Help! Offset Vs Start Position

[Crypto]

Could someone help me answer this.

I currently have a 1" high guide along my x and y rail with an offset of 4" in the x to compensate for the width of the guide in the Y. I am trying to cut some 3/16" plywood however the machine wants to immediately ramp down to clearance height and run the bit into the guide.

So my question is if i set a start position of 4" in the x axis under material setup and I also have an offset of 4" is that going to offset everything by 8" or is it going to move to 4" then start my job?

Thanks,

Gary

[Brady Watson]

You may find it easiest to run your C3, command the tool to go to 4 on the X (MX,4) then ZX. Now your X0 point will be 4" in from the edge of the table.

Don't forget to compensate in CAD/CAM for your bit diameter to make sure that it doesn't cut into it. If using a 1/2" bit, make sure you are off of the X0 point IN SOFTWARE with your toolpaths. Toggling on solid view 2D toolpath at the bottom of the toolpath tab makes it easy to see exactly where the cutter will go.

-B

[Crypto]

Now why didn't i think of that (Palm to forehead) LOL

As for the bit, I'm using a 1/16" end mill cutting out model rocketry parts on a 2' x 2' sheet of 3/16" ply board and have lots of room to be off a bit. My biggest concern was have the machine ramp that tiny bit into the guide.

Thanks again for the help and have a Happy thanks giving.

Gary

[Brady Watson]

No problem.

The important bit is to not 'outsmart' yourself by compensating for the offset in BOTH software AND at the machine. I prefer to reference the bottom left of CAD as my 0,0 and physically set the offset at the machine. Others do it the other way.

Happy TG back.

-B