Multiple offsets for the same tool in RapidTurn
Using RapidTurn, I'd like to use an end mill as both a drill and a boring bar to make some plastic bushings. First, I should state I'm new to CNC turning, been running CNC routers for years and would consider myself very well versed in milling.
So, as I've gathered so far (and this whole explanation will be "as far as I understand it" and I'm very open to learning where I'm wrong), lathe controls can store multiple offsets for the same tool for exactly the reasons I'm after. The offsets also store the control point orientation. So for example:
T0101 is tool 01 with offset and control point 1
T0102 (or maybe 0201 - not sure) is tool 01 with offset and control point 2
So, one could setup T0101 as a drill using the center control point, and T0102 as the same tool but with a boring bar control point.
If you're using T0101 and call T0102, the controller simply loads the offset and control points for T0102 without going through an M06 in the process.
The idea is to drill using the offsets for T0101, retract, switch offsets to T0102 and then use the same tool as a boring bar to refine the bore diameter.
I know all this is possible as I've seen videos of machines doing this, I've heard it's by setting up multiple offsets on the same tool and it also seems that this is a pretty common practice (which is why it's supported in G-code).
The issue is that when touching off tools in PathPilot, when selecting a tool, there's no option for a second offset and control point. e.g. If I'm touching off tool 01, PathPilot doesn't have an option for tool 01, offset 01, offset 02 etc.
Anyone know if what I'm after is possible and how to do it?
-Andy B.
http://www.birkonium.com CNC for Luthiers and Industry http://banduramaker.blogspot.com