I was trying to work on some tool paths and my CAD/CAM software (BobCAD) crashed and managed to mangle the license file...
Fortunately I already had created the G-code programs and it didn't slow me down much. I placed a support call and got it resolved later in the afternoon.
The only casualty for today was a 3/16" x 1" long carbide endmill. I got a LOT of pretty deep cuts done with it and it was starting to get dull, so its time had come.
Here are some pictures of the process. The first one is setting the Z. This handy tool is stupid-simple. When the bit touches the spring-loaded top, the light goes on (duh). It is exactly 2" tall so you just set the DRO (Digital Readout) for Z to be 2". It is a lot easier and faster for me to do it this way than trying to see exactly when the bit touches the part and setting to 0. You can connect a wire to it and use it for the same purpose on non-conductive materials (plastic, wax, wood...). They cost about $100 but are well worth it. It uses a 1.5v flashlight bulb and a standard 357 watch battery. The other picture are the blocks I worked on today. The plan is to add a few more holes, engrave logos and assemble them tomorrow. I'm not saying what they are just yet...
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