® CNC EX-TRACK Table of contents Identification ............EN-5 Labeling..................EN-5 Identification plate ............... EN-5 Signs and symbols used.............. EN-6 Classification of the warnings ............. EN-6 Safety................ EN-7 Designated use................EN-7 Responsibilities of the user ............EN-7 Warning and information signs ..........EN-7 Basic safety instructions...............
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® CNC EX-TRACK 9.2.1 Cutting speed ................EN-36 9.2.2 Process start point ..............EN-37 9.2.3 Active key functions when running a program....... EN-37 9.2.4 Active key functions in PAUSE mode ........EN-38 9.2.5 Select program ................EN-41 9.2.6 Edge start cutting ............... EN-41 Manual mode................
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® CNC EX-TRACK Parts list ..............EN-80 17.1 Exploded view A ................ EN-80 17.2 Exploded view B................. EN-82 17.3 Exploded view C ................ EN-85 Graphics library ............EN-86 Appendix..............EN-103 19.1 Frequently asked questions ............ EN-103 EN - 4...
® CNC EX-TRACK 1 Identification Identification ® CNC The EX-TRACK is a portable high-precision, and programmable cutting system. It uses oxy fuel or plasma and can be equipped with an oxy fuel and/or a plasma cutting torch. It is also equipped with a 7-inch high-resolution LCD display.
® CNC 1 Identification EX-TRACK Signs and symbols used The following signs and symbols are used: General instructions. Action(s) to be carried out in succession. Lists. Cross-reference symbol refers to detailed, supplementary or further information. Caption, item description. Classification of the warnings The warnings are divided into four different categories and are indicated prior to potentially dangerous work steps.
® CNC EX-TRACK 2 Safety Safety This chapter warns of potential hazards that should be kept in mind to operate the product safely. Non-observance of the safety instructions may result in risks to the life and health of personnel, environmental damage, or material damage.
® CNC 2 Safety EX-TRACK Wear safety shoes. Wear ear protection. Wear safety goggles. Read and observe the operating instructions. Warning against hot surfaces. Warning against risk of slipping. Ensure a dry and clean base in the room where the device is to be installed.
® CNC EX-TRACK 2 Safety relevant standards, are able to assess the tasks assigned to them and identify possible dangers. Keep the work area in order. Ensure good lighting of the work area. Switch off the power, gas, and compressed air supplies and unplug the mains plug for the entire duration of servicing, maintenance, and repair work.
® CNC 2 Safety EX-TRACK Safety instructions for the cutter Ensure that the hoses are not damaged, for example, by being driven over, crushed or torn. Check the hoses for damage and wear at regular intervals. If it is necessary to replace the input power cable or hoses, only models specified by the manufacturer may be used.
® CNC EX-TRACK 3 Scope of delivery Scope of delivery The following components are included in the scope of supply: — 1 x main (CNC) unit — 1 x transverse rail (aluminum) — 1 x Longitudinal rail — 1 x torch assembly —...
® CNC 4 Product description EX-TRACK Product description Assembly and use The device consists of the following components: Fig. 2 Control elements and connections A Main unit G CNC/operator panel B Input power lead H CNC connection lead C Transverse guide rail I Longitudinal guide rail D Torch Height Controller (THC) J Power in/connection panel...
® CNC EX-TRACK 4 Product description Torch mounting Comprises of connector, clamp, and manual assembly (E) lifting wheel. The torch height and vertical positioning can be adjusted manually, so as to ensure that the cut is square. For edge beveling, rotate the torch along the longitudinal or transverse direction to perform an angled cut.
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® CNC 4 Product description EX-TRACK Table 6 Technical data CNC system Processor ARM processing chip Display 7” color LCD, 800 x 480 resolution Input/output 13 - 16 photoelectric isolation input, 8-way photoelectric isolation output, including four-way relay output CNC controlled axes X, Y and S (vertical) with height controller Top speed [mm/min]...
® CNC EX-TRACK 5 Transport and positioning Transport and positioning WARNING Risk of injury due to improper transport and installation Improper transport and installation can cause the device to tip or fall. This may result in injury. Wear your personal protective equipment. ...
