Mach3 converting dxf files problem

[randyf1965]

I have a part I created in Solidworks and saved as a dxf. When I open it in Mach3 it takes a part that was 9 inches long and scales it down to 2.25"

What am I doing wrong?

[ger21]

If it's a 3D part, Mach won't be able to convert it properly. If it's a 2D .dxf, post it here with the g-code and I'll see what's up.

[randyf1965]

Here are the dxf and tap files

[JEFFY]

I opened your dxf and it was aprorx. 2.25 x .75 wide. Check cad setup as how it is saveing it and its drawing units. Hope it helps.

[randyf1965]

Which is 1:4 scale. I open the DXF file in Solidworks and the dimensions are correct SO I save it again and checked the options . By Default it uses the sheet default scale, I selected custom and picked 1:1.

Thanks for the tap on the head with the virtual 2x4...... works great now.

Here is the new tap file

[randyf1965]

ok the same part has more problems.. the notches on the sides are supposed to be .200" wide but after cuttign they are .219". I have the cutter diamter set at .125" which might be my issue I will need to make a cut and measure the width. I know the cutter itself is .125".

So does anyone have a step by step guide for opening a dxf file in mach 3, converting it and modifying the g-code to cut?

[ger21]

If you're converting the .dxf, the center of the tool is following your lines. If you're setting the tool radius in the tool table, it'll have no effect on what's cut, unless you're adding G41/G42 cutter comp codes. But, to use G41/G42, you'll need to have lead-in moves in your .dxf, or code them by hand.

Mach3's .dxf import will soon be replaced by LazyCAM. A new beta should be available for download in the next week or so, and some new tutorial videos should be added as well. www.machsupport.com This should make things much easier for you.

[randyf1965]

I have tried LazyCam but everytime I run it I get different results. Tonight the first time I tried it there was NO z-axis movement. So I still had LazyCam running with the dxf file open so I just clicked the g-code button and this time got Z-axis moves but had odd movement on the 4 thru holes on the piece.

I did download the latest Mach3 and LazyCam so I will give it another try tomorrow..... wish I didn't have to sleep so much (if 5 hours is too much)