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Computer Numerical Control Machine Setup
and Operation
The Computer Numerical Machine startup procedure varies
depending with the type of machine being used but usually there
is a main power switch or a circuit breaker to turn it on. Some
machines also require hydraulics or air pressure before it
starts up.
Computer Numerical Control Machines are sophisticated
instruments that only trained CNC operators should operate them.
There are certain rules and guidelines to consider if you are
planning to use a CNC machine by yourself.
CNC checklist before startup
Before starting up the Computer Numerical Control Machine, there
are safety rules that must be considered first. First important
aspect before starting up the CNC machine is to ensure your own
safety, therefore wearing protective gear, such as eye glasses
and short sleeved shirts is an important dress code during CNC
operation. You should also be careful whenever you are handling
tools and sharp edged work pieces to avoid any accidents. You
must also ensure that the cutting tools are fastened in the
machine spindle to avoid any movement during the cutting
operation.
Actual Startup, Operation and Machine Setup of the CNC
The Computer Numerical Machine startup procedure varies
depending with the type of machine being used but usually there
is a main power switch or a circuit breaker to turn it on. Some
machines also require hydraulics or air pressure before it
starts up.
When the Computer Numerical Machine starts up, the machine
usually starts at its Machine Home Position. The Machine Home
Position allows the control and the machine to have a preset
starting position for all its axes. After startup, the CNC
machine must be sent to this position before the work begins.
This position will later be changed to an appropriate location
whenever you are machining a particular part of a product.
The Tool Length Offset Value or TLO is the distance from the tip
of the tool from the spindle in the Home Position. The TLO must
be set for each tool in the current job. The TLO can be set
using a height gage, fixture location, as well as the reference
tool. When these values are determined, they are stored in the
Controller to be used during the program operation.
After setting the Tool Length Offset Value it is time to setup a
part origin of a CNC machine. Setting up the part origin on a
CNC machine is the same as setting up a conventional machine. It
usually involves positioning the axes to a point where the plan
designates as its origin. There are many ways to locate the
position on the reference point, it is by using edge finders,
wigglers or magnifying glasses.
After setting up the whole system for the Computer Numerical
Control, it is time to Load the program to the machine. Program
loading is different for each machine. Some machines have tape
readers to input the program into the Computer Numerical Control
Machine’s memory. Newer machines have internal or external
floppy devices to input the program to the machine. After the
program is loaded to the machine, the CNC machine is now ready
to use.
There are certain instances when you have to change the tools in
the Computer Numerical Control manually during machine
operations. When a certain machining operation is complete, the
program will move the aces to the tool change position and
display the next tool needed. It is now the job of the Machine
operator to remove and replace it with the next tool.
Extra Care must be taken whenever you are starting operations
with the CNC machine, any mistake taken during the part of the
operation may lead to serious injuries from the machine
operator.
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