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View Full Version : Clamps


lfontes
10-31-2011, 03:21 PM
Thank you everyone for the imput on getting started. I went ahead and ordered a bit kit for the ShopBot. My next questions is clamps, what do you recommend to use? We are dealing with high school students so something that is durable. Also, do any of you guys recommend a good way to get image files in to PartWizard? I know they have to be in the correct format but don't know how to make do that.

Thank you again for all your help!

Lauren
Brady Watson
10-31-2011, 06:07 PM
You can use any brand clamp, or screws. I like Kreg pockethole screws available at Lowes. They don't break like drywall screws.

You can't import any type of bitmap into PartWizard. You can in PartWorks. Call ShopBot for an upgrade price. It is well worth the investment! You also get tutorials that will make your life a lot easier as a teacher.

-B
lfontes
10-31-2011, 08:01 PM
Brady,

Thank you for the information. I will try contacting ShopBot is hard on the school schedule being on the West Coast. :) I'm intrested in these screws...do you just screw them into the base? Do you use any spacers?

Thanks!!!

Lauren
Brady Watson
10-31-2011, 10:14 PM
Ideally you should drill pilot holes with the CNC in PartWizard. This way you will never hit a screw.

Yes - You just screw thru your material into the spoilboard.

-B
Coleman Becker
11-01-2011, 12:50 PM
what we use is blocks in the corner of the parts and a 23 gauge pin nailer so if the bits accidentally hit them the bit is not completely ruined. where are you teaching?
beacon14
11-01-2011, 08:56 PM
These cam clamps (http://welcometothesandbox.com/) work pretty well....
COBOB
11-01-2011, 09:18 PM
Thanks for that post David. I was going to order your clamps several months ago and forgot. I just ordered them. I appreciate it.
phil_o
11-02-2011, 07:47 AM
I posted this clamping technique in the Vectric forum a while ago. I use them often.
http://www.vectric.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=10004&p=70147&hilit=+biscuit#p70147
wberminio
11-02-2011, 08:37 AM
I've been using David's cams for awhile now.They are the "bomb"
I use them on my bot and for other jigs in the shop-Simple and effective!
adrianm
11-02-2011, 09:45 AM
Some clamping ideas and files here - http://www.vectric.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=27&t=7470&start=0
lfontes
11-02-2011, 10:06 AM
what we use is blocks in the corner of the parts and a 23 gauge pin nailer so if the bits accidentally hit them the bit is not completely ruined. where are you teaching?

I'm teaching in the San Joaquin Valley