Siemens SINUMERIK Series Operating Manual page 643

Unlike "Swivel plane", for "Align tool", the tool coordinate system is always adapted such that
the Z-axis runs through the center of the workpiece holder.
The maximum angular range for "Align tool" is limited by the traversing range of the
participating rotary axes and furthermore technically depending on the tool used.
For "Align tool", the data of the tool is calculated online based on the tool orientation. For a
turning tool, this involves the cutting edge position (SL), the holder angle and the cutting
direction.
The "Align turning tool" function is intended for turning applications. It must be programmed
before the corresponding turning cycles in the NC program.
Definition of the β and γ angles
The beta and gamma angles orientate the turning tools. The angles are referred to WCS. If
the workpiece coordinate system corresponds to the machine coordinate system, the tool data
remains unchanged for β=0° / γ=0° (cutting edge position, holder angle, ...).
Turning tools fixed on the headstock
Turning tools that are directly mounted on the headstock cannot be turned via the tool spindle.
Therefore the entry of γ is not possible.
"Vertical milling machine" as example
Initial state of the kinematics B=0
● Align tool ß = 0°
SL = cutting edge position
Milling
Operating Manual, 08/2018, 6FC5398-7CP41-0BA0
Machine manufacturer
Please observe the information provided by the machine manufacturer.
Machine manufacturer
Please observe the information provided by the machine manufacturer.
Programming technological functions (cycles)
10.6 Further cycles and functions
643