Brand new at this, So please laugh loudly if applicable.

Using a plasma table with no Z axis. Mach III is up and running well (I think).   Tried Lazy cam for the first time today. Imported a DXF (simple rectangular parts).  I can't seem to get LCam to plot a sensible tool path. It will cut and recut the same line several times over before moving to the next. Between each cut, LCam has generated code that raises the Z axis 6.0 in. then lowers it before peoceeding. How can I eliminate this unnecessary pausing while moving a nonexistant axis? setting all Z axis parameters to 0 in LCam does not fix the problem. Also, the relay for the plasma turns on and remains on during the Z axis cycle.   Last question: How can I slow down the "rat"? it goes so fast there is no way to see what the tool path is.   What am I doing wrong and how do I fix it? 

Thanks in advance for any help. 

Hey Bill, I haven't messed with lazy cam in a while, but will open it up and see if I can find my way around later tonight if no one else has you fixed up by then. To slow it down, you have feed moves. They start with G1**** then F**. The Number after the F is your feed rate. I'm sure it can be adjusted n Lcam. Also, what post processor are you using in LCam. Think I remember it haveing a plasma PP there.

Brett

Bill, seems to be good here. Are you using LazyCam pro? I opend LazyCam, selected plasma, opened a dxf, cleaned, optimized, went to layers tab at the bottom and set my feed and plung rates. Hit post code button at the top. When it opens you get a plasma options button, clicked on it and set my safez, (initial height) and work (pierce) height. Clicked OK and got good code for a plasma I think. Looks like it would be fine running on the office PC.

Brett

Thanks for the advice !  My speed problem is with the "rat" (which is called forth by pressing the "S" key when viewing an lCam file). the rat traces out the tool path so you can visuall verify the path.  Speed with the machine in G-code is fine fine. 

The advice with plunge depth and safe Z worked perfectly. Thanks Chaoticone.

My continuing problem is when Lcam plots a tool path for a rectangle (for example) it will cut one side, do a qick traverse in the oposite direction (right over the previous cut) cut the next side, do a quick traverse...etc etc...    In lcam, the rectangle will appear to be, and highlight as,  1 chain.  If open the chain there a re many many moves (entities) to cut it. re ordering entities does not seem to solve the problem.  I would like the tool to trace out the object (chain) in one continious cut.   

I do see the little yellow arrows that indicate cut direction, but often they are pointing in a direction that is not optimal.  Is there a way to change them?

Thank you again
Bill