The VWC website now has a capability to have members post new discussions (called Threads) or comments/additions to exisitng threads. This capability can be used to post projects, including "crv" files and photographs of projects.
Comments/suggestions for new Discussion Topics and other comments should be directed to woodshop@thevwc.org.
We have the first part of our initial tool order. A tool storage board will be made soon with labeling to describe what the tool is and if it has special uses. Ensure thst they get back to the proper position in our little CNC tool crib. There will be one of each. Spares will be stored in a different location.
When selecting your tool, make certain you have thought out what forces the tool will have on the material, its machine path walls, and bottom through cutting.
Recently the cam method of pressing sideways to hold material in place proved to be inadequate. This allowed the up and down motion of the cutting tool to help lift the material. The unexpected new height of the material allowed the end mill to cut deeper than designed and turned adequate 'tabs' into very insignificant webs at the bottom of the trough. Because the test material was poplar and there was a lack of strength holding the parts in place, the tool forced them to break loose. The work was ruined.
The solution to preventing this from happening again is to:
2nd tool order has arrrived. Bob is making tool racks for the sampling of bit and another storage area for the extras.
A paper chart has been prepared that lists all the NEW bits to include their sizes, uses, part numbers and origins. Note that we have high speed steel HSS as well as solid carbide.
The lower part of the chart lists the V-Carve and chevron tools.
I will create a chart of all the previously purchased tools as a separate sheet. Date YTBD
I have been in contact with Fred Phillips of Onsrud. He was initially responsible for allowing me the reproduction rights for the 'out of print' Onsrud Tool Catalog for our Operator Classes.
He has recently released the New catalog that is really unique in that the table of contents lists tool with pictures by material use. Nice publication. He is sending me 30 catalogs; one for each of the operators and spares for the tool crib and repair machinists.
The operators can ask me for a copy, if they would like one.
It has been brought to my attention that some of the tools I ordered are too long for most of our routing needs on the ChinaZone. I knew that when I ordered them but made the purchase with the intent of splitting our tool inventory with the new CNC router that will be installed in the new shop. The longer tools can be used on the ChinaZone BUT that requires that we move the spindle up in the spindle crib and eliminate most spoilboard because of their thickness. At this point ion time, I suggest we leave the spindle where it is and select some other tool that will meet your needs. If therre are questions, call me at home and I will come by and see why that can't be done.