I would like to buy full-size sheets (4’ x 8’) and cut them down to 4’ x 2’ for most of my cutting, but going with 48" x 32" when needed.
Is there a way to just load the large sheet into the machine and have the machine itself cut all the way across the 4’ dimension? I just cannot figure out how to have the torch start off the edge and finish off the other edge.
How does everyone else manage their material?
Slide the sheet onto the machine. Measure out where you want to cut the 48" off. Manually jog the machine to that point all the way to either the left or right. make sure the edge of the sheet is at the torch tip, not past or short. Zero out all the axis.
Click on straight cut in Fire Control. Enter in your info, 48" for the distance in (I think it’s X) → or ← direction as it applies. Click generate and start.
Sticks gave you a great description. All I will add is a graphic of the area of FireControl that allows you to enter your “cut” information:
Being the travel is only 4 ft and a quarter-ish Max and some sheet metal comes 4 ft quarter inch to 4 ft 3/4 inch wide you’re going to be stuck with a little piece holding on unless you somehow widen in the x axis of your machine.
Angle grinder w/ cutoff wheel. Second torch for hand cutting…
I do have a hand torch, so that and a straight edge might be the simplest answer. But I cannot reach 4’, so I would have to find some way to climb on top of the sheet.
Just use the straight cut and move the sheet over a bit and cut again, if it doesn’t go all the way.
I haven’t checked it lately, but I’m fairly sure mine goes further than 48".
Or you could do what I do, which is buy 4x4 sheets already cut from my supplier.
I just ordered some cut to 4’ x 2’, which will be good for what I’m planning on starting with. I’m thinking about the future when I might want the flexibility of the max size of the bed or maybe material 18" wide will suit the project better.
I have my metal cut to 48 x 33 to fit the table. If I buy the 10’ stuff, I get the remaining drop too.
Most metal suppliers will do it for free if you buy from them regularly.
Hey guys I know this is a Firecontrol thread but was there ever a way to do this in Mach 3?
Not for me, if I add a operation to my order the price jumps way up. Now maybe if I ordered 20 sheets cut it might be more reasonable but most times its very pricey.
I deal mostly in tube and most times if I have odd size that I don’t stock, and need a piece cut to 8’ I can buy the full stick for a few dollars more then what the 8’ cost
Maybe I don’t buy enough volume
I guess I have a good supplier. He is big enough, but not I don’t give a shit big. You probably buy more than I do. He won’t cut stainless steel plate because it screws up his shear.
I have never heard that, I like it
I am not familiar with Mach 3 but you could make a G-code file that is for a full cut and run the file. Here I made a square that is 48.3 inches x 48.3 inches (you should measure your available travel and have it within your table specs, otherwise you will collide with the limits of the table).
I set the parameters to No lead in/No lead out and centerline offset so it will cut on the line.
I was thinking something along these lines. I have not had a need yet but was going to get the XL kit and setup a index jig so I can cut down a sheet if or when needed.
…hand torch, straight edge…
This is what I would do. Depending on the thickness of the metal a 4’ x 8’ sheet of metal is heavy and hard to handle.
Are they hiring?
We are always looking to hire good people😀
