Newbie question…what is this used for?
http://www.goodluckbuy.com/hongyang-cnc-automatic-platen-device-for-65mm-engraving-machine-spindle-.html
Flattens the work piece during engraving. Engraving is not very deep. So height variations in the stock would cause issues in thin material.
OK, that makes sense. Thanks for the info.
Are they actually useful? Or is it just an unnecessary luxury?
I am not sure it use for ‘flatening’, Eric. When engraving, the X/Y axes are moving so, this device will have to rub on the piece surface… For this purpose i’d choose a Z axis leveler, which is a piece of software which is very efficient and can compensate.
That tool should have small metal balls on the bottom surface so it won’t scratch the material. I think it will be more useful for CNC cutting with a knife because when you use drag-knife the material tends to lift. But I guess it will be pretty useful when cutting thin material (e.g. 2mm thick) because I have to use two sticks to hold the material down right now.
you’re right, Max, it is much more plausibil.
@Alex_Paverman flattening the stock down is exactly what it is for. Do a quick search on Aliepress for “floating spindle platten” or “CNC automatic pressure foot”. Then read the item descriptions:
"Automatic Pressure Foot for CNC Router
Model: spindle diameter 100mm/80mm/65mm
Fix the pressure foot on the cnc router spindle, so pressure foot move with the spindle, and press on the workpiece automatically, keep the workpiece not move up and down. Make the carving precision accurate, the carving product 100% qualified. No need people to press on the workpiece any more, save labor and good to health.
Applications:
Suitable for any kinds of Acrylic, thin aluminum board, plastic board, PVC board, EVA board, double color board,MDF board, etc, especially for panels within 10mm thickness.
Features:
Material: Stainless steel, Aluminum
Diameter: 80mm
Outline square: 112*100mm
Bottom circle diameter: 49mm
Flexible distance: 27mm
Bottom is the rolling balls, you just need to inject grease into it to lubricate it periodically."