Though the MDX-50 is a very safe CNC mill, there are a few things to be aware of when operating the machine.
Never try to open the door while the spindle is cutting. The machine will stop immediately.
If there is the need for an emergency stop, press the large red button on the right side of the door.
You must have a staff member check over your job before you start it.
This machine is allowed to be left running unattended, but please monitor it for the first 20 min or so to ensure that it is performing as expected.
ALWAYS clean the dust from the machine when the job is finished.
Metal is not permitted to be milled in the machine
The MDX-50 is in the manufacturing lab, so you must have already passed the manufacturing lab quiz. You can prepare a file according to the first cut guide, but you must have a staff member check your job before you start the cut. Failure to do so can jeopardize your access to the lab.
We sell some material that can be used in the MDX-50
Hard / Softwood $6.00/board foot
There are also many scraps that can be used for free
Always refer to the Material Store page for the most updated pricing.
The Roland MDX-50 CNC mill is used for automated cutting and carving of materials. CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control meaning that the machine is automated and the axes are moved using motors unlike a manual mill where the x,y,z axes are moved by hand. The CNC mill uses cutting tools called endmills that look similar to drill bits but they can remove material in x and y rather than only in z like the drill bits. Additionally, this CNC mill has a rotary axis, allowing for parts to be carved out of cylindrical material. The MDX-50 can only mill softer materials like wood and plastic.