CNC Services Northwest

Method 0: Don't use length compensation

If you rarely use more than one tool in a job (e.g. a one-job machine with a right-hand turning/facing tool), then you don't need to use tool offsets at all.

Pros:

• Simple

Cons:

• Must set part zero on X axis as well as Z whenever tool is changed
• Must create separate part program, and reset part zero, for each tool if you ever do use multiple tools

Preparation (one-time)

1. Go to the Offset Library.
2. Set all length offsets to zero.
3. Press F10 to save.

Operation (for each job)

1. You do not need to go to the Offset Library at all.
2. Go to Part Setup.
3. Touch off and Set Z position. You need not enter the tool number.
4. Press F8 to go to the X axis
5. Touch off and Set X position (diameter). You need not enter the tool number.

If you have to replace the tool

1. Go to Part Setup
2. Touch off and set Z and X positions just like before.

Running a job with multiple tools

1. Set Z and X position with first tool, as described above.
2. At each subsequent tool change:
   1. Cancel the job (CYCLE CANCEL).
   2. Load the new tool.
   3. Go to Part Setup.
   4. Touch off and set Z and X positions. You need not enter the tool number.
   5. Go to Run/Resume (if available -- otherwise Run/Search).
   6. Resume the job at the tool change where you interrupted it.

Copyright © 2003 Marc Leonard
Last updated 31-Mar-2003 MBL