System Basics - 8L

In This Section, You'll Learn:

About the main components of the machine and how it moves.

Before operating the machine in any way, you must read and understand this section.

System Reference

To operate your machine, you must become familiar with the components of its system.

Spindle

The machine uses a native 5C taper for precision turning of stock less than 1.125 in. in diameter.

• Spindle Power 1.5 hp (1.11 kW)

• Spindle Speed Two spindle ranges with speeds from 180 to 5,000 rpm

Axes

The machine has two linear axes of motion used for machining:

• The Z-axis, which is parallel to rotational axis of the spindle.
  The -Z direction is toward the headstock, and the +Z direction is opposite the headstock (toward the tailstock).

• The X-axis, which is perpendicular to the Z-axis and nominally parallel to the long dimension of the carriage.
  The +X direction is toward the front, and -X direction is toward the rear.

• X-Axis 4.5" (114 mm)

• Z-Axis 10" (254 mm) with tailstock

Basic Controls Reference

To safely and effectively operate your machine, you must become familiar with how it moves. The machine has two forms of basic controls: machine controls and the PathPilot interface.

Machine Controls

The following controls energize the machine's control electronics:

• The Main Disconnect switch, located on the right side of the electrical cabinet.
  The Main Disconnect switch has two positions: OFF and ON. When it's in the OFF position, it separates the other machine control electronics from the mains electrical supply. When it's in the ON position, the other machine control electronics are able to receive power.

WARNING! Before opening the electrical cabinet for maintenance or troubleshooting, you must lockout the mains power: Turn the Main Disconnect switch to the OFF position, and secure an approved lockout device through the lockout rings at the bottom of the switch.

• The operator panel — which contains the Reset button and the Emergency Stop button — located on the front left side of the base of the machine.
  When pushed in, the Emergency Stop button interrupts power to the spindle and axis drives, and stops the machine’s motion. When the Emergency Stop button is twisted out, press the Reset button to enable the machine, allowing spindle and axis motion. The Reset button’s LED turns on when the machine is enabled and the spindle and axis drives receive power.

PathPilot Interface

PathPilot is the primary means by which you interact with your machine. PathPilot controls all of the automatic motion of the machine axes and spindle, as well as some accessories. The PathPilot control system consists of one of the following:

• Controller Arm

  • Controller

  • (Optional) Jog Shuttle

  • Keyboard

  • Monitor or (Optional)Touch Screen Kit

  • Mouse

• Operator Console

  • Console (with integrated touch screen)

  • (Optional) Keyboard

  • (Optional) Mouse

  • Jog pendant

Looking for more information?

This is a section of the 8L operator's manual. To view the whole manual, go to Tormach document UM10753.

If you have additional questions, we can help. Create a support ticket with Tormach Technical Support at tormach.com/how-to-submit-a-support-ticket for guidance on how to proceed.