Week summary
Teamwork allowed us to meet in different locations and use the CNC tool at one of Fab Lab Lima's mobile labs. We also met with Silvana Espinozza, who provided support in using the mobile Fab Lab's CNC machine, helping us resolve some questions that arose during the process.
As a team, we actively collaborated to understand the PCB production process. We explored how to properly prepare design files, generate toolpaths, and configure the CNC milling machine for both trace milling and board cutting.
During the process, we tested different parameters, such as depth of cut, feed rate, and tool selection, with the goal of achieving clean and precise milling of the printed circuit board. These tests allowed us to identify the appropriate settings and avoid common problems, such as incomplete traces or board damage.
Through this collaborative work, we gained a better understanding of the entire PCB manufacturing flow, recognizing how small adjustments to parameters can significantly influence the final result.
This experience was fundamental in strengthening our knowledge and ensuring the success of our individual PCB designs.
Quick data
- Topic: Electronics Production
- Student: Carmen Elena Gutierrez Apolinario ,David Avila Pimentel ,Esteban Miguel Valladares Granda ,Jennifer Wong ,Jianfranco Bazan ,Mario Chong ,Rocio Milagros Maravi Aguilar,Cindy Crispin
- Software:FlatCAM
- Machine / Process:TWO TREES ROUTER CNC TTC3018 PRO
Group assignment:
- Characterize the design rules for your in-house PCB production process: document the settings for your machine.
- Document the workflow for sending a PCB to a boardhouse.
- Document your work to the group work page and reflect on your individual page what you learned.
Learning outcomes
- Describe the process of tool-path generation, milling/laser engraving, stuffing, de-bugging and programming.
- Demonstrate correct workflows and identify areas for improvement if required.
Team or authors
Use this block only if the week has group work.
- Carmen Elena Gutierrez Apolinario
- Garce Schwan Silva
- David Avila Pimentel
- Esteban Miguel Valladares Granda
- Jennifer Wong
- Jianfranco Bazan
- Mario Chong
- Rocio Milagros Maravi Aguilar
- Cindy Marilyn Crispin
group work
Introduction To Electronic Production
Professor Roberto Delgado conducted a virtual introduction to printed circuit boards (PCBs), covering materials and manufacturing methods. He also explained the soldering process, the materials and equipment used, and the necessary safety procedures for these activities.
This information was fundamental to the group project, as it allowed us to understand the characteristics of the machines and receive practical recommendations based on his experience. We also learned about the manufacturing process using MODS and how to identify common problems, such as poor or incorrect soldering.
Finally, the importance of safety during the soldering process was reinforced, highlighting best practices to avoid risks and improve the quality of the work.
Introduction to Printed Circuit Boards
JLCPCB – PCB Ordering Process
1. Open the page
Go to https://jlcpcb.com
If you want, log in (it is not required to get a quote, but it is required to place an order).
2. Go to Quote
Click on "Quote Now" or "Quote PCB".
You will see a screen like the one in your image.
3. Upload Gerber file
Click on the blue "Add Gerber file" button.
- It must be a ZIP file (recommended).
- It contains the Gerber files exported from KiCad, Eagle, etc.
- Wait a few seconds for the design to load automatically.
4. Configure your PCB
After uploading the file, review and adjust the parameters.
Basic parameters
- Size: Automatically detected
- Layers: 1 or 2
- Base material: FR-4
- Thickness: 1.6 mm
- Color: Green, red, black, etc.
- Quantity: Example 5
Additional options
- Surface Finish: HASL
- Via Covering: Default
- Silkscreen: White or black
- Special options: Not required for beginners
5. View the quote
- Base price
- Manufacturing time
- Additional costs
6. Calculate shipping
- Click on "Save to Cart"
- Go to the cart
- Enter your address
- Choose shipping method
7. Review and order
- Preview your PCB
- Check layers carefully
- Proceed to Checkout and Pay
Important Tips
- Upload ZIP files
- Check tracks and drills
- Use 3D preview
- Use default settings if beginner
Complete workflow summary
- Export Gerber
- Upload ZIP
- Review parameters
- View price
- Add to cart
- Choose shipping
- Pay
Evidence Gallery
Ordering Process.
Upload Gerber file .
Calculate shipping.
TWO TREES ROUTER CNC TTC3018PRO
TTC3018PRO
Tests on the milling machine
To perform the tests on the CNC machine, we began by using the sample file provided in class. Then, we used FlatCAM software to import the image and verify that the file had been loaded correctly.
Once imported, we proceeded to configure the tool. In this case, we selected a 0.1 mm V-shaped end mill with a 30° angle. Next, we defined the machine parameters, including the X, Y, and Z axis speeds, the tool diameter, the depth of cut, and the safety heights for travel between operations.
A depth of cut of -0.05 mm was set, sufficient to remove the material in a single pass. A safety height of 2 mm was also configured on the Z axis to prevent collisions during travel.
Additionally, the automatic Z0 system was used to more accurately calibrate the tool height relative to the material surface, ensuring uniform milling. This calibration allowed us to compensate for small differences in the surface of the material.
For machining the plate, the tool was changed to a four-flute end mill with a diameter of 2.0 mm, adjusting the specific parameters for this operation.
Once the toolpaths were generated, the G-code file was exported from FlatCAM and sent to the CNC machine for execution. The corresponding file was selected on the machine, and the machining process began.
Finally, the work area was cleaned, and the results were analyzed to identify potential process improvements.
Automatic and Manual Z-Axis Calibration
There is a slight difference between calibrating the Z-axis with the automatic calibration system and doing so manually. Automatic calibration uses sensors to detect the material surface and adjust the tool height accordingly, which can be faster and more convenient.
However, manual calibration allows for more precise control of the tool height, which can be useful for irregular materials or for achieving a specific finish.
In general, automatic calibration is adequate for most applications, but manual calibration may be preferable when greater accuracy is required or when working with difficult materials.
Evidence
software FlatCAM.
We imported the image into the FlatCAM software.
software FlatCAM.
software FlatCAM.
Height map calibration process using Candle software.
Height map calibration process using Candle software.
Height map calibration process using Candle software.
Height map calibration process using Candle software.
Height map calibration process using Candle software.
Height map calibration process using Candle software.
tools for use.
final cnc cutting Automatic and Manual Z-Axis Calibration.
THE TT3018 CNC MACHINING MACHINE IS NOT RECOMMENDED
Although several versions and quality levels exist, the one I used had connection errors and electrical noise, causing the machine to jam during machining. I read that others have experienced the same problem.
Even so, I decided to try Candle to load the G-code. What impressed me was its height map calibration for printed circuit boards, which takes measurements on the Z-axis across the entire work area.
Files and links
Conclusions
As a group, we gained a comprehensive understanding of the printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing process, from file preparation to final machining using the CNC machine. Through collaborative work, we were able to explore and adjust different parameters, allowing us to achieve more precise results and avoid common errors during the process.
We also strengthened our skills in using digital tools like FlatCAM and operating manufacturing equipment, understanding the importance of proper setup and planning. The exchange of knowledge and collaborative problem-solving were key to improving our performance and optimizing the results.
Overall, this experience allowed us to consolidate our technical knowledge, foster teamwork, and develop greater confidence to individually design and manufacture our own PCBs.