Probing is an essential tool for CNC machining, offering precision and efficiency when setting work offsets. Tormach’s three-axis mills, including the 1500MX, come equipped with versatile probing options, from wireless probes to wired passive and active probes. This guide provides an overview of these capabilities and step-by-step instructions for utilizing various probing routines to maximize your machining workflow.
Exploring Probing Options on Tormach Mills
Tormach offers a range of probing systems designed to accommodate different machine models and applications. The 1500MX, for example, features a wireless probe for added convenience, while other models like the 440, 770, and 1100 use wired probes. Regardless of the type, each probe integrates seamlessly with PathPilot® software to provide accurate and efficient results.
Probing enables users to perform tasks such as:
— Setting work offsets for X, Y, and Z axes— Setting work offsets on features like corners, circular bosses, and rectangular bosses
— Locating stock or axis centers of rotation for fourth-axis setups
— While this overview focuses on manual probing routines, in-process probing and CAM-generated routines offer
additional advanced capabilities
Probing Routines for Work Offsets and rectangular boss
A common need in CNC machining is locating the center of a rectangular boss. With PathPilot’s boss probing routine, you can streamline this process:
— Select the "Rectangular Circle" tab and choose the "Boss" mode.
— Enter the rough dimensions of your part and jog the probe tip to approximately 1 inch above the surface.
— Let PathPilot guide the probe as it measures key locations to determine the X and Y zero points.
This routine is particularly useful for irregularly shaped parts, as the probe focuses on critical surfaces rather than following a fixed path around the entire workpiece.
Probing Corners
Setting work offsets at corners is another frequent requirement. PathPilot’s "Find Corner" routine allows you to probe both inner and outer corners:
— Jog the probe tip to approximately 0.5 inches from the corner.
— Use the "Find Corner" function to measure the X and Y offsets.
— Adjust the settings to select a specific corner if needed.
This feature is for probing the fixed jaw on a vise or setting offsets at the edges of a part.
Advanced Fourth-Axis Probing
When working with a fourth-axis setup, you can probe either the true axis of rotation or the stock center:
— True Axis of Rotation: The probe measures a stationary point on the part while rotating the axis, ensuring alignmentwith the axis of rotation.
— Stock Center: The probe measures the outer dimensions of the stock while keeping it stationary, ideal for non-
cylindrical parts or when rotation is unnecessary.
Tips for Effective Probing
To get the most out of your probing system, consider these best practices:
— Start with Tool 99: Always use Tool 99 in PathPilot for probing routines. This ensures the software recognizes the
probe.
— Set Work Offsets Accurately: Use the "Set Work Offset" option for routines where offsets need adjustment, and
"Display Results" when measurement data is sufficient.
— Adjust Probe Tip Positioning: Position the probe tip close to the target feature, but leave a small gap to prevent
crashes. Starting a probing cycle with the tip touching the part can break the probe or damage the workpiece. Always
jog the probe near the feature before running the routine to ensure safe, accurate measurements.
Simplifying Precision Machining with Probing
Tormach’s probing capabilities make precision machining accessible and efficient. Whether you’re finding the center of a rectangular boss, probing corners, or aligning a fourth-axis setup, PathPilot’s intuitive interface and ensures a smooth workflow. For more in-depth tutorials or assistance, visit Tormach’s user forums or contact the pre-sales department at presales@tormach.com.