Zachary noticed an electrical arc inside the machine. Mike R will take a look at it.
Patrick C: Plasma cutter update
Mike looked at it and it’s fine.
Jeremy B: CNC plasma cutter update
We spoke to the owner and we think we have the problem of the torch not firing solved. We think it’s due to a grounding issue. We’re going to install some copper rod in the ground.
Adrian B: Blue laser cutter update
Adrian B: Last Wed, John told Adrian that air assist hose had a hole. Adrian replaced the hose.
We have a used a 1.5” focal length lens. We also have a 2” lens but we’ll need new focusing tools for that. Adrian recommends we stick with 1.5”.
He can get one online for about $30.
John will put the used lens in tomorrow.
Adrian will find it on Amazon and send it to Jeremy to buy. We should have some spares on hand and instruct folks on how to change them.
Jeremy bought the new lens. It should arrive Thursday or Friday.
John loves Don’s lens cleaning video.
Adrian B will email the discussion list about the blue laser cutter status.
Adrian B: Air compressor
Last Wed, Adrian noticed a regulator next to the basement air compressor. The regulator has a bowl that collects water. It was full. It needs to be changed on a regular basis.
Adrian recommends a desiccant-type filter near the laser cutter. Or a charcoal filter in a regular house water filter works great. Get a carbon water filter to absorb the moisture. Buy two filters and sawp them out once a month.
Jeremy will add the recurring task to the volunteer task list.
Adrian recommends buying an “auto dump” auto drain valve ($15) to empty the water. We should also lift the air compressor about 8 inches off the floor.
Jeremy purchased an auto drain valve. It will be installed soon.
Bob: Purchasing a tool that would make the milling of small logs safer in the wood shop
On Sat, a man wanted to mill some 4” diameter mesquite logs. He told Bob about a bandsaw sled accessory he has that allows for the milling or small logs into lumber. Bob got one used online ($150). Terry has one. Similar to a Carter log mill.
Once we get it running, it will generate a lot of dust. Dust collector on big bandsaw needed.
Metal detector for finding metal stuck in wood, to protect the bandsaw blade and SawStop.
Adrian B: Responding to “3D printers cause fires”
Adrian only knows of one brand that ever caught fire. We have received them as donations several times. Adrian accepts and disassembles them. They used the wrong controller card without proper thermal runaway protection.
Our machines have advanced thermal runaway protection.