Roland CNC Mill

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This document describes the setup of the machine, some of its dimensional limits, use of the Roland SRP Player software (for generating toolpaths from STL files), and some aspects of the process whereby an .RML file from MasterCAM is used.

Harvard GSD Guide to Roland MDX-40-A.pdf

Template Files

Below is an empty MasterCAM template files with a number of supported toolpaths included. The settings assume that 2" foam material is being used, so changes would be necessary for other material characteristics. Only one tool is defined, so if using a different tool, a new tool will have to be defined. It is necessary that toolpaths using different tools be posted separately so that each tool can have a new Z calibrated on the machine between toolpaths.

Recommended: Template File for Fanuc Machine Definition and Post Processor

This template file includes a Drill operation and is intended to be used with the Fanuc Machine Definition, Control, and Post Process (see below).

Previous template files were setup for use with the Roland Machine Definition and Post Processor, which are not recommended for use at this time (Spring 2017).

Review the NC File

There are two post-processors that you can select in MasterCAM to output an NC file for the Roland Mill, depending on which you choose, there are different steps involved.

Recommended: Fanuc Machine Definition and Post Processor

The files that are most up-to-date can be found on Goliath:\Software\Mastercam\Folder_Migrate_MCX_X9\* and are also saved on the computer connected to the Roland Mill.

The Fanuc 3 Axis Mill Machine Definition, Control, and Post Processor will output an .NC file. This .NC file should be reviewed for errors and needed corrections before it is run on the Roland Mill. Do this within MasterCAM's code editor.

Check for the correct Spindle Speed and Feedrate for the tool.
Check for Z0 and Z-, to prevent cutting into the machine table.
Return to MasterCAM and make corrections there, if either of the above conditions need to be corrected.

Things to note:

In the VPanel, users must set the 0,0,0 of the "G54" coordinate system before cutting the RML file.
The NC file does contain the spindle speed as defined in MasterCAM for the tool/toolpath.
Coordinates are displayed in inches.
Drilling operations are supported.
When aborting a job the machine will NOT automatically retract to a safe location: make sure you manually lift the tool up above the stock before resuming or starting a new job, etc.
Toolchanges are not supported by the Roland MDX-40A. MCX files that use multiple tools must output the toolpaths for different tools separately and re-calibrate a new Z for each toolchange.

Not Recommended: Roland Machine Definition and Post Processor

The files that are most up-to-date can be found on Goliath:\Software\Mastercam\Folder_Migrate_MCX_X9\* and are also saved on the computer connected to the Roland Mill.

The Roland Machine Definition and Post Processor will output an .RML file. Although not as easy to "read" as other types of NC files, the .RML file should be reviewed for needed corrections before it is run on the Roland Mill. Do this within MasterCAM's code editor or a text editor of your choosing.

Ensure that the first line of the file reads "!MC 1" and not "!1", otherwise the spindle will not start.
Ensure that the the last line of the file reads "!MC 0", rather than "!0" in order to stop the spindle
(There may be a line at the start and end of the file that read "H", this is OK, as it tells the machine to rapid to its home position.
Ensure that any edited file is saved with an extension of .RML (some text editors will save it with a .NC or a .TXT, which might have to be removed)

Things to note:

In the VPanel, users must set the 0,0,0 of the "User Coordinate System" before cutting the RML file.
The RML does NOT contain spindle speeds, so this must be controlled by setting it in the VPanel interface.
Coordinates are displayed in 1/100 mm regardless of MCX file units.
Toolchanges are not supported by the Roland MDX-40A. MCX files that use multiple tools must output the toolpaths for different tools separately and re-calibrate a new Z for each toolchange.
Drilling Operations are NOT supported by the Roland Machine Definition and Post Processor. Units for these toolpath types are output as inches, rather than 1/100 mm, so do not cut correctly.