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CNC router, wood (Precix) ID:153: Difference between revisions

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CNC router, wood (Precix) ID:153 (view source)

Revision as of 23:03, 7 August 2024

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==Training and Documentation==
==Machine Overview==
The Precix PC uses Mach3 to control the CNC. We have a Makerspace licensed version of VCarve Pro installed on the Music PC and the Classroom PC which you can use in conjunction with the Client you are going to install as per the instructions below.  
'''Bed size''': 5'(1.524m) x 10'(3.048m) x 11"(0.2794m)
 
'''Axis Orientation:''' Y is the long one.
 
'''Max spindle RPM''': 18000RPM ([https://www.hsdusa.com/bo/allegati/Files/1371_y6162y0016_mt1073-120-er25-220v-dx-18_18_2_.pdf spindle is a AT/MT1073-140 from HSD mechatronics])
 
'''Spindle power''': 2.2KW, 3HP
'''Spindle type''': VFD based motor. (VFD is a commander SK from control tech [http://www.control-pro.ru/doc_pdf/commander_sk/product_data.pdf user manual], [https://inverterdrive.com/file/Commander-SK-Advanced-User-Guide advance user manual])
 
'''Max feed rate''': 750inch/min
 
'''Tool holder type''': ER25 collets, we have 1/8", 1/4",3/8",1/2" (as of 05.11.2021)


Members must complete the [https://my.protospace.ca/courses/428 Basic CNC Wood Router course] to use this tool.
Automatic tool changer: No
====VCarve====
'''Note:''' You can install and run VCarve Pro Makerspace Client Edition on your home PC or Laptop.  This allows you to create VCarve files that you can then bring in to Protospace and create G-Code files on the licensed workstations in the space. 


The current version on the classroom computer is 11.016 as of December '23. If you install a newer version than this on your PC you will have to update the version on the Classroom or Music Computer to open your files at Protopace. Please also edit this part of the wiki to reflect the current version installed.
'''File units''': Default units are imperial. you may switch to metric using gcode commands, it is recommended that you export imperial code.  


'''Note:''' You'll need to log into the classroom PC with username protospace / protospace.
File type accepted: .tap, .gcode, .txt


The below instructions for getting the client may be out of date. Vectric now offers 11.55 for download but it is not compatible with the makerspace licensing method. There is an installer file on the desktop of the classroom PC for version 11.010.
'''Machine control software suite''': Mach3 skinned with [http://www.physanon.com/pa-mach-3-screen-set/ physics anonymous Mach pack]


[[File:Pngkit pointing-finger-png 65553.png|100x60px|]]
Will do 3 axis moves?:Yes
For [[VCarve-Makerspace-Client-instructions|Instructions for installing, licensing, and Using VCarve Pro Makerspace Client click here]].
==Software==
====MACH3====
Mach3 has an optimized, custom screen set installed, although if you wish, you can change it back to the traditional screen.  Just remember to return it to the custom set when you are finished.


<div style="display: inline-block;">
=== Mach3 ===
The Precix PC uses Mach3 to control the spindle and axes.
Mach3 has an optimized, custom screen set installed, although if you wish, you can change it back to the traditional screen.  Just remember to return it to the custom set when you are finished.<div style="display: inline-block;">
{{#evt:
{{#evt:
service=youtube
service=youtube
Line 44: Line 53:
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7o_V_1AIaXE&t=4m6s "MACH3 Has Never Looked This Good."]  Video explaining our Mach3 Custom Interface that is installed on the Precix PC
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7o_V_1AIaXE&t=4m6s "MACH3 Has Never Looked This Good."]  Video explaining our Mach3 Custom Interface that is installed on the Precix PC


====Hold down method====
=== VCarve ===
The hold-down table has a grid of threaded T-Nuts that can/should be used to hold down your material. If you wish to make your own sacrificial / holding system, simply prepare to fasten it down to this grid pattern.  Use the 1/4-20 screws (or bolts if you are gentle).
To create designs for routing, we have a makerspace-licensed version of VCarve Pro. This means you can download, install and run VCarve Pro Makerspace Client Edition on your home PC or Laptop. '''For free!'''  
 
