Thread: Hot Foam cutter for RC aircraft
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18-01-2013 #1
Hi Guys
Few more updates. I've added home/limit switches and run some test cuts. Its starting to become a bit easier now. Here's a link on my website CNC Config Mach3 and TB6560 with some sample cuts and setup.
I've documented the configuration so anyone else using the same set up can save a bit of time and head scratching.
The biggest learning curve I think is getting all the software to work, but I use Mach3 and profili2 which do good job. I'm also looking at InkScape as there is a gcode extension for it. Might use this to cut fuselages.
Keith
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30-06-2013 #2
This video show the flying wing I made with the cnc foma cutter its on my video page RC Video's - rcKeith | Projects
It was a quick test to see how it could cut wings and what a fantastic flyer its is. Its my favorite flyer now. Goes like stink and can fly at snails pace as well.
Have now purchase DevFus software to make fuselages which I going to test on a 50 inch wing span Hurricane.
Keith
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10-08-2015 #3
I've added a lot of details to my build including plans, instructions and parts/cutting lists all at my website www.rckeith.co.uk . I've have a video almost ready that should be up in a few days on using Profili Pro 2 for cutting foam wings which I'll then follow up with one on Dev Fus Foam. I've used these to produce a 50 inch Wing span Hawker Hurricane. A few images below. Not finished yet because of other stuff getting in the way. I'm now looking to build a CNC router probably a Openbuilds OX but also may try and build Mark Carew's Phlatprinter this seem ideal for producing foam models. I like the fact its fairly compact and can produce large parts.
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13-08-2010 #4
Hi GeorgeD
Yes the width can be adjusted to suit. The only thing between the towers is the hot wire,
Keith
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13-08-2010 #5
How do Keith.
You do well to put the towers on a sliding base for differing widths apart.
ie use some T channel aluminium rack and rebate the T track in 25mm baseboard and then space the towers when ever you feel the need to widen them?or just have them permanently affixed to a base board because there's no stability in that design ie a gust of wind will blow em over :heehee: and thats not good for the motors//mechanics if you want to avoid damage.
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13-08-2010 #6
Hi George
The towers will be clamped/screwed down on a base. The tension on the hot wire would certainly pull them over. The main reason I chose this design is that I have quite a small workshop so when not in use I can store them away. Once I've built this one I'd like to do a cnc router but I'll really need to work that one out, with the space I have. Problem I have is that a lot of space is taken up by 10 radio controlled planes of different sizes and I have 2 kits that I haven't even started yet.
Keith
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13-08-2010 #7
Not to big...hmmm! how about this size? fits neatley on the workbench and has a static z axis,could easily be made to the size of your requirements.
http://www.cooperman.talktalk.net/tweakie2.jpg
http://www.cooperman.talktalk.net/
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13-08-2010 #8
Hi George
Phew! what a website. Very impressive certainly an inspiration to us all. I'll have a good read of it later certainly some real good information. Have you any recommnedations for lead screws at a reasonable cost. I've seen foam cutters done with threaded rod but most peope seem to recommended a ACME screw thread.
Keith
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13-08-2010 #9
I'm making my own lead screws from Derlin.
I could make you some at a reasonable price,send me a PM if interested?
For your foam cutter,M12 threaded rod will suffice.
oops! make that....
Making my own ball nuts from Derlin. lolLast edited by GeorgeD; 13-08-2010 at 11:11 AM.
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13-08-2010 #10
That is a good machine, cant go wrong with linear rails, metal construction and fixed gantry
oops! make that....
Making my own ball nuts from Derlin. lol
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