Messages

1

General Mach Discussion / Re: dual toolpath displays for 4-axis foam cutter?

« on: April 16, 2009, 03:45:23 PM »

Just an idea, it may be a little complicated/expensive to even prototype, but could you operate the left tower AB with one controller and the right tower XY with another.  That way each is independent of the other with its own controller/computer.  I think that would make programming require a little more forthought.

are you cutting eps?  I have actually just "busted my cherry" with hot wire cutting a couple days ago.  I am only doing profile cutting, maybe you have some advise for a newbee.  I am trying to v cut a thin 3/8" thick piece down approximately .33" deep.  It will be a manual fixture, no NC.  The material is XLPE with a Adhesive and a liner.

2

General Mach Discussion / Re: 4 Axis Waterjet Cutting In Mach3

« on: April 16, 2009, 03:34:52 PM »

Thanks, I appreciate the input.  I believe a macro would be the way to go.  It will take me a little time to develop but it could be worth it in the long run. 

3

General Mach Discussion / Re: 4 Axis Waterjet Cutting In Mach3

« on: April 14, 2009, 07:22:59 AM »

Thanks for the responce.

Thicknesses vary from 1" to 4", angles from 10 to 45 degrees.  There also needs to be an offset in the x axis (as it is in the y axis that is being beveled).  Right now I am generating code using Sigmanest and then modifying it in the text program.  I am wondering if there is a way in Mach to have it account for the compensation.  I have another waterjet that holds the nozzle in the same position right in the controller.   Setup times between the 2 machines vary from 10 minutes on the one that automatically compensates to up to 3 hours (to get accurate parts) on the machine controlled by Mach.

4

General Mach Discussion / Re: dual toolpath displays for 4-axis foam cutter?

« on: April 13, 2009, 03:46:35 PM »

what kind of foam cutter are you using.  I'm guessing hot wire.

5

General Mach Discussion / 4 Axis Waterjet Cutting In Mach3

« on: April 13, 2009, 01:39:04 PM »

Does anyone have anyone have experience with 4 axis waterjet cutting running through Mach 3.  I am unable to get it to work properly.  When the head rotates it is naturally higher than when it is at 90 degrees.  I guess is there a way in Mach to have it compensate a Z and x movement to hold the head in the same position above the material as when it is doing straight 2d cut. 

Thanks
nick