The spacing of the threaded nuts is 4.861" (123.63mm) on both the X and also Y axis.  Wtf is that spacing?  Why not a nice round English or Metric spacing?  Well, that is the spacing of the T-channels in the underlying bed.  Get used to it and make your templates.
 
[[File:153-Precix-bed-Nuts-spacing.jpg|150x150px|Precix Mounting Nut Spacing]]
 
The T-Nuts can be damaged by either over-tightening them, or by pulling them off vertical.  Please be smart and not too aggressive.
 
===Quick start guide for running a job===
1) Power on the machine (black box under the table by the PC) and run Mach3. The controller may take a couple minutes to boot up.


2) Disable the soft E-stop. If it doesn’t clear, check the mechanical E-stops
<blockquote>[[File:Pngkit pointing-finger-png 65553.png|100x60px|]][[VCarve-Makerspace-Client-instructions|Instructions for installing, licensing, and Using VCarve Pro Makerspace Client (click here]]!) 


3) Click Reference All so the machine can figure out where it is. If the machine doesn’t move, check that it’s not at any limit switches. Push it towards center a little and try again
<small>The current version on the classroom computer is V12 as of August 2024.</small> 


4) Set up your workpiece
<small>If you install a newer version than this on your PC you may have to update the version installed on the Classroom or Music Computer to open your files at Protopace. (Please then edit this part of the wiki to reflect the current version installed.</small>  </blockquote>Once you've installed Vcarve, you can create files at home then export gcode from the licensed classroom and music workstations at Protospace. To access the licensed copies of Vcarve Pro, you'll need to log in with username "protospace".


5) Install your tool
=== Fusion 360 ===
Fusion 360 is free for personal/hobbyist use, and has also been used to create things on the CNC router at Protospace. Be sure to select the Mach3Mill postprocessor and be extremely careful about setting your work coordinate system.


6) Zero the Z axis using a piece of paper and ‘INCR” jog mode, or Z-PROBE. '''If using Z probe, <u>first check probe speeds and distances in the probing screen</u>.''' '''**<u>Mach3 starts in INCH mode but the probe settings are whatever the last person left them at</u>** Make sure you change the tool number to 99 before probing. Change the tool number to 1 or 0 after probing.'''
== Quick start guide for running a job ==


<nowiki>**</nowiki> Make sure you set the Z zero to the correct surface, usually the top or bottom of your job**
=== Startup ===


7) Move the machine to the XY datum, 0, or ‘home’ position of your job
# Power on the machine (black box under the table by the PC) and run Mach3. The controller may take a couple minutes to boot up.
# Disable the soft E-stop. If it doesn’t clear, check the mechanical E-stops
# Click <code>Reference All</code> so the machine can figure out where it is. If the machine doesn’t move, check that it’s not at any limit switches. Push it off the limit switch towards center a little and try again. Don't push it far, as this can overheat the servos!
# Set up your workpiece
# Install your tool
# <code>Zero</code> the Z axis using a piece of paper and ‘INCR” jog mode, or the Z-probe touch-off block. (''The <code>Probe Z</code> button in Mach3 will automatically switch to tool 99, and then back to the previously-selected tool.<ref>https://forum.protospace.ca/t/eliminating-tool-99-change-for-z-probe-on-precix/7142/6</ref>'' ''')''' Make sure you set the Z zero to the same height as you set up in your design - usually the top or bottom of your model/stock.


8) Zero the X and Y axes
# Move the machine to the XY datum, 0, or ‘home’ position of your job, and <code>Zero</code> the X and Y axes.
# (Optional) While your project may be designed in metric units, it is far easier and safer to simply export the gcode in imperial inches, which are the default units in Mach3. '''If''' you really want to run your gcode in metric, issue command <code>G21</code> in the MDI box. G21 should then show up in the <code>MODE:</code> line next to the E-stop button.


