Steps 5-9
Last updated
Last updated
Before continuing to operate the machine, verify that the limit switches are registering in the control software. This needs to be done so that when the machine homes or reaches the end of travel, the machine does not over travel and damage itself.
This is easiest to do with two people. One person will press the limit switches on the machine and the other will check Mach3 to see if they registered.
Go to the “Diagnostics” page in Mach3 by clicking on the button or pressing “Alt-7”. Press the limit switch on the machine and the corresponding light should change in Mach3.
X Limit Switch = M1Home
Y Limit Switch = M2Home
Z Limit Switch = M3Home
Go back to the “Program Run” page. Click the “REF ALL HOME” button next to the DRO in the middle of the screen. The machine will home itself now.
Verify that the probe is functioning properly and is connect to the machine buy checking the digitize port on the diagnostics page.
Plug the probe into the probe port on the front of the controller. Touch the clamp on the probe to the probe pad. The digitize light should turn on and then turn off when no longer touching the pad.
Be sure to have the water pump connected to the machine and the bucket filled.
Turn on the pump and the water should begin to circulate through the spindle. Check for any leaks and tighten fittings as needed. Water should be flowing back into the bucket from the return water line
Turn the “VFD” switch on
Before turning the spindle on either remove the collet and collet nut or insert an end mill and tighten the collet. DO NOT tighten an empty collet or turn the spindle on with a loose collet.
Go to the “MDI” page. In the input box type “M03 S5000” and press enter. This will turn the spindle on to 5000 RPMs. Next type in “S12000” and press enter. The spindle speed should increase. Type in “M05” and press enter. This will stop the spindle.
