Makera Z1 Pro: CNC Machining Height-Adjustable Top Clamps | Let’s Make a Thing Ep. 2 – Makerables

In this episode of Let’s Make a Thing, I’m machining a set of aluminum height-adjustable top clamps for Makera CNC machines.

These adjustable top clamps can be used on The Carvera Original, Carvera Air & Makera Z1 CNC Machines.

These clamps are based on the standard Makera-style top clamp, but add an integrated adjustable rear riser that makes it easier to properly clamp materials of different thicknesses.

Instead of using a separate riser block underneath the back of the clamp, an M5 flat-head screw is installed in reverse and used as an adjustable support. Turning the screw raises or lowers the rear of the clamp, allowing you to fine-tune the clamp angle for the material being held.

The Makera-style clamp has a lip that sits against the edge of the material. When the adjustable rear support is set correctly, the clamp can apply pressure in two useful directions:

Axial / downward pressure to help keep the stock firmly seated against the CNC bed
Lateral / sideways pressure from the front lip to help keep the stock against its locating edge

The rear of the clamp can be adjusted slightly lower when appropriate to create the desired working angle while still maintaining strong downward clamping force.

The adjustable riser is completely optional. Simply remove the M5 screw and the clamps can also be used as standard Makera-style top clamps.

I made the clamps in two sizes:
Full-Size Version — approximately the same length as the standard Makera top clamp
Half-Size / Compact Version — takes up less bed space and is especially useful on the smaller Makera Z1 / Z1 Pro bed

The project files are arranged to machine a complete set of five clamps:
3 × Half-Size Clamps
2 × Full-Size Clamps

The compact version is especially useful when working with smaller stock or tighter setups where a full-size clamp takes up more bed space than necessary.

Project Files with full instructions and setup guide:
https://www.makerables.com/project/top-clamps-height-adjustable-riser-secure-taller-stock

The Makerables project includes:
3 × Half-Size / Compact Top Clamps
2 × Full-Size Top Clamps
Height-adjustable M5 rear riser design
Makera Studio project files and machining setup information

The clamps can be used either with the adjustable M5 riser or with the adjustment screw removed for standard Makera-style clamping.

Important:
The included .NC / G-code file is intentionally only a placeholder and will not run the machining job.

Never run downloaded G-code blindly. Open the included Makera Studio files, review the complete setup and toolpaths, verify your stock thickness and machine setup, and then use Makera Studio to generate and export your own G-code.

Hardware For the adjustable riser:
M5 flat-head screw

The M5 screw is installed in reverse so the broad, flat face of the screw head rests against the CNC bed and acts as the adjustable rear support.

Adjust the screw until the clamp sits at the appropriate angle for your material, then tighten the normal Makera clamping screw.

Always confirm that your material is securely held before beginning machining.

🔗 Download the project on Makerables:
https://www.makerables.com/project/top-clamps-height-adjustable-riser-secure-taller-stock

If you enjoy CNC projects, machining, 3D printing, and making useful tools for the shop, consider subscribing.

#CNC #Makera #MakeraZ1Pro #CNCMachining #AluminumMachining #Workholding #TopClamps #CNCClamps #LetsMakeAThing

—— My Makerables.com Page
https://www.makerables.com/user/G7273713664

—— Free Files on my MakerWorld Page
Files & Resources:
📂 Includes free 3D-printable files and other projects
📄 MakerWorld Page → https://makerworld.com/en/@GabrielMaker

If You Found This Helpful:

👍 Like, comment, and subscribe if you enjoy CNC projects and content!

Enjoy The Video!

See my other CNC & 3D Printing related project videos at
https://www.youtube.com/@GabrielMakesThings

Download my 3D Print Files for Free at
https://makerworld.com/en/@GabrielMaker

If you download and use my files please leave a positive rating, a like and a boost if possible.

Thanks!

source