CNC ToolHub

A comprehensive desktop application for CNC tool management, project organization, and cutting parameter optimization. Combines advanced machining calculations with project-based tool organization, material databases, and real-time parameter validation for professional CNC operations.

Key Features

Advanced Machining Calculations

• Standard & Micro Tool Support: Optimized calculations for tools ≥3mm and <3mm
• HSM (High Speed Machining): Chip thinning compensation and advanced algorithms
• Tool Deflection Analysis: Cantilever beam theory with deflection warnings
• Machine Rigidity Adjustment: Router, DIY/Medium, and Industrial VMC settings
• Real-time Parameter Validation: Comprehensive warnings and recommendations

Tool & Project Management

• Project-Based Organization: Organize tools by project with quantity tracking
• Comprehensive Tool Library: Browse and filter extensive tool database
• Material Database: Extensive material properties with coating multipliers
• Dual Unit System: Seamless metric/imperial conversion with real-time switching

Application Overview

Feeds & Speeds Calculator

The core machining calculation engine that computes optimal cutting parameters:

Input Parameters:

• Tool diameter and flute count with unit conversion
• Material selection with automatic property loading
• Cutting parameters (depth/width of cut, surface speed, feed per tooth)
• Machine specifications and rigidity settings
• Advanced options (HSM mode, tool stickout, chip thinning)

Calculated Results:

• Spindle Speed (RPM)
• Feed Rate (IPM/mm/min)
• Material Removal Rate (MRR)
• Cutting forces and power requirements
• Tool deflection analysis with warnings

Key Formulas:

• RPM: (Surface Speed × 1000) / (π × Tool Diameter)
• Feed Rate: RPM × Feed per Tooth × Flute Count
• MRR: Width of Cut × Depth of Cut × Feed Rate

Tool Library

Comprehensive tool database with advanced filtering and management:

Features:

• Browse extensive tool database with specifications
• Filter by diameter, flute count, coating, application
• View detailed tool information and recommendations
• Material, application, and coating reference guides
• Export tool data for external use

Tool Categories:

• End mills (standard, micro, specialty)
• Drill bits and reamers
• Face mills and fly cutters
• Custom tool definitions

Project Manager

Project-based tool organization and workflow management:

Project Management:

• Create and organize multiple CNC projects
• Assign tools to projects with quantities and notes
• Track project progress and tool usage
• Import/export project data
• Project-specific cutting parameters

Tool Assignment:

• Assign specific tools from library to projects
• Track tool quantities and availability
• Add project-specific notes and parameters
• Generate tool lists and setup sheets

Settings & Configuration

System configuration and data management:

Configuration Options:

• Unit system preferences (metric/imperial)
• Default machine settings and rigidity
• Application theme and interface options
• Data file locations and backup settings

Data Management:

• Import/export tool library data
• Backup and restore project files
• Material database updates
• System diagnostics and file verification

Installation

Pre-built Executable (Recommended)

Download the latest Windows executable from the Releases page. No Python installation required.

From Source

Requirements:

• Python 3.11
• PySide6

Installation:

git clone https://github.com/bhowiebkr/CNC-ToolHub.git
cd CNC-ToolHub
pip install -r requirements.txt

Run:

# Windows
run.bat

# Or directly with Python
python src/cnc_toolhub.py

Technical Specifications

Calculation Engine

• Strategy Pattern: Automatic selection between standard and micro tool calculators
• Physics-Based: Cantilever beam theory for deflection analysis
• Industry Standards: Formulas from garrtool.com and major tooling manufacturers
• Machine Aware: Rigidity adjustments for Router, DIY, and Industrial VMC

Architecture

• Modular Design: Separate packages for calculators, formulas, UI components
• Qt Framework: PySide6 for cross-platform GUI
• JSON Data: Human-readable material and tool databases
• Real-time Updates: Automatic recalculation on parameter changes

System Requirements

• Windows 10/11 (64-bit)
• 50 MB available disk space
• No additional software dependencies for pre-built executable

Building from Source

For detailed build instructions including Nuitka compilation, see BUILD.md.

Testing

Run the test suite to verify calculations:

# Windows
run_tests.bat

# Or directly with Python
python run_tests.py

License

Open source project. See repository for license details.

References

Machining formulas based on industry standards from garrtool.com.