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  1. #1
    Join Date
    May 2008
    Posts
    11

    Mach3 Z-axis disable when not in use

    Hey,

    I've recently built my own CNC, and so far it's working fine. The only problem I've encountered is that the motor on my Z-axis gets seriously hot after about 20 minutes of machining. Too hot almost to touch, so it's getting into the range of temperatures I'm not comfortable with.

    The problem here ofcourse is that the Z-axis generally moves the cutter in position and then just sits there, soaking up the full 1.5A the driver supplies it with. I'm using a standard M8 leadscrew, so there's no real reason for the Z-axis stepper motor to actually be on when it's not being used. I'm pretty sure I've seen an option in Mach3 somewhere to disable steppers when they're not in use, but I can't seem to find it anymore... Any help would be much appreciated.

    Erant

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Mar 2003
    Posts
    35538
    Try using a lower voltage, which might limit higher speed, but also might run cooler.

    But "almost too hot to touch", isn't really all that hot for a stepper. Under 85°C should be fine, some can run up to 100°C.
    Gerry

    UCCNC 2017 Screenset
    http://www.thecncwoodworker.com/2017.html

    Mach3 2010 Screenset
    http://www.thecncwoodworker.com/2010.html

    JointCAM - CNC Dovetails & Box Joints
    http://www.g-forcecnc.com/jointcam.html

    (Note: The opinions expressed in this post are my own and are not necessarily those of CNCzone and its management)

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Feb 2007
    Posts
    4553

    Current reduction for steppers

    Configuring the Mach3 software:
    from the main menu, select config\ports & pins
    select output signals tab
    scroll down to Current Hi/Low
    column 1, click to get green 'enable' check
    column 2, set to port #1 (or whatever port you're using)
    column 3, set to pin #1
    column 4, click to get green 'active low' check

  4. #4
    Join Date
    May 2008
    Posts
    11
    Thanks! The Current Hi/Lo worked a treat.

    I specially used a higher rated stepper on the Z-axis, I don't want to limit the current here. And seeing as my screw is 1,25mm pitch, I hardly think the Z-axis is going anywhere, even without the stepper holding it in place.

    Thanks again!

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