MDF Rose Engine Lathe 2.0

Control System for Multiple Stepper Motors

Continuous Flutes using a Rosette

The idea behind this approach is you are cutting the rosette's design around the object, whilst also moving very slowly along the Z axis. A standard cutter is typically used to to cut the rosette's profile.

Rosette	Use a rosette with the desired shape (e.g., a Holtzapffel D-12 rosette, used from the far side). Another rosette which yields a nice effect is the PF-9.
Spindle	The spindle is rotated slowly whilst the cutter is moved in the Z direction.
Cutting Frame	The cutting frame selected and the angle of cutting can have great effects on the results achieved. Typically, a horizontal cutting frame is used. The cutting frame is moved slowly down the Z axis. Movement of the cutter along the Z axis can be achieved at least two ways. The most efficient way is to use a slide rest which has automated movement using a lead screw (e.g., a curvilinear slide). This also has the most likelihood of achieving a smooth, even finish. If you don't have a slide rest which can automate the movement using a lead screw, then you will have to move it manually a small increment after each revolution. Something like 0.005" at a time is not uncommon. Note: a Drill Spindle could be used with this, but the cuts would probably not be as nicely made.
Cutter	Use a cutter with a standard shape (e.g., 60°). Hold it in a cutting frame, and move it down the whole length.
Rubber	The shape of the rubber can have a great effect on the shape.

Screen

Actions

Main

On the Main page,

Set the max speed for the spindle to 5,000.

Set the max speed for the Z axis to 100.

The radio button selections are set as:

Consider using a limit switch to stop movement when the desired distance has been reached on the Z axis. If using one, ensure the limit switch is plugged into the configured pin for Max.

Start the spindle rotation. Touch either

		to rotate the spindle counter-clockwise (recommended) or
		to rotate the spindle clockwise

Engage the cutter to the desired depth.

Start the movement of the cutter along the Z axis. Touch either

		to cut towards the headstock
		to cut away from the headstock

Disengage the cutter.

Stop the movement of the cutter along the Z axis.

Stop the rotation of the spindle.

If additional depth is needed for the flutes, repeat steps 5 thru 10.

Cutting Downhill

Cutting to the Left

Cutting to the Right

When cutting with a spinning cutter, just as on a router, it is a good practice to always cut downhill. This is not always possible, but it typically leaves the smoothest surface.

The choices for the direction to move the cutter (the red arrow) and the cutter's rotation (blue arrow) should be made to ensure downhill cutting happens.

This is an advantage for using a fly cutter over a carbide bit. With a fly cutter, the direction of the cut can be reversed. (For more information about fly cutters vs. carbide bits, see also Cutters on the Cutting Frames page at the Ornamental Turning Book of Knowledge.)

Click on any of the pictures on this page to see bigger images.