CNC Plasma Cutting

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CNC Plasma Cutting: Generating Drawings and Toolpaths in Fusion360 for ShopSabre

Introduction

CNC plasma cutting is a widely used method for cutting metal sheets using a high-temperature plasma jet. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to generate 2D drawings, create toolpaths using Autodesk Fusion 360, and post-process these designs for cutting on a ShopSabre CNC plasma cutter.

Step 1: Generating Drawings in Fusion360

  1. Open Fusion360:
  - Launch the Fusion360 application and create a new design by selecting "File" > "New Design".
  1. Create a New Sketch:
  - Click on "Create Sketch" in the toolbar.
  - Choose the plane (e.g., XY Plane) where you want to create your design.
  1. Design Your Part:
  - Use the sketching tools available (Line, Circle, Rectangle, Arc, etc.) to create your desired shapes.
  - Ensure that your sketch is fully constrained by applying dimensions and geometric constraints for precision.
  1. Finish the Sketch:
  - Click "Finish Sketch" in the toolbar once your design is complete.

Step 2: Creating Toolpaths in Fusion360

  1. Switch to the Manufacture Workspace:
  - In the upper-left corner of the interface, click on the workspace dropdown and select "Manufacture".
  1. Set Up the Job:
  - Click on "Setup", then "New Setup".
  - Choose the operation type as "Cutting", and configure the Work Coordinate System (WCS) according to your ShopSabre CNC machine setup.
  1. Define Stock Material:
  - Specify the dimensions of the stock material you will be cutting. Create a bounding box that represents the material dimensions.
  1. Create Toolpath:
  - Select "2D" from the toolpath options and choose "2D Profile".
  - Click on the edges of the sketch that you want to cut.
  1. Set Toolpath Parameters:
  - Choose a suitable cutting tool for plasma cutting, ensuring that the settings match your plasma cutter's specifications.
  - Define parameters such as Cutting Speed, Feed Rate, Pierce Height (the height at which the torch pierces the material), and Cut Height.
  - Adjust Lead-in and Lead-out settings to enhance cut quality and minimize dross.
  1. Simulate the Toolpath:
  - Use the simulation feature to preview the cutting process, ensuring there are no potential collisions or errors.

Step 3: Post-Processing for ShopSabre CNC Plasma Cutter

  1. Select the Post Processor:
  - In the toolbar, click on "Post Process".
  - From the drop-down menu, select the appropriate post-processor for the ShopSabre CNC plasma cutter (typically a .cps file).
  1. Configure Post Processing Settings:
  - Adjust any additional settings in the post-processor to align with your ShopSabre requirements.
  1. Generate G-Code:
  - Click "Post" to create the G-code file.
  - Save the G-code file to a location accessible by your ShopSabre CNC cutter, such as a USB drive or a designated project folder.

Step 4: Preparing and Cutting on the ShopSabre CNC Plasma Cutter

  1. Machine Setup:
  - Secure the material to the CNC plasma cutter bed, ensuring it is flat and stable.
  - Check that the plasma cutter settings (gas type, pressure, and cutting height) are appropriate for the material you are using.
  1. Load G-Code:
  - Access the ShopSabre CNC controller interface and load the G-code file generated from Fusion 360.
  - Ensure the file loads without errors.
  1. Perform a Dry Run:
  - If possible, execute a dry run of the toolpath without activating the plasma torch. This allows you to confirm the path is correct and free of obstructions.
  1. Initiate the Cutting Process:
  - Once the dry run is confirmed, start the cutting program. Monitor the process closely for any unexpected behavior.
  1. Post-Cutting Procedures:
  - After cutting is complete, allow the material to cool before handling.
  - Inspect the cut parts for accuracy and quality, ensuring they meet the desired specifications.

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