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Overview:
This video reviews how to use an edge finder and the difference between a mechanical edge finder and an electronic edge finder.
Material: 2″ Aluminum
Cutters: Mechanical Edge Finder, Electronic Edge Finder
Speed: variable
Feed: n/a
Machine: Tormach PCNC 1100
Background:
Essentially an edge finder is a dynamic indicator of the location of a work-piece edge with reference to the center line of the spindle to which it is attached.
Fixtures & Tooling:
The mechanical edge finder in a simple device and can be purchased for as little as $10 USD. In order to operate this type of edge finder, you need to have a rotating spindle.
An electronic edge finder is a bit more complicated and will cost a little more. Its main advantage over the mechanical edge finder is that it can work in a NON-rotating spindle. It is battery operated and works by lightening up its internal LED (usually red) when the electrical circuit formed by the instrument and the machine is closed.
Motion Planning:
The edge finder is put in the rotating chuck of the milling machine and the work-piece is moved towards the edge finder.
When the work-piece and the edge finder come into contact, the rotating motion of the edge finder visibly changes.
In use, the spinning edge finder is moved into contact with the edge that you wish to locate. As the lower cylinder of the edge finder touches the edge, that lower cylinder “kicks” to the left (assuming a clockwise rotation as seen from above). When the kick is observed, the axis of the spindle and the edge of the work-piece are located 1/2 the diameter of the edge finder from each other. This is typically 0.100″ but it can be different, so make sure to check.
Cutting Process & Results:
With either a mechanical or electronic edge finder, you will be able to center your work-piece accurately every
time.
Key Words:
edge finder, mechanical edge finder, electronic edge finder, wiggler, centering, machining, milling techniques, CNC, Tormach
Nikolas