CNC Lathe

Learn the essentials of the CNC (computerized numerical control) lathe and how to safety operate it. Then cut some metal!

Meeting Times

Sat, 3/16/2024 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Sun, 3/17/2024 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Sat, 3/16/2024 - Sun, 3/17/2024

Closed

See additional date options »

About

On the first day, learn the essentials of BARN’s CNC lathe, and techniques for safe operations. We’ll cover CNC lathe basics beginning with the details of the machine and understanding lathe motion on the Z and X axes. We'll also cover selecting and establishing part-zeros, various cutting tools in the tool library, and Diameter- and Z-offsets.

On the second day, we'll spend the morning learning Fusion 360's CAM (computer aided manufacturing) tools to generate G-code (the language that instructs the CNC machine what to do and where to do it). These skills are essential in machining complex parts beyond what one could achieve on a manual lathe. After lunch break, we’ll load a model created by one of the students into Fusion 360, examine and prove the CAM setup and G-code, cut some air, and then cut some metal.

Details

If you have a model (Fusion .F3D, or .STEP files) you're interested in working from, please bring it on a thumb drive.

Materials

The $5 materials fee included in the cost of the class covers what is needed.

Prerequisites

Machine Shop Orientation
Make a Bolt (or the ability to demonstrate competency on either manual lathe)
Centroid CNC

Class Policies

Ages 14 and up are welcome.

BARN Policies

View BARN's Cancellation and Refund Policy
View BARN's current COVID-19 health and safety protocols.
BARN is committed to accessibility. Tuition Assistance is available. Fill out the application before registering.
Makerspaces like BARN can be noisy and cluttered, smell strongly, and have bright or flickering lights. We try to make accommodations when requested; the earlier you contact us, the more likely we can help. Please email accessibility@bainbridgebarn.org to find out more or request an accommodation.
For those who might need physical assistance, learn more about BARN's Companion Program.

Instructors or Guides

Eli Backer

Eli Backer is an artist, composer, and engineer who works in a wide range of media and is constantly making. A Bainbridge native, she holds a master's degree in glass from the Rhode Island School of Design, and a bachelor's in computer engineering from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. Her work can be found in the Cynthia Sears Artist’s Books Collection at the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, at the Center for Book Arts in NYC, and at the Fleet Library in Providence, R.I. She finds setting type and working with the presses quite meditative.