Question 1

Where can I find the M31 Macro for the Tool Length Sensor?

Greg Bodnar · Accepted Answer

Where can I find the M31 Macro for the Tool Length Sensor?

The M31 Macro for the Tool Length Sensor is automatically installed when you use the STEPCRAFT Multi-Installer. The best way to make sure you are up to date with our latest profiles and macros is to download the STEPCRAFT Multi-Installer here. This installer will automatically install the most up to date profiles and macros.

If you find that after using the tool length sensor your end mill is slightly above or slightly digs into your material, you may need to preform a small adjustment to the M31 macro. To preform this adjustment, you can find the procedure here.

Question 2

What shaft diameter end mills can I use on the STEPCRAFT Automatic Tool Changer?

stepcraft · Accepted Answer

What shaft diameter end mills can I use on the STEPCRAFT Automatic Tool Changer?

We have SK10 tool holders for 1/8", 3/16" and 1/4" shaft diameters. You can view them on our webpage: https://stepcraft.us/product/sk10-tool-holder-for-automatic-tool-changer/

Question 3

What is the collet range sizes that the HF-500 Spindle can accept?

stepcraft · Accepted Answer

What is the collet range sizes that the HF-500 Spindle can accept?

The HF-500 can support up to 8mm ER11 collets. The most popular in North America are 1/8” and 1/4”, but they have collets that range from 1mm to 8mm that will work. The ER11 is an industry standard that determines the overall collet size. ER11, ER16, ER20, ER25 are all common sizes. But the HF 500 and our Tool Changer tool holders for the MM-1000 are both designed for the ER11.

Question 4

Is there a video on installing and setting up the STEPCRAFT Automatic Tool Changer?

stepcraft · Accepted Answer

Is there a video on installing and setting up the STEPCRAFT Automatic Tool Changer?

Yes, you can watch a full step-by-step video below.

Question 5

If I order a STEPCRAFT with an Automatic Tool Changer, will you pre-install the tool rack and setup the software?

stepcraft · Accepted Answer

If I order a STEPCRAFT with an Automatic Tool Changer, will you pre-install the tool rack and setup the software?

Yes we can pre-install the tool rack(s) for you on your machine. We will ALWAYS put them in the rear right corner (when looking from the front of the machine). Additionally, we will setup the tool locations in UCCNC and send you the Macro file that you can simply copy to your installation of UCCNC. Once complete, all locations should be correct and you can start using the ATC right away.

Question 6

How do you set the tool lengths (Z height) for each tool in the Automatic Tool Changer?

stepcraft · Accepted Answer

How do you set the tool lengths (Z height) for each tool in the Automatic Tool Changer?

We actually have an automated macro that will do this for you. The video below will explain how to do this. NOTE: This macro will require the Tool Length Sensor in order for this to work.

Question 7

How do I connect the cables for the Automatic Tool Changer (ATC) on MM-1000?

Erick · Accepted Answer

How do I connect the cables for the Automatic Tool Changer (ATC) on MM-1000?

https://youtu.be/lSTC72C6fDA

Question 8

How Can I Calibrate My Tool Length Sensor?

Greg Bodnar · Accepted Answer

How Can I Calibrate My Tool Length Sensor?

If you find that your tool length sensor (TLS) is functioning properly, but not touching the very top of your material, you may need to preform a quick calibration. This ensures that the tool length sensor is accurate and reliable. The following video will walk you through the simple TLS calibration...

https://youtu.be/4xk06wxbkCk

Question 9

Does the Automatic Tool Changer require an air compressor?

stepcraft · Accepted Answer

Does the Automatic Tool Changer require an air compressor?

Yes, it will require a small air compressor that is capable of outputting 125-130 PSI of air pressure. We use a small pancake compressor from Harbor Freight that we got for $119.00. They have pricing that ranges and sometimes you can get it for even less money. The direct link to the product is: https://www.harborfreight.com/air-tools-compressors/air-compressors-tanks/air-compressors/6-gallon-08-hp-150-psi-oil-free-pancake-air-compressor-58636.html Note: You will need a 1/4 in. FNPT x 1/4 in. I/M Steel Plug fitting to match your compressor's hose. Here is one from Home Depot: http://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-1-4-in-FNPT-x-1-4-in-I-M-Steel-Plug-12234HOM/205330359 [caption id="attachment_669" align="alignright" width="300"]

This is the fitting we use with our compressor from Home Depot 1/4 in. FNPT x 1/4 in. I/M Steel Plug. Your air compressor may vary.[/caption]

Question 10

Do I need the Automatic Tool Changer Switchbox if I have a M-Series Tool Magazine?

Bobby Noble · Accepted Answer

When you buy an Automatic Tool Changer (ATC), the system might come with an orange switch box. That switch box is intended for use with the ATC on the D.Series line of CNC machines as well as the M.Series machines that DO NOT have a Tool Magazine on the back of the machine. If you did not purchase the optional Tool Magazine then you would need to use the Switch Box. If you have the Tool Magazine, then you DO NOT need to use the switch box.

This is the Switch Box for the Automatic Tool Changer

Question 11

Can you use the Exhaust Adapter with the Automatic Tool Changer?

stepcraft · Accepted Answer

No, at this time you can not use it because the Exhaust Adapter wraps around the whole spindle, which will interfere with the tool changer putting the tool back into the rack.   At this time we do not have plans for a new exhaust adapter design that will be able to be used with the tool changer.

Question 12

Are the Automatic Tool Changer Tool Holders separate from the actual bits?

stepcraft · Accepted Answer

Yes, the tool holders are special collets that you install the end mill into and place it on the tool rack. The tapered design of the top of the tool holder allows it to be grabbed and secured by the tool changer.  Tool holders are available in 1/8", 3/16" and 1/4" shaft sizes.

Note: when you buy the Automatic Tool Changer, it comes with two 1/8" tool holders and a rack that will hold up to 5 tools, so to fill the entire rack, you will need to order 3 more tool holders.

Question 13

Do I need the Automatic Tool Changer Switchbox if I have a M-Series Tool Magazine?

Bobby Noble · Accepted Answer

When you buy an Automatic Tool Changer (ATC), the system might come with an orange switch box. That switch box is intended for use with the ATC on the D.Series line of CNC machines as well as the M.Series machines that DO NOT have a Tool Magazine on the back of the machine. If you did not purchase the optional Tool Magazine then you would need to use the Switch Box. If you have the Tool Magazine, then you DO NOT need to use the switch box.