The Nomad 3 is a powerful and easy-to-use CNC (Computer Numerical Control) milling machine designed for precision cutting and machining of various materials. It is a desktop-sized device, making it suitable for a range of users from hobbyists to professionals.
Function Description:
The Nomad 3's primary function is to accurately cut and engrave designs into different materials based on digital models. It operates by executing G-code, a programming language that dictates the machine's movements, tool selection, and cutting parameters. Users create these digital designs and toolpaths using CAD (Computer Aided Design) and CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) software, such as Carbide Create for 2D milling or MeshCAM for 3D milling. The machine's rigid frame and powerful spindle allow it to handle a variety of materials, including hardwoods, softwoods, plastics, synthetics, composites, and non-ferrous metals like aluminum, brass, and copper. It can perform different types of cuts, including inside cuts, outside cuts, pocketing, and engraving, by offsetting the cutter to the inside or outside of a feature, clearing material within a feature, or cutting directly on a line, respectively.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Cutting Area: 8" (X) x 8" (Y) x 3" (Z). This defines the maximum dimensions of the material that can be machined.
- Spindle: 130W DC brushless spindle with a maximum speed of 24,000 RPM. The powerful spindle and angular contact bearings contribute to greater rigidity and cutting capability.
- Collet: Comes with a 1/8" ER-11 collet, capable of holding any 1/8" diameter cutter. Additional ER-11 collets can be purchased for different diameter cutters.
- Weight: Approximately 70 lbs.
- Software Compatibility: Controlled by Carbide Motion software. Toolpaths are generated using Carbide Create (for 2D) or MeshCAM (for 3D). Alibre Workshop is also mentioned as a 3D CAD/CAM program compatible with the Nomad 3.
- Connectivity: USB cable to connect to a computer.
- Safety Features:
- Interlock: The machine features an interlock system that pauses the project and moves the spindle to a parked position if the protective door is opened while the spindle is running.
- Protective Enclosure: The enclosure and acrylic door contain mess and protect the user from broken cutters and flying stock.
- Emergency Stop: The power switch on the front of the machine serves as an immediate shut-off in case of an emergency.
- BitSetter: An automatic tool offset probe that measures the length of each tool, simplifying tool changes and ensuring accurate Z-axis zeroing.
- BitZero V2: A low-profile touch probe designed for setting job zero on the stock material.
Usage Features:
- Getting Started: The manual provides a step-by-step guide for unpacking, connecting, and homing the Nomad 3. It includes instructions for installing the wasteboard, collet, nut, and probing pin.
- Starter Project: A dedicated tutorial on the Carbide 3D website guides users through creating a tool organizer tray, covering toolpath creation in Carbide Create, G-code export, end mill installation, BitZero V2 usage for job zero, and securing material.
- Workholding Options: Various methods are available to secure material to the machine's table, including:
- Double-sided tape (included in the kit, refills available).
- Low-profile vise (2" wide x 8" long, max clamping width 6.5").
- Tiger Claw Clamps (low-profile stainless-steel clamps with over 15mm lateral travel, available in standard and compact sizes).
- Gator Tooth Clamps (ultra-low-profile, for use as backstop, side clamp, or toe clamp, with over 30mm lateral travel).
- Lock Stops (low-profile stainless-steel stops for use with Tiger Claw or Gator Tooth Clamps).
- Nomad Threaded Table (1/2" thick aluminum replacement table with over fifty M6 x 1 threaded holes for clamping options).
- Machinable Fixturing Wax (available in two strengths, for holding thin metal without clamps).
- Super Hold Kit (combination of tape and glue with accelerator for securing thin stock).
- End Mill Types: The guide details different end mill types and their applications:
- Square End Mills: For flat-bottom surfaces, 2D and 2.5D parts.
- Ball Nose Mills: For contoured or organic shapes, creating scallops.
- V-Bit End Mills (Engraving): V-shaped cutters for V-carving designs, capable of fine and wide details.
- PCB Engraving End Mills: Designed for removing thin layers of copper on PCB boards.
- Material Compatibility: The Nomad 3 can cut a wide range of materials, including hardwoods (maple, oak, walnut), softwoods (pine, cedar), plastics (ABS, Delrin, acrylic, HDPE), synthetics (Renshape, machinable wax, linoleum), and metals (copper, brass, aluminum, sterling silver). With coolants, it can also machine harder metals like titanium and steel alloys.
- Job Zero Setting: The BitZero V2 probe simplifies setting job zero (the starting point for the machine's operations) by automatically detecting the stock's corner.
- Tool Changes: The BitSetter automatically measures new tool lengths during multi-tool jobs, eliminating manual Z-axis re-zeroing.
- Community and Resources: Users are encouraged to join the Carbide 3D Community for discussions, project inspiration, and support. CutRocket is a project sharing site for exploring and downloading cutting projects. Carbide 3D also provides tutorials and videos on their website and YouTube channel.
Maintenance Features:
- Lubrication: Regular lubrication of the X-, Y-, and Z-axes is crucial. The X- and Y-axis rails should be lubricated approximately every 50 hours of machining, and the Z-axis every 6 months. Super Lube synthetic oil is recommended.
- Cleaning:
- End mills and collets should be cleaned of milling debris using a suitable solvent like isopropyl alcohol, ensuring complete evaporation before reuse.
- The machine's work area should be vacuumed and kept clear of waste after each job.
- Inspection:
- Before each use, check that all screws are tight, rails are in good condition (no nicks or damage), and wiring is secure and undamaged.
- Examine end mills for sharpness and good condition (no chips) before installation.
- Wasteboard Replacement: Replacement MDF wasteboards are available from Carbide 3D, ensuring the aluminum table remains protected from accidental cuts.
- Maintenance Log: A provided log allows users to track project details, material used, dimensions, fixture, setup notes, safety checks, machine condition, maintenance performed (lubrication), and tool chain information (end mill, RPM, feed rate, cutter time). This helps in monitoring machine usage and scheduling maintenance.
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