CNC USB controller ( www.cnczone1.blogspot.com ) .flv

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CNC Milling Machine Buying Tips

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CNC stand for Computer Numerical Control, and refers specifically to the computer control of machine tools. The main purpose of CNC Milling Machines is to repeatedly manufacture complex parts in metal as well as other materials, using a specially coded program. This specially coded program that is used by CNC Milling machines is written in a notation called G-code. G-codes represent specific CNC Milling functions in alphanumeric format. CNC Milling was developed in the late 1940's and early 1950's by the MIT Servomechanism Laboratory.

1. About CNC

- Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Milling is the most common form of CNC - CNC mills can perform the functions of drilling and often turning - CNC Milling machines are classified according to the number of axes that they possess - Axes are labeled as x and y for horizontal movement, and z for vertical movement - The evolution of CNC milling machines drastically changed the manufacturing industry - Curves are as easy to cut as straight lines, complex 3-D structures are relatively easy to produce, and the number of machining steps that required human action is way down.

2. The Fabrication Process

With the use of CNC milling machine the fabrication process of the materials have been trimmed down to just a couple of steps. CNC Milling machines now days are driven directly from computer softwares crated by CAD software packages. With the use CNC Milling machines the assembly of parts can go from brief designs without any intermediate paper drawing works being required. In one sense, with the use of CNC milling machines industrials tasks are done must easier and much faster and the production cost of the company is also lessening out. CNC machines may be said to represent special industrial robot systems, as they are programmable to perform any kind of machining operation, within certain physical limits, like other robotic systems.

3. Buying Tips

Before buying a CNC milling machine it is a must that you should have knowledge about the CNC milling machines basic parts. A CNC milling machine is basically composed of a Safety shield that is usually a clear plastic cover that cover and protects the cutting area. The Tool bit, this part of the CNC milling machines is the one that do the cutting. Spindle Shaft, is the part that holds the tool bit. Spindle Motor, is the part of the CNC milling machine that drives the cutter. The Vertical Column, the part that holds the spindle and all of its part. The Cross Side, a moveable support where the work piece is being cut. The axis motors, which moves the cross side into different axis and the Controller box.

When purchasing your milling machine make sure to check that you have all of this part intact on your CNC milling machine, for if one of this parts is not there it will not surely work or will produce an undesirable end product. Also see to it to check out for safety features, never buy a CNC milling machine without an emergency stop button, this button automatically stops machining when it is pressed. Human, hardware or software errors could mean big losses if the CNC cannot be stopped quickly enough to correct the problem. Also check out the control panel part, it is advisable to buy one with a big control guide sticker so you can clearly see it.

Also check out the screws and tools with long overhangs and adapters, be more observant about cracks and breaks on this CNC milling tools. Make sure that the plastic shield that you are purchasing with your CNC milling machine is made up of high impact polycarbonate plastic. An insert break loose from a 35 mm diameter CNC milling cutter at a spindle speed of 45,000 rpm will be thrown out at a speed of 90 meters per second - equivalent to a bullet that is being shot out of a pistol!

All About Cnc Router

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CNC may be the acronym of 'computer control numeric' and it relates to numerous functions implemented for manufacturing. CNC router is usually a wood-cutting unit entirely managed and governed by a laptop or computer. CNC router is also chosen to cut plastic and even metal. Though the usage of CNC Router is still at a pretty early stage, the handful of consumers who are applying a CNC router are reaping helpful benefits greatly in conditions of price usefulness, top quality and productiveness.
Router bits are wood functioning routers are diverse CNC router products.

If a carpenter takes complete advantage of the CNC router, enormous added benefits could be purchased.

CNC routers are very much effortless to run in comparison to lathes and milling models.

CNC routers is often implemented constantly and should be switched off only occasionally for the sake of maintenance. CNC routers not only lower waste; these also minimize the variety of errors along with the times necessary to manufacture any item.
The design program of CNC router is such that countless comparable solutions might be designed out of it. The CNC router designed partsare all the same.

