Vertical Mill - VTAstrobotics/Documentation GitHub Wiki

Contents

Prerequisites

You should have taken the machine shop class, ISE 2214, and received orientation from Phil. This page serves to supplement those instructions.

Machine specifics

Atlas

  • ONLY USE CONVENTIONAL CUTS (feeding material into the cutting edge). If you're not sure, ASK!!
  • Z-axis is manual, so you must set the dial to zero by moving the crank, set your datum using the handle on the spindle. It is difficult to do small changes so use the CNC if you want to be accurate
  • Use the automatic feeds. Helps make good finishes too
  • Check that teeth of milling bit aren’t chewed up
  • To release the collet from the spindle, unlock the z-axis lever and move it to the highest position. Hold your dominant hand palm up below the spindle and use your other hand to quickly force the black knob towards the “OUT” position (if you don’t force it sometimes it doesn’t activate) . Do in reverse to load the spindle.
  • Don’t assume the vice is aligned to the x and y axis as some people move it out of square...

CNC mill

  • Much easier to use
  • Can be programmed to recreate the same part
  • Z-axis has DRO
  • Jog is on the DRO. Click “JOG” then hold “X”, “Y”, or “Z” to move. Click “-/+” button to change directions
  • To tighten/loosen the chuck, place the machine in low gear by moving the lever on the right side to “LOW”. Use a collet chuck wrench to loosen the chuck. When changing machine back into high gear, spin the spindle to seat the gear and the handle should visibly slot into place

Tips

  • Max depth should be 0.1 inches per cut
  • NEVER put fingers or tools near spindle while it is on
  • Use drill bits to make holes, not milling bits.
  • Use a countersink bit to prepare the point you will be drilling
  • Use lots of tap-free. Try and use the non-carcinogenic stuff if it’s there
  • Clean up after yourself. Move from top down. Sweep the chips off the vice, work table, and floor. Clean off lubricant using simple green
  • As for speeds, use this calculator for feeds. I prefer to run 1000-1500 RPM. Chips should be small and the sound should be a low hum, not squeaking.