® CNC 6 Commissioning EX-TRACK Commissioning All references refer to Figure 2. Note: The main rail MUST BE secured or fixed to a heavy table/construction which cannot tip over and is preferably also secured to the floor. Fitting main unit onto longitudinal guide rail WARNING Risk of personal injury or material damage Failure to fit/tighten the end stop could result in personal injury and or...
® CNC EX-TRACK 6 Commissioning Connecting to the gas supply WARNING Risk of injury due to explosion The use of defective or damaged gas cylinders or hoses can cause explosions. This can result in injury. Never use defective or leaking cylinders. ...
® CNC 6 Commissioning EX-TRACK Electrical connection WARNING Electric shock due to improperly installed electrical power supply If the electrical power supply and grounding are improperly installed, fatal electric shock may occur. Use slow-blow fuses and/or circuit breakers and GFCI that comply with local regulations and electric codes.
® CNC EX-TRACK 6 Commissioning Ignition and flame adjustment The following information relates solely to oxy propane cutting. For alternative gases seek advice from your gas supplier. Use the cut chart data as a guide, adjust the gas flow pressure at the regulator. After ignition further adjustment to the flame may be required.
® CNC 6 Commissioning EX-TRACK CNC connection Control signals can be transmitted via the CNC interface. For signal types see Table 9 Signal and pin assignment for CNC interface on page EN-20. The control elements are located on the control panel. WARNING Electric shock due to live parts Live parts are exposed when the housing is open.
® CNC EX-TRACK 7 Operating the device Operating the device WARNING Risk of injury or damage due to backfire Backfires may cause serious accidents or fire. Backfires are caused by improper gas pressure, or incorrect oxygen/fuel gas mixture. When a backfire occurs, you should find the cause. ...
® CNC 7 Operating the device EX-TRACK Oxy fuel cutting WARNING Risk of injury due to hot surfaces The torch becomes extremely hot. Wear gloves when turning off the gas supply at the torch. Keep the material to be cut parallel to the longitudinal rail. Select the correct nozzle size to suit the material being cut.
® CNC EX-TRACK 7 Operating the device Plasma arc cutting WARNING Risk of injury due to hot and sharp surfaces The torch becomes extremely hot. There may also be sharp deposits of spatter and dross stuck to the consumables. Wear gloves when turning off the gas supply at the torch. Fit the input power lead (B) into the left side of the Power in/Connection panel (J), and check for a secure fit.
® CNC 8 Control panel functions EX-TRACK Control panel functions The control panel looks as follows: Fig. 4 Control panel functions A Display F Stop button B Input keys G Start button C CNC/Operator panel input keys H Up/down keys D USB/dongle port* I Menu/function keys E Software update button...
® CNC EX-TRACK 8 Control panel functions — STARCAM and FASTCAM nesting softwareare fully compatible. Interface conversion, in both English and Chinese language, customizable to other languages. — Dynamic graphic display, 1x to 8x zoom, automatically follows torch position. — USB port for loading software, updates, and CNC programs. Display of system co-ordinates The coordinates displayed can be in metric (mm) or imperial (inches) format.
® CNC 9 System main menu EX-TRACK System main menu The graphic user interface utilizes F-function keys, located underneath the screen on the console. The function keys [F1] to [F7] give access to the system control functions and further sub-menus. “ESC” returns to the previous menu level.
® CNC EX-TRACK 9 System main menu Automatic function [F1 AUTO] A cutting program can be generated in the “Library” or by entering it while in “Edit” mode. A chosen program can be initiated in the “Auto” mode. The system can run programs directly from the USB stick. Programs do not need loading into the system memory.
® CNC 9 System main menu EX-TRACK 9.1.1 Parameters SPEED SPEED shows the actual value either in metric or inch values. Changes can be made in “Setting-Parameters-Control, Metric/Inch”. The feed rate is set by the [F] [F] keys. Press [F] [F] to set the feed rate speed directly on the screen, and press [Enter] to confirm.
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® CNC EX-TRACK 9 System main menu Prog, Pierce, KERF Prog: Shows the title of the actual program being run. PIERCE shows the actual completed number of pierces in a running program. KERF shows the kerf offset input value. Dry run Press the X-Key to initiate the Dry Run function.
