3018 CNC Beginners Guide

[@curtismateja1604]

I also have a 3018 and have been having tons of issues getting it carving, properly that is. I’ve had it for almost a year and still haven’t completed a carve correctly. I use freecad and easel for designs, but the issue I’m having is the designs are coming out much larger than initially designed. If you have any pointers I would greatly appreciate it. Close to giving up on this machine.

[@CarbonCoil]

Check to make sure that you are using the correct measurement unit. Easel might be set to inches if you are trying to use millimeters. Other than this, I haven't ran into a size problem before. I'll pin the comment, and maybe someone else has some experience with this.

[@terra54]

Mayby a bit late, but a problem like that could be related to youre E-Steps. If thats the case then the firmware may do 30 Steps for 10mm even though the correct value would be 20 (Just some random numbers). So in that case the 3018 will carve 15mm if you specify 10mm in software. If this is youre issue you have to use this formula to calculate the correct values. New-ESteps= (Current-ESteps x (requested Distance / actual Distance)).

[@pablo0713ftw]

After spending a full day, without success, of trying to get my cnc to work with Fusion 360, I was up and carving within 20 minutes of watching your video. Thank you!

[@BrunoSeverin]

Thank You! Thank You! Thank You! Just beginning. Bought the machine, put it together. Then found myself with a ton of questions! You helped me a LOT!

[@ReplicateReality]

This is the kind of video that keeps me excited about youtube and projects

[@jameslockwood5113]

I just bought my first cnc machine… I’ve been looking for a beginner video - THANK YOU!

[@johngilbert3650]

Very good video. New cnc enthusiast, and your video has supplied me with a path to follow. Thanks

[@moodymysta]

very helpful thanks buddy i shall be following you from now on!

[@bami2]

The flipped plastic bin enclosure is genius

[@CarbonCoil]

Thank you! It's a very cheap and accessible solution. Thankfully I built something more clear to film through for my more recent videos though.

[@mickejones9368]

Hi l am a complete beginner to cnc I won a cnc3_3018 pro machine and l am looking forward to using it l love your vids and l am looking forward to watching more so thank you

[@thomasruwart1722]

Liked! Subscribed! Thanks for making these videos!

[@ajaybnl]

I got my 3018 today. Assembling it, Its made of 2020 Aluminum fully. I have a spare spindle motor like you. I think it will be good for this cnc.

[@learhodes942]

Great video looking forward to seeing more. Thank You

[@SarmadAlraed]

subscribed , very useful video and easy to learn. thank you very much.

[@Abzman73]

Excellent video. Thanks

[@hansdegroot8549]

Great video. Thanks for sharing.

[@Emili07411]

I don’t even have a cnc but this was still an interesting video.Great work! keep it up!

[@CarbonCoil]

Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@Emili07411]

(I’m emi btw)

[@jamesbunda3406]

I subscribed before watching hope it’s good! I think it will be good job.

[@CarbonCoil]

Thank you!

[@creativema862]

nice video,i'm from morroco.

[@LeadDennis]

Thank you, I subscribed.

[@timothywalker277]

Hi. Thanks for this video. I have an opportunity to purchase a used one, locally, but the seller isn't willing to talk about the machine or show me things that he has done with it. 🤨 If i understand correctly, the actual cutting area is 300mm x 180mm? For my projects, i would want to be able to cut 300mm x 300mm, or at least close to that. Is it possible to split a cut? Thanks, Tim

[@CarbonCoil]

Hi Tim! Yes, the cutting area is 30cm x 18cm. It's possible to split carvings and projects into multiple pieces but it's probably difficult to line everything up. If you buy a machine that is Sainsmart / Genmitsu brand, they often have extension kits available. (Other brands might have extension kits available too). For example, I turned my 30x20cm machine into a 30x40cm machine with a $70 kit.

[@Noergi3255]

Finaly i got it 😁👍👍

[@Iggyshere]

I like to draw for a hobby. I am interested how I may engrave what I have created on a drawing sketch.

[@CarbonCoil]

You can take a picture of the drawing and import it into Easel as an image!

[@abuomardontadd2865]

hi thanks a lot i followed your steps step by step all are ok but the bitt did not turn on i checked it by using pcb design it was ok but on easel it did turn on , all x,y,z directions are working

[@CarbonCoil]

During the setup there is an option to select if your spindle is manual or automatic, this should be set to automatic if you have a standard 3018 CNC machine with no upgraded spindle

[@abuomardontadd2865]

@@CarbonCoil thanks again it worked

[@leivovedale2716]

What speed are you using (full speed on the potensiometer)?

