Carving foam on the OneFinity CNC
The tool layout was actually done with a Shaper Trace frame. I’ll be showing more of that in the coming days.
The tool paths were created in Vetric VCarve Pro.
The foam cutting bit I used can be found at this Amazon associate link:
https://amzn.to/4gousxR
The foam I used can be found at these Amazon associate links:
30mm - https://amzn.to/4hkDvS0
57mm - https://amzn.to/4gqmrsf
When working with foam on the OneFinity CNC, one key tip I learned is to carefully select the right bit designed specifically for foam cutting, which greatly reduces drag and helps achieve smoother cuts. Using a Shaper Trace frame for tool layout can save you a lot of time setting your workpiece origin and ensures precision when transferring your design to the foam. Vetric VCarve Pro is excellent for creating complex tool paths, but I recommend spending time fine-tuning your feed rates and plunge rates since foam is delicate yet can generate significant dust if cut too aggressively. I usually start with a slower feed rate and watch how the foam reacts, then gradually increase to optimize speed without sacrificing quality. For the foam itself, I found that using denser foam sheets around 30mm to 57mm thickness gives me the durability needed for detailed carving without crumbling. Always check the compatibility of your foam with your cutting bits and CNC settings to avoid melting or tearing. Lastly, maintaining a clean workspace and using a vacuum attachment near the cutting area helps manage the fine foam particles and keeps the CNC machine running smoothly. Over time, organizing your tool bits and materials like in the Kaizen method will make future projects more efficient and enjoyable. This approach not only enhances the carving quality but also makes foam CNC projects much more rewarding and accessible for hobbyists and professionals alike.
