Aspire or Shopbot problem?

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t28c34
Posts: 36
Joined: Sun Dec 20, 2009 7:50 pm
Model of CNC Machine: ShopBot PRT Alpha 4x8
Location: Winnebago Illinois

Aspire or Shopbot problem?

Post by t28c34 »

I am running a large sign foam sign on my Shopbot PRT Alpha with a 5hp spindle. I am using a 1/8" ball tip bit at 175 inches per minute. The component that I am running is a 3d wood grain running in the X axis. The problem is that I am getting ridges running in straight lines on the Y axis. about a 1/8" apart along the entire length. I'm having trouble loading pictures, I hope to get some on here

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mtylerfl
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Joined: Thu Jan 29, 2009 3:54 am
Model of CNC Machine: -CarveWright CNC -ShopBot Buddy PRSAlpha
Location: Brunswick, GA

Re: Aspire or Shopbot problem?

Post by mtylerfl »

Does your toolpath preview show the same ridges, or is the preview "clean"?

Are you certain you are using the same bit specified in your Tool database? (Make sure the bit specs in your database match the actual bit used when machining.)

There are many possibilities that can cause lines/ridges in your carvings, but we can start eliminating the basic causes first.

Photos and a peek at your file will help us help you.
Michael Tyler

facebook.com/carvebuddy

-CarveWright CNC
-ShopBot Buddy PRSAlpha CNC

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IslaWW
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Model of CNC Machine: CNC Controller Upgrades
Location: Bergland, MI, USA

Re: Aspire or Shopbot problem?

Post by IslaWW »

Check the rack to pinion lash on the Z, it looks like it might need adjustment

Check them all while you are at it
Gary Campbell
GCnC Control
ATC & Servo Controller Controller Upgrades
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t28c34
Posts: 36
Joined: Sun Dec 20, 2009 7:50 pm
Model of CNC Machine: ShopBot PRT Alpha 4x8
Location: Winnebago Illinois

Re: Aspire or Shopbot problem?

Post by t28c34 »

Was a little slop in the Z axis, but it still had the ridges in the Y axis. A post on the Shopbot site made sense that it could be worn rack and pinion. Moving the X axis carriage without power off I can feel it wasn't to smooth. So I have new spur gears on the way.

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mtylerfl
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Posts: 5865
Joined: Thu Jan 29, 2009 3:54 am
Model of CNC Machine: -CarveWright CNC -ShopBot Buddy PRSAlpha
Location: Brunswick, GA

Re: Aspire or Shopbot problem?

Post by mtylerfl »

After the clue about your posting on the ShopBot Forum, I visited there to see if you had posted a photo, a file or any other information.

I now see that you have. Also see that you have already received many helpful suggestions on troubleshooting your issue.
Michael Tyler

facebook.com/carvebuddy

-CarveWright CNC
-ShopBot Buddy PRSAlpha CNC

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