Updating CNC router is rather convenient using the guide of software program betterment. Consequently there's no really need to invest in a prototype. Given that handbook labor shouldn't be necessary for operating CNC router, a reduced amount of skilled and also unskilled individuals can operate with these equipments.

Virtual computer software provides coaching on the use of CNC routers. It can be pretty simple for a single individual to supervise several CNC routers at a time for the reason that as soon as programmed, these units maintain on working with no any manual aid.

Still, CNC routers have specific disadvantages as well. Compared to other manually functioned equipments, CNC router bits and CNC routers are a great deal alot more high-priced.

Only simple instruction periods can permit an person to run CNC devices successfully. Therefore the yearlong knowledge and expertise of engineers are under challenge. CNC routers are effective in mass production. Considering the fact that these are computerized, a reduced amount of quantity of many people is essential to operate these. Thereby CNC routers really encourage unemployment.

Used optimally, a CNC router can very easily take the location of your skillful carpenter. Although use of this machine is not yet in complete swing, the price tag of those equipment is reducing which in turn would produce higher demand.

Wider use of CNC routers and slipping rates of computer systems will shortly lead to further slash inside selling price of those units making popular using every one of the a lot more.

Programming 101: CNC

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CNC programming uses a code similar in structure to BASIC. So, if you know how to

construct a simple counting program, chances are, you already know what a G-Code looks like. However, there a few other things you have to consider before you start encoding instructions.

The first thing that you have to do is to assign values for each of the variables. These variables include the programmable motion directions (axes), and the reference point for the axes. The values that you assign to these variables dictate the movement of the machine.

The next thing that you have to do is to take into account the accessories of the machine. Many machines have accessories that are designed to enhance the capabilities of the basic device. However, using these accessories requires you to include them in the coding system. This means that if you want a more efficient machine, you will have to know the machine inside out.

READING CODES

After those steps, you have to create a subprogram that will deal with the math. This step will then allow your machine to compute the necessary variables and effectively operate without stopping to ask the operator what the limitations are.

To show you what these codes look like, here’s an example from Wikipedia:


#100=3 (bolt circle radius)
#101=10 (how many holes)
#102=0 (x position of ctr of bolthole)
#103=0 (y position of ctr of bolthole)
#104=0 (angle of first hole
Tool call,
spindle speed,and offset pickup,etc
G43 in some cases (tool length pickup)
G81(drill cycle)
call sub program
N50
G80
M30

Subprogram
N100
#105=((COS#104)*#100) (x location)
#106=((SIN#104)*#100) (y location)
x#105 y#106 (remember your G81 code is modal)
If #100 GT 360 goto N50
#100=(#100+(360/#101))
Goto 100


In the code above, the machine is a drill. The operator utilized a loop in order to keep the machine from stopping. The subprogram then governs the cycle of the machine. This code is still quite a simple code. Other machines require the inclusion of the maximum RPM in the coding.

An easier way of programming CNC machines would be the use of Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM). This system takes on the brunt of programming so that it doesn’t seem so tedious and frustrating. It is still similar to BASIC.



Another programming enhancement that was developed was the parametric programs or the logical commands. These programs were designed to shorten lengthy codes in order to make them user friendly. However, these codes do not always use the same language with every machine. The language and sequence often varies depending on the typ of machine you will be working on.

The operator has to know what the machine can do or what it was made to do before attempting to program it. You should be able to visualize the machine doing what you want it to do.

But, you don’t have to be a math wizard or a programming genius. You just have to know what your machine does and what you want it to do

Data Transfer of CNC

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A CNC machine cannot function without a program. And a program cannot make its way to the machine without an effective data transfer system. So, what are the methods of data transfer and how effective are they in conveying data from one point to the next?



Punched tape

The first data transfer method is the punched tape. It consists of a long strip of paper with holes punched in it to store data. The holes represent a set of data that tells the machine how to move and what to do.

This method has proven to be very versatile and very useful. It has proven to withstand the test of time as numerous magnetic storage devices have deteriorated over time even to the extent of being unreadable while punched tape has been shown to be fine decades and perhaps even centuries later. Repair is also not a problem as specially designed splices can put two end together virtually unchanged. Furthermore, punched tape can be visually decoded should the need arise. This means that human accessibility is also not a problem.

