How to V-carve on MDF: Creating a simple layout for the Wattsan M1 1313 CNC router

Contents:

In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating a simple layout for V-carve engraving and cutting on a CNC router. By following these steps, you will be able to perform the operation on your own with ease.

Step 1: Creating the file

We will be working in Aspire Vectric software. First, you need to enter the workpiece dimensions into the program.

1. Click on “Create a New File.”
2. A window with several sections will appear on the right.

 • Processing type: Select the first option.

 • Job size: Enter your workpiece dimensions.

 • Measurement system: Set it to millimeters (mm), as Rich Auto only recognizes this unit. Otherwise, all calculations will be incorrect.

 • Z-Zero position: You can choose between the table or material surface. Select whichever is more convenient for you.

 • XY Datum position: Our engineers recommend choosing the bottom left corner for convenience, as the electrical cabinet that connects to the DSP controller is located on the left. However, if your workpiece is round, it might be more practical to set the center as the datum position.

 • Use Offset option: If you secure the workpiece to the table first, you can move the spindle to it and apply the Use Offset option in the program to enter the position data from the DSP controller.

 • Modeling resolution & appearance: These settings are only for project visualization within the software and depend on your computer’s performance.

Once all the parameters are set, click “OK.”

Step 2: Creating the layout

For this example, we will create a simple signboard with text, without downloading any additional files from the internet.

1. In the “Create a File” menu, select “Draw Text.”
2. In the text box, type anything that you want and customize the font style and size.
3. Resize the text to fit the workpiece dimensions.
4. Under “Transform Objects,” set the required parameters and click “Apply.”
5. To center the text, use “Align Selected Objects” and choose the center alignment option.

Now, we need to create a contour for the signboard, which will be used to cut it from the workpiece.

1. In “Create Vectors,” select “Rectangle.”
2. In the “Corner” tab, choose the second option and set the desired corner radius.
3. Enter the required dimensions for the rectangle.
4. Select the newly created contour and center it just like the text.

Step 3: tool selection and settings

Now, we will configure the machine’s parameters.

V-Carving (engraving the letters)

For the letters, we will use a V-bit. This operation is simple and does not require additional calculations.

1. Click on “Pass” in the operation section.
2. Select the “V-Carve” option.
3. There are two ways to set the engraving depth:

 • Manually: Enter the value in the Flat Depth field.

 • Automatically: Uncheck the box to let the program calculate the depth itself.

How does it work?

 • The V-bit has a 90-degree angle and will cut into the material until it reaches the letter contours.

Now, go to the “Draw” section:

1. Click “Select.”
2. The “Tool Database” will open.
3. Enter the diameter of the end mill, specifically the diameter of its widest part.
4. Specify the number of cutting edges and ensure the unit is set to mm.

Cutting parameters

1. Cut depth per pass:

 • If you checked the depth box earlier, set the depth manually.

 • If you unchecked it, the program will calculate the depth automatically.

2. Spindle speed:

 • Since we are working with MDF, set the spindle speed to 24,000 RPM to ensure the removed material turns into dust.

3. Feed rate: 10 meters per minute.
4. Plunge rate: 6 meters per minute.
5. Automatic tool change:

 • If your machine supports automatic tool change, select the tool number where the end mill is stored.

 • If not, leave this field empty.

Now, click “Apply” and then “Select.” Finally, click “Calculate” to confirm that everything is set correctly. You can use the “Preview Toolpath” function to check the result.

Step 4: setting the cutting parameters for the contour

1. Open the 2D Profile Toolpath menu again.
2. Set the cut depth for the entire workpiece (5 mm in our case).
3. In the “Machine Vectors” window, select “Outside” to maintain the specified rectangle dimensions.
4. Select a different tool—an end mill with 3 flutes.
5. The tool settings will be displayed on the screen.

Since we are removing a large amount of material in one pass, we need to add tabs to prevent the sign from being thrown onto the end mill, which could cause defects.

Adding Tabs:

1. Go to “Add Tabs to Toolpath.”
2. Set the tab size to 3 × 3 mm.
3. Click “Edit.”
4. Add 4 tabs.
5. Click “Add Tabs.”
6. Click “Calculate” and check the preview.

On the right panel, you will now see all three machining types listed.

Step 5: saving and running the program

Now, we need to save the layout using the “Save Toolpaths” function.

 • If your machine does not have an automatic tool change system, select the third option to save each machining type as a separate file. This will allow you to change the tool manually.

 • The most important part of this process is to reset the zero position when changing tools.

The files should be saved in G-code Arcs format, which is compatible with the DSP Rich Auto controller.

Finally, load the file into the control panel and run the program.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can successfully create a simple V-carve engraving and cutting layout for the Wattsan M1 1313 CNC router. Understanding the file setup, tool selection, and cutting parameters ensures a smooth and precise engraving process. Whether you’re working on signboards, decorative elements, or detailed engravings, mastering these techniques will help you achieve high-quality results with MDF.

Now, it’s time to put this knowledge into practice—power up your CNC router and start carving!

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