® CNC 9 System main menu EX-TRACK System parameters display Indicate current parameter values. Work mode - running status The work mode bar shows the current work status: — CONTOUR, — ROTATARRAY, — MIRROR, — SCALE, — NEST, — BRAKE. The Operate bar shows: —...
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® CNC EX-TRACK 9 System main menu Fig. 7 Access to cut data Press the number key “7” on the console. The menu with the cut data opens. Fig. 8 Cut data for selected shape Select the parameters based on the thickness of the material and the cutting current using the Up-Down keys on the console.
® CNC 9 System main menu EX-TRACK 9.1.3 Keys Key ESC [ESC] returns to the previous menu level. Key SKIP TO [F1 (Pierce point)] The “Pierce point” function permits the operator to pick a pierce point from where the cutting process can be re-started.
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® CNC EX-TRACK 9 System main menu Key Preview [F4] Pressing this key opens the following sub-menu: The on-screen graphics use a cursor to show a profile part or nest of profile parts to be cut, the cutting path of the torch, and the completed cut area.
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® CNC 9 System main menu EX-TRACK Sub-menu Outline [F1] The OUTLINE function is used to confirm the fit of a programmed profile part or nest on to a plate. The system performs a rapid perimeter check in the form of a rectangle; the torch movement can be observed for its travel within the perimeter of the plate.
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® CNC EX-TRACK 9 System main menu Sub-menu MIRROR [F4] This function is used to invert a profile part, creating an exact opposite duplicate. Press MIRROR [F4] repeatedly. The options for MIRROR X/Y are shown: Use the X-option to invert the image (Left/Right). ...
® CNC 9 System main menu EX-TRACK Sub-menu BREAK [F7 Tabbing - bridge function] Tabbing or bridge cutting is performed by pre-determined stops in the cutting process. The size of tabs/bridges depends on the profile part size, thickness, and purpose of the tab/bridge. The process can be used to keep the profile part attached to the parent plate for a variety of purposes including minimizing the risk of the profile being distorted.
® CNC EX-TRACK 9 System main menu 9.2.2 Process start point The torch is positioned on the plate at the start point of the cutting path. Use the arrow keys to position the torch. Starting the program will reset the “X/Y”...
® CNC 9 System main menu EX-TRACK — Preheat Timer Extend Pressing the [STOP] key during the preheat process increases the preheat process duration. The piercing process can be activated by pressing the [START] key; the timer will stop. — Program Pause Pressing the [STOP] key during the [STOP] cutting process causes the system to...
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® CNC EX-TRACK 9 System main menu — Feed Rate Increase/Decrease Using the [F] and [F] keys will gradually increase or decrease the Feed Rate Override percentage. This also affects the cutting speed. The value change rate is slower during the cutting process and quicker in PAUSE mode.
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® CNC 9 System main menu EX-TRACK [F5] — #-PIERCE When in PAUSE mode, this feature allows the restart of the cutting sequence from a chosen position. An on-screen prompt requires entry of the pierce point. Press [ENTER]. The torch travels to the pierce point and the cutting sequence can then be restarted.
® CNC EX-TRACK 9 System main menu RESUME CUTTING Allows to resume cutting along the cutting path after a break in the cutting sequence. A second pierce at the stop point, followed by a straight line cut to the point where the break in the cutting sequence occurred;...
® CNC 9 System main menu EX-TRACK MOVE HOLE POSITION – This feature allows to position the torch at the plate edge and to initiate the cutting sequence at that point. The system will cut to the pierce point and resume cutting along the cutting path. NO HOLE –...
® CNC EX-TRACK 9 System main menu 9.3.1 Manually controlled functions [] [] [] [] [UP] [DOWN] The directional control keys are used to [LEFT] [RIGHT] directional position the torch; the speed of travel is control keys [G] faster than the cutting speed. Using the [G] key function allows the torch to move non-stop in the direction of the pressed arrow.
