Where does my machine get it's speed and feed?

[FoothillFurniture]

I have my feed at 20 ipm in the tool database, but when I run the code on my machine, it's running at 200 ipm? Also does Vectric control rapid speeds, or is that what is setup in my settings? I am watching the code run and the rapids aren't running what I have them in my settings (315 ipm)? I don't see any setting for rapids in Vectric?

Thanks!

[TReischl]

Check your gcode for F20.0.

The machine controls rapid, not vectric.

[ger21]

If multiple axis are moving during rapid moves, the velocity may be higher than your settings, even though each axis is limited to 315ipm.

[IslaWW]

If multiple axis are moving during rapid moves, the velocity may be higher than your settings, even though each axis is limited to 315ipm.

Depending on the controller. Some interpolate rapids in the same way feedrates are done, and some simply "let er eat", IOW, each axis may travel at its max rate. There are some minor advantages to both, depending on needs.

[TReischl]

I am a fan of the "let 'er rip" method myself.

Mine hits about 700 IPM on a 45 degree diagonal move. I currently have my rapids set to 500. I would set them higher but then jogging around gets a little strange, I can override the rate with Gerry's handy dandy screen set but there are some other things that it goes full blast anyhow.

When I really like it is when it hits Gerry's Park routine in the software. Away it goes so I can see the whole part and do whatever I need to do. Then when the next program starts it comes flying right back. Nice. Sweet.

[IslaWW]

Exactly correct. A 45* move with both axes at max rate will yield the fasted "over ground" speed. 1.414 (sqrt of 2) times the max rate. in your case 707 and change ipm.

Those that interpolate rapids will run 500ipm "over ground" with each axis running at ~354ipm. Easy to tell which returns quicker sheet cycle times.

[FoothillFurniture]

Thanks for the replies. So when I create gcode from toolpaths(job A), the speed is going to be what it was for that particular tool when I exported it, correct? If I change it later for another job (Job B), is there an easy way for me to see what the speed is for job A that I created 2 weeks ago? Hope that made sense.

Also, should rapids for all Axes be the same, or it doesn't matter if they are all different?

This is a 5'x5' DIY machine I just finished building. I have tested rapids up to 800ipm, but that scared me too death...way too fast! I will keep them at around 300-400

[FixitMike]

You can use a text editor to look at the G code file (it is a .tap file, in my case.)

A line that looks like F60.0 sets the feed until the next time it appears.

To understand all of the commands, Search the internet for "G-Code".

[TReischl]

...... I have tested rapids up to 800ipm, but that scared me too death...way too fast! I will keep them at around 300-400

Head on over to:

http://www.thecncwoodworker.com/2010.html

That is a link to Screenset 2010, he has versions for UCCNC, Mach3 and I think a couple of other control software packages.

One of the things it does is make using jogs easier. For instance, when a program is running it can use the maximum rapid rate which is great. He has an override setting that allows you to manually jog at several different rates. VERY handy.

His screenset makes using Mach3 a lot better. Not only that, it is not as ugly as the Mach3 screens. That screenset is in my list of "Best Things I have Ever Bought for $20)

[tomgardiner]

What you can do is compile a tool database for various job types, i.e. 3d, hardwood softwood plastics etc. You can organize those tools in the database in their own sub directories labelled appropriately. Unless you are editing the feeds and speeds then you will get the same parameters each time.
Another trick for checking parameters quickly is to hover over the footpath names in the footpath list. A window of useful information will appear including tool, speed and estimated run time.

[FoothillFurniture]

Ah, yes, great tip! That's what I was looking for. A quick way to find out what the speed for the toolpath is set to. Thanks!