stepover | Depth of Cut |
|----------|-------------|--------|-------------|-----------|-------------|----------|--------------|
| | | | | | | | |

### Materials

- **Plywood** - 
- **MDF** - 
- **Acrylic** - 
- **Aluminum** - (if applicable)

## Resources & Links

### Official Documentation
- [V1 Engineering Low Rider Docs](https://docs.v1engineering.com/lowrider/)
- [SKR Pro Documentation](https://docs.v1e.com/electronics/skrpro/)

### CNC Knowledge & Blogs
- [IDC Woodcraft Blog](https://idcwoodcraft.com/blogs/news) - Great resource for CNC information

### G-Code Reference
- [FluidNC Supported G-Codes](http://wiki.fluidnc.com/en/features/supported_gcodes)

### Tutorials & Guides
- Estlcam Tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJD_d1TBbxQ

### YouTube Channels

### Community
- [V1 Engineering Forum](https://forum.v1engineering.com/)

### Suppliers
- [Sorotec](https://www.sorotec.de/shop/) - CNC worktools and accessories

### Design Libraries
- [Modifile](https://modifile.com/designs) - CNC-ready furniture and workshop designs

## Projects Queue

| Project | Material | Status | Notes |
|---------|----------|--------|-------|
| Pizza Peel | Wood | Idea | Good beginner-to-intermediate project: https://idcwoodcraft.com/blogs/news/how-a-pizza-peel-can-carry-you-from-beginner-to-intermediate-cnc |
| iPad/Tablet Stand | Plywood/Acrylic | Idea | Glowforge-style tablet holder: https://www.etsy.com/listing/921858817/glowforge-tablet-holder-laser-cut-tablet |
| Mail Organizer | Wood | Idea | With removable nametags: https://maslowcommunitygarden.org/Mail-Organizer.html |
| CAOS Workshop Organizer | Plywood | Idea | Modular organizer system: https://modifile.com/designs/workshop-furniture-collection/caos-organizer |

## Learnings & Notes