Messages

1

General Mach Discussion / Mach3 turn newbie questions:

« on: August 02, 2009, 05:29:22 PM »

Ok I'm a complete newbie to CNC turning and I have some questions before I spend money.  I have done some reading and some things I do understand, while some things I don't.   

In Mach3 turn I understand about the tool X and Z offsets for tool changes and wear offsets, but what I don't understand is how to position the toolpost for a tool change.  Say I'm turning a part (55 degree insert) that is 1" long by .75" diameter and want to switch to a cutoff tool, and minimize the distance the cross slide travels to make the tool change. I will not be using limit switches. 

Most of my work would be done without the tailstock, but eventually I will try turning between centers.

If someone can shed some light on things in a simple format, I would appreciate it.  I often suffer from migraine headaches, so things take a while to sink in sometimes. 

Michael

2

General Mach Discussion / Re: Enabling backlash comp in 3.041

« on: November 07, 2008, 11:47:04 AM »

Thanks for the info.  Will try this tonight.

I should have added that I also have a xylotex based sytem with steppers and Mach 2.0.009 that has backlash enabled and runs smooth.

Will post my findings when I get time to try this.

3

General Mach Discussion / Enabling backlash comp in 3.041

« on: November 07, 2008, 07:22:20 AM »

I have a tabletop mill setup and am looking for ways to enable backlash comp in 3.041. 

I currently have .004 backlash in the X, .002 in the Y and .004 in the Z.  I'm using Kerkote 4tpi leadscrews.

System specs: Gecko 250 driver box and 300 oz in  steppers.  Mach setup; kernel speed 45000khz, CV mode on, distance mode to absolute, IJ mode to Inc.

Without backlash enabled the system runs smooth, if I enable backlash, it seems everything bogs down.

Any ideas?

TIA,
Michael

4

General Mach Discussion / Re: I'm lost

« on: November 06, 2008, 08:50:36 PM »

Dan,

I just wanted to say thanks for sharing the information on fixing your problem. 

I just picked up a Gecko 250 based system and had the almost .2 inch difference in running a 3d fixture cut for a project.  Work area in the code is 1 inch by 1 inch. 

Enabling the Sherline 1/2 pulse mode worked for me also.  I have the setup down to .0015 inch off at the end of the code now, and am going to change the Step and Dir pluses to see if that helps even more. 

Thanks again,
Michael