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CNC TECH TALK Columnist occur at rapid. Here is the command to rapid the Z axis to the zero return position: G53 Z0 As you might expect, most programmers that understand both methods prefer G53 over G28. However, G53 hasn't been around as long as G28. Additionally, some machine tool builders never made G53 part of their standard package of G codes when they bought controls from FANUC. This means you may have machines that do not allow G53 (without purchasing G53 from FANUC). Even though G53 may be better, G28 is more universal. If you want to use one method that will work on all machines, you may be stuck with G28. One more advantage of G53 is that the zero return position does not have to be the destination point. Consider, for example, how you position a turning center's turret to a safe index position prior to a turret index. You may determine, for example, that the safe index position is at the zero return position in X but 8 inches from the zero return position in Z (closer to the chuck/workpiece). This command will send the X and Z axes directly to the safe index position: G53 X0 Z-8.0 Remember that the origin for G53 is the zero return position, and since the zero return position is usually at the extreme plus end of each axis, commanded positions will almost always be negative. This technique can also be helpful with machining centers that have pallet changers and when the pallet change position is a precise distance from the zero return position in one or more axes. For a machine with which the pallet change position is at the zero return position in X but 4 inches away from the zero return position in Y, this command sends the machine to its pallet change position: G53 X0 Y-4.0 The G53 command has its advantages over G28, but both can be used to get machine axes on FANUC-controlled machines back to the zero return position when required. expand the possibilities of gauging Introducing EQUATOR™ —the revolutionary system that finally creates a solution between custom gauging and CMMs Nothing compares to Equator™ Nothing compares like Equator™ Equator™ from Renishaw is a dramatic departure from the constraints of choosing either a custom gauging solution or a trip to the CMM. Experience up to 70% savings with signifcantly reduced fxture, installation and maintenance costs. Different parts, same Equator— never buy another custom gauge. ■ ■ ■ Highly repeatable Swap parts in seconds Fast form measurement ■ ■ Automation and feedback Out-of-the-box installation Expand process control to the next level. Renishaw.com/gauging See us at WESTEC BOOTH #317 Renishaw Inc Hoffman Estates, IL www.renishaw.com 64 MMS September 2013 mmsonline.com