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Author Topic: Z Axis losing reference point  (Read 490 times)

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Z Axis losing reference point
« on: September 17, 2022, 10:03:14 AM »
Hey folks, I first apologize if this has been discussed before, but I have a significant problem that is just beyond my skill level.  Second, I apologize for the length of this post as without the proper description, it won't make true sense.  I would appreciate any comments toward finding a solution.

Basic parameters.  I'm running an AvidCNC 48x96 with an independent Lenovo PC.  I work with Vectic Aspire v11 and use a separate computer for design and place the g-code file (with the proper post processor) to a thumb drive and load that onto the Lenovo with the Mach 4 to drive the CNC.

I downloaded one of the project files, the Vectric Buffalo Nickel Bank, made no modifications to the file (other than inserting the correct bit feeds and speeds) and cut it with the following toolpaths, 1) 3D roughing .25 endmill, then 1/8 inch tapered ball nose, then a 1/16 tapered ball nose for rest machining (handled by Aspire). Both heads and tails of the nickel are cut from one board in the same toolpath on a board that I have planed to the proper thickness, so I know that there are no discrepancies in material thickness.

The first cut of the tapered ball nose, using an offset toolpath.  into the toolpath, for whatever reason, the Z-height changed leaving a pronounced difference.  Even though I knew it was incorrect, I used the touch-plate to zero the next smaller ball nose and it cut the depth properly but it looks horrible since the z height was off.

So, I thought that maybe this was associated with the offset toolpath and switched to a raster toolpath.  Well, same issue occurred.  I don't think that this is an issue with the actual model as hundreds of those have been cut and I don't know of any complaints about the model on that forum.  I tried to post photos but it won't let me.  Any suggestion or advice would be appreciated.

Would you folks think that this is a Mach4 issue or an Aspire issue? 
Re: Z Axis losing reference point
« Reply #1 on: September 17, 2022, 10:06:17 AM »
Photo 1
Re: Z Axis losing reference point
« Reply #2 on: September 17, 2022, 10:06:49 AM »
Photo 2
Re: Z Axis losing reference point
« Reply #3 on: September 17, 2022, 10:07:18 AM »
Photo 3

Offline Bill_O

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Re: Z Axis losing reference point
« Reply #4 on: September 19, 2022, 01:03:49 PM »
Does your gcode have tool info in it?
Re: Z Axis losing reference point
« Reply #5 on: September 19, 2022, 07:56:25 PM »
Okay, issue is identified.  There was an update to Mach4 that corrected this problem.  I reached out to Avid and there was an issue with the original Mach4, so I updated and cut and it is perfect.  I really think it was an issue with a interface between Mach4 and Windows.  Personally, I use a MACbook Pro and just in my opinion, Windows is the worst program ever stolen from IBM.  It's pretty bad.

I want to thank everyone for trying to help me.  It was a great outpouring of help and suggestions.

Mike