X-Carve Pro CNC Router
About the Equipment
The CNC Router is a computer controlled machine that can cut and engrave wood as well as some plastics and soft metals. They are perfect for makers of all skill levels and are great for making signage, small furniture and other prototypes.
Beginners will like the free design software Easel, which is beginner-friendly and easy to use. Utilizing the X-Carve Pro CNC Router itself has a steeper learning curve than our other equipment, so come ready to learn how to use the machine safely!
Reserve Equipment
- Reserve up to four hours per week
- Reserving more than one piece of equipment is not permitted
- Equipment that is not reserved is available for same day reservations
Using the Equipment
If you are utilizing the CNC for the first time, we highly recommend watching our in-depth CNC router tutorial first, then making a minimum reservation time of two hours. This allows time for our staff to walk you through the safety precautions, software, and general equipment set up.
For project inspiration and more information about CNC Routers, check out this Staff List from the Makers.
What's Provided
- A variety of bits, such as angled V-Carves and ball noses
- Computers with internet access for Easel software
- You don't need an Easel Pro account to use the software. Free accounts are available and fine to use with the X-Carve.
What To Bring
- Materials to carve, ideally no larger than 48"x24"x4".
- For a complete list of materials that will work, please see our FAQ.
- A project file. We highly recommend that you create the file before you arrive. Inventables has a quick tutorial video on Easel and the interface is beginner-friendly.
- If you have an .svg file on a thumb drive, Inventables has a guide on how to import your SVG into Easel.
- Please ask the Maker Staff before bringing your own 1/4" or 1/8" shank bits to ensure safe operation of the CNC Router. Trimming or edge-forming bits cannot be used.
Tutorial
From the Makers
Maker Tutorial: CNC Router
X-Carve CNC Router FAQs
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To ensure consistent and reliable machining on our CNC machine, patrons are required to use the Easel software and are not allowed to import G-code directly. This serves several important purposes. By utilizing Easel, we can maintain a standardized machining process that optimizes settings and configurations specific to our machine, resulting in predictable and reliable outputs. Furthermore, our staff needs to review and validate the machining instructions to ensure safety and prevent any potential damage to the equipment or materials. The use of Easel enables our staff to review the design, offer efficient support, and provide valuable learning opportunities for patrons on file preparation and CNC machining techniques. This approach ensures a safer and more effective CNC machining experience for all patrons while maintaining the integrity of the equipment.
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You do not. You can create free Easel account to make a file using their simple design interface you can add text, simple shapes and clipart. Here's a quick tutorial on Easel. You simply login to your Easel account in the MakerSpace to get your job started.
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Yes, you can bring in your own 1/4" or 1/8" shank bits but please check in with staff to ensure safe operation of the CNC Router. Trim or Edge Forming bits can not be used.
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We recommend bringing material that is no larger than 48" x 24" x 4".
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Wood
- Hardwood
- MDF
- Plywood
- Softwood
Plastics
- ABS
- Delrin
- HDPE
Misc
- 6061 aluminum
- Corian
- Linoleum
- Machinable Wax
- Pink Rigid Foam Board
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There are several ways:
- We recommend that you create the file before you arrive. Create your own free Easel account to make a file using their simple design interface you can add text, simple shapes and clipart. Here's a quick tutorial on Easel. You simply login to your Easel account in the MakerSpace to get your job started.
Other options:
- Bring a vector design. If you already have the design, access it through the cloud or bring a USB. This article explains how to create SVGs that will work with Easel.
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Yes! We created an in-depth tutorial for our CNC router:
MakerSpace FAQs
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The Black & Veatch MakerSpace hours are slightly different than the Central Resource Library open hours. For up to date information about the MakerSpace, please visit the main MakerSpace page.
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The Black and Veatch MakerSpace is located at the Central Resource branch.
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You cannot create anything designed for or capable of causing harm, such as firearms, knives, swords, and other items that could be used to inflict injury or intimidate. If you’re unsure whether your project might fall under this rule, please ask a Maker staff member before starting. Library staff reserve the right to stop any print or job at their discretion if it is deemed unsafe, violates library policies, or is otherwise inappropriate.
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Questions? We're here for you.