The CNC is the most dangerous tool we have. For comparison, the max rpm for our hand drills is 1800 rpm, and we’re using duller bits that take a few seconds to get through aluminum. The CNC spindle is usually at 24000 rpm, and endmills eat through aluminum like it’s nothing.

Because of how lax we get with safety and how often we’re around them, it’s very easy to forget how dangerous the tools we work with really are. You should be scared around the CNC. Not so scared that you can’t work with it, but scared enough that you respect it and recognize the dangers around you at all times.

Safety Rules

<aside> 🚧 Only work with the CNC mill with training or under the supervision of someone well trained.

</aside>

  1. Never put your hand close to the spindle. VFD = Very Fucking Dangerous.
    1. Make sure the spindle comes to a complete stop before going near the mill. You should be able to see the lines on the collet nut to know if it’s completely stopped.
    2. You can turn off the spindle power separately with the green switch. This prevents accidentally starting the spindle.
  2. Close the enclosure when milling.
    1. When bits break or a part isn’t fully secured, it’ll get launched away. Sharp corners flying at high speeds is a recipe for disaster, so don’t even risk it.
    2. The mill emits a lot of shavings and dust, which isn’t the best to breathe in or ingest.
    3. The enclosure also reduces the sound the CNC makes, which is nice.
  3. Wear gloves. Be aware of where your hands/arms are going.
    1. There are metal shavings everywhere. When you lean over or rest on something, try not to put pressure on metal shavings and embed them in your skin.
  4. Wear ear protection.
    1. Ear plugs and earmuffs are your best friend. Trust Sam Zhou, the ringing in your ears is not worth it.
  5. Watch over the CNC while it runs.
    1. It’s tempting to go to McDonalds over watching CNC go brrr. Chances are nothing will happen, but if there’s a fire, or the zero freaks out and does something randomly dangerous, you should be there to hit the e-stop.
    2. I know there’s a wireless camera in there, but it’s meant for you to not have to sit right next to the mill. If you’re monitoring on cam, you still need to be able to get to the e-stop at a moment’s notice.