Floppy Disk

While punched tape is quite a long roll of paper, a floppy disk is a small magnetic storage device that is more space efficient than punched tape. It can also be used to store simple programs.

Floppy disks virtually revolutionized the way data could be stored and transferred from one point to another. It allowed users to store and transfer data faster than punched tape allowed. Furthermore, the data within a floppy could be easily edited at any point as long as you have the proper program to read it. However, this method has proven to be quite problematic in the long run as floppies have a tendency to degrade alarmingly fast. A floppy could be unreadable after only 3 years.

RS232

This method is actually a set of standards for serial binary signals that connects between computers, terminals, and modems. This is a fast and efficient way to transfer data.

This cable connects a CNC machine to a computer that has floppy disk support thus eliminating the need for punched tape. This allows the operator to input data remotely and even while accomplishing other tasks. However, it need to be used in conjunction with an effective data storage device so as to have backups in case of emergencies.

Networks

Networks are a set of computers that are linked together to make data sharing easier. In an industrial scenario, networks allow a number of different users to individually create a program for the machine to run on.

This method allows multiple users to access and transfer data remotely. This allows for a faster and more efficient check-and-balance system for the programmer and the data verifier. Furthermore, different parts of the program can be completed by different programmers and then compiled by one user. This makes program creation a fast and easy process.

Manual Data Input (MDI)

MDI allows users to input commands directly into the CNC machine’s memory. This may seem to be an effective way of telling the machine what to do but it actually has a lot of drawbacks to it.

Despite it being the fastest way of telling the machine what to do, it is also a very risky and tedious operation as it requires the use of the machine’s terminal. Furthermore, the construction of a program is not as fast as opposed to the network method. It only allows one user to access the machine thus making it a long and drawn-out process.

Another disadvantage that comes with MDI is that it limits the operator to only one task at a time. However, MDI allows the most control over the machine compared to other methods

CNC Programming Tips

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When a program is completed and sent to the Computer Numerical Control Machine, the programming process is over. All calculations were made and the algorithm fully written. But the question is the programmer’s job really finished? When is the programmer’s responsibility really over? And how can we evaluate the type of program that the Computer Numerical Control Machine programmer did?

The fairest and reasonable answer to those questions would basically when a part has been machined under the most optimized working conditions. Therefore the Programmer’s responsibility does not end after he or she finishes the program. We could say that the program at this stage is still very much in the development process, because most of the programming considerations were based on certain assumptions and there are a lot of external factors that may affect the outcome of the product.

Every Computer Numerical Control programmer should have an effort to be in the touch with the actual production. In the field of software development, Constant communication with your colleagues as well as actual machine operators of the CNC will help you to improve your own program. Because most of the time the CNC machine operators are a good source of constructive ideas, improvements and suggestions.

A good CNC programmer should talk, ask questions to them and most importantly listen to what they have to say. Programmers who never put their foot in the actual machining process and think they are always right are all on the wrong track. Exchanging ideas with CNC machine operators, asking questions and seeking answers is the only way to be fully aware of what is going on in the machine.

Whenever you start a Computer Numerical Control Program the first time it is important to check its Program Integrity. A new and unproved program is a potential source of problems. During Manual Programming in CNC, mistakes are more common than when the program is made in a CAM program.

A good way to look at a new program is through the machine operator’s perspective. Experienced Machine Operators take a direct approach when running a program for the first time. That means that they wont take any chances of mistakes with the actual running of a program therefore a good programmer must take note of any comments that the Machine operator will say about the program.

What does an experienced Machine Operator look for in a new part of a program? Most of the Machine operators would say that the first and most important thing to be checked on a Computer Numerical Control Program is its consistency. Therefore a machine operator looks at how a CNC programmer does its own programming, is the way you create your own algorithms the same as the other ones. Machine Operators take note with this kind of Information.

Upgrading your CNC Program

Whenever you upgrade your own program, it means that you are strengthening or enriching it, therefore making it better than it was before. Upgrading would be based on this standard, It is to decrease the production cost without compromising the quality of the part being manufactured or the safety of the Computer Numerical Control Machine Operator.