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® CNC 9 System main menu EX-TRACK More [F3] Pressing MORE [F3] takes the operator to the second level in the Manual mode menu. P#1TWO [F3] and P#2TWO [F4] This feature allows to check the correct alignment of the plate to the system. The torch is moved to two positions along the nearest edge of the plate, the system software compensates for the...
® CNC EX-TRACK 9 System main menu Origin [F7] This key allows to go back to the Manual mode menu. Mach-0 [F4] Pressing the Mach-0 [F4] key will set the “X” and “Y” coordinate values in the system to zero. Rapid [F5] This key is used to enter a Feed rate override ratio from 80 % to 10 %.
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® CNC 9 System main menu EX-TRACK New [F1] This feature creates a new file that can be edited using the keypad. Enter the program code manually. Load [F2] This function enters a program into the live program memory. The program is shown in the program editor and can be accessed in Auto mode.
® CNC EX-TRACK 9 System main menu Setup [F4 SETUP] Press SETUP [F4] in the system main menu (Fig. 4 Control panel functions on page EN-24) to enter the SETUP menu. Fig. 13 SETUP menu 9.5.1 Process definition - speed SPEED Serves for the adjustment to all speed-related settings.
® CNC 9 System main menu EX-TRACK 9.5.2 Speed parameters [F1] The speed parameters are accessed in the SETUP menu (Fig. 4 Control panel functions on page EN-24) by pressing the [F1] key. The following dialog is shown: Fig. 14 SPEED parameters The parameters have the following meaning: START-SPEED [mm/min.]...
® CNC EX-TRACK 9 System main menu CORNER RADIUS [mm] This is the radius to execute at corners in order to blend motion. ARC SPEED [mm/min.] This is the speed for cutting holes with a radius smaller than the small hole radius.
® CNC 9 System main menu EX-TRACK 9.5.4 OXYFUEL parameters Press the [F3] key in the SETUP menu (Fig. 13 SETUP menu on page EN-47) in order to access the flame parameters. Fig. 16 Oxy-fuel parameters The parameters have the following meaning: IGNITION [s] Initial ignition height in seconds.
® CNC EX-TRACK 9 System main menu SELECT HI HOTUP M24 (0/1) Function not used with EX-TRACK® CNC. GAS ON M ORDER Function not used with EX-TRACK® CNC. The parameter sequence is as follows: Fig. 17 Oxy fuel parameter sequence 9.5.5 Plasma parameters Press the [F4] key in the SETUP menu (Fig.
® CNC 9 System main menu EX-TRACK DIS.COR OFF AHCS [mm] The corner distance to shut off the height controller: While the torch is running the corner to the set distance, the height controller will be shut off. SPEED FOR OFF AHCS Indicates the speed to shut off the [mm/min.] height controller: If the cutting speed is...
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® CNC EX-TRACK 9 System main menu The parameters have the following meaning: PLASMA:1 / OXY:0 In the modes Auto/Manual select 0 for oxy fuel and 1 for plasma. EDGE STARTING This function is used to trim profile or plate edges. It is also used to cut within a profile that has a drilled/pierced hole.
® CNC 9 System main menu EX-TRACK DISPLAY CO DO NOT change this parameter. SHOW KERF Displays the kerf offset when cutting in Auto mode. YES-”0”. 9.5.7 THC [F6] Press THC [F6] in the SETUP menu (Fig. 13 SETUP menu on page EN-47) in order to access the THC parameters.
® CNC EX-TRACK 9 System main menu 9.5.8 Save [F7] Pressing this key saves all adjusted parameters to the internal memory of ® CNC the EX-TRACK 9.5.9 DIAGNOSE [F5] This menu serves for service purposes only Do not touch! Graphics library The library contains 50 geometrical shapes that can be dimensionally altered.
® CNC 9 System main menu EX-TRACK Shape check This function is used to verify that the input values for a shape are correct. Entered values are added by using the arrow keys [] [] and the [ENTER] key. Inside diameter cut [F1] and Outside diameter cut [F2] This function is used to cut an outside diameter.
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® CNC EX-TRACK 9 System main menu Fig. 23 Graphics library nest function Adjust the nesting parameters and press [ENTER]. Fig. 24 Graphics library nest function, view EN - 57...
