How to add a Tool changer to a mach3 system

[johnansaro]

Hi there

I have a (2m by 4m) wood CNC Router on which I am planning to add a auto tool changer.

What hardware and software do I need? by software what I mean is any possible Macro code that I need to add to mach3?

I am planning to add a 8 pot In line or straight Line rather than Rotary Type.

any readings or clips that can help on this issue is greatly appreciated.

Regards
jhonansaro

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[ger21]

Hardware depends on what the spindle requires, and what you're current setup consists of.

You will probably need some pneumatic solenoid valves, and a few outputs to control them. And your spindle will probably have some sensors, so you'll need some inputs to read them.

You'll need an ATC M6 start macro tailored to your spindle and machine.
There's a tutorial video and sample macro on the Machsupport website.

[johnansaro]

Hi Gerry

Thanks again for your most helpful replies.

I am trying to find this M6Start.m1s Code, Could you provide the link or the code itself?

I even searched the mach3 site, but i have not been able to find it, I have found some similar codes, but I am looking for the original code that is being

explained in Mach3 support Training Videos.

Also I have question on Screen set mach3 2010, Can this screen set do the Job? otherwise does it have the M6start.m1s codes embedded in it?

Regards
jhonansaro

[ger21]

Here's the macro from Artsoft:
http://www.machsupport.com/wp-conten...02/M6Start.zip

No, the 2010 screenset does not have ATC support. You'd need to write a new M6 ATC macro that integrated the 2010 M6 macro functions.

[johnansaro]

Hi ger21

Thanks again for the link.
On this issue of auto tool changer, What i think I need are
1: Basically to add or install a Spindle with auto tool changer capability
2; Configure the mach3
3: Modify and or edit the M6 ATC code that you provided the link for it in order to to move the spindle to the Coordinates of Tool Holder positions

Finally also my BOB must have the outputs relay for it?
this BOB that I am using "5AxisBoard" Does it have that output relay? I am attaching the manual for it

regards
Jhonansaro

[ger21]

That board has one relay, typically used to start and stop the spindle. What you need will depend on the spindle requirements.

[johnansaro]

Hi Gerry

Do you have any recommendation for the Right BOB that can do the auto-tool changing Job?
One among the so called cheap Chinese and one among the more expensive ones?

regards
jhonansaro

[ger21]

No, not without knowing exactly what you need.
If it were me, I would just use any breakout board that had enough inputs and outputs, and control the spindle with external relays and solenoids.

[skrubol]

I think the first thing is to pick a spindle. That will be the most expensive part and will dictate what you need for relays and air solenoids, etc. It will also dictate the taper of the toolholders, and therefore what type (and how big) the ATC grippers are.
The control is quite a bit of work, but I think it makes more sense to get the mechanics at least designed before working on the control hardware and software.

[allengarner]

You will need an ATC spindle with spindle speed/direction control, low air pressure alarm and clamp sensor (if you can find one with air cylinder already attached on top it will be easier) if not you'll need an air cylinder, a Mach 3 card with ATC support and open input ports to read spindle options and output ports for cylinder air control, M-code and user defined macros

Here is a 3 Axis Mach 3 card with ATC functionality: https://www.ebay.com/itm/39395696989...cAAOSwkUFiIgar

Here is a 6 Axis Mach 3 card with ATC functionality: https://www.ebay.com/itm/12449831560...evt=1&mkcid=28

The 6 Axis card can be used for machines with 1 to 6 Axis

Mach 3 Screen Set for ATC CNC Router:
https://cnc4xr7.com/new-cnc-router-atc.php

That should make Mach 3 a little easier for you with an ATC CNC Router
You might find those macros at that site as well