second-brain/02_Projects/CNC Machining.md

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
• SKR Pro Documentation

CNC Knowledge & Blogs

• IDC Woodcraft Blog - Great resource for CNC information

G-Code Reference

• FluidNC Supported G-Codes

Tutorials & Guides

• Estlcam Tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJD_d1TBbxQ

YouTube Channels

Community

• V1 Engineering Forum

Suppliers

• Sorotec - CNC worktools and accessories

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

Learnings & Notes