Messages

4321

General Mach Discussion / Re: System with only X and C axis and fixed tool point

« on: April 14, 2014, 06:03:03 AM »

I had it in mind that you might be able to do this using axis formulas (Function Cfgs). I tried it but it just produced a nonsense toolpath. A bit more diddling and either I'm doing it wrong or formulas don't work properly. Really simple ones seem to work but anything slightly complicated seems to throw it. The example on the formulas dialog implies it CAN handle more complex formulas but not here anyway. (3.43.22).

I looked at this as well but concluded that Nick is quite right - it is really a job for the CAM software to sort out.

Tweakie.

4322

General Mach Discussion / Re: 3D printing with Mach 3

« on: April 13, 2014, 02:30:47 AM »

Ok, now I am really confused.  I've been looking at the G-code produced by Simplify3D slicer. I sliced a simple part.  At the beginning of each layer to print it positions the nozzle and then there is a line G1 E1 F1800.  At the end of the layer there is a line G1 E-1 F1800.  What does this code do?  Is it the E (extruder) axis that moves 1 mm at F1800, then back 1mm at the end?  Or is it a rotary axis that starts by E1 and rotates continuously at F1800, then stops when the E-1 is reached? Any help would be appreciated.

Gary,

Perhaps ask your question on the Simplify3D forum http://www.forum.simplify3d.com/   

Tweakie.

4323

Show"N"Tell ( What you have made with your CNC machine.) / Re: Small project not going well

« on: April 12, 2014, 02:52:38 AM »

Hi Jammer,

That lettering is indeed pretty small to expect not to chip-out.
I don't know if you have tried it but the composite Bamboo seems to take fine engraving quite well but requires sealing before colour filling to prevent paint bleed.

Laser would be good, particularly now that the 4 Watt or so diode lasers are available at reasonable prices but it would still make for expensive coasters 

Tweakie.

4324

General Mach Discussion / Re: Reset pop open window?

« on: April 11, 2014, 05:30:55 AM »

I have never actually seen that screen buy try;   Function Cfg's / Reset Device Sel...  and see if that does it.

Tweakie.

4325

Show"N"Tell ( What you have made with your CNC machine.) / Re: I'm in Hog Heaven

« on: April 06, 2014, 11:19:23 AM »

Very nice work indeed. 

(that has even brought back memories of the TV theme tune - don't think I missed an episode as a kid).

Tweakie.

4326

Show"N"Tell ( What you have made with your CNC machine.) / Re: Milling something I'd normally turn

« on: April 06, 2014, 07:26:54 AM »

Excellent work Nick.

You know what they say "CNC is only limited by our imagination" 

Tweakie.

4327

General Mach Discussion / Re: Accuracy and adjustment

« on: April 05, 2014, 07:08:03 AM »

If that solution works for you then that is the most important thing. 

Just a thought - you could possibly have some 'run-out' on your spindle and the 5mm cutter is cutting oversize ??

Tweakie.

4328

General Mach Discussion / Re: Customer Support

« on: April 04, 2014, 10:57:38 AM »

I am pleased that you have it sorted. 

Tweakie.

4329

General Mach Discussion / Re: Changing the units of the "DRO"

« on: April 04, 2014, 05:19:13 AM »

Config menu then General Config. Very first option is to lock DROs to setup units.
Hood

The perfect solution, something I had overlooked, thanks Hood. 

Tweakie.

4330

General Mach Discussion / Re: Changing the units of the "DRO"

« on: April 04, 2014, 02:34:17 AM »

The DRO’s only indicate UNITS.  For example a DRO of 10.0000 will be 10 millimetres when G21 is in operation and 10 inches when G20 is in operation.

There are a number of stand alone programs which will convert the units in your GCode between metric / imperial and imperial / metric – that way the DRO’s will then show your chosen units of measurement.

Tweakie.