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CNC Workflow for DATRON neo High Speed Mill

The DATRON neo was specifically designed and purpose-built to provide an easy and affordable introduction to high-speed milling. It’s a Plug-and-Play system that features the new DATRON next software which gives you full control of 3-axis milling without requiring years of experience as a machinist. That said, customers ask us all the time about the CNC workflow for this machine and whether it’s actually as easy to use as we say it is. To detail the CNC workflow seen below, we put a Sales Manager on the machine (as evidenced by their reflection in the touchscreen). We’ve included instructions on many optional functions and features in this article. The actual CNC workflow for the DATRON neo can be as short as 4 simple steps. 

CNC Workflow for DATRON neo

Once the CAM’d part or “G” code is done, simply load the program onto a flash drive or send it to the DATRON neo if networked.

DATRON neo CNC Workflow 1 – Load Job Program (CAM or G-code).

Once loaded, the DATRON neo will take the operator through the steps to run the part.

DATRON neo CNC Workflow 2: CAM Assistant

After loading the “G” code into the DATRON neo, the operator can pick the saved file to run.

DATRON neo CNC Workflow 3: Pick Program from Menu

As the operator moves through the process, the DATRON neo will check the tools already loaded vs the tools the file calls for. If a tool is missing, the neo can suggest a similar, suitable tool that is already loaded.

DATRON neo CNC Workflow 4: Tool Selection with assistance from DATRON next software.

Next, the operator can drag their finger across the screen and use the integrated camera system to locate the part on the machine bed for probing.

DATRON neo CNC Workflow 5: Part Location

Once the part is visually located, the operator can simply draw on the screen to set up probing with the machine’s integrated probe.

DATRON neo CNC Workflow 6: Probing

The DATRON neo will automatically place probing points based on the operator’s drawing. These points can be easily moved as the operator sees fit.

DATRON neo CNC Workflow 7: Probe Field Adjustment

Another option that the DATRON neo operator has, is to move the probe points individually and manually set the parameters to avoid any special features. A keyboard will pop up on the touchscreen.

DATRON neo CNC Workflow 8: Options for Input of Milling Parameters

Once the probe points are to the operator’s liking, they hit the probe icon button to start. The integrated probe drops down and measures the points. If the part is loaded crooked, the DATRON next software will rotate the program accordingly. 

DATRON neo CNC Workflow 9: Hit Go!

After probing, the next control’s screen will bring the part into a 3D simulation. The operator can see the tool paths they created and watch the machining simulation. This double-checks that the part runs correctly.

DATRON neo CNC Workflow 10: Simulation

The DATRON neo operator has options on how to view the part to ensure the correct machining file was chosen.

DATRON neo CNC Workflow 11: Simulation Options

After the simulation, the DATRON neo is ready to execute the program.

DATRON neo CNC Workflow 12: Execute Program

There are other options for quick and simple milling on the neo. Macros are pre-set on the neo to run pockets, drilling, face milling, and contours. For quick prototyping, these operations can be done right on the machine without the need to CAM a part.

DATRON neo CNC Workflow 13: Set Pocket Mill Parameters

Chip disposal could not be easier because the DATRON neo features a removable drawer allowing the clean, dry aluminum chips to be vacuumed out. The neo also uses a Minimum Quantity Lubricant (MQL) system instead of a traditional flood coolant system.

DATRON neo CNC Workflow 14: Chip Disposal

With DATRON neo, tools can be hand loaded into the machine very easily.

DATRON neo CNC Workflow 15: Replace Tools

After the tool is placed, the operator can simply tell the neo which tool spot and tool were used.

DATRON CNC Workflow 16: Tool Assignment

The DATRON neo can track tools inside the tool changer, as well as tools in the shop inventory, and has DATRON’s full tool library installed. This makes it a breeze to load tool information.

DATRON neo CNC Workflow 17: Tool Tracking/Inventory

The DATRON neo can accommodate two vacuum tables, which can be operated independently of each other. A sacrificial layer that is air-permeable (VacuCard) is placed on the vacuum table (no gaskets!) This allows for parts to be cookie cut without milling into the table.

The neo has vacuum port controls at the front to easily turn the vacuum tables on and off. This type of workholding is a great option for flat parts. As mentioned before, parts do not need to be perfectly aligned because you can use the probe to locate parts and their rotation will be compensated for automatically.

There are a host of other accessories available for the DATRON neo milling machine, including a dust extraction head, pneumatic clamping, and automation integration. If you’re interested in learning more about the machine, just ask our team.

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