One of the Most Common forms of Program Optimization is doing some minor changes to the spindle as well as the feed rates of the machines. This process is called cycle time optimization, slightly increasing the spindle speed and feed rates of these machines will decrease the time it takes to finish the part.

And when we compare it to mass production, saving one second for each part in a batch of 3600 pieces would mean an hour saved. Efficiency in the rate of production is a very important aspect in Mass Production.

5 axis cnc head porting maching.mp4

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CNC Programming

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By Brent Cohagan
CNC programming is beneficial in that it provides enhanced automation to the manufacturing process. With this programming process, the need for an individual operator can be eliminated altogether, as the programmer can in fact be the machine operator as well. The computer program, once started, can actually run with no human intervention in the entire process until it has been completed. The end result of the process is less error and higher precision levels in the final product. The final outcome once the process is complete is predictable, and in fact, the process can be repeated time and again and still end up with the same end result.
CNC simply stands for computer control. The machine essentially creates the final product based on geometrical output. The result is a part or other object that is as nearly as identical as that which it is modeled after, generally within 100 microns of the specification. Basically, once the object has been programmed, the machine can cut one right after the other, nonstop and each will be the same as the last. Once the program has been created, there is no need to program it again, and you can come back perhaps 6 months later, or even more, load the program, and get the same thing once again.
Another great benefit of the programming process is flexibility in the tools that may be used to complete the process. The machines themselves run on specific CNC programs, so producing the other work pieces will only require that the appropriate program and same machine be utilized for producing the other types of work required. The end result with this type of setup however is that the change-over from one part or object to another is relatively fast. You can be in the middle of a large run, or say, 100 pieces, and have an emergency project come in that interrupts your current run. You can install the program to run the emergency project, run it and get it done, then go right back to the original project without much lost time except the time required to produce the emergency work. This would not be possible in the old standard method of machining without costing a lot of production time.
Overall, the basic function of the machines that are run by CNC remains fairly consistent. The motion involved is automatic and precise. Rather than having to resort back to the use of manual tools that activate the motion as required in traditional machining processes, the CNC method provides this control in a manner that is innovative, and the same in the case of repetitive processes. There are at least 2 directions of motion with the majority of them, which as they are known as axes. These axes will from back and forth, up and down, side to side or whatever other way the machine is constructed, and it will create your work on the level of precision standard for the machine.
These will be most commonly rotary, or linear in nature, again, depending on the needs. For more information on how cnc programming can assist your manufacturing requirements, visit http://www.internetmachineshop.com
Brent Cohagan
President
Cohagan Engineering, Inc.
http://www.CohaganEngineering.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brent_Cohaga

CNC Lathe Machines

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By Ivan Irons

CNC lathe machines are computer controlled just like any other CNC machine. It can be programmed to do a variety of different things such as sanding, cutting and drilling. CNC lathe machines will work for wood or metals, depending upon the project that you are doing. This machine can help cut your production time down and increase the profitability of your business in the end.
The wood lathe can not only be used for wood but also for materials such as brass and aluminum. Metalworking lathes or milling machines are available for other materials. The variety that is offered offers you limitless possibilities in creativity. So, what direction will you be taking your business in next?
From small shops to large companies, there is a lathe that is available for anyone. Whether you need a portable machine or a stationary machine, the choice is yours. Small shops are able to use the CNC machine to make precise, intricate cuts as in developing stair railings, table legs, chair legs, and so on. When you are done, the product will be beautiful, symmetrical and worth it in the end.
The process is called turning. Turning of the material allows for many shapes and cuts to be made while keeping the end product symmetrical. Perfect diameter from top to bottom will be cut to the specifications desired. Never has it been any easier to achieve this level of design and end product production as it is now.
Metal fabrication is another possibility with the CNC lathe machine. Do you need to create a part that needs to have a circular motion? If so, the CNC lathe machine is the perfect machine to allow you to produce that certain part. Any material can be used. The material, however, has to be able to stand up to the turning process as the computer software program continues its rotation through until the end.
All the operator has to do is program the machine to the specifications that are required to produce the product that is desired and load the material into the machine. The machine does the rest. The machine operates on the X and Y axis. It is great to use if you want to several identical products of the same size and shape without a whole lot of decoration. The computer software program will continue to operate the machine, making in turn rotation after rotation, until the desired specifications have been reached.
From tapered ends to contoured shapes, this machine can do it all. CNC lathe machines can offer your business that special touch, extra technology and time saving steps that you are looking for. Remember, no matter what type of material you are working with, the CNC lathe machine can work with it, as long as it stands up to the rotation process.
If you have any further questions about the CNC lathe machine and what it can do for you, contact a dealer who offers this technology. They will be able to further answer any questions that you have and guide you in the right direction.
Go to CNC Machining Zone to get your free ebook on CNC Machining at CNC Lathe Machine. CNC Machining Zone also has CNC Machining Information, and forums and blogs all about Machining. Visit CNC Machining Zone today to sign up for free and get your free ebook on CNC Machining.

