Introduction to (Wood Shop) CNC with VCarve Pro

Preface:

The course does not address Xerocraft’s metal CNC routers (aka, Mill).  See “Introduction to Bridgeport Mill” if you want to work with metals.

Target Participants:

• This course is intended for those who want to use Xerocraft’s “wood” CNC routers.
• This class is designed for individuals
• New to a CNC environment;
• Desiring a refresher on CNCs;
• New to CAD/CAM/CNC;
• New to Vectric’s VCarve Pro (Xerocraft’s “base” CAD/CAM software for the Wood Shop).

Purpose:

• Introduce CAD/CAM terminology and constructs;
• Introduce Vectric VCarve Pro software;
• Provide the skills necessary to produce a basic (and standard) CNC project including use of VCarve’s Profile, Pocket, and V-Carve toolpaths.
• Introduce the Xerocraft CNC (wood) physical environment.

Required Preparation before Class:

• Vectric: “Getting Started – How to Create a Sign” --  https://youtu.be/deMB2pc9-pY
• Designing and Cutting with Xerocraft CNC Routers (Part 1):  https://youtu.be/fXO-gkH_V-c

Background / Introductory Materials:

CNC Basics Video:  CNC Basics - What You Need To Get Started (youtube.com)

IDC’s VCarve for the Absolute Beginner:   https://youtu.be/hIzYO-ir4MY

Getting Started with Vectric Software (various Tutorials (Tool / Technique / Project Specific):   https://www.vectric.com/support/tutorials/vcarve-pro/?playlist=getting-started-with-vectric-software

Specific Topics and Some Details:

Speeds and Feeds Guide:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZ9Ko62GcJg&t=753

Irrata:

This class is NOT CNC certification.  Wood Shop CNC certification is a separate and distinct process conducted one-on-one, by appointment.  However, this class is intended to provide the student with CAD/CAM skills necessary to prepare for certification.

This class is not absolutely required.  Individuals who are skilled in a CAD/CAM process and can develop, and explain their development of, a standard test product can request certification.

Vectric VCarve Pro is not a mandatory CAD/CAM development environment for the Wood Shop.  Any CAD/CAM program (or programs) capable of creating gcode support by Open Builds in a 2.5D/3D environment is permitted.  Alternative scenarios include, but are not limited to, the following:

VCarve Pro used all CAD/CAM work

Alternative CAD program (e.g., Inkscape, LightBurn) used for design; then exported to VCarve for CAM work.

Commercially available products (free or purchased) used in place of, or in addition to, other CAM work.

Alternative CAD/CAM software (e.g., Fusion 360, estlCAM) used for CAD/CAM; then, also used to generate gcode (toolpaths) or exported to VCarve to generate gcode.