IBM EGX-400 - Manual (Page 128)

124 Chapter 8 - Troubleshooting
8-1. Problems with Engraving
The cutting-in depth is not uniform (when using the nose unit).
◆ Go to the [OTHERS] submenu and make sure [AUTO Z CONTROL] is set to [ON], and also make sure that the lock nut has
been loosened.
◆ The cutter holder, tool securing screw, or collet is loose. Tighten sufficiently while using the included wrench to keep the spindle
immobile.
◆ The retainer nut securing the nose cone in place is loose. Tighten the retainer nut.
◆ The X- and Y-axis feed rate is too fast for the workpiece, or the spindle rotating speed is too slow. Try changing the cutting
parameters.
◆ The cutter is worn. Try replacing the cutter.
◆ If the cutting-in depth is set to an extremely shallow value, the effects of cutting waste may be large. Try using a cutter with a
narrow blade width, along with increasing the cutting-in depth. Alternatively, use an optional vacuum nose adapter for chip
cleaning.
The cutting-in depth is not uniform (when not using the nose unit).
◆ If possible, perform engraving using a nose unit.
◆ Obtaining a uniform cutting-in depth over a broad area without using a nose unit requires a considerable amount of preparation.
The first requirement is a workpiece that has a uniform thickness and is free from warping. The workpiece must also be loaded
horizontally, and this demands considerable precision. Thereafter, if the flatness and levelness of the table are a concern, carry
out surfacing.
◆ The lock nut is loose. Tighten the lock nut securely. Be sure to go to the [OTHERS] submenu and set [AUTO Z CONTROL] to
[OFF].
◆ The cutter holder, tool securing screw, or collet is loose. Tighten sufficiently while using the included wrench to keep the spindle
immobile.
The cutter leaves tracks at places where cutting-in starts or where lines change direction.
◆ The spindle rotating speed is too fast with respect to the feed rate. Try reducing the spindle speed.
◆ Go to the [OTHERS] submenu and try setting [ACCELERATION] to [0.05G].
◆ The cutter is worn. Try replacing the cutter.
An engraved bottom surface is rough or burring remains.
◆ The spindle rotating speed is too slow with respect to the feed rate. Try increasing the spindle speed or making the feed rate
slower.
◆ Refasten the workpiece securely so that it does not come loose or slip.
◆ Try performing cutting a second time to finish the bottom surface and remove any burring. Making the cutting-in depth about
0.02 to 0.05 mm (0.001 to 0.002 in.) deeper for the second pass may yield better results.
◆ The cutter is worn. Try replacing the cutter.
Engraved lines are uneven or wavy.
◆ The cutter holder, tool securing screw, or collet is loose, and the cutter is out of control. Tighten securely.
◆ Refasten the workpiece securely so that it does not come loose or slip.
◆ Check to make sure the spindle unit is not loose.