Question for you guys. I’m noting that I can’t seem to get a second operation cut and it seems to be related to my Z axis sticking / binding. The Hypertherm 45 machine torch cable I’m running is fairly stiff and it seems like a mechanical binding. Any suggestions on how to best adjust the rollers? Or Lubricant?
I used a Hypertherm 45XP with a Duramax torch and had no issues at all on my Crossfire Pro.
I found no need to do anything to the rollers outside of normal maintenance.
Can you take a picture of your setup? Maybe you have it installed in a way where you’re running out of Z-axis travel? Another issue could be a dirty leadscrew. If it was neglected for awhile, crud can build up and start chewing through your leadnuts threads as it’s made of plastic
A new leadnut can be purchased from Langmuir and I have a quick and dirty Youtube video on Z-axis disassembly.
Thanks for the quick response Kiwikfab. I had the same problem when I was running the RazorCut too. The main difference between the two in this case is the length of the torch and stiffness of the Hypertherm lead is significant. I had to bungee the lead from the ceiling (8’) above the center of the table to help allow more free motion. The lead screw is moving, but the carriage seems to bind just enough to keep it from following the screw down. This isn’t during cutting and it only happens when the torch is raised, between operations. I’ve observed during operation the lead screw lower (turn) and the torch staying in place. This isn’t a new problem, just one I’m finally figuring out as it’s a pain to place every operation on a separate drawing layer to make overcome. I can manually get the Z position within 1/4” from the top of work and it cuts fine. If I attempt to cut with torch starting ~1” above the work, the Z carriage tends to stick or hang, most of the time, when the lead screw turns down. I’m wondering if there is an adjustment that can be made or a lubricant (WD-40?) to help the carriage move a little more freely or reposition?
I’ll take a look at cleanliness of the lead screw and nut today. This photo doesn’t give the conversation much to chew on, but I managed to pierce and cut 1/2” without issue; other than being able to piece the operations into one G-Code instruction set.
The z-axis lead screw needs occasional lubrication. I had a situation where the entire operation of a file would stop and I thought there was binding in the x or y axis. After lubricating the two y axis lead screws and the x axis lead screws 3X without success, I lubricated the z-axis lead screw.
Voila! That was all that was needed.
Type of lubrication:
z-axis: Langmuir recommends graphite. I used WD-40 but you don’t want it getting on the IHS contacts.
x-axis: some use silicone spray (don’t get it on your metal or you might pay for it later with poor paint adhesion), some use sewing machine oil, some use WD-40.