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Cut out shapes out of plastic sheets with a CNC
This tutorial outlines the process of cutting HDPE sheets with an X-Carve CNC machine.
Watch the full video in Spanish with subtitles: YouTube
User Location: Mexico City, Mexico
Steps
Step 1: Measure the plastic sheet
Measure your plastic sheet's height, width, and thickness. Our X-Carve machine operates with the CAM software Easel, which is straightforward for CNC milling.
A notable feature of Easel is the ability to simulate your material and they offer HDPE 2-Colors in their cutting material list.
Step 2: Secure sheet
Secure the sheet to the table using the CNC clamps from the X-Carve.
Step 3: Choosing a file to cut
We proceed to a vector graphics software, like Inkscape, to create or download a vector file. Download the SVG file and import it into Easel.
Step 4: Follow the cutting Wizzard
With the file ready, select the desired carving width and initiate the cutting process:
- Ensure the sheet is secured.
- Specify the cutting bit, such as a 1/8 inch (3.175 mm) flat flute bit.
- Set the machine’s coordinate origin at the lower-left corner.
- Raise the bit and activate the CNC Router.
Step 5: Post-production and show case
Final Version
Take your glasses or object, post-process them, and share the results with others.
Step 6: Hack it and try it yourself
Project Flexibility
You may use different CNC machines or manual tools like routers and saws, as demonstrated in this video. Sharing your work contributes to community growth.
Please share your ideas and comments.
Resources
To extract the necessary components from the tutorial, here's the organized breakdown:
Hardware
- X-Carve CNC machine
- CNC clamps (included with X-Carve)
Software
- Easel (CAM software for X-Carve)
- Inkscape (vector graphics tool)
Tools
- 1/8 inch (3.175 mm) flat flute cutting bit
Materials/Consumables
- HDPE sheets (2-Colors recommended for Easel compatibility)
Additional Resources
- Full tutorial video (Spanish with subtitles)
- Alternative CNC/manual methods