Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Lathe Software question

Bill: I am using BobCad 17 and running the machine with CNCPro. At first
I was disappointed with BobCad's lathe program because I didn't find
much information in the printed manuals. But I discovered that the real
manual is in the help file. I would love to try Vector but it is a bit
expensive for me at this time.I got a deal on the BobCad that steered me
in that direction. It is fairly easy to learn. I had to jump right in
and get started making parts so I haven't really had time to work
through all of the exercises. I am going to pick up my Hardinge HLV-H
lathe today and get ready to do a cnc conversion on that. That should be
a sweet machine.I got it as partial payment on selling my old airplane.
I am happy and he is happy.
I am new to cnc. I am actually doing a job as my first cnc experience. A
bit nerve-racking doing it that way, but no other choice. Particularly
when the machine did a move Saturday that was not in the program. It
took off in a rapid feed to who knows where. I looked at the gcode and
the move wasn't there. Maybe something to do with the notebook that I am
using to run the machine.I backed up and ran the same program again and
it was ok. Go figure. That experience surely brought the tension level
up. If it had occurred on one of the finish passes it would have
scrapped a very expensive piece. I am making rollers out of 4 1/2 inch
cold rolled for a prototype machine for making fence panels.The top
roller must match the bottom roller accurately. That is why cnc was
needed. Weird angles that had to be perfect.. Something like 123.87
degrees. That would be very difficult to set up and do manually,to say
the least.
Carey