Once your layout is prepared and your hardware has been verified, it is time to execute a mark on your chosen work surface. This section provides step-by-step instructions and safety guidance to ensure accurate and safe marking.

1. Save and Download Your Layout

Before marking, it is critical to save and download your layout:

  1. Download Layout to Controller:
    • From the Controller Page, ensure your desired layout exists on the controller.
    • Downloading a layout saves it to the controller memory, allowing the machine to access it for marking.
  2. Save the Workspace:
    • From the File Menu, save your entire workspace. This ensures that all layouts, settings, and associated files are preserved on the controller.
    • Note: Downloading only saves the selected layout; saving the workspace preserves the full set of layouts and machine settings.

2. Select a Layout

  1. In the Manual Marking section of the Controller Page, locate the drop-down menu labeled “Choose Layout to Mark.”
  2. Select the layout you wish to run from the list of previously saved or downloaded layouts.

3. Trial Run vs Start Run

CMT strongly recommends performing a Trial Run before executing a Start Run, especially for new layouts or first-time operations.

  • Trial Run:
    • Executes all programmed machine movements without engaging the marking pin.
    • Allows verification of:
      • X/Y positioning and alignment
      • Travel limits of the marking head
      • Programmed entity placement and spacing
      • Properly taught machine coordinates
    • No mark is applied to the workpiece.
  • Start Run:
    • Initiates an active marking cycle, applying the programmed mark to the work surface.
    • Prior to Start, confirm:
      • The workpiece is properly secured using slates, fixtures, and appropriate mounting hardware.
      • The area is clear of hands, tools, or foreign objects.
      • All safety procedures and PPE requirements are in place.

Optional: If the PC or controller interface is unavailable, a CMT-purchased external Start Button can be used to initiate a Start Run.

4. Safety Guidelines

  • Operators must wear approved eye protection and other required PPE.
  • Only trained and authorized personnel should operate the machine.
  • Hands, fingers, tools, or any foreign objects must never be placed inside the machine during active operation.
  • All workholding, fixtures, and T-nuts must be properly secured.
  • Follow all facility-specific and operational safety procedures.

Responsibility Statement:
Operators are fully responsible for safe machine use. The manufacturer is not liable for injuries, equipment damage, or lost production due to:

  • Misuse of the equipment
  • Unauthorized modification
  • Inadequate training
  • Failure to follow documented procedures

5. Handling Errors or Aborts

If the mark is not produced as intended, follow these steps:

  1. Abort the Cycle: Use the appropriate control to immediately stop the machine.
  2. Review Settings: Confirm the layout, parameters, and placement are correct.
  3. Perform a Trial Run: Verify that adjustments resolve the issue before restarting the Start Run.

Machine Behavior After Abort:

  • The machine will remain in an aborted state until Home is pressed.
  • Pressing Home:
    • Returns the marking head to the default home position (maximum X, zero Y)
    • Clears any abort or fault conditions

Remember

  • Always save and download layouts before marking.
  • Perform a Trial Run before active marking for safety and accuracy.
  • Ensure the workpiece and fixtures are properly secured.
  • Follow all safety procedures and PPE requirements.
  • Abort and troubleshoot immediately if the mark is not correct.

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