[@CarbonCoil]

I’m not sure what the top speed is because I don’t have a tachometer, but I’d guess around 12,000 RPM

[@omarhalabi4822]

Can use to cut foam?

[@CarbonCoil]

Yes, this router should be able to cut foam.

[@MozarellaMuffin]

That Video would make good for an Ad for your Software ;)

[@CarbonCoil]

If only Inventables had sponsored me for this one :D

[@villemerisalo9957]

My cnc is about to arrive and I am very excited. Can I make my carvings more accurate if my depth per pass is very low? I am not in a rush, I could wait for even 2x longer per project.

[@CarbonCoil]

Yes, a shallower depth of pass will reduce chatter, and in turn increase dimensional accuracy. Let me know how your first carvings go!

[@buxtor]

Oh wow! Native Easel carving! Which controller board do you use? I've asked this question before on other platforms and got zero usable answers. The one that came with my machine is only on one other video and I had to just stumble on it. Apparently it's the stock board that ships on the Banggood generic, cheapest clone. Also, on your previous video, when your spindle took the 'plunge of death', researching this same problem with mine, the useful tips were that 1.) The stepper drivers are overheating. (Placed a small fan on the board) 2.) The wires to and from the board aren't insulated enough. With mine, I installed an aftermarket spindle potentiometer and used poorly insulated wires and butt connectors, which look to be just covered with plastic. Removing this solved the problem (pretty much), i.e. my machine would just, out a the blue, start moving. Thought I was gonna need an exorcist to get it to stop! It's only done this a couple times since adding the fan and removing the pot. Don't worry about the spoilboard, bro. You should get a look at mine! It's pretty gruesome! Consider adding and emailing me! I'm an old dude, but have loads of time to discuss these 3018 machines, and OBTW, you 3D printed the same spindle mount I chose, but my motor O.D. was still 44mm, v 52. Quick sleeve printed and she was up and running.

[@CarbonCoil]

I'm not really sure what model board it is. It was a generic model (probably a cheap clone) that shipped with my machine and has no obvious model number markings on it. As for the spindle's plunge of death, I reviewed the footage and I think that my spindle holder was too loose. The spindle just pulled itself out of the holder. Make sure to tighten it regularly!

[@AlecSilke]

Thank you I am just starting out I want to make stamps for my dry clay projects. I want to stamp various quotes on to clay. How detailed can you go with a router like this? Some of the text needs to be small, I am planning to use acrylic so I can position the stamps on the clay. Do I need a specific bit? Once more thanks for your video it was very helpful especially as I am not that technical 😅😅

[@CarbonCoil]

That sounds like a great idea! The level of detail mostly depends on the size of the end mill / engraving bit. I have consistently and reliably carved pretty fine details. The level of detail I've gotten on wood can be seen in my "Mothers Day CNC Wood Carving Project" video, (kzbin.info/www/bejne/oH3Op6pnmtWMbLM) but I think I could make even smaller designs if I was carving materials such as plastic or acrylic. For milling acrylic, I would suggest a single flute end mill for cutting and a V-bit for engraving. You can probably find a few websites going into more detail on how to cut and engrave acrylic with a quick google search. Thanks for watching the videos and supporting the channel. Hope this helps!

[@tnz96]

Hey thanks! but how does our machine called? because i need to choose the machine starting the project?

[@CarbonCoil]

The machine is a generic GRBL-controlled 3018 CNC

[@saufdenkamp]

Wow, nice explanation. searched all over to find a real good one. Do you have any suggestions on how to cut vinyl records. I mean what speed, which bits etc..... All my tries resulted in melted vinyl around the bits......... Thanks,

[@CarbonCoil]

If you are melting the vinyl then you are probably spinning the bit too fast, and/or your feed rate is too slow. When things melt, it's usually because the bit is rubbing against the material as opposed to cutting through it. I believe I also have a video on my channel about cutting plastic with this same machine.

[@kidklassic]

Subscribed!

[@yuriy5459]

Is it possible to use it for leather?

[@CarbonCoil]

Yes, it's possible to engrave leather with this machine.

[@brandonbarthel3739]

i just got one of these 3018 pro 3 axis cnc machine and got easel but cant get my machine to connect.

[@CarbonCoil]

Have you made sure to install the easel driver on your computer? If you’re still having issues, please feel free to send me an email with a video of the procedure you’re following!

[@brandonbarthel3739]

@ I’m pretty sure it’s installed. But when I make a design there’s like no start to carve option

[@tamiwayman4008]

Thank you. Have a question. How do you know what all the bits are as far as size and kind so you know what one to use? Thank you.

