Need Help!- Shoda NC516 with Fanuc 15M questions

[bdphil]

I'm helping a local shop setup a Refurbished Shoda NC516 with Fanuc 15M controls and I could use some assistance.

Everything was mechanically setup by the reseller, but I need some insights into accessing certain functions through a part code. The machine has 4 main spindles and 4 piggyback spindles. I can select a spindle, and activate spindle rotation with M3, but each spindle has an independent up/down position via pneumatic actuator. How do I call that action out?

This machine also uses a pallet changer and this is my first experience with one. I understand that an M-code will be used to select a pallet and move into position, but I don't know what M-code is configured and if there is a macro in the Fanuc controller that I need to configure or at least confirm values for.

The only other feature I haven't been able to get working is the pneumatically actuated dampers that open/close the dust collection for each spindle. I should be able to activate the dust collection from a part program, but I'm curious how it is done?

Once I figure out what commands are needed for the machines features, the next step will be finding/modifying a post processor for Mastercam that will be suitable for this machine. We've been able to write a few simple toolpaths, but we're getting alot of errors with respect to G-54, G-55-59, tool selection and offsets and a few other M-codes that MCAM is outputting that the Fanuc must not understand.

This has been a challenging and interesting project for me since my experience has been limited to CNC mills for metalworking. I'm familiar with Mastercam and programming in general, but I've only used Mach3 controller software so far.

Thanks in advance for any assistance!
Ben

[gbowne1]

I have a 15-MA control and might be a little help to you, although I'm still learning the functions of mine.

Although this appears to be Shoda's site

http://www.shoda.com/ncrouter_other_...516_metal.html

so you might get something off of it.

Greg

[bdphil]

Greg,

Thanks for the reply. I'm gonna have a chance to work on that machine again saturday morning and I'm sure I'll have some questions for you.

The main thing right now is just determining the code/configuration for accessing some of the machine specific functions like spindle selection, dust collection and pallet changes.

What machine are you running with the Fanuc controller?

Ben

[stevo1]

If you don't have a MTB manual that details the Mcodes you may try looking the Mcodes up in the ladder and if the ladder is detailed enough it may give a breif description of what each Mcode is used for.

If you press the PMC/CNC button and then select PMCLAD you should be able to view the ladder.

Stevo

[bdphil]

I'll definitely give that a try. Thanks.

Ben