Post Processor Prototrak MX3

[allemay]

Hi Guys,

First of all, I'm a newbie.  I understand the basics but can't read G Code or understand PP coding, although I could probably figure it out.  I've created a nice part in Fusion 360 and generated the CAM tool paths. That all went well.  Unfortunately I can't get my machine to import the .cam file because it has G54 and G18 codes which my machine won't accept.  I'm not sure how to get around this issue.  I've looked at a couple other PP's and their sample code and they all seem to have G54 and G18 codes.

There must be a solution to this but it eludes me.  Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

[LibertyMachine]

Simple solution?

Manually remove the G54.

For the G18/19 callouts, set all your Vertical Lead-In/out movements to zero.

Once you do that, let's see how the code runs before we make any post edits

[allemay]

I will attempt this later today.  Thanks for the suggestion.  Glad to have some assistance!

[allemay]

That was exactly the kind of response I needed.  Thanks so much.  I did exactly as you suggested.  I then realized I also had a G84 line that my machine also cannot accept.  I removed that line as well.  Once I did that I was able to load and run the program.  

It doesn't seem to do nearly what it should or the simulation showed it would.  I'm not sure if this is because of what I did or another issue.  I'll have to spend some time investigating that.  It feels like a big victory just to be able to load the program though!

I hate to ask this but if I upload my part would you be willing to take a look at it?  I'll do it and if you have that kind of time I'd love some suggestions.  (I generated the cam file using the existing Prototrak PP and changed the extension from .gcd to .cam). Otherwise I'll remain very thankful for getting me past this last hurdle.

Thanks,

Brad from MN

[LibertyMachine]

It's never a problem or bother to attach a Fusion file for affirmation of what you are doing.

1) First thing I'd like to mention is your Setup. Don't use "Model Orientation" for your alignment. Rather, use "Select Z and X Axis". This will instill good habits and prevent any issues if your part is drawn on any other plane. Further, imported files from SW or other CAD packages may be drawn or imported slightly off. Your machine doesn't have a 4th axis, so NEVER use tool orientation (I know you didn't, just warning you)

2) How does your machine handle tapping? Is it a 3-axis Proto with spindle fwd/rvrs?

3) On the Circular toolpath, I'd suggest using a "Lead to Center" which is found on the last tab of that dialog.

4) Does your machine use/accept cutter comp? (G41/42) Use it for finish passes, as it will give you the ability to adjust the size of the part. Unsure how Proto handles it.

We had a few Trak machines at my old shop, but the machinists just programmed by hand

[allemay]

Thanks again Seth!

I'll take a look at comment #1 and use your suggestion in the future. Everything I've done so far has been following Youtube videos.

I have no idea how my machine handles tapping but I'll research it.  Maybe it doesn't at all?  I just obtained some additional manuals so I think they may help a lot finding answers to things like this.

I will use the lead to center as suggested.

Yes my machine accepts G40-G42.  Are you suggesting I make the initial cuts leaving some excess and then add a step to perform a final pass?

Thanks again,

Brad

[LibertyMachine]

Only if the fit matters. If you can live with tool deflection and features being off the nominal, you can just leave it to Computer. Certainly want to have a lead-in/out and not start right next to the wall. Doesn't NEED to be lead-to-center, but at least have something

[Anonymous]

Hi Liberty Machine,

How do I stop output in simultaneous 3 axis in a 3 axis contour path on a surface since the prototrak is only really a 2.5 axis

Thanks

Mark