9) If your job is metric, issue command G21 in the MDI: box. G21 should then show up in the MODE: line next to the E-stop button
=== New / Untested Programs ===
<blockquote>{{Warning|Take some precautions!}}


10) Load your g-code. It should show your job in the display. Check the file at ncviewer.com if it doesn’t look right. You might have to recreate it
* You can simulate the file at [https://ncviewer.com. ncviewer.com.]
* A good practice is to run untested gcode with a very high z-offset, well above your workpiece. This is called an "air cut" and will let you see what the machine will do when it is lowered to cutting height.  
* You can also turn on SINGLE LINE mode. In single line mode, clicking RUN (green play icon) will run only one line of code at a time. Gcode files have a few lines of header information, so it will take a few steps before the spindle starts up and moves to the first operation.
* Keep a hand near the e-stop, just in case!
</blockquote>


11) Check the min/max values to see if they are reasonable. (inch/mm)
=== Running Your Program ===


12) Attach the dust boot and turn on the dust collector.
# Load your g-code file. It should show your job in the display.
 
# Check the min/max values to see if they are reasonable. (inch/mm)
13) Turn on SINGLE LINE mode if it’s your first time or you’re unsure. Clicking RUN (green play icon) will run one line of code. After several lines the spindle should be spinning and have made it’s first move. If everything seems ok, turn off SINGLE LINE mode
# Attach the dust boot and turn on the dust collector.
 
# Click <code>RUN</code>.
14) Click RUN.


[[File:Mach3 startup sequence.png|thumb|Startup sequence for Mach 3]]
[[File:Mach3 startup sequence.png|thumb|Startup sequence for Mach 3]]
==Machine Overview==
'''Bed size''': 5'(1.524m) x 10'(3.048m) x 11"(0.2794m)


'''Axis Orientation:''' Y is the long one.
== Other Details ==
'''Dust collection''': Dedicated dust collection, separate from main woodshop dust collector.


'''Max spindle RPM''': 18000RPM ([https://www.hsdusa.com/bo/allegati/Files/1371_y6162y0016_mt1073-120-er25-220v-dx-18_18_2_.pdf spindle is a AT/MT1073-140 from HSD mechatronics])
'''Probing''': A 1/4" thick electronic touch-off plate is available on the machine, and prebuilt in Mach 3 as tool 99, with an offset of 0.250 inches.


'''Spindle power''': 2.2KW, 3HP
'''Suitable stock materials''': Wood, plastics, foams, other.  
'''Spindle type''': VFD based motor. (VFD is a commander SK from control tech [http://www.control-pro.ru/doc_pdf/commander_sk/product_data.pdf user manual], [https://inverterdrive.com/file/Commander-SK-Advanced-User-Guide advance user manual])


'''Max feed rate''': 750inch/min
'''Unsuitable stock materials''': '''Zero''' metal, metal alloy, or metal composites are to be cut on this machine


'''Tool holder type''': ER25 collets, we have 1/8", 1/4",3/8",1/2" (as of 05.11.2021)
== Work Holding ==
The current work surface was made from a single 5' x 12' sheet of 11/16" MDF, cut into two 5' x 5' squares. (Sourced from McKillican where [[User:Eric.coyle|Eric Coyle]] has a commercial account.)


Automatic tool changer: No
It has been surfaced a few times and overall it is a fairly level plane in reference to the spindle - your mileage may vary if the spindle is out of tram or if your work holding method introduces other sources of variation.


'''File units''': Default units are imperial. you may switch to metric using gcode commands, it is recommended that you export imperial code.
The hold down bolts have been shortened to allow deeper surfacing passes.[https://forum.protospace.ca/t/trying-to-cnc-machine-wood-blocks-on-the-precix/7177/4]


File type accepted: .tap, .gcode, .txt
=== Through Cuts ===
It is considered ''unexcellent'' to cut grooves into the work surface board. If you need to make through cuts, they are best done further away from Y=0, that is father from the operator station. If you set your work origin, offsets, and tool heights carefully in the Z-Axis you will be able to make through cuts that just ''barely'' graze the top of the work surface.