[@CarbonCoil]

Usually information on the type and size of the bit is listed when you buy it. Otherwise, there are many good videos on KZbin explaining the different types of end mills. Here's an example: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kJC2g3ivoNyKjtU Hope this helps!

[@hamadaali5687]

Wow amazing video. Can I apply the same method on acrylic? Thanks in advance:)

[@CarbonCoil]

Yep, acrylic and other plastics should be the same. However, instead of cutting the shape out with the end mill I used, I would suggest a single flute end mill for plastics and acrylic.

[@mobboss715]

Do you have the link to the USB cord?

[@haotln323]

it was all woking until the last step, the sprindle was't on and I checked there is no switch or button that can turn on the sprindle. any help would be appreciate it

[@haotln323]

well, guess I did not pay attension to settings. got it woking under one hou watching your video. thanks

[@CarbonCoil]

@@haotln323 I'm glad you figured it out! Let me know what you think of the machine in general

[@ryankatigbak4926]

Hello Sir, Im a beginner in portable cnc machine, I like to use Easel it is very easy in cnc tutorial video. My question is The EASEL SOFTWARE is Compatible in any brand of portable cnc machine?

[@CarbonCoil]

It should be compatible with most 3018 CNC machines, as long as they run on a GRBL compatible controller. There should be options in the setup process that let you configure different machines.

[@fatgrubman645]

What wood did you use in this video ? I recently got a similar CNC 3018 but i tried to cut/engrave pine with it and it really struggled (plus looked bad at the end)

[@Justincase4242]

What is the best laptop for running the program for the 3018 pro cnc machine

[@CarbonCoil]

Since Easel is a program that runs in a browser, and isn't very intensive, really any laptop should work. (Although I wouldn't suggest running it from a Chromebook)

[@ramialmalik4255]

Hey, I’m facing some difficulties of using the same machine to cut cast acrylic material, I’m not sure if I’m using the proper bit too, it would be appreciated if can simulate an acrylic cut and advise on the pit type to be used. Thanks

[@CarbonCoil]

Are you trying to cut all the way through or just engrave into the acrylic? (If you are doing engraving, a V-bit like shown in the video will work alright) If however you are trying to cut all the way through, I suggest using a single flute end mill. (Thats what I use to cut plastics and acrylic, like shown in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mZO0Yo2cm6p1orc) What bit are you currently using?

[@abuomardontadd2865]

in my first try in easel i got reversed text which can be shown by mirror only any advise for this please

[@abuomardontadd2865]

thanks again but i got i reverse text (mirror type ) how can i correct it

[@CarbonCoil]

One of your axis might have been switched around during setup, try flipping the axis that moves the build plate

[@sneeuwwolf1176]

Nice👍

[@CarbonCoil]

Thank you, Cheers!

[@gilbertoaristizabal7694]

Hi men.. very interesting your video.. I am wondering if you can upload a video to how calibrate the X,Y,Z axis to Zero point... Thanks....

[@CarbonCoil]

The zero point for Easel is at the close bottom left corner of the stock material on the surface. In easel you just use the jog feature ("left, right, forward, back, up, down" buttons) to move the end mill to this place. Then you click set zero point and that will zero the machine. If this is unclear, just let me know and I can include a small segment on how to do this in my next video. Thanks for the feedback!

[@Story-cu9eb]

@@CarbonCoil hi Ineed this viedo for xyz think you

[@michaeltapavica9596]

Sent the first unit back as it had no CD program to install on my computer. I then ordered a replacement. The second unit was ALSO missing the CD !!!

[@CarbonCoil]

Some machines might not come with software. If you're referring to the candle software you should be able to download that for free off the internet. Alternativley easel is also available for free online.

[@iwangcha1251]

Thankyouu

[@CarbonCoil]

No problem! 😊

[@patmanning6056]

How/where do I get the software for my S3018 Pro?

[@hadam4131]

Hello! I really like your channel. Can I have a question pls? Without the spindle boost, can I carving hard and solid woods like walnut etc with this machine? The original motor is weak?

[@CarbonCoil]

Yes, the original motor should be able to carve walnut and other hard wood. Thanks for supporting the channel by watching the videos!

[@hadam4131]

@@CarbonCoil Yeah, but I am afraid that is slower, and the max deepness carving is around 5mm, right?

[@CarbonCoil]

@@hadam4131 It will be slightly slower than with a 500W spindle, but in terms of depth, you can carve as deep as you want. Each cut just has to be made in multiple passes.

[@hadam4131]

@@CarbonCoil First of all, you are very kind person that you care about me and you reply to me. Honestly, I really love this model and I could buy it at a good price. It is calming if you say that I can carve deeper as I want. I was frustrated because at the model description I saw max deepness of 5 mm. I also didn't understand it. Actually, I also see data of the scope of work: 300mmX180mmX40mm. And what is the max diameter of the product what can I make? Can I make for example 300mm round relief picture? Or just 300mmX180mm rectangle/ and 180mm round form. Thank four your response. Adam.

