The Perfect Screw Size For Your X-Carve Clamp

The X-Carve Pro comes with a variety of clamping methods, including Hold Down Clamps, T-Track Wasteboards, and wooden clamps. These clamps are essential for securing materials to the wasteboard during CNC routing or carving. To use these clamps effectively, it is important to select the appropriate screw size. Clamp screws are available in different lengths, such as 30mm, 40mm, 45mm, 60mm, and 70mm. They are typically sold in packs of 5 and can be purchased separately as spare parts. The screw size depends on the thickness of the material being clamped and the specific clamping method being used.

Clamp screw packs

Inventables offers clamp screws in packs of five, with prices ranging from $0.79 to $35.89 USD. The screws can be used with the company's clamp arms and clamp bases to secure material to your X-Carve or X-Carve Pro waste boards.

The screws come in a variety of lengths, including 30mm, 40mm, 45mm, 60mm, and 70mm. There is also a range of M5 screws in the same lengths, which are priced at $3.75 USD each.

For those seeking a complete clamping solution, Inventables offers a Clamp Set for 3D Carving, which is designed for use with Carvey or X-Carve machines. This set includes everything needed to clamp materials up to 1.75" thick to a waste board. The set is priced at $64.99.

Additionally, Inventables offers a Wood Clamp Set, which includes four clamps, four threaded inserts, and a set of screws. The clamps are made of red oak and are priced at $59.99.

It is important to note that when using clamps with the X-Carve Pro, it is recommended to use four or more clamps to ensure even clamping around the material.

Clamp screw lengths

The clamp screw lengths for the X-Carve Pro vary depending on the thickness of the material being clamped. The recommended clamp screw length for the X-Carve Pro is 40mm for the blue M5 screw, which is suitable for materials with a thickness ranging from 0.326" to 0.7".

For thicker materials, longer clamp screws and carriage bolts are required. For instance, materials thicker than 3/4" necessitate longer screws and bolts, which can be sourced from local hardware stores.

Inventables offers a range of clamp screw sizes, including 30mm, 40mm, 45mm, 60mm, and 70mm. These screws are compatible with the X-Carve and X-Carve Pro waste boards and are sold in packs of 5. The 30mm and 45mm screws are available in both standard and M5 screw types, with the latter being more expensive.

The standard 30mm green screw is priced at $0.79, while the M5 version is $3.75. Similarly, the standard 40mm blue screw is $0.79, and the M5 version is $3.75. The 45mm red screw is available in both standard and M5 types for $0.79 and $3.75, respectively. The 60mm yellow screw and 70mm orange screw are also sold in standard and M5 types, each priced at $0.79 and $3.75, respectively.

It is important to select the appropriate clamp screw length to ensure secure clamping and avoid damage to the workpiece or the X-Carve machine.

Clamping methods

The X-Carve Pro Work Zero Clamp can be found in the Easel Projects section, and there are also Community Shared Projects for clamps. The T-Track bolt can be inserted through the nut, clamp, washer, and screw handle, and then slid into the T-Track channel before screwing down the handle to tighten the clamp onto the material.

The carriage bolt should be inserted so that the head of the bolt is on the bottom of the clamp. The clamp can then be placed on the workpiece and the carriage bolt adjusted until the clamp is level with the material. An M5 mounting screw can then be installed through the slit in the clamp, with a flat washer between the screw and the clamp.

For thicker materials, a longer carriage bolt and M5 mounting screw are needed. There are also quick-release toggle clamps available, as well as a range of clamp screws, clamp arms, and clamp bases to attach materials to the waste board.

T-Track Wasteboard

The T-Track Wasteboard is a great addition to the X-Carve, making clamping easier and more versatile. The T-Track Wasteboard is a significant upgrade for the X-Carve, offering improved clamping options and enhanced versatility. This accessory is compatible with 1000mm machines and provides users with numerous benefits.

One of its key advantages is the integrated T-Slot tracks, which accommodate a wide range of clamps and hold-down options. These tracks are designed for clamps with a 5/16" screw diameter (T-slot) or 5mm screws (MDF), ensuring compatibility with standard hardware. This flexibility means you can choose the clamps that best suit your specific needs and projects.

The T-Track Wasteboard also features a thoughtfully designed hole pattern that minimises the distance between the clamp and the workpiece. This means you'll have more clamping locations closer to the material, ensuring a secure hold regardless of the part size. This is especially useful when working with various-sized materials, as you'll always have a sturdy clamping point within easy reach.

Another benefit of the T-Track Wasteboard is the ability to resurface the MDF wasteboard slats individually. This feature takes advantage of the X-Carve's high precision, allowing you to optimise the wasteboard for tiling large pieces. Instead of replacing the entire wasteboard when a high-use area wears out, you can simply replace individual slats as needed, saving time and money.

The T-Track Wasteboard is an excellent investment for any X-Carve user looking to improve their clamping setup and overall workflow. With its compatibility, versatility, and thoughtful design features, it's no wonder that many X-Carve owners consider it an essential upgrade for their machine.

Safety height adjustments

When using the X-Carve Pro, it is important to ensure that your clamping setup is safe and secure. Here are some detailed instructions on how to make safety height adjustments:

• Origin Safety Height vs Safety Height: It is important to understand the difference between these two settings. The Origin Safety Height is the height at which the spindle will return to when changing tools or after a reset. On the other hand, the Safety Height is the height at which the spindle travels when moving from one cutting area to another.
• Adjusting Safety Height: To adjust the Safety Height, follow these steps:

• Insert the T-track bolt through the nut, clamp, washer, and screw handle.
• Slide the clamp into the T-Track channel.
• Screw down the handle to tighten the clamp onto your material.
• Raise the dust shoe so that the bristles are positioned high enough to clear the clamps.

• Material Thickness: If you are working with material thicker than 3/4", you will need to use a longer carriage bolt and M5 mounting screw. These can be purchased at your local hardware store.
• Number of Clamps: While photos may show only 1 or 2 clamps being used, it is generally recommended to use 4 or more clamps to ensure a secure hold.
• Even Clamping: Ensure that the material is evenly clamped all around, with no gaps between the wasteboard and the material.

By following these instructions, you can ensure that your X-Carve Pro is properly adjusted for safety height, and your clamping setup is secure and safe to operate.

Frequently asked questions