If you have just received your 3020 Nova CNC machine the first step before starting your first engraving project is to properly assemble the machine.

Proper assembly is especially important for CNC beginners. If the machine is not securely fastened or is placed on an unstable workbench, it may cause vibrations during operation, reduce machining accuracy, or lead to other problems.

This guide will walk you through the basic preparation and assembly steps for the 3020 Nova, from preparing your workspaceto assembling the Z-axis and installing the trimmer.

 

1. Preparing Your Workspace Before Assembly

Before unpacking the machine's components, make sure you have adequate workspace.

1.1 Ensure Sufficient Space Around the Machine

The overall dimensions of the 3020 Nova are approximately 39.3 × 52 × 41 cm.

In addition to the space occupied by the machine itself, please ensure at least100 mm of clearance around the machine for heat dissipation and ventilation.

Pay particular attention to the following areas:

l Control box

l Spindle/Trimmer

l Vents

Do not place the machine directly against a wall or block the vents.

Proper ventilation helps prevent excessive heat buildup during prolonged operation.

1.2 Choose a Stable Workbench

Place the 3020 Nova on a level, sturdy workbench that can support at least 50 kg.

Solid wood tables or metal workbenches are recommended.

Avoid lightweight or unstable tables.Vibrations during CNC machining may affect the following:

l Engraving accuracy

l Surface finish

l Dimensional accuracy

l Tool stability

A stable workbench provides a far better foundation for precision machining.

1.3 Check the Power Supply

Before connecting the machine, make sure the outlet is properly grounded.

Also, check that the available voltage matches your machine's voltage setting.

Depending on the model and power switch configuration, the 3020 Nova may be set to either 110V or 220V.

Always check the machine's voltage requirements before connecting it to power.

1.4 Check the Included Parts

Before starting assembly, check the parts list and ensure that all parts and accessories shown in the images are included in the package.

 

2. Tools Required for Assembly

Most of the tools required for assembly are included with the machine, so you usually do not need to purchase additional tools.

Items to have ready:

l Hex wrench

l Wrench

l Screwdriver

l Spirit level

l Marker pen

The spirit level can be used to check that the workbench is properly level.

The marker pen can help mark the orientation of parts during assembly.

Gloves are not required, but they help protect your hands and prevent injuries during installation.

 

3. Part Check Before Installation

Before starting assembly, carefully unpack the parts and ensure that all necessary parts and accessories are present.

4. Step-by-Step Assembly of the 3020 Nova

Once your workspace and parts are ready, you can begin assembling the machine.

Step1: Install the Z-Axis Bracket

First, install the Z-axis bracket/assembly.

Installation Steps

1. Remove the module from the protective foam.

Carefully remove the module from its packaging and place it level on the workbench.

Before tightening the screws, please check the following:

l The profile is in the correct position.

l The profile is not twisted.

l The mounting surface is clean.

l There are no protective films or packaging materials left on the contact surfaces.

2. Align the screws with the mounting holes.

Use the included wrench to align the profile with the4 screws.

3. Tighten the screws diagonally.

Do not tighten all 4 screws in order from one side.

Instead, tighten them alternately in a diagonal pattern.

This distributes the clamping force evenly and reduces the likelihood of the X-axis assembly tilting during installation.

Assembly Tips

After tightening the screws, visually inspect the assembly from various angles to ensure that the profile remains properly aligned.

 

 

5. Step 2: Install the Fixture and Trimmer

The next step is to install the 65 fixture and trimmer on the Z-axis assembly.

The fixture determines the position and orientation of the cutting tool, so careful alignment is required during this step.

5.1 Assemble the 65 Fixture and Trimmer

First, assemble the trimmer with the65 fixture.

Align the mounting holes of the trimmer with the corresponding holes on the65 fixture.

If additional fixture-specific instructions are required, follow the trimmer's included user manual.

Once assembly is complete, you will have the following assembly:

65 fixture + trimmer assembly

5.2 Place the Assembly on the Z-Axis

Firmly support the assembled fixture and trimmer with both hands.

Check the trimmer mounting position on the Z-axis assembly.

The mounting area isat the bottom of the Z-axis assembly and has four pre-drilled mounting holes.

Align the four screw holes of the 65 fixture with the corresponding mounting holes on the Z-axis assembly.

Before inserting the screws, make sure all holes are properly aligned.

5.3 Secure the Fixture with 4 Screws

Secure the 65 fixture using four M6 × 75 socket head screws.

