I have a Hurco machine with a Delta Dynapath 20 controller, the other day we started experiencing problems with the z-axis. It seems that everytime that it rapids up or down that it has an error, "Z-axis runaway" something like that at least. Is there a way to change the parameters to make the rapid slower so it won't have this error?

I also don't have the manuals for the machine, bought it used and didn't get anything with it, so the more information, the better.

Thanks!

Check the encoder connections everywhere first. If the controller is losing the encoder signal momentarily, that could be the cause of the error. Maybe the Z encoder itself is failing.

Just be glad the controller stops it for you :)

Thanks, any other suggestions? Can I change the speed of the Z-Axis rapid manually?

We have 4 tree mills with Delta 10, 20 and 30 controls. Sounds like Hu is rght.. We have had encoder and driver board troubles from time to time. You can try changing the driver board with one of the other axises to see if the problem follows the board.. I looked through my book to see if you can change the speed, I do not see anything..
Good luck

I recall hearing that some machines, I don't know if the machine you are talking about is one, have issues where the encoder disk can loosen off the motor shaft. I might inquire about this. The scenario I heard about it was mentioned that a service tech. reattach or tighten the screw which holds it to the shaft.

Having worked on motors in a non CNC applications. I think the encoders are attached firmly to the shafts, but if this is an earlier machine, the motor design could be different and require this.

I throw this out not to start rumors, but to see if anyone else has heard this or for you to investigate as a possible solution.

Please reply to let me know if I am full of **it or if this is true.

Heck, Tab, yours is as good a suggestion as any. There are all sorts of not-so-strange ways which mechanical devices cease to work properly. :)

I have a Hurco machine with a Delta Dynapath 20 controller, the other day we started experiencing problems with the z-axis. It seems that everytime that it rapids up or down that it has an error, "Z-axis runaway" something like that at least. Is there a way to change the parameters to make the rapid slower so it won't have this error?

I also don't have the manuals for the machine, bought it used and didn't get anything with it, so the more information, the better.

Thanks!

Good Morning,
First; Check your Z axis to see if it has a DC brake, it may be slipping and it is Not shown on the Hurco/DynaPath prints.
Second, If you have a Servo Dynamics drive (made by Baldor) you can slow down the overall speed by adjusting the "S" trim pot. CW increases & CCW decreases motor speed. If you need prints, email me Macy41@aol.com, Subject: DynaPath. It's 7 megs of files.
Best,
Rick Macy