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Topics - GMcG

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I have  questions about the best way to use the tool cribs in Mach 3 and my CAM program when using several different sized drill bits in a G-Code program.
  Originally I thought that I would use the same tool number, T11, for any drill bit and then, because I use automatic measurement of each tool in a non repeatable holder, NRH, provided for in MSM, it would give me the correct TLO each time even though the tool number is the same.  However, the program needs to know the diameter of the bit and this is held in the Mach 3 table for T11 and that is not measured by the MSM Auto Tool measurement. So I don't see any way to address the drill bit change issue except to create a separate tool # in Mach 3 and the Cam tool crib for each drill that I use in machining.  With all the different drill bits this seems like an awful lot of work and source for errors.

Bottom line question:  does any one have a better suggestion as to how to manage drill bit changes in Mach 3 Cribs and with Cam Cribs?

Thanks,
Greg

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I am running Mach 3 on a CNC converted Precision Matthews PM-30 mill.  Only have three tools set up in tool table so pretty simple.  I use a 3D probe to establish work offset of material for G54. I home the machine, then establish the work offset for the material with the 3d probe I save that work offset and the to insure the G54 offset works I jog the x,y and axis to other locations and the click "go to zero" and the machine goes right to the corner of the material.  To further insure correct operation I change from the probe tool of 99 to tool 1 from my tool table, a .375 EM that is about 3.25 shorter than the probe from a length offset standpoint.  I enter the tool and insure that it has taken in the window when I hit enter.  Now I check to make sure the tool offset is working with the work offset by clicking on "go to zero" again.  Machine takes the tool to exactly where it should be at the zeroed corner of the material.  So this all tells me that I have tools set up correctly in tool table and that my probe and use of it are working correctly. 

My problem is when I run a simple program ( wizard or BobCad/cam created) that involves a tool change, the system ( either the code or Mach3) is turning off tool offset entirely.  What this looks like is when a z move is commanded the machine acts like it is going to the max z position.  When I look at Mach screen, tool offset button has been turned off by something.

I have discussed the issue with BobCad support and they have looked at the code produced from their program and say that it is not happening from their code.  I sent a copy of that program with a previous post on thi same forum. 

I have looked at my Mach settings but cannot figure out why this us happening.  By the way I am using the Mach post processor w/o act.

Any help greatly appreciated.

Greg

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I am having a similar problem to someone who posted a couple of years ago but no one responded. 
After Referencing XY andZ axis to their home positions, I create a G 52 work offset on my material. All works well as far as G 52 work offsets, and the referenced tool going to the G52 zero position when I select "Go to Zero".  But as soon as I load g code from BobCad and or some of the Mach 3 Wizards, some how the tool offset gets dropped and if I don't stop the Z axis it will go all the way through the machining wax I am playing with. I have already ruined a diamond tipped engraving tool as a result of this.  I have checked and rechecked the g code and BobCad says the G code is fine and that it has to be a Mach 3 setting some where.  I cannot figure out where. 

I would really like to get this cleared up so if someone could please call me or give me a number to contact you I would appreciate it a lot.

Thanks
Greg

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General Mach Discussion / Spindle Speed problem
« on: June 30, 2015, 08:23:00 AM »
This is my first post so I am hopeful for some help.  I just encountered a problem with Mach 3 interface with my Precision Matthews PM 30 mill.  When I highlight the S DRO and type in any speed, the numbers appear in the DRO box but as soon as I hit the "enter" key the number changes to a -1 value. I haven't intentionally changed any configuration settings.  Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks
GMcG

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