Issue with outside frame milling

[cmickey]

When trying to cut a outside frame The cutter does not line up with the part. I'm using a 1 2 3 block to trace around the shape. The tool path will be off in both the X and Y directions but not in both plus and minus directions. I also have pictures of the track and pictures of my screen where I set up the frame. I have tried using the center as my orientation and have tried the corners. I just checked the steps per revolutions and I am with in about 8 thousand.

[cncsnw]

This is likely an error setting your Part Zero location.

After you have set your X and Y axis part zeros, then jog Z just clear of the surface, and use the F3/MDI prompt to run:

Code: Select all

G90 G0 X0 Y0

Does the tool (spindle centerline) line up over where you thought you set part zero?

[cmickey]

Yes, everything lines up and tracks right in both axis.

[cnckeith]

carl,
hello.
which way does the table move when you press x+ jog key

[cmickey]

The tables moves to the left with the pendant x+, mdi x+ and x+ on the panel.

[cncsnw]

Okay, let's revisit your original description of the issue.

The tool path will be off in both the X and Y directions but not in both plus and minus directions.

Is the frame that the tool traces:
1) Too large or too small in X and/or Y?
2) Off center in X and/or Y?

It would help if you would post a copy of the Intercon program (.icn file from c:\intercon) and the posted CNC program (.cnc file from c:\cncm\ncfiles).

A screen shot of the F8/Graph preview screen would also help. Unlike the runtime graphics display in your above picture, the F8/Graph screen has rulers at the left and bottom, so you can see the toolpath size and position.

Also: if you run this same program repeatedly, does it repeatably trace the same path? Or does it move farther and farther away from your intended part?

[cmickey]

I'm using a 123 block. I'm also using a 90 degree 3/8 chamfer as the tool to trace around the 123 block. I have tried to set the frame up with the orientation in the middle of the block and also used the lower left corner. I get similar results.

[tblough]

Do you have cutter comp turned on in the wrong direction? Posting your Intercon file would let us see.

[cmickey]

I'll post some more pics tomorrow. I thought maybe there was an old cutter com code in there somewhere so I inserted a cutter comp off command at the beginning. And this afternoon I also wrote a very crude g code program to follow the 123 block. Started with a g91 and then with all the normal movements. It work fine.

[cmickey]

Posting the requested files and picture. The answer to the question is that the issues will repeat every time it runs.
Would it be possible to send a screen shot of how you would set up using the canned cycles menu. Basically I go to the cam tab, select insert tool, then cycles and outside frame. Then fill in the appropriate information. I really think I am doing something a little wrong when I am doing this.