EzPath Machine Setup
The EZPath lathe is a fairly simple machine to use, but setting it up correctly is very important.
Here are some guides in setting up the machine properly.
Work Shift
Work shift is a key part of setting the work coordinate system for the lathe.
This sets up the X and Z axis zero points as a reference for the workpiece and the tool.
Pressing “7” on the keyboard opens the Work Shift menu and prompts you to enter the X and Z axis absolute values.
The X Axis Zero should ALWAYS reference the spindle axis centerline.
The most common way to do this is to use a turning tool to turn a piece of scrap to a fresh surface, measure the diameter of that surface, and enter that into the ABS DIAMAETER portion of the Work Shift menu.
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The ABS Z portion would be the zero point of programming on your workpiece.
Some work Z0.0 from the face of the part, towards the chuck using negative Z values, while some work Z0.0 from the rear of the part, using positive Z Values.
Personally, i work from Z0.0 on the face of the part, and use negative Z Values in my programs.
Click the images to enlarge
Tool Library
One of the first things that need to be set up when programming a job is the tool library.
If the tool library is set up correctly, you can verify toolpaths when writing a program in MDI.
Pressing F1 from the main menu opens the tool library.
Pressing the “+” key opens the dialog to add a tool.
Each type of tool is displays, as well as the information that is needed to correctly program the tool.
We will set up two tools, to be used later in the MDI portion of the guide.
The first tool is an OD turning tool, using a “C” style insert.
Pressing “5” allows entry of the insert geometry.
The next tool is a OD Grooving tool using a GTN Insert
Pressing “6” allows entry of the grooving insert geometry.
It is very important to enter the correct corner radius of the insert, this way when the tool moves around a curved piece of geometry, it will properly compensate for the corner radius.
Pressing “F1” will bring up an illustrated representation of the tool that was programed.
Its important to note, that in the image of the tool, the Plus sign, noted in red in the “F1” illustrations, is the Zero point in X and Z of the tool.
This can be changed by putting a value other then zero in the “Dist to X” and “Touch Off Z” Fields of the tool setup.
Click the images to enlarge