® CNC 9 System main menu EX-TRACK Program function 9.7.1 CNC program symbols (G - codes) CNC systems require instructions that tell the drive motors where to move, how fast to move, and which path to follow. Programs are made up of command lines using G-codes with specific values.
® CNC EX-TRACK 9 System main menu 9.11 System axes The system X-Y axes are shown below in the left bottom corner in the Auto or Manual screen. The longitudinal guide rail represents the “Y” axis. The transverse guide rail represents the “X” axis. 9.12 G-codes Motion codes are used to define the system’s programmed motions such as rapid feed, circular feed, offset value, etc.
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® CNC 9 System main menu EX-TRACK G00 – Rapid travel The G00 code is used for rapid travel between parts or positions in the program. It is also used for torch and consumable changes or inspection. This action is performed at maximum speed.
® CNC EX-TRACK 9 System main menu G28 – return to reference point This function returns the torch to the (zero position) system’s reference position, also called zero position. The torch travels in the X – Y axes at the G00 maximum speed.
® CNC EX-TRACK 11 Maintenance and cleaning Maintenance and cleaning Scheduled maintenance and cleaning are prerequisites for a long service life and trouble-free operation. The maintenance cycle is determined by the work environment and the maintenance intervals of the ® CNC EX-TRACK .
® CNC 11 Maintenance and cleaning EX-TRACK 11.1 Maintenance and cleaning intervals The specified intervals are standard values and refer to single-shift operation. We recommend recording the inspections. The date of the inspection, the detected defects and the name of the inspector should be documented.
® CNC EX-TRACK 11 Maintenance and cleaning 11.2 Software service instructions - Boot menu The Boot menu is activated from the Main menu.The Boot menu offers three options for servicing the system. Press [ESC] (repeatedly, if required) to return to the home screen. Press keys [G] [G] [3] in this order.
The system firmware of the controller can be updated through a USB stick. The USB stick must have FAT or FAT32 format. In case a system software ® update is supplied by Thermacut and needs to be installed, carefully follow this procedure: Copy the update file titled STARTCNC.EXE to a USB stick.
USB formatting. If these two factors are confirmed, attempt the update again following the ® above procedure. If the update fails again, contact Thermacut Technical Support for assistance. 11.2.3 Changing the system name The system name displayed on the Main menu can be changed, if necessary.
® CNC 11 Maintenance and cleaning EX-TRACK 11.3 Hardware service instructions 11.3.1 Replacing the main fuse WARNING Electric shock due to improperly installed electrical power supply If the electrical power supply and grounding are improperly installed, fatal electric shock may occur. ...
® CNC EX-TRACK 11 Maintenance and cleaning 11.3.2 Converting table for “Position Up Time“ parameter ® CNC The values can be different on the different EX-TRACK systems. In order to find the exact pierce height turn off the plasma power source and start the cutting sequence without plasma.
® CNC 12 Faults and troubleshooting EX-TRACK Faults and troubleshooting Fault Possible cause Measures Troubleshooting Press Off-line System does not move Off-line pushbutton Check Off-line may be pressed. pushbutton. pushbutton until it but the drive power indicator lamp is ON pops out.
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No-Graphics is set to 0 (OFF). Send the part Part program may have problem. program to the programmer or to ® Thermacut evaluation. Verify the system is Drive motor is Check drive motor. System suddenly stops jammed, or drive level.
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® CNC 12 Faults and troubleshooting EX-TRACK Fault Possible cause Measures Troubleshooting Adjust the output Output voltage may Check the input be below the power supply. voltage on the allowable range. switching power supply to 24 V DC inside the CNC or replace the input power supply.
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® CNC EX-TRACK 12 Faults and troubleshooting Fault Possible cause Measures Troubleshooting Secure the Loose connection or Check the cables broken wires. connected to the rear connection or of the central unit. replace cables, if necessary. •Adjust or replace Faulty 24 V input Check for low or power supply.
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® CNC 12 Faults and troubleshooting EX-TRACK Fault Possible cause Measures Troubleshooting Select a different There is a problem Check the program. with the original program and test program. the system. Record the settings for Numerator and Denominator in the SYSTEM Parameters.