'''Machine control software suite''': Mach3 skinned with [http://www.physanon.com/pa-mach-3-screen-set/ physics anonymous Mach pack]
Even better, and especially for small jobs (< 2' x 2') it is strongly recommended that you use your own sacrificial spoilboard, and fasten down on top off the existing T-nut grid. This can be also be a great option for creating jigs and repeatable setups. (You could add 1/4" dowel pins as precisely-positioned alignment pegs!) Small project-sized panels of MDF can be purchased rather inexpensively for this purpose.
 
Will do 3 axis moves?:Yes
 
'''Hold down method''': Screws, nails, clamps(must make these). Vacuum table in the future.


Note that the hold-down table has a grid of threaded T-Nuts that can/should be used to hold down your material. If you wish to make your own sacrificial / holding system, simply prepare to fasten it down to this grid pattern.  The spacing of the threaded nuts is 4.861"  (123.63mm) on both the X and also Y axis. (Or training slide says X:122.8 Y 123.6) Wtf is that spacing?  Why not a nice round English or Metric spacing?  Well, that is the spacing of the T-channels in the underlying bed.  Get used to it and make your templates.
=== '''T-nut Grid''' ===
The hold-down table has a grid of 1/4-20 threaded T-Nuts that can be used to hold down your material. The grid has unusual spacing as the T-channels in the underlying bed are reportedly aligned to Chinese inches.  


[[File:153-Precix-bed-Nuts-spacing.jpg|150x150px|Precix Mounting Nut Spacing]]
The T-Nuts can be damaged by either over-tightening them, or by pulling them off vertical.  Please do not be too aggressive.
[[File:153-Precix-bed-Nuts-spacing.jpg|alt=Precix Mounting Nut Spacing|right|150x150px]]




'''Dust collection'''?: Yes, separate from main dust collector
The spoilboard was apparently originally cut based on hole spacing of 123.63mm on both the X and Y axis.<ref>[https://forum.protospace.ca/t/cnc-router-mounting-board-spacing/748/6?u=michael.fiss https://forum.protospace.ca/t/cnc-router-mounting-board-spacing/748/6]</ref>  A training slide says X:122.8 Y 123.6.


'''Probing''': plate style. Plate is 1/4" (as of 06.01.2021) thick.
'''However, neither of these numbers are accurate. The spacing is ''not'' the same in both axes as measured by the CNC's own coordinate system. The numbers from the training side are closest, but not perfect. The errors are small enough that you'll still see fitment issues on larger/longer patterns with 1/4" diameter holes.)'''


'''Suitable stock materials''': Wood, plastics, foams, other.
=== '''Hold down Methods''' ===
An assortment of 1/4"-20 threaded bolts, thick fender washers, wood clamps and wood blocks are available in the drawers at the machine.


'''Unsuitable stock materials''': '''Zero''' metal, metal alloy, or metal composites are to be cut on this machine
[https://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/hillman-nylon-hex-bolts-hexagonal-head-machine-threads-assorted-sizes-1619387p.1619388.html Nylon bolts] are a great option to consider, as this will avoid damage to the machine or to the cutting tools in case the spindle crashes the bit into a bolt (another reason to do an air cut first!) or if your work-holding hardware escapes during an aggressive cut and crashes itself into the bit!


===Machine Procedures===
== Machine Procedures ==
[https://forum.protospace.ca/t/precix-fixture-plate-spoil-design-revision/1391/70 Leveling the bed]<br />[https://forum.protospace.ca/t/mach3-control-screen/1517 Change Z Probe Speed]
[https://forum.protospace.ca/t/precix-fixture-plate-spoil-design-revision/1391/70 Leveling the bed]<br />[https://forum.protospace.ca/t/mach3-control-screen/1517 Change Z Probe Speed]


===Slated Improvements===
===Slated Improvements===
Cut a new dust boot
[https://forum.protospace.ca/t/precix-fixture-plate-spoil-design-revision/1391 Replace current fixture board with a fixture + spoilboard]<br />