CNC Plasma

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here are many different CNC plasma plans and kits that are available on the market. If you are planning on trying to build your own CNC plasma cutting machine, then this could be the way for you to go. You will first want to search and find the plans that you could possibly work with.
Once you locate the right CNC plasma plans for you, make sure you purchase several different plans. Study those plans closely and then you will see which one works best for you and that you are capable of building and that the end product that is created will perform the jobs that you are wanting it to do.
Decide whether you need a larger machine or a smaller one. This can help you in your decision making process in relation to the plans that are right for you. You have to know exactly what you want the machine to do. You don't want to spend the time building your own custom CNC plasma cutting machine and in the end realize that it cannot do what you need it to do.
Next, make tweaks to the plans. Do you want to incorporate something different into the design element of the CNC plasma machine that you want to build? Or, will it work the way it is for you? These are very important questions that you will need to know the answer to.
Do not give up. Start to build your unique machine. It may be difficult and it may take some considerable time to complete, but at least start on the project. As you begin to see the project develop right in front of your eyes, you will begin to have the inspiration to finish it. Most people end up giving up after they view the plans. They never even begin to build a machine. Do not let that happen to you. Imagine the possibilities that a machine like this can create for you. Find that inspiration that will help you to keep this project on the front burner up until completion.
CNC plasma plans are like blueprints that tell you what the specifics are of the design and how it all works, the mechanics of the machine any way. You will want to have some kind of knowledge on how to read plans in order for you to go completely through with the project. If not, someone who can read the plans who can help you out is advisable. Experience in this type of work can also help you in the long run. Viewing plans of this magnitude can become overwhelming. Just remember, do not give up. It is definitely not going to be easy, no one ever said that it would; however, it can be done.
To learn more about CNC plasma plans, search the internet. You will be able to find several different companies who offer plans for purchase. They may even be able to help you in finding the plan that is right for you.

