We take safety very seriously at Bantam Tools, which is why our Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine comes fully enclosed with a safety interlock loading door, safety windows, and an E-stop button. If you use this CNC machine and the Bantam Tools Desktop CNC 4th Axis Accessory as they are designed you will ensure your safety. Read on to learn more about precautions you should take when working with the Bantam Tools Desktop CNC 4th Axis Accessory.
Modification
Do not modify your Bantam Tools Desktop CNC 4th Axis Accessory or attempt to repair it without the guidance of our support team. If you do so, it's at your own risk. Doing so may result in abnormal operation (and will void your warranty), which could cause injury to you and damage your Bantam Tools Desktop CNC 4th Axis Accessory—or the Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine.
Work Area Safety
- Make sure to use your machine on a dry, flat, and stable surface.
- Keep liquids away from the machine and its accessory.
- Work in a clean and well-lit area.
- Keep a vacuum nearby for chip cleanup.
Personal Safety
- Always wear protective eyewear when operating or in proximity to the CNC machine. We also recommend wearing protective eyewear when cleaning the machine.
- Hearing protection is advised if you'll be in proximity to the CNC machine while it's milling.
- Do not allow children to operate without close adult supervision.
- Do not leave the CNC machine unattended while in use.
- Prior to operation, make sure the collet and tool are secure and remove the wrenches and other tools from inside the CNC machine.
- Do not use the CNC machine if the safety door and/or windows are cracked.
- Do not mill materials that are not supported.
Note: For a full list of supported materials on the Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine, see our Materials Overview guide.
Sharp Element
Be mindful when working around the tailstock's live center. This component is very sharp and may result in injury. Adjust the position of the live center using the tailstock handle. Alternatively, you could remove the tailstock assembly altogether and reinstall it when you're ready to fixture your stock. We go into more detail about this when we get to fixturing with the Bantam Tools Desktop CNC 4th Axis Accessory.
Additionally, do not touch the sharp tips of end mills, even when the machine is not in operation, as they may cause injury. Likewise, if you have an end mill loaded into the spindle, be careful when tightening or loosening the chuck. Either make sure the Y-axis is in the loading position or that the XZ-carriage is jogged toward the right side of the machine.
This is why we’d recommend fixturing the stock into the Bantam Tools Desktop CNC 4th Axis Accessory before installing and locating your end mill.
Pinch Hazard
We've designed the Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine so that the spindle will not start when the loading door is open or if the E-stop button is engaged. However, you can still jog the X, Y, Z, and A axes when the loading door is open. In fact, you will need to when setting up your job. Whenever you are jogging the axes around keep your hands out of the machine and away from moving parts. Also, take care when installing the jaws into the chuck. Keep your fingers clear of the slots as you loosen or tighten the jaws to avoid getting pinched.
Rotating Parts
When using the Bantam Tools Desktop CNC 4th Axis Accessory—or the Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine in general—make sure long hair is tied back and avoid clothing with loose sleeves or jewelry that may get caught on the components.
When Not In Use
When the Bantam Tools Desktop CNC 4th Axis Accessory is removed from the Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine, always make sure that the cap on the 4th axis harness is on. This will prevent chips and dust from getting into the connector. If debris gets into this component it may result in connectivity and other electrical issues.
