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Changing bits question

Discussion in 'CNC Mills/Routers' started by Duncan Meyer, Dec 28, 2020.

  1. Duncan Meyer

    Builder

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    Hi,
    I don't seem to be able to get my head around changing bits.
    1. Using Estlcam and specifying a different bit (for engraving)
    2. CONTROL dutifully stops when the tool change is required
    3. However, the bit is mere millimetres from the work piece, and there is no way to remove/replace the bit. In fact, CONTROL gives no indication that a tool change is required. It just stops.
    4. Jogging does not work
    5. So I'm forced to stop the job, jog to a decent Z-height, change the bit, return to Estlcam to remove the completed cuts from the job, re-zero Z height, and run a new job
    That is all very messy. What is one supposed to do?

    Duncan
     
  2. Peter Van Der Walt

    Peter Van Der Walt OpenBuilds Team
    Staff Member Moderator Builder Resident Builder

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    Split each tool into its own file. It runs to completion, you can jog and zero as much as you want. Load next file, run.
     
  3. Duncan Meyer

    Builder

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    Ah. Separate jobs. OK.
     
    Peter Van Der Walt likes this.
  4. Giarc

    Giarc OpenBuilds Team
    Staff Member Moderator Builder Resident Builder

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    Or use the Estlcam controller. It stops for tool changes and you can jog wherever you want to change it and re-zero. You do need to program your controller to use it, but others have done so with the black box. If you don't like it, it will remember your GRBL settings and reset it. Personally, I love it. It is worth the $59 license fee. Although I don't think you are required to purchase the license.
     
    sharmstr likes this.

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