Since the last post I have worked hard in the design and build of the Wood/Plastic clock. I have made a lot of changes in the original design, and I think that the final result is really a very nice clock!
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhGlWvm6_suNTnX2PzGB5sermUFlLYsO3PH-bzgCTrIDUa_t5Riy5gHcC-UbGa4FbdvkowtXvfvsgumeatb_Nuta4dHzaRK5Uebl2eCN-RQuIgjR_DZ8t6olSB0pL2z6ktSyf46Ldpa04/s640/20151220_202346.jpg)
Acrylic is difficult to work in the CNC with small diameter end mill bits. I used a 1/16” 2 Flute carbide end mill for the wheel teeth. After damaging several plastic stock and 2 end mill I learned:
- Use new and sharp bit or a sharp bit that has been used only in plastic. If you used a bit to cut wood, forget to use it later in plastic.
- You need to remove very little material each pass :.
- 24,000 RPM spindle speed and 10 inches/minute feed rate.
- Keep the bit cool with compressed air.
With the above settings, and with lots of patient it is possible to get a very nice and clean cut. Below a video showing the internal cut with 1/8” end mill:
The other complicated thing is to bond brass and acrylic. After several test I ended using 2 part transparent epoxy.
Here is a video showing several details of the clock.
I love the action of this clock!
Happy holidays to all!