Contents:
Properly aligning the diagonal of a CNC router is essential for ensuring accuracy and precision in milling operations. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to check and adjust the diagonal alignment of your CNC machine.
Materials required
To perform this adjustment, you will need:
- Masking tape
- Measuring tape
- Marker
- Cardboard
Preparation
Begin by cutting four pieces of cardboard and securing them to the four corners of the machine using tape. On the first piece of cardboard, create a hole approximately in the center. This will serve as the initial reference point for measuring the diagonals.
Switching modes
Before proceeding to the next step, it is crucial to switch the machine’s control mode appropriately. On the remote control, press the “Mode” button to cycle through manual control options. Set the machine to continuous step mode or a predefined distance mode so that the cutter moves precisely to the next piece of cardboard.
Creating reference points
Each time you move the cutter to a new position, ensure that you switch the movement mode to “set distance” before making the next hole. In this example, we are using a Wattsan M1 1616 CNC router, so we select a movement distance slightly smaller than the working area to ensure that the cutter consistently aligns with the pre-marked cardboard pieces.
Measuring the diagonal
Once you have created holes in all four corners of the working area, visualize an imaginary square by connecting the holes with lines. To check the diagonal alignment, measure the distance between opposite corners. Both diagonals should be equal.
When measuring, position the measuring tape slightly above the starting point to avoid shifts or misalignments in the readings. Secure one end of the tape at the edge of the hole and measure to the corresponding hole on the diagonal. Repeat this for the opposite diagonal and record the measurements.
In our case, we found a discrepancy of 1.5 mm between the diagonals.
Adjusting the alignment
To correct the misalignment:
- Remove the protective covers from both sides of the gantry.
- Loosen the bolts that secure the gantry and the support structures.
- In the control cabinet, disconnect one of the two Y-axis driver controllers to allow manual adjustment of the gantry position.
Fine-tuning the position
Using the machine’s controller, move the gantry in small increments (high-precision mode) to compensate for the diagonal offset. The number of steps required will depend on the extent of the misalignment. In our case, we performed four small adjustments to correct the 1.5 mm discrepancy.
Final calibration and verification
Once the adjustment is complete:
- Reconnect the driver controller.
- Tighten the bolts securing the gantry.
- Mark the new hole positions and repeat the measurement process.
- If the diagonals now match, the alignment is successful.
- Replace the protective covers.
Conclusion
Aligning the diagonal of a CNC router is a straightforward but crucial process to ensure precision in machining. By following these steps and taking accurate measurements, you can prevent errors and maintain the machine’s optimal performance. Once aligned, your CNC router is ready for precise and efficient operation.
