new (to me) mill...z0 is 2" high after tool length measure

[dahui]

Hi all,

Just got a used Vf-1. I'm trying to get things set up and I'm having an issue with the tool length offset. This machine was previously configured to use a renisaw tool setter...and I'm not currently using it. I'm guessing the problem is related to this.

The problem: when I touch off a tool (top of part) the tool ends up 2" above the part when I run a program. The Z value is set to 0.0 in G54. I discovered this when I went to run a test pocket in air, 2 inches above the part (Z 2.0 in G54). Instead of 2" high, it was going to cut the part. If I put in -2.0 for the G54 value...it actually comes out 4" high. It's been a while since I've run a mill but that seems backwards to me

So, I'm hoping the solution is obvious to someone more experienced! Again, this was set up to use a tool setting probe by the previous owner. Help and thanks in advance!

[Pondo]

If you are using the probe to pick up the part, then the tool offsets need to be in relation to the probe. That is how the tool setter works.
A way around this is to first make sure that the setting 64 is set to "on", pick up the part with the probe, then touch off the tool. Setting 64 applies the G54 offset to the tool touchoff.
About the Z axis inversion, I have no clue. The only setting I've used relating to that is 119, but it just locks them from being changed.It may be a parameter issue that needs to be adjusted, but I never did that before. I have run a VF-3 that had the probe smashed. I just touched the tools off of a common point (the top of the fixed jaw), and then set G54 as the distance from there to the workpiece Z0. It worked fine without the toolsetter.

[haastec]

Look at parameter 57 bit 25 (NEG WORK OFS). Most common setting is with the parameter set to 1. All of your length offsets and work offsets will be negative values. How is yours set?

Are there any values in G52? These should all be set to Zero.

[behindpropeller]

Setting 64..... TLO uses work.

Tim

[Donkey Hotey]

Originally Posted by dahui This machine was previously configured to use a renisaw tool setter...and I'm not currently using it.

Why? You don't like accurate tool lengths? Life with the probe and presetter is so painless, I have to wonder about people who don't buy probing with new machines. To actually own it and still do things the hard way is unfathomable.

[dahui]

Actually, I have a tool setter and spindle probe. I'd love to use them but don't know how. Want to come over and get it set up for me? I'll buy you a six pack In the mean time, I'll default back to the arcane cigarette paper.

[GaryCorlew]

go into your offsets (where g54 etc. is) and make sure your z is 0.00

[Donkey Hotey]

What year is the machine? Do you know where the VQC programs are and how to get in/out of them? It'll take less time to calibrate than you think and when you're done, you'll never go back.

Post up the year of the machine and I'll reply later (at work right now).

[dahui]

It's a 1991...ahem. In good shape though!

[dahui]

G52 is zeroed out. I don't see neg work offset in the sub menu for setting 57. Z0 is at the right height today. Which is confusing. But, if I enter 2.0 into G54 for the (correct) tool it goes 2 inches deep instead of 2 inches up.

[Donkey Hotey]

Hmmm...so this isn't the factory-installed system and you probably don't have the VQC routines. Never mind, whole different animal. I'll now return you to everybody else's advice.