[@CarbonCoil]

@@hadam4131 Since the platform is 300mm by 180mm, the maximum size of a circle that would fit would be 180mm in diameter. (Or a 300 X 180 rectangle). I would however stick to something slightly smaller to make sure you can clamp down the project to the bed of the cnc. Also I'm assuming your talking about 2D relief carvings like the ones I showed in this video, correct?

[@photomaxdigital]

Can it make rubber stamp?

[@CarbonCoil]

I've never tried it but it should be possible with a fine enough end mill

[@photomaxdigital]

@@CarbonCoil Please, Create a video for making rubber stamp with this machine.

[@AndrewFalgout]

Subbed and +1 thumbs up

[@CadiV]

What’s the thickness of the wood you’re cutting?

[@CarbonCoil]

It's about 3/4"

[@Delbhoy5150]

This is great! Now if I can just get my 3018 to be seen by Easel.

[@CarbonCoil]

If you're on a windows machine, you can go to device manager and find what COM port your machine is on. Then manually enter that into easel after installing the driver. If you can't figure out how to do this, I can write up some more specific instructions on how to do it, just let me know.

[@darylpledger5284]

Are there anymore free programs other than easel , because you can only use it for 30 days for free and then they want you to pay for it, I don’t know how everyone else feels but I’m disabled and live on a fixed income and can’t afford it on a monthly basis

[@CarbonCoil]

There is both a free and pro version of easel. You should be able to use the free version forever (although I haven't used it in a while so this might have changed). The only other program I use is fusion360 which should also be free for hobbyists, and there's also a free educational license if someone you know has a valid student ID

[@ChesuMori]

Tried to follow this tutorial. The test file that Easel had me carve was supposed to be 1/32" deep, just some simple text. What it DID was gouge out a couple large chunks from the the bottom of the piece of wood, about a quarter inch deep, then move around in the air about half an inch above the wood's surface. I can't even begin to imagine what it was trying to do. There should be no point at which the depth is different, and it should know that its starting position is the bottom-left corner, with the bit as close to the material as possible without touching it... so what exactly is it trying to do?

[@CarbonCoil]

It's possible that the axis aren't set correctly. During the setup in Easel there should be a panel that asks to confirm that all of the axis are moving correctly. The problem could be caused if two or more of the axis are swapped. When Easel thinks its telling your machine to move the bit left, it's moving down on the machine etc. Make sure each axis is set up and then moving correctly with the jog tool. Alternativley the zero point could have been set incorrectly. If you can't figure out what's wrong, shoot me an email at [e-mail] with some pictures / videos and I can try to help you troubleshoot.

[@nightofhopemd]

Great work! I noticed how you carved a triangle as the outline of the ornament. Can the CNC support more intricate outlines?

[@CarbonCoil]

For sure, if it can be designed in Easel, the CNC can most likely make it. To get more complex shapes however, one would need to use the image conversion tool to import a picture of the more complex shape, or use designs from their design library.

[@RisingSunSerpents-Jesus]

My 3018 isn't recognized on my computer help

[@hussaindashti5369]

1000 like 👍🏼

[@CarbonCoil]

🥳

[@user-wr8go9ee2n]

Informative.. Good video. Dump the music though. It's distracting

[@matthiashein959]

😀

[@piquef]

Thank you for this helpful video. I found your commentary excellent, but frankly it was hard for me to concentrate on what you were saying because of the music sound track, which was really loud and, I think, unnecessary. I would subscribe if you have other videos without the accompanying music!😊

[@CarbonCoil]

Thank you for your feedback! I’ll keep this in mind for my future videos.

[@jamescullins2709]

Your music is too high. I prefer no music, I can hear you much better.

[@MCircuits]

One suggestion..........INSTEAD of BUYING a 3018 CNC...build your own..way better, you can easily upgrade parts the way you needed them.

[@fredmandery8620]

If you do more videos,would you mind not putting in the obnoxious background noise that drowns out the narration? Thanks.

[@wolfrobots118]

Good video except for that HIGHLY DISTRACTING MUSIC IN THE BACKGROUND. Why distract from your great narration. No need for that music.

[@CarbonCoil]

Will keep in mind for my next video, thanks!

[@testingbeta7169]

no need to background music, it just distracts

[@thehighwayman78]

Great video, annoying music ;)

[@davidgruty]

Great video, awful music

[@CarbonCoil]

Will keep in mind, thank you!