input CNC values into the offset/geometry

 input CNC values into the offset/geometry page on your turning machine, considering your specific scenario of multiple setups, hard and soft jaws, soft jaw boring, and the use of a tailstock and steady rest.

The fundamental principle is that you're telling the machine the precise location of your tools relative to a fixed point (usually the machine's home position or a defined work coordinate system). This allows the CNC to accurately execute your program.

Here's a breakdown of the common inputs and considerations for each situation:

Understanding the Offset/Geometry Page

While the exact layout and terminology can vary between different CNC controls (Fanuc, Siemens, Haas, etc.), the core concepts remain the same. You'll generally find columns for:

• Tool Number (T): Identifies the specific tool you're setting.
• Offset Number (H/D): Often linked to the tool number. 'H' usually refers to the length offset (related to the Z-axis), and 'D' refers to the diameter/radius offset (related to the X-axis). Some controls might separate these or use a single offset number for both.
• Geometry (Wear): This section contains the actual dimensional offsets you input. 'Geometry' is the initial, more permanent offset, while 'Wear' is used to make minor adjustments due to tool wear.
• X Value: The radial offset of the tool tip from the machine's centerline.
• Z Value: The axial offset of the tool tip from a reference face (often the machine's spindle nose or a defined work zero).
• Radius (R): The radius of the tool tip, crucial for accurate contouring.
• Tool Type/Tip Orientation: Specifies the shape of the tool insert and its orientation relative to the workpiece. This is vital for proper compensation.

General Steps for Inputting Offset Values:

1. Select the Tool: On the machine control, select the tool number you want to set the offset for (e.g., T0101). This usually involves a T-code in MDI (Manual Data Input) or jogging to the desired tool.
2. Access the Offset/Geometry Page: Navigate to the offset or tool data page on your machine's control panel.
3. Measure the Tool: You'll need to physically measure the tool's dimensions relative to a known reference. This is where the different setups come into play.
4. Input the Values: Enter the measured X, Z, and R values into the corresponding cells for the selected tool and offset number.
5. Verify: After inputting the values, it's crucial to verify their accuracy through test cuts and adjustments.

Specific Considerations for Your Scenario:

1. Turning in Multiple Setups:

• Establishing Work Zero: Each setup will likely have a different work zero (the point from which all your part dimensions are referenced). You'll need to establish a work coordinate system (G54, G55, etc.) for each setup.
• Tool Length (Z-Offset): When setting the Z-offset for a tool, you'll typically touch the tool tip to a known surface on your current setup (e.g., the face of the workpiece or a gauge block positioned at the desired Z0). The difference between this position and a machine reference point is your Z-offset. This Z-offset will be specific to the current work coordinate system.
• Tool Diameter/Radius (X-Offset): The X-offset is generally less dependent on the specific setup, as it relates to the tool's radial position relative to the machine's centerline. You'll often touch the tool to a known diameter (e.g., a test bar or the workpiece itself) to determine this offset.