On a 5 axis Thermwood what is the typicall "target" time to accomplish a change of from one part to the next.
What is the process to minimize down time?
Quick change set up process
Moderators: Mike Iubelt, Jason Susnjara, Larry Epplin, Clint Buechlein, Mike Iubelt, Jason Susnjara, Larry Epplin, Clint Buechlein
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Ryan Hochgesang
Re: Quick change set up process
Hello Hal,
Regarding "Target" time per part change out, this will be up to the individual production facility using the 5 axis router. There are many variables to consider when setting a given goal as this. For instance, you will have part size, how easily it can be handled by operator, what kind of cost are associated to the production of the part with each process it must go through etc..... Ideally, you obvoiusly want to get the change out time per part down as low as possible, thus increasing the profability of your production process utilizing the Thermwood router. Below, I've listed a couple of things that I've taken note of during my time being involved with manufacturing which do not sound big, but when followed strickly, help simple flow greatly:
- Keeping the work area around router clean and free of obsticles
- Having any tools that improve production in given cell located within a handy reach (Air wands, Screw drivers, Hammers, etc...)
Once you've tuned in the above items, then it is a good idea to dial in on the actual CNC code or part programs and how they are being utilized on your CNC machine and to see if they are running as efficient as possible. For example:
- Utilize Rapid moves for all Retract and Index moves above part surface
- Keep tool changes to a minimum if possible
- Utilize a Main or Master Program to call part programs which have been saved as sub programs.
- For Dual table machines, utilize a Main program to call the sub programs, then, park tool carrier over middle of opposite table rather than HOMING each time. This will help keep tool carrier travel to a minimum, thus improving cycle times while routing. This type setup can be created keeping the part program in a continuous loop that shuttles tool carrier accordingly.
I've just listed some ideas that come to mind shortly. I hope this has been helpful. You can also contact us with any further questions by emailing:
program@thermwood.com
Regarding "Target" time per part change out, this will be up to the individual production facility using the 5 axis router. There are many variables to consider when setting a given goal as this. For instance, you will have part size, how easily it can be handled by operator, what kind of cost are associated to the production of the part with each process it must go through etc..... Ideally, you obvoiusly want to get the change out time per part down as low as possible, thus increasing the profability of your production process utilizing the Thermwood router. Below, I've listed a couple of things that I've taken note of during my time being involved with manufacturing which do not sound big, but when followed strickly, help simple flow greatly:
- Keeping the work area around router clean and free of obsticles
- Having any tools that improve production in given cell located within a handy reach (Air wands, Screw drivers, Hammers, etc...)
Once you've tuned in the above items, then it is a good idea to dial in on the actual CNC code or part programs and how they are being utilized on your CNC machine and to see if they are running as efficient as possible. For example:
- Utilize Rapid moves for all Retract and Index moves above part surface
- Keep tool changes to a minimum if possible
- Utilize a Main or Master Program to call part programs which have been saved as sub programs.
- For Dual table machines, utilize a Main program to call the sub programs, then, park tool carrier over middle of opposite table rather than HOMING each time. This will help keep tool carrier travel to a minimum, thus improving cycle times while routing. This type setup can be created keeping the part program in a continuous loop that shuttles tool carrier accordingly.
I've just listed some ideas that come to mind shortly. I hope this has been helpful. You can also contact us with any further questions by emailing:
program@thermwood.com