CNC Milling Machine

Pendant Control

Power switch locations

THIS PAGE IS A WORK IN PROGRESS

About our machine

• Model: M3X CNC
• Table:
  • Length:
  • Depth:
• Vertical movement:
• Motor: Skyey 220V 3PH 8A
• Collet: R8 with a Kwik-Switch adapter
• Control Software: Mach3

This is a precision tool and must be used with great care. If this machine is experiencing problems, please contact the General Manager or Shop Manager right away.

Guides and Manuals

• CNC Bridgeport Start Up Procedure
• CNC Mill Technical Information - A doc researching the part and components of the machine itself.

BRIDGEPORT DO’S AND DON’TS

DO

• Ensure you have received training before performing an operation on this machine
• Use appropriate coolants and lubricants designed for machining
• Remove all tooling and extra fixtures used for your operations when you're done
• Check the collet and inside of spindle for loose chips to prevent damage to both
• Report any damage or broken tools right away so they can be fixed/replaced

DON’T

• Use water as a coolant without putting a rust-preventative in it like Kwikool
• Leave metal chips on the machine or on the floor
• Adjust or remove the vise, rotate the head, or modify the machine if you don’t know how the process to “tram” them back to square
• Forget to clean up and put tools back in their proper place
• Use endmills in the drill chuck

General Tips and Safety

• Wear safety glasses! Chips that come off are hot, and if your whole part comes off it will not be pretty.
• If you need a sharp endmill, you should have your own set. Our tools are shared use and are not always the sharpest.
• Clean and oil the machine's ways and surfaces when you are done
• DO NOT USED COMPRESSED AIR TO CLEAN
• DO NOT USE WATER AS A COOLANT. Water will rust the precision metal surfaces, making them not precision anymore. Use a rust-preventing additive like Kool Mist.

Programming GCode for this machine:

• Feeds and speeds: This machine is not as fast as a CNC Router, so keep speeds low.
• Use ramping when possible instead of direct plunge cuts.

Additional Reading

• M3X CNC Automation – see Artisian Asylum website: https://wiki.artisansasylum.com/wiki/M3X_CNC_Milling_Machine
• Bridgeport Sharp – possible manual: https://me.berkeley.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Sharp-Vertical-Mill-Manual.pdf
• Quill Feed Programming Manual (from Artisian Asylum website): CNC_Accupath_M3X_Operator_Programming_Guide.PDF (saved on downloads)