Insert the screws into the mounting holes from the outside of the Z-axis assembly and thread them into the screw holes of the 65 fixture.

These screws are relatively long, so insert and tighten them slowly.

If the threads do not engage smoothly, do not force them in. Misalignment may damage the threads.

5.4 Tighten the Screws

Use the includedM6 hex wrench to tighten the four screws one by one.

After tightening all 4 screws, gently move the trimmer by hand to check that it is securely fastened.

There should be no visible wobbling or looseness.

If the trimmer is loose:

1. Check that the mounting holes are properly aligned.

2. Loosen the screws if necessary.

3. Readjust the fixture position.

4. Retighten all 4 screws.

Do not continue to operate the machine with a loose trimmer.

 

 

6. Adjust the Trimmer Position

Once the 65 fixture is secured, place the trimmer in the fixture slot.

Adjust the trimmer position so that:

l It is properly positioned in the center of the fixture

l It is perpendicular to the workbench

l It is positioned at the appropriate machining height

Proper alignment is important because a misaligned trimmer will affect machining accuracy and cutting results.

Before continuing with the rest of the setup, visually inspect the trimmer from the front and side.

 

7. Wiring and Cable Management

After installing the trimmer, connect the machine wiring and properly organize the cables.

7.1 Connect the Wiring

Connect the wiring from the machine to thecorresponding port on the back of the Z-axis bracket.

Make sure each cable is connected to the correct position and securely inserted.

7.2 Organize the Cables

Use cable ties and cable clips to organize the cable routing.

Keep the cables away from moving parts and the machining area to prevent the following problems:

l Cable interference

l Cable tangling

l Cable damage during operation

Proper cable management keeps the machine clean and ensures safer operation.

 

8. Lubricating Moving Parts

Before starting your first machining project, check the lubrication of the machine's moving parts.

The ball screws and linear guides must be properly lubricated to maintain smooth operation.

Use the included lubrication brush and lithium grease on the appropriate areas.

Regular lubrication also helps reduce friction and wear during long-term use.

 

9. Final Assembly Checklist

Perform a quick inspection before turning on the 3020 Nova for the first time.

Worktable

The machine is placed on a stable, level worktable.

The worktable can support at least50 kg.

There is at least100 mm of ventilation clearance around the machine.

The vents are not blocked.

Machine Assembly

The Z-axis assembly is securely fastened.

All four mounting screws are tightened.

The 65 fixture is securely installed.

The trimmer is securely fixed.

The trimmer is perpendicular to the worktable.

No parts are visibly loose.

Electrical and Cable Setup

The outlet is properly grounded.

The machine voltage matches the available power supply.

The trimmer cable is positioned away from moving parts.

The cable does not interfere with the machining area.

Lubrication

The ball screw is properly lubricated.

The linear guides are properly lubricated.

Once these checks are complete, the 3020 Nova is ready for the next setup and calibration steps.

 

10. 3020 Nova Assembly Video Tutorial

If you prefer a visual guide, you can also watch the 3020 Nova CNC assembly video tutorial.

This video demonstrates the complete assembly process step by step, including preparing the workspace, installing the Z-axis assembly, installing the trimmer, making wiring connections, and cable management.

Watching the video along with this document guide will help you better understand each assembly step and ensure that the 3020 Nova is correctly assembled before your firstCNC project.

Watch the 3020 Nova CNC Assembly Tutorial Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=78nIecOXkpA&t

 

11. Next Steps After Assembly

Assembling the machine isonly the first step in your CNC journey.

After assembling the 3020 Nova, beginners typically need to proceed with the following steps:

1. Powering on and checking the machine

2. Connecting the CNC control software

3. Installing and configuring the necessary software

4. Setting the machine origin/work origin

5. Installing the cutting tool

6. Running a test engraving

7. Adjusting the cutting parameters

8. Starting your firstCNC project

For beginners, we recommend starting with simple engraving projects before moving on to complex machining and3D carving.

This allows you to gradually learn the machine's movements, tools, work origin, feed rates, cutting depth, and software workflow.

Finally,

Proper assembly is3020 Novathe foundation for achieving good results. By taking a little extra time to check alignment, tighten the mounting screws evenly, secure the trimmer, organize the cables, and lubricate the moving parts, you can start with a more stable and reliable machine.

Once assembly is complete, the next exciting step ispowering on the 3020 Nova and taking on your first CNC project.