8linx – DIY - Do it yourself Hot Wire CNC Foam Cutter

June 13, 2010 - PRLog -- 8linx was formed in order to provide free information on how to build hot wire CNC foam cutters using parts that are available in most hardware store.

8linx provides a very detailed web site with step-by-step instructions on how to build your own cnc hot wire foam cutter. The design is designed in a way that there should be minimum drilling, machining or custom fabricating of parts. Most of the parts for building the machine can be found at any local hardware store, such as Orchard Supply, Home Depot, Lowe’s Etc.

The CNC hot wire foam cutters described on 8linx web site can cut EPS and XPS foam (Expanded Polystyrene), EPP (Expanded Propylene), EPE (expanded Polyethylene) and XPE (Semi-rigid Polyethylene foam). The hot wire cuts the foam by melting it before having contact with the foam. A 1LB EPS foam density, for example, can be cut in a speed of 20-35 inch per minute. XPS cuts slower, and is generally smoother than EPS foam cuts. There are, however, some types of foam that a foam cutter is not the choice of use. When in need of cutting Polyurethane foam a blade or a saw machine should be used rather than a CNC foam cutter, unless you are using a foam cutter similar to a band saw with an abrasive wire.

8linx web site emphasizes that while making your own CNC hot wire machine, the design can be modified to almost any size. If a longer design is needed, longer lead screws can be used, preferably large in diameter. A chain or belt driven design is also good while building a longer model. Those longer models can cut, for example, long prototypes, long surfboards, long RC wings, or any larger than usual design.

8linx web site states that the CNC foam cutter size depends on its application. For example, if building a foam cutter for RC wings, a 10” max travel on the Y towers is needed. When building a foam cutter for props, crowns and moldings, a 4’x4’ (XxY) machine is needed. The wire used for building the machine should be a nichrome wire, since a stainless steel wire can break during the cut while using larger foam block. Nichrome wire lasts longer and will not break even when red-hot.

Since it is much easier finding the hardware parts than the electronic parts, 8linx started selling the electronic boards, cables, motors and power supply needed for the machines assembly. Those 4 Axis boards support Unipolar and Bipolar motors.
There are many software types that will be compatible with the CNC foam cutters. FoamWorks is a good choice since it has CAD capabilities. GMFC will need a time module. Mach3 and KCAM are both generic CNC router software. They are both the appropriate software choice while building larger machines, but require generating your own 4 Axis g code using Desk CNC.

About 8Linx:

8linx is a subsidiary of Foamlinx LLC, a U.S. manufacturer and worldwide distributor of hot wire CNC foam cutting machines.  
8linx web site was initially established to assist RC enthusiasts with their hobby projects while giving instructions on how to cut wings core. Later on, once market demand for foam cutters has enormously grown and interest in those types of machines grew bigger, 8linx has revised, improved and expanded to include all industries possible.
The CNC hot wire foam cutters can now be used in many industries, including architecture, signs, packaging, logos, props, sculptures, surfboards, building and construction. Builders can use the foam cutters especially for Crown Moldings, Willow Sills, Castings, Wainscoat, Fascia, Parapets, Wallcaps, Pediments and Quatrefoils.
8linx web site also includes foam related articles, CNC and foam related links, explanations on the different types of foam, sample cuts, explanatory videos and more.

For additional information about 8linx web site, please call (408) 454-6163 or email info@8linx.com

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8linx is a subsidiary of Foamlinx LLC, a U.S. manufacturer and worldwide distributor of hot wire CNC foam cutting machines.
8linx web site was initially established to assist RC enthusiasts with their hobby projects while giving instructions on how to cut wings core. Later on, once market demand for foam cutters has enormously grown and interest in those type of machines grew bigger, 8linx has revised, improved and expanded to include all industries possible.
The CNC hot wire foam cutters can now be used in many industries, including architecture, signs, packaging, logos, props, sculptures, surfboards, building and construction. Builders can use the foam cutters especially for Crown Moldings, Willow Sills, Castings, Wainscoat, Fascia, Parapets, Wallcaps, Pediments and Quatrefoils.
8linx web site also includes foam related articles, CNC and foam related links, explanations on the different types of foam, sample cuts, explanatory videos and more.