MAZAK Machining Center ATC Origin Poi

In the daily operation of a horizontal machining center, turret arm origin point setting serves as the “anchor” for stable machine operation.

If the origin point is lost or shifted, it can lead to anything from tool change failures to severe issues like tool collisions or equipment damage. To help you master this crucial skill, this article breaks down a 7-step standardized procedure for setting the turret arm origin.

Essential Preparations Before Operation

Before starting the setup process, make sure the following six key conditions are met:
   1.   The tool change area door is open;
   2.   The tool holder is in the standard 90-degree position to ensure the tool changer aligns correctly;
   3.   The tool changer is positioned on the tool change side;
   4.   The spindle is precisely positioned;
   5.   The X and Y axes have reached the second origin (tool change position);
   6.   The operator door is closed (Important Note: On YME standard machines, opening the door cuts off motor power).

Warning: Operating without fulfilling these conditions may trigger the machine’s interlock mechanism, resulting in setup failure!

7-Step Standardized Operation Process

Step 1: Modify PLC Parameters
   •   Set parameter R2107 BITF to 1 (on some models, you may need to adjust MATRIX’s RB16bit7);
   •   Critical: Power down and restart the machine twice to ensure the “Origin Set Menu” appears.

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Step 2: Enter ATC Maintenance Mode
   1.   Press the ATC MAINT button on the operation panel;
   2.   Open the ATC door. The following function buttons should appear:
   •   ATC ARM, ATC READY, ATC COVER, TOOL UNCLAMP
   •   180° Rotate | Ready | Cover Open/Close | Tool Release
   3.   Press and hold both MF1 and ATC READY until the ATC READY light turns on (this enables single-step tool change operations).

Step 3: Activate Origin Set Mode
   •   Press and hold both ORIGIN MODE and MF1 until the ORIGIN MODE light turns on (some models may require pressing MF1, MF2, and ORIGIN MODE together);
   •   Carefully inspect the current turret arm position for any obstructions or misalignment.

Step 4: Manually Adjust the Turret Arm
   •   Use ATC ARM JOG CW (clockwise) or JOG CCW (counterclockwise) to move the turret arm to its original position;
   •   Troubleshooting Tip: If the arm doesn’t respond, set PLC intermediate relay M6800 to 1 to release the interlock.

Step 5: Complete the Origin Set
   1.   Press and hold both ORIGIN SET and MF1. The ORIGIN SET light will begin flashing;
   2.   Press JOG CW or JOG CCW again—the turret arm will make a fine adjustment and stop;
   3.   When the ORIGIN SET light stays steadily on, the origin has been successfully set.

Step 6: Restart the Machine & Restore Parameters
   1.   Turn off the machine, wait 10 seconds, and restart;
   2.   Reset parameter R2107 BITF to its original value;
   3.   Manually test if the turret arm can return to the origin properly.

Step 7: Final Confirmation and Check
   •   Close the ATC door and check the axis status;
   •   Run a full tool change cycle to verify the setup.

Precautions
   1.   Always wear protective gear during operation and avoid accidental emergency stops;
   2.   If the setup fails repeatedly, contact the equipment manufacturer’s technical support;
   3.   Regularly back up your PLC parameters to avoid data loss.

Setting the turret arm origin is a core machine maintenance skill. Mastering this process can significantly reduce downtime and improve production efficiency.

Let me know if you’d like this formatted as a printable guide or if you want images/diagrams added for better understanding.

MAZAK Machining Center ATC Origin Point Setting