CNC 4th Axis at work

[Lee Roberts]

Out of interest, is there a general thread for CNC videos?

No not as such, we do have a Video Gallery but it hasnt been used that much. I add video's as i find them, your more then welcome.

[adscnc]

On the subject of axis'sss whats the diference between 2.5d and 3d ?

[John S]

Rough difference.
2.5 D is where the Z axis drops to a predetermined depth and the shape is produced in X and Y whilst at this depth. X and Y can work together like doing a circle and it's called interpolation.

Typical example is doing a pocket down to 10mm deep in stages of 2mm at a time.

3D is where the Z axis is changing all the time as the X and Y are moving, imagine machining the aerofoil section on a plane wing.

Virtually all machines with a powered Z can do 2.5D and 3D, the difference is in the CAM software to generate the code.

2.5D is relatively cheap but full 3D starts to get very expensive.

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[adscnc]

So the router tables being built here and run with mach3 are all 2.5d ?

[John S]

No they can be either.
It all depends on the code they are fed.

Mach is capable of 3D linear moves.

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[adscnc]

So the trick is generating the code. .. ands that's what cadcam does?

[adscnc]

I have some g code experience as i have an old Ikegai lathe with a fanuc 6t control on. Also used a mini mill but only as a production machine. Never got the chance to play with it and its now gone.

Would like to build a plasma / router combo 4' x 4' . Have been watching Tribbles link with great interest. Would that convert to plasma ?

I have a decent work shop with a bridgeport vertical mill ( manual) TIG and MIG so have got the gear. Pretty good with PC's but limited electrical experience. Also know my way around solid works.

I guess i'm just trying to convince myself to "have a go"!

Al