Is it time for a CNC Stupid Tax?

[indytruks138]

I think an additional help may be to have monthly or bi-weekly practice sessions where people who have completed the class but not yet tested out, or those who have passed their test but have no real experience can work with an experienced user. I think that will build some confidence and reinforce the correct procedures.
I am not an experienced member but once I have lots of projects and time on the machine under my belt I would be willing to help with this.

[Ian_Jaeger]

This deserves a second read as Tapper, like usual, is right on the money, and more eloquent than Me:

@Tapper

I’ve been looking at this a long time. A few observations with respect to spoilboard damage:

1. The most common cause, is failing to fully set the tool height after every single bit change. I have verified this with video. Typically, the user forgets both, or forgets to set maxZ.
2. Second most common, is setting the Z heights backwards (typically produces the really deep cut-throughs.) This is usually hitting the controller key for set MinZ (surface) twice.
3. It’s rarely the bit slipping. I does happen, but not often. It can be mostly eliminated by blowing all the dust out of the collect and nut, and cleaning any pine resin with blade cleaner or Simple Green. It does NOT require superhuman strength to tighten the nut effectively, and too much torque may damage the collet, nut, or (eek) the spindle itself. Cleaning must happen EVERY single time the nut is removed, without exception.

[Azalaket]

Bits slip because fine dust gets in between them and do not tighten properly. People often forget to blow them out to clear the dust and ensure the bit is secured. We teach it, but people are… people.