ACU-RITE MILLPWR 3 Axes - Manual (Page 67)

PROGRAMMING
MILLPWR ®
Operation Manual 3-31
Running a G-Code Program
Considerations when creating a G-code Program
MILLPWR has the ability to read and execute Numerical Code (G-Code) files, however those files can
not be edited from the controller. It is important to create and proof the G-code file before attempting
to machine a part.
The use of CAD/CAM Software is strongly recommended.
Tool Offsetting
No programmed cutter compensation is used so the tool path should be based on the center and tip of
the tool. Do not establish tool length offsets within CAD/CAM software. For repeatable tooling,
tool length offsets can be established in the tool library (Diameter offsets are not used).
Using the Tool Library
Each "T" block refers to the corresponding number in the Tool Library. For example, T1 will cause
MILLPWR to retrieve the tool length offset from tool 1 of the Tool Library. MILLPWR will then offset
the spindle by this amount. T2 will cause MILLPWR to retrieve the tool length offset from tool 2 of
the Tool Library, etc. To set up a Tool Library refer to Setup.
It is very important not to have any tool length offsets in the Tool Library
if the tooling is not repeatable.
Failure to maintain the Tool Library can cause unpredictable results. Verifying tool length offsets
prior to program execution is strongly recommended.
Loading a Program
A G-code program can be loaded into MILLPWR in the same manner as MILLPWR programs. (Refer
to Loading a Program for instructions on loading a G-code program.) With G-code files, there is no
accompanying graphics. Only the program list is displayed. Once loaded,
MILLPWR will indicate
lines of code with invalid and unsupported blocks with an "X". If the line containing the code is high-
lighted, an error message also appears in the message line indicating that the line contains invalid
code. The invalid code can be removed by disabling the corresponding functions in the CAD/CAM
software and re-posting the G-code program. Simply removing the invalid code from the G-code pro-
gram can cause unpredictable results and is not recommended.
Running a G-code Program
The tool path should be proofed prior to attempting to machine a part on MILLPWR .
Most CAD/CAM Software packages have this ability. When a program has been proofed and loaded
into
MILLPWR , lower the knee and dry run the program to verify the tool path and speeds and feeds
are correct.