For me it was the fact that I wanted to learn about Gcode, coupled with the need to get some very basic parts turned. All my parts only use 3 tools. None require a tool change per part. I am using gang tooling and a Quick change tool post at the home position. I turn about 9 or 10 parts for my product. All pretty basic turnings, so that part was easy.
I stole some of my peck drilling cycles from my mill and just adjusted them for use on the lathe.
My tooling offsets and the fact that I didn't yet need to learn my cam are the reasons I haven't done so yet.
The machines were built strictly for production, however they also will have a hobby use as time arises. Thats when I'll need to get familiar with my cam, offsets etc.
Once you learn just basic Gcode, it is extremely easy to simply jog the machine and log the positions you need for basic turnings. Mach 3 even has program in it that does just this. It's called "Teach".
It took me all of about an hour to get enough Gcode under my belt to be able to use it for my turned parts.
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Lee |