Hello, after recently building a LowRider 4 machine, I went to try and flatten some rough live-edge slabs I had using a 1-inch flattening bit. Unfortunately, it’s leaving these about 1/16-inch-high steps going up the board as it flattens it. (each pass is going 1/16 inch lower than the last)(50% stepover)
I’ve checked the toolpath countless times, and everything seems correct, so I’m thinking it may be a machine issue. If anyone has any ideas on what could be causing this or how I can fix it, I’d really appreciate it.
Here’s a few pictures that hopefully helps show the issue I’m having.
You need to tram your router. This is the process of checking the router to make sure the bit and router are 90 degrees to your work table on both the X and Y axis.
You are using a large bit which makes the router off set more noticeable.
Searching on here you will find many nice articles on tramming. I like using one at least 4 inches on the beam. This gives a diameter of 8 inch cross measurements. Use thin tape or plastic/metal as shims.
I usually shim the upper mount , starting with 1 or 2 mil thick shims. Do one axis at a time
Maybe try another toolpath, one that does not cut back and forth, but one that cuts in one direction only, for example it starts from the edges and spirals into the middle?
I would go down to a 1/2" or 1/4" endmill. You can move them faster so there is no advantage to using a larger endmill. 1" is just too big for these machines.
The issue is router tram, your router is leaning, I have a tool on printables to check it but you will need to shim to get it better. smaller endmills make this much less noticable if you do nto want to tram it, you will be able to sand away the steps very easy.
