I have Estlcam figured out for the most part. I’ve done engraving, carving and simply cutting out shapes. I’m interested in doing some work as seen in this video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94nAON2XZlw , Though not near as large a project at first. I’m just not sure of several things.
Proper software for this
Proper bits for this
Should the DW660 run for extended length of time or better suited for a proper spindle
On a side note
Is there a way to pause / resume jobs? I know we can stop them, but I cant see how to resume them.
For software I think Estlcam can make cuts like that from an STL file. Vectric Aspire would be best but it’s very pricey commercial software. Rough cuts can be done with a regular endmill, whatever you normally use for wood. The finish passes will need a ball-nose endmill, size determined by the level of detail in the model and the speed at which the job needs to get done.
I was trying some 2.5 milling with fusion 360, and it works great.
As Leo said, regular flat mill bits for rough, and ball nose for finishing. If your work is not so big/complicated, you can do all with the ball nose, but it’s slowest than going with flat first and finishing with ball nose.
I’ll be ordered ball nose bits then. My time with fusion 360 has been very limited so far. I need to start learning it since it seems we will be switching to fusion 360 instead of Estlcam.
@Martin DB - OMG how could I forget about Fusion! I need to start learning Fusion ASAP. It really is a well-rounded, professional level CAD/CAM package.
