Problem with CNC mill not starting at Z0 --- Mach3 and Fusion 360

[Boswell]

I use Fusion360 and Mach3 with no problems. I would try to simplify things such as manually programing some basic X, Y and Z moves and then see that you get what you asked for. If that works, then to the same but using Fusion 360 to generate the GCode. In other words, find a way to isolate each of the components (Fusion360 vs Mach3 vs controller board. I would do this before trying a different CAM system. Remove as many variables as possible and then add them back in, one at a time until you get bad behavior.

 

[sn8kboy]

Can you send me some sample G-code so I do not have to struggle trying to figure it out?

Thank you in advance!

 

[RJSakowski]

The G code you have listed should work although there are a few lines that seem unnecessary. Beginning at line 9 after the (SLOT6) line, the program will cut a slot .233" deep which will pierce your 3/16" plate and then move to cut the second slot. From your video, it appears that the program stops after the 9th pass, the 17th line after the (SLOT6) line and it should have continued. This implies a controller issue.

The operator error that I referred too previously is in reference to the 7 passes cutting air. In SprutCAM, which I use, this would be due to my incorrect setup of the machining parameters. Your program stars cutting on the eighth pass which is the line X3.45 Z-0.009, which indicates that the z axis reference is set correctly.

 

[Boswell]

Can you send me some sample G-code so I do not have to struggle trying to figure it out?

Sure. after you Zero the X,Y and Z axis. then in the MDI field, manually enter
G1 X1 (should move x 1")

same for Y and Z

btw, learning some very basic gcode is almost essential for effective use of a CNC machine.

 

[sn8kboy]

The G code you have listed should work although there are a few lines that seem unnecessary. Beginning at line 9 after the (SLOT6) line, the program will cut a slot .233" deep which will pierce your 3/16" plate and then move to cut the second slot. From your video, it appears that the program stops after the 9th pass, the 17th line after the (SLOT6) line and it should have continued. This implies a controller issue.

The operator error that I referred too previously is in reference to the 7 passes cutting air. In SprutCAM, which I use, this would be due to my incorrect setup of the machining parameters. Your program stars cutting on the eighth pass which is the line X3.45 Z-0.009, which indicates that the z axis reference is set correctly.

It is strange. It appears to be skipping lines of code but then does the rapid cut at the end like it thinks it has completed all of the lines of G-code. Very strange behavior.

I hope someone can supply me with some simple G-code that I can use to test with. I am not experienced enough to write that code by myself.

 

[sn8kboy]

Sure. after you Zero the X,Y and Z axis. then in the MDI field, manually enter
G1 X1 (should move x 1")

same for Y and Z

btw, learning some very basic gcode is almost essential for effective use of a CNC machine.

I will invest time learning G-code for sure but right now I am trying to just figure out if the machine is doing what it is supposed to. The one line G-code G1 X1 works perfectly. What I would like to have is some G-code that checks all to the axis and does a job completely like milling a one inch diameter hole completely through the part or a slot like I was originally trying to do.

Thank you so much do your assistance!

 

[JimDawson]

It is strange. It appears to be skipping lines of code but then does the rapid cut at the end like it thinks it has completed all of the lines of G-code. Very strange behavior.

You are correct, it's skipping the last 10 lines or so of the first slot in the video. But running the G code in simulation on both my software and Mach3 it runs flawlessly. Very strange, I suspect something in the Mach3 setup.

The G-code has some issues, but no show stoppers. I'll send some G code along with the f3d file from Fusion so you can see the setup.

 

[JimDawson]

sn8kboy.zip contains 3 files. Open the f3d file in fusion, review the drawing and the manufacturing setup. the part is a 3'' square, 0.200 thick, with a 1.5'' hole in the center. This should create that hole wherever you set X0, Y0. Run the Adaptive first, then run the Contour.

I'll be around to answer questions.

 

[sn8kboy]

Can someone please provide me some simple G-code to test my machine with? Something like a slot or a pocket or maybe even a drilling example? Even better one of each so I can test all of them. I would do it myself but do not have enough experience with G-code to do it myself.
Thank you in advance to whom ever can send me something.

Paul

 

[sn8kboy]

sn8kboy.zip contains 3 files. Open the f3d file in fusion, review the drawing and the manufacturing setup. the part is a 3'' square, 0.200 thick, with a 1.5'' hole in the center. This should create that hole wherever you set X0, Y0. Run the Adaptive first, then run the Contour.

I'll be around to answer questions.

Jim

Thank you I did not see your post before I asked the forum for the G-code you provided. I will check that out and let you know.