Rapid Plunge to Start Z

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IslaWW
Vectric Wizard
Posts: 1402
Joined: Wed Nov 21, 2007 11:42 pm
Model of CNC Machine: CNC Controller Upgrades
Location: Bergland, MI, USA

Rapid Plunge to Start Z

Post by IslaWW »

This is a feature that is available and invaluable to many users, but seldom used. Lets say that you have your clearance Z set to 2" (or more) to clear clamps or other obstacles on the table. This feature uses rapid speed to bring the bit from the "Clearance Z (Z1) down to "Plunge Z" (Z2) instead of Z feedrates. In many cases this is a painfully slow process when using slow Z feeds due to small bits. I usually set my Plunge Z (Z2) to .050" (1.25mm) no matter what my Clearance Z is set at.

Notes: Not all machines can accel/decel at the same rates, so you will have to test this feature to make sure it doesn't cause problems on your machine. The Video Shows the line to add, but there is full information on page 6 of the Post Processor Editing Guide, available from the Help Menu

Here's a 9 minute video showing this feature (and some ATC stuff) in action:
Gary Campbell
GCnC Control
ATC & Servo Controller Controller Upgrades
GCnC411 (at) gmail.com

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mezalick
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Model of CNC Machine: Camaster Cobra
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Re: Rapid Plunge to Start Z

Post by mezalick »

That should speed things up a bit.....

Thanks for the posting.

~M
Michael Mezalick
https://www.youtube.com/user/mezalick
mm@mezalick.com

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