[https://forum.protospace.ca/t/precix-fixture-plate-spoil-design-revision/1391 Replace current fixture board with a fixture + spoilboard]
== Motion Configuration ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Model
!Description
!Purpose / Role
!
|-
|C25XP
|Ethernet Smooth Stepper Integrated Board
|Mach3 Speaks to this card over ethernet protocol, and this card sends step/dir commands to the servo drivers on each axis, receives E-Stop commands, and powers the "enable" pin.
|
|-
|
|Original Precix Power Supply
|
|
|-
|
|Original Precix Rack and Pinion Gantry
|
|
|-
|
|SSR
|The solid state relay is controlled by the ESD loop (e-stop loop). When the e-stop loop is broken, the SSR ensures that no power goes to the main PSU which makes it so none of the motor drivers receive power.
|
|}


==Maintenance==
==== Spindle ====
{| class="wikitable"
|SKCD2
|Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) for Spindle
<small>(240V, 2.2 kW, 3HP)</small>
|The VFD providers power to the spindle, with a different control scheme from the XYZ axes.
Mach3 speaks to the VFD using Modbus via an RS-485 card, configured in Mach3 to communicate via a dedicated "Brain".
So far, we have not been successful at receiving messages back over Modbus (e.g. true spindle RPM).<ref>https://forum.protospace.ca/t/wood-cnc-precix-help/3389/23</ref>
|-
| [https://www.hsdusa.com/bo/allegati/Files/1371_y6162y0016_mt1073-120-er25-220v-dx-18_18_2_.pdf AT/MT1073-140]
|Spindle
|The Z-axis has a brake to prevent the spindle from dropping on power loss, but it was removed / disabled in October 2021. <ref>[https://forum.protospace.ca/t/cnc-router-acting-funny/243/34?u=michael.fiss https://forum.protospace.ca/t/cnc-router-acting-funny/243/34]</ref>
|}


*deep clean yearly
==== Each Axis (XYZ) ====
*[add more]
{| class="wikitable"
|+
|AMT-103V
|Incremental Rotary Encoder
| rowspan="2" |In a true closed loop CNC system the step generator (the CNC application) gets direct feedback from the rotary encoders.
In our setup, Mach3 sends pulses to the a servo driver which moves each servo while monitoring the axis' reported movement via direct feedback from the rotary encoder, at  a resolution of 128ppr (x4 = 512). <ref>https://forum.protospace.ca/t/cnc-router-acting-funny/243/29</ref> That part of the system is “closed loop”.


<br />
However, Mach3 doesn’t know if the servo kept up or not and if the machine is in the expected position. The servo driver knows if it went as far as it was commanded, but if the discrepancy gets too large, all it can do is raise an error signal or shut down the driver. When this happens either due to an error or an e-Stop, the machine know longer knows where it is and must be rehomed (Ref All) to the limit switches.
|
|-
|Gecko G320X
|Digital Servo Driver
|
|-
|CGS103U075V4C
|Capacitors
|
|
|-
|V7-2B17D8-201
|Limit Switches
|One limit switch is used to find "home". Another a little further along the axis tells the CNC to "shut down, you've gone too far!" (see Troubleshooting, below)
|
|-
|
|Rectifiers
|
|
|-
|
|MOV
|
|
|-
|
|Toroidal Transformer
|
|
|-
|
|Servos
|
|
|}


==Troubleshooting==
==Troubleshooting==
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<nowiki>:</nowiki>D<br />
<nowiki>:</nowiki>D<br />


==Machine history==
== Maintenance ==
*deep clean yearly
*[add more]
 
==Machine History==
The Precix CNC was originally pitched by Scott Y. on Feb 7th, 2020. It's purchase for the spaced was voted on during the Feb 20th, 2020 meeting.  
The Precix CNC was originally pitched by Scott Y. on Feb 7th, 2020. It's purchase for the spaced was voted on during the Feb 20th, 2020 meeting.  


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The controller was changed in Aug due to the Galil DMC-1803 card not wanting to register in the system. We have moved to a Smoothstep board with a C25XP integrated card mounted to it.  
The controller was changed in Aug due to the Galil DMC-1803 card not wanting to register in the system. We have moved to a Smoothstep board with a C25XP integrated card mounted to it.  
Motion config (As of Aug 29/21) is as follows
[[Category:Woodworking tools]]
[[Category:Woodworking tools]]
[[Category:Showcase tools]]
[[Category:Showcase tools]]
Michael.fiss
85

edits

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