CNC-Engraved Aluminum Nameplates

You asked for it! Switching away from my previous acid-etching technique, I'm now engraving my custom nameplates robotically!

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TOOLS FEATURED IN THIS VIDEO
▶ Inventables X-Carve: https://www.inventables.com/technolog...
▶ DeWalt 20V Max Drill & Driver Kit: http://amzn.to/2hLB64q
▶ Lacquer-Stik Black Fill-In Paint Marker: https://amzn.to/2IHjZCn
▶ 4-Inch Cotton Buffing Wheel: https://amzn.to/30pCbGb
▶ Pittsburgh 3/8" Letter/Number Stamping Set: http://amzn.to/2ikplCi
(More information down below.)

CNC DETAILS (UPDATED)
This is the updated procedure I follow now, which has changed somewhat since I published this video. Note: Your results may vary. If you have questions, please leave them in the comments. However, please understand I can't provide a lot of troubleshooting or technical support.

I'm carving 5052 aluminum in this video. I've also tried 6061, which tends to carve a little better, but I have yet to eliminate all the burring.

1. Engrave the lettering. I occasionally try a new bit, and the one I currently recommend is listed below.
▶ Triangular 60-degree V-bit: https://amzn.to/3iJK6J5
▶ Total Carve Depth: .003"
▶ Depth per Pass: .005" (This is the max. DPP I recommend for this bit, whatever the job.)
▶ Feed Rate: 45 ipm
▶ Plunge Rate: 30 ipm
2. Finish the surface with a light pass of the medium grade flap wheel, then a pass with the very fine grade. Don't press down, but let the wheels do the work. Working it too much can make the engraving too shallow. The following are a little pricey, but have lasted me a very long time.
▶ Abrasive Nylon Flap Wheel, Medium Grade: https://www.mcmaster.com/46735A44
▶ Abrasive Nylon Flap Wheel, Very Fine Grade: https://www.mcmaster.com/46735a43
3. Apply the lacquer stick. Note: Although I didn't show it in the video, I also follow it up with a light coat of Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Satin Clear Enamel to protect the lacquer fill.
▶ Lacquer-Stik Black Fill-In Paint Marker: https://amzn.to/2IHjZCn
4. Carve the holes using the helical end mill listed below.
▶ Kodiak Solid Carbide Helical End Mill for Aluminum: https://amzn.to/2vZo1xL
▶ Hole Diameter: .145" (for 1/8" rivets)
▶ Total Carve Depth: .045" (on .040" aluminum to ensure cutting through)
▶ Depth per Pass: .01"
▶ Feed Rate: 15 ipm
▶ Plunge Rate: 15 ipm
▶ Add ramp to toolpath: Spiral (Vectric VCarve setting)
5. Cut the nameplate profiles using the same end mill as in step 3.
▶ Total Carve Depth: .045" (on .040" aluminum to ensure cutting through)
▶ Depth per Pass: .01"
▶ Feed Rate: 30 ipm
▶ Plunge Rate: 30 ipm
▶ Add ramp to toolpath: Smooth, Distance .5" (Vectric VCarve setting)
6. Sand the edges.

SEE ALSO
▶ Acid-Etched Nameplates:    • Acid Etching Aluminum for Custom Name...  
▶ A Better, Stronger X-Carve:    • A Better, Stronger X-Carve, With an A...  

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