Running a Job

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Running a Job

Follow this checklist every time you run a job. Complete Preparing a Cut File and have your G-code on the shop PC before starting.

Before Power-On (Safety-Critical)

• Install and tighten the bit first - before any spindle power; see Hardware and Machine Anatomy for collet and installation details
• Select the correct ER20 collet for your bit’s shank diameter
• Use two wrenches on the spindle nut; never run with a loose collet
• Clear the spoilboard area and confirm your workholding plan
• Wear safety glasses; hearing protection as needed
• Know the e-stop location

Power-Up Sequence

1. Verify e-stop is released
2. Turn on main machine power
3. Turn on VFD; confirm it is in automatic/remote mode (NOT manual/local)
4. Boot / wake the dedicated CNC shop PC; launch RTS-X
5. Connect to the controller; home the machine

Dust collection not yet installed - use shop vac for cleanup after cuts. Dust collection is coming soon.

TBD: Preferred power-down order (VFD → main power). Shop-specific e-stop / power switch labeling.

Job Setup

1. Secure the workpiece (T-tracks)

• Use T-tracks with appropriate clamps, hold-downs, or toe clamps
• Screwing into the 3/4" spoilboard is acceptable when clamps won’t work - avoid excessive holes
• Keep clamps and track hardware clear of the toolpath - check rapids in simulation
• Mind "no-go" zones near table edges where tracks may not reach

2. Set work zero (WCS)

Standard practice for most jobs:

• XY zero: front-left corner of your workpiece - match the origin you set in VCarve
• Z zero: top surface of the material (most common), or spoilboard surface for through-cuts - match your VCarve setting
• In RTS-X: jog the bit to your XY zero point and zero the X and Y axes; lower the bit to just touch the material surface and zero the Z axis
• Use a paper slip or touch-off block for Z precision; avoid crashing the bit into the spoilboard

TBD: Document our specific step-by-step touch-off procedure in RTS-X, with screenshots. Spoilboard is 3/4" thick.

3. Import G-code into RTS-X (USB or cloud)

4. Run simulation/preview in RTS-X

• Open the file in RTS-X and run the built-in preview/simulation before starting
• Confirm the bit does not plunge through material or into clamps/fixtures on the first rapid approach
• Verify the toolpath boundaries stay within your workholding setup
• Check that the first plunge point and rapid moves look correct relative to your zeroed position
• Consider watching the first few seconds of the cut at reduced feed override (e.g. 50%) until you are confident the job is running correctly

5. Position spindle over safe start point; confirm feed/speed in file

During the Cut

• Remain at the machine and supervise the entire job. Zero tolerance for leaving unattended or leaving the room.
• Keep hands clear; never adjust clamps while the spindle is running
• Be ready to hit e-stop or feed-hold

Shutdown

1. Stop spindle; return to safe park position if applicable
2. Remove workpiece and clean up
3. Vacuum chips; check spoilboard for damage
4. Power down VFD, then main power
5. Log any issues on Slack

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