Using WC Z offsets

[Shotout]

I'm starting to learn to program multiple setup parts using WCS in one program rather than running a seperate program for each face or setup. What I'm not clear on is using the WC offset for Z. If I use a reference block and set all tool length offsets from the stationary jaw, then place the stock in the vice and touch off one tool, say the longest tool in the ATC, to the face of the part setting the G54 Z offset and following for each face with the next WC offset is that all that is required for the controller to know the part Z0.0? I am assuming that when it pulls the G43 H value it will offset it for whatever G5x Z value is active but I'm worried I'm missing a step. Could anyone clarify this for me? I've reread the thread from a couple of months ago but I'm not sure if I'm understanding it correctly.
Thanks
Scott

[Geof]

Do you mean you set all the tools to a common reference point?

Then measure the distance from the common reference point to your part Z zero plane on each face?

Then put this Z distance into the Z column for the Work Coordinate for that face?

If it is three yeses then I think you are doing it the way I work but just describing it a bit different.

Your comment about how the controller uses the values is correct; it adds whatever is in the Z Work Coordinate to H value for that tool.

A HINT which may save ugly holes in places they should not be and also reduce carbide shrapnel scratching the inside of your machine.

Try to set up your reference locations so they are higher than your part zero plane.

The reason for this is then you enter a negative value in the WCS Z.

When entering this Z value it is possible to make a mistake and reverse the sign. For instance you may accidently enter a positive value when it should be negative. That is fine...the tool simply ends up 2 x this value above where it should be and you merrily machine away a bunch of air.

If your value should be positive and you enter a negative by mistake the tool ends up 2 x this value below where it should be. When doing this it probably contacts something a lot more solid than air and you are not at all merry.

[Shotout]

Thanks Geof, that is exactly what I'm wanting. I'll also use your suggestion on the pos Z from the face, I always rather make a mistake in air, it soooo much quiter. Thanks