How to use G143 tool length compensation on a HAAS VR-11

We have two HAAS VR-11's and we use Surfcam as our programming software. Surfcam puts out 5 axis code where some toolpaths have a G143. If I understand it correctly this function gives you the ability to not have to enter gauge lengths in the software. I for the life of me cannot figure out how to get this to quite work correctly. Currently I must edit the G143's to G43's and enter gauge lengths in the software. H offsets are set 1" off the table with a 1-2-3 block and are entered as a negative number. Then the Z origin is set with a shift in the work coordinate, example: If Z0 it 4" above table, then Z3.0 would be in G54. Then when 5 axis code is run, the gauge lengths are entered in the software, and the pivot length is entered in the post processor. Then the g/l's must be entered in the control as a negative number, I happen to enter them in the wear column, and the pivot length must also be entered as a negative number, I subtract it from the Z in G54. Does anyone know how to make G143's work?
Thanks, Mike.

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Originally Posted by vettespeed

We have two HAAS VR-11's and we use Surfcam as our programming software. Surfcam puts out 5 axis code where some toolpaths have a G143. If I understand it correctly this function gives you the ability to not have to enter gauge lengths in the software. I for the life of me cannot figure out how to get this to quite work correctly. Currently I must edit the G143's to G43's and enter gauge lengths in the software. H offsets are set 1" off the table with a 1-2-3 block and are entered as a negative number. Then the Z origin is set with a shift in the work coordinate, example: If Z0 it 4" above table, then Z3.0 would be in G54. Then when 5 axis code is run, the gauge lengths are entered in the software, and the pivot length is entered in the post processor. Then the g/l's must be entered in the control as a negative number, I happen to enter them in the wear column, and the pivot length must also be entered as a negative number, I subtract it from the Z in G54. Does anyone know how to make G143's work?
Thanks, Mike.

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Not trying to sound like a jerk because I have no experience programming 5 axis, but did you look it up in the manual?

The manual gives some basic info as well as a sample program.

Hopefully someone else with a bit more knowlege will chime in.

Good luck!

Thanks haastec.

Anyone?

Check out the attached G143.pdf. It gives an example of the G143 cycle, and how I'd expect things to move, when using it.

If you still have questions, give your dealer a call, or email the Haas Applications Department at [email protected].

just saw this - have you figured it out?

vettespeed

Are you doing 5 axes machined parts, or just 3 axes parts, if you are doing 3 axes parts, you should get the right post processor, The way you are doing your setup, is a crash waiting to happen