5 Axis CNC Machine

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By Ivan Irons

The 5 axis CNC machine offers more intricate and precise cutting abilities. This machine does not operate around the normal 3 axes of movement: X, Y and Z. Instead it works around 5 different axes of movement which makes it harder for the programming; however, the type of work that can be performed is limitless with the 5 axis CNC machine.
There are several different companies that offer a 5 axis CNC machine. When trying to decide on whether to purchase a 5 axis CNC machine or not, it may be best to consult with a salesman from any of the companies. Comparison shopping would work best here. What specifically would you like to achieve from your machine? What are you looking for? What software programs work best for this type of machine? How much space will this machine take up? Can adjustments be made easily? These are all legitimate questions that you must first ask yourself before purchasing a machine of this caliber.
This type of machining is most typically used in the Aerospace Industry. It enables them to craft airframe components that have draft surfaces, impellers and turbine engine components. Now, different industries are taking advantage of this technology.
Justifying the cost of a machine of this caliber is very important. 5 axis CNC machines are not cheap. If you currently have a 3D CNC machine and are considering a 5 axis for your business, you must ask yourself why. Why do you need a 5 axis? Can you use your current 3D CNC machine to achieve what you are wanting? It could be that you need a different program or just make some simple adjustments.
New 5 axis CNC machines can allow one to cut just about anything that they want. Cutting simultaneously on both sides, offers more efficiency in the workplace. CNC machines can pretty much operate on their own just by programming the software to do what is needed. Man power can be used to oversee a group of machines. With the PRS (personal robotics system) that is offered on these machines, manual operation is no longer needed.
Cutting, machining or creating a particular part that is complex and incorporates different angles and tough geometrics, is difficult. 5 axis CNC machines offer a solution to this. That's why the Aerospace Industry has been using this technology for some time now. Usually the first to take advantage of technology, the Aerospace Industry requires dependable, reliable and efficient tools and technology that will allow them to be one step ahead of the rest. 5 axis CNC machines allow them to do this and this is not new technology for them.
If you have any questions about 5 axis CNC machining there are several blogs and forums that are located across the internet that you can become a part of and stay up to date with the latest from this industry. Ask any question and you will be able to receive a response that is to your liking. Machinists from all over will over you their expertise and knowledge.
Go to CNC Machining Zone to get your free ebook on CNC Machining at 5 Axis CNC Machine. CNC Machining Zone also has 5 Axis CNC Machine Information, and forums and blogs all about Machining. Visit CNC Machining Zone today to sign up for free and get your free ebook on CNC Machining.

Getting Timely Help in the CNC Plasma Cutter Zone

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By Ivan Irons

With increased automation, processes that were too hazardous for workers in the long run have been replaced with computer controlled machines. The CNC plasma cutter is one such machine that can cut various metals to the desired shape as the operator supervises the entire operation. This new CNC zone allows fellow users to meet up and exchange invaluable ideas that lead to increased productivity at lower costs.
Workings of a CNC Machine for Plasma
Plasma cutters use a combination of ionized gas at very high temperature along with high pressure and an arc to cut through various metals of varying thickness. While the gas allows electricity to pass through and cut the metal with the help of the arc, the high pressure ensures that debris is blown away from the cut, thereby ensuring a clean cut. Other than the conventional gas plasma cutters there are different types of cutters that can cut metal such as air plasma and water shield plasma, among many others.
Features of a CNC Machine for Plasma
There are various metals that can be easily cut with the help of the right CNC Machine for Plasma. Some of these metals are:
o Aluminum
o Steel Alloys
o Mild steels, etc
As compared to other metal cutters, plasma cutters hardly leave behind any burrs after the component has been cut and this reduces the time taken for finishing the component for the next process. A CNC plasma cutter can make several cuts such as interrupted cuts and bevel cuts depending on its design and the requirements of the user. Most cutters are also compatible with G code software and along with the right type of controllers can quickly cut through the thickest material with perfect consistency. People that want to buy such machines should choose ones with an emergency override switch to retain control in case of any unforeseen problem. Most cutter manufacturers can work in tandem with potential buyers so as to suggest the most suitable machine for the buyer's needs.
Advantages of lounging online in the CNC plasma cutter zone
Earlier, people that had problems related to their particular CNC Machines could not get timely help but with the advent of the Internet they can now visit an online zone and get all the information that they need at the click of a mouse. An online CNC plasma cutter zone can enable buyers of new and used machines to meet potential sellers. People that have problems in finding spares for their machines can also get helpful advice and links from fellow members. The blog at these sites allows members to express their thoughts and experiences in using different plasma cutters while the forum can help like-minded people mingle with each other to share thoughts and new ideas. Help is also provided by such sites in the form of e-books, videos, tips and articles that enable a viewer or member to increase his or her knowledge about this vast industry.
As newer techniques keep on appearing in the CNC plasma cutting field, it pays for buyers, sellers and users to remain abreast of the latest happenings in the industry. The best method to do so is for people to immerse themselves in the CNC plasma cutter zone and absorb the wealth of knowledge so as to enhance their own skills.
Go to CNC Plasma Cutter to get free information on this product. This website will give you all of the information you need on CNC Plasma Cutter along with a lot of other free information. Don't miss out on this new website if you are looking for more information. Find us at http://cncplasmacutterzone.com/
 
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