Maslow CNC Router

Manufacturer

Maslow (router frame, motors, controller Arduino hat)

MakerMade (ring articulation system)

Mill Forge Makerspace (frame & counterweight system)

Model

Maslow 1 (original)

Description

Spoilboard (frame) size: 4 ft x 8 ft

Cutting Area (approximate): 3 ft x 7 ft 

Router: Rigid R22002

Software: 

• WebControl CNC router control (on laptop next to the Maslow)
• Carbide Create Pro (needs pro license to export gcode for CNC control)
• MakerCAM  (Obsolete, but free. Runs Adobe Flash in Ruffle Flash emulator)

Notes/Tips

These basic settings will work for softwood (e.g., pine) and plywood. They are a little bit conservative. It’s possible to go a little faster or a little bit deeper (up to 1/4) per pass, depending on how rough an edge you’re willing to deal with.

• Plunge speed: 30 in/min
• Cutting speed: 30 in/min
• Depth per pass: 1/8 in (0.125″)
• Standard bit: 1/4 in x 1 in up-cutting flute
• Max cutting area: 6″ from edge of workpiece.
  If using a 4×8 sheet, this is approximately 3 ft x 7 ft of usable area. The router sled needs the extra space to keep level against the workpiece. You can expand the area by adding spoliboards along all edges of the piece, especially for smaller workpieces.

Use a dust collector or vacuum. The portable dust collector vacuum hose will fit the router.

This setup currently has no electronic controls for the vacuum or router power, so you’ll need to manually turn these on before cutting starts.

If using Carbide Create, you may need to remove instructions for tool changes at the beginning of the gcode file. Remove this section:

--------
M05
M0 ;T1
--------

You should also add a “G40” command to turn off cutter compensation.  

--------
G40
--------

If the USB or Arduino power cable is disconnected during cutting, the control board may lose track of where the router is, and you will need to reset the sprockets and chains using this procedure: 
https://webcontrolcnc.github.io/WebControl/Actions/Calibration-Setup/setSprocketsVertical.html

There are other tools available that can generate gCode for the Maslow CNC, including Makermade’s proprietary tool and plugins for FreeCAD and Inkscape. Feel free to play with them and find one that works for you.

Training Requirements

1. Read and understand manuals linked below
2. Read and understand OSHA guidelines for routers:
   https://www.osha.gov/etools/woodworking/production/machines-tools/routers 
3. Demonstrate basic skills & safety

Video

• Makermade Maslow CNC Overview

Manuals

• Carbide Create manual
• Webcontrol wiki
• Chain Maslow Manual