Haas startup, setup, and running a job

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to start up, set up a job, and run a job using a Haas CNC controller. Whether you're transitioning from another machine or are new to CNC machining, this guide aims to simplify the process and enhance your understanding of the Haas system.

Step 1: Prepare the Machine for Startup

• Connect Air Supply:

  • If you don’t have a dedicated air system, connect the machine directly to your compressor. Set the compressor regulator to 90-100 psi.

• Power On:

  • Turn on the power to the machine.
  • Reset the emergency stop (e-stop).

• Cycle the Door:

  • Open and close the machine door to ensure proper cycling.

• Home the Machine:

  • Press the reset button and perform a power-up restart to home all axes (X, Y, Z, and rotary).

Step 2: Run the Warm-Up Cycle

• Select the Tool:

  • Use a small tool (e.g., Tool 8) for the warm-up cycle.

• Navigate to Program List:

  • Go to List Programs > Hard Drive and select the last program, which should start at 1,000 RPM and ramp up to 30,000 RPM over 20 minutes.

• Start the Warm-Up:

  • Press Cycle Start. If prompted about the machine being cold, press Cancel and then Cycle Start again to begin the warm-up.

Step 3: Setting Up the Job

• Load the Program:

  • Go back to List Programs, press Escape, then navigate to your network share to find the relevant program. Load it, but do not start it yet.

• Position the Vise:

  • Hand jog the machine to move the vise to the right, ensuring space to load the material safely.

• Prepare the Workpiece:

  • Clean the parallels and place the workpiece on them. Tighten the vise without excessive force to prevent damaging the part.

Step 4: Set Work Offsets

• Find the Y Zero Position:

  • If you already have the Z position set, bring the tool down to touch the parallels and record this position.

• Enter Offsets:

  • Press Offsets, navigate to G54, and enter the Z offset based on the measurement you recorded earlier. Ensure you have the correct offsets for any coordinate systems you may use.

Step 5: Tool Setup

• Install the Hymer Tool:

  • Raise the Z-axis, press Tool Release, and replace the tool with the hymer.

• Orient the Spindle:

  • Press Orient Spindle to ensure repeatability when measuring.

• Pick Up Coordinates:

  • Jog the hymer to the part's edges in the X and Y directions. Use fine movements (1,000th and then 10,000th of an inch) for precise positioning. Set part zero after each adjustment.

Step 6: Running the Program

• Load the Cutting Tool:

  • Once offsets are set, press Tool Release to put the cutting tool back in the spindle.

• Start the Job:

  • Press Cycle Start, closely monitoring the tool's movement. Adjust speed if necessary, and be ready to hit the emergency stop if something goes wrong.

• Monitor the Process:

  • Verify that the tool is engaging the material correctly and that everything is functioning as expected.

Step 7: Finishing Up

• Remove the Part:

  • Once the job is completed, safely remove the part from the vise.

• Tool Alignment:

  • Switch to tool one and remove it from the machine to maintain alignment of the other tools.

• Power Down:

  • Press the emergency stop and turn off the machine.

Conclusion

This tutorial covers the essential steps to operate a Haas CNC machine from startup to job completion. Familiarizing yourself with these processes will help streamline your machining tasks. Practice regularly to become more confident, and consider documenting your offsets and tool settings for future reference. Happy machining!