4th axis, Rhino, BobCad and Mach3

[gabi68]

Hi to all,

I have a Taig CNC with 4th axis. I try to "cut" this design but I don't know how setup 4th axis. I try conversion Y to A but in Mach3 I receive a strange image (I use Mach3 postpocessor on BobCad). So any idea?

TIA
Gb

[Kiwi]

I've never used a 4th axis but looking at your picture I would have thought the X should be converted to the 4th axis?

[tobyaxis]

Originally Posted by gabi68 Hi to all, I have a Taig CNC with 4th axis. I try to "cut" this design but I don't know how setup 4th axis. I try conversion Y to A but in Mach3 I receive a strange image (I use Mach3 postpocessor on BobCad). So any idea? TIA Gb

You need to Rotate your part so the 4th Axis is allong the X Axis. Then Convert the $th Axis to Rotate around the X Axis.

BTW: Nice Part!!!!!!

[Kiwi]

Toby
Why does the part need to be rotated, couldn't the 4th Axis be set along the Y Axis?

[tobyaxis]

Originally Posted by Kiwi Toby Why does the part need to be rotated, couldn't the 4th Axis be set along the Y Axis?

It could be if you have enough room in the Y-Axis travel. Most consider it common practice to place the 4th Axis in the X. This allows for longer parts to be place in the 4th as well. With a Tail Stock Center at the other end respectively.

Gabi68

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[Kiwi]

Toby

I agree the 4th axis would normally be in the X but this part is very short and wouldn't need a tail-stock.

ps. Didn't think about mills with a narrow table.

[tobyaxis]

That's alright buddy. We can't remember everything all the time. There is just too much to remember. It all really depends on what your doing and Load/Unload Convenience for the operator.

Make the operator happy and they do better work. Everyone counts on a team.

[Gandalf]

It does not really matter which axis you use as long as your 4th axis is setup that way. In Bcc you will have to use the conversion function in the NC window. Be careful it is a bit tricky to use.