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® CNC EX-TRACK 12 Faults and troubleshooting Fault Possible cause Measures Troubleshooting Check and replace No 24 V DC, power Check 24 V power supply may have supply. Measure the power supply. failed. voltage between Check 24 V fuse first wires labeled 24 V on left side panel.
Observe the relevant local regulations and disposal instructions in the safety data sheets specified by the manufacturer of the consumables. 13.3 Packaging ® Thermacut has reduced the packaging to the necessary minimum. The ability to recycle packaging materials is always considered during their selection.
Warranty This warranty statement is an integral part of the Terms and Conditions ® (“T&C”) of Thermacut (hereinafter “Seller”) and applies to deliveries of goods under the contract concluded between the Seller and the other party to the contract as the recipient of the goods (hereinafter “Buyer”); the terms used herein have the same meaning as attributed to them in the T&C.
® CNC 17 Parts list EX-TRACK Parts list 17.1 Exploded view A Fig. 28 Exploded view A Table 11 Parts description Exploded view A Item Part no. Description EX-0-706-001 X-motion (Transverse) motor assembly EX-0-706-002 Sliding block (AL 450*51*82) EX-0-706-003 Mount. panel (AL 396*57*185.5) EX-0-706-004 Cover board EX-0-706-005...
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® CNC EX-TRACK 17 Parts list Table 11 Parts description Exploded view A Item Part no. Description EX-0-706-014 Small belt wheel (AL Ø32*25) EX-0-706-015 Large belt wheel (AL Ø61*20) EX-0-706-016 Bearing cover (Ø25*5 mm) EX-0-706-017 Motor mount. plate (106*77*9.5) EX-0-706-018 Stepper motor (24V/3A/57 steps) EX-0-706-019 Y-motion motor assembly...
® CNC 17 Parts list EX-TRACK 17.2 Exploded view B Fig. 29 Parts description Exploded view B Table 12 Parts description Exploded view B Item Part no. Description EX-0-706-132 Crossbar assembly 1000 mm EX-0-706-124 Crossbar assembly 1525 mm 50** EX-0-706-132 Crossbar assembly 1000 mm EX-0-706-049 STL.
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® CNC EX-TRACK 17 Parts list Table 12 Parts description Exploded view B Item Part no. Description EX-0-708-007 Crossbar fuel gas hose (Øin 1/4") 62** EX-0-708-026 Crossbar fuel gas hose (Øin 1/4") 1000 mm EX-0-706-061 Lifter cable plug 10-pin with cable (Ø31) EX-0-706-062 Lifter holder EX-0-706-064...
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® CNC 17 Parts list EX-TRACK Table 12 Parts description Exploded view B Item Part no. Description EX-0-706-103 Pinion assembly EX-0-706-104 Plasma torch holder assembly EX-0-706-063 Plastic housing edge cover ® CNC * Enlarged (1525 mm and 3050 mm) version of EX-TRACK (actual selling items EX-0-707-002).
® CNC EX-TRACK 17 Parts list 17.3 Exploded view C Fig. 30 Parts description Exploded view C Table 13 Parts description Exploded view C Item Part no. Description EX-0-706-105 Input power cord EX-0-706-106 Rail assembly 121* EX-0-706-128 Rail assembly 3050 mm 121** EX-0-706-136 Rail assembly 2000 mm...
® CNC 18 Graphics library EX-TRACK Graphics library The library contains the following 50 geometrical shapes which can be dimensionally altered. Shape 1 Shape 2 Shape 3 EN - 86...
® CNC EX-TRACK 19 Appendix Appendix 19.1 Frequently asked questions Q: How do you continue operation after a cutting stoppage during automatic cutting? The following functions can be used after cutting is stopped in the automatic mode: Press [STOP] and the system will stop. The program can be continued immediately by pressing [START].
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® CNC 19 Appendix EX-TRACK Q: Why can some part program files not be read by the CNC after they are copied to the USB stick using Windows Explorer? If the file type extension “.MPG” is used, Windows can include metadata in the file or on the disk.
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