Processing > Specific and Generic Tool Processes

When you press the Process Geometry button you have a choice of the tools to apply to paths. In some cases you may have to choose between specific and generic tool processes. A specific process for example may be called MS - 130A O2 Air, while the generic one may simply be called Plasma Generic. It is important that you are aware of the difference between the two.

When a tool is selected a T command will be used in the NC code. For example, If the plasma is in position two, then the select plasma tool code code will be T2.

When a generic tool is used all that will appear on the tool select line is T2, meaning that tool one will be applied. The settings used for that tool will be whatever process the operator has specified on the machine controller, the programmer and programming software have no knowledge or control over what this may be.

When a specific process is used the NC code will include a specifier that instructs the machine to use a specific process for that tool. In the above example the code will be T2(130A O2/AIR) which means that the process named 130A O2/AIR will be used. This will happen regardless of what the operator has selected on the machine controller. This can cause problems if the operator has loaded a different set of consumables in the torch, however they will be prompted to change consumables if the materials page is on a different process..

If the machine is fitted with a manual gas console, then you will need to insert a pause into the program instructing the operator to change the settings to those required for marking.

Specific Processes (which includes SmartHPR and SmartXPR ) are preferred for the following reasons:

oMore consistent cut quality

oMore accurate time estimation for planning

oMore accurate quoting