Setting Z with setup blocks
Posted: Mon Jan 24, 2011 5:26 pm
While carving requires that you zero Z at the actual surface of the part, a lot of my work is simple cutting parts out of a sheet. Since material is so inconsistant, I find myself having to measure each panel and adjust the cut depth.
So I switched to using set up blocks. If I want to cut a pushstick from 1/2" ply, I just program the cut for 1/2" and zero the Z axis to the 1/2" machined aluminum block. The actual thickness of the material no longer matters, and I reduce the risk of cutting deep into my spoilboard.
I bought my set up blocks from Lee Valley, but they can be bought from several vendors including Rockler. http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=16399&sid=AFU60
Just a tip I thought I'd pass along.
Ralph
So I switched to using set up blocks. If I want to cut a pushstick from 1/2" ply, I just program the cut for 1/2" and zero the Z axis to the 1/2" machined aluminum block. The actual thickness of the material no longer matters, and I reduce the risk of cutting deep into my spoilboard.
I bought my set up blocks from Lee Valley, but they can be bought from several vendors including Rockler. http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=16399&sid=AFU60
Just a tip I thought I'd pass along.
Ralph