This video shows you how to adjust the AutoBlaster CNC Bridge. The bridge must be aligned to ensure the fields are aligned to where you set them and to prolong the life of the bearing, etc.
You must do this when you first set up your machine, and we recommend checking the alignment during your monthly maintenance.
How to Identify the Problem
The banging noise during referencing is a clear sign that the bridge is misaligned. Normally, this process should take around 2.5 to 3 seconds. If you hear knocking for 4-5 seconds or longer, the bridge is not aligning correctly and needs adjustment.
Step 1: Checking the Machine Level
Before making any adjustments, it’s essential to ensure that the entire machine is level. You can quickly check this using a standard level tool, measuring the level at all four corners of the machine and the bridge itself. Adjusting the bridge won’t be effective if the machine is not level.
Step 2: Moving the Bridge for Adjustment
1. Turn off the machine or press the emergency stop button.
2. Move the Z-axis to the bridge's centre to balance it.
3. Hold the bridge with both hands and manually push it left and right to check if it moves evenly and hits both bumpers simultaneously.
Step 3: Adjusting the Left Bumper
• The right bumper is fixed and serves as a reference point.
• The left bumper is an adjustable screw that needs to be aligned.
If the bridge hits the right bumper first, it means the left bumper is too short and needs
adjustment.
1. Loosen the left bumper screw and slowly turn it outward until both sides hit the bumpers at the same time.
2. Tighten the locking nut to secure the adjustment and prevent it from moving over time.
3. Manually slide the bridge left and right again to confirm that it hits both bumpers evenly.
Final Check:
After making this adjustment, the bridge should reference correctly without excessive
knocking. If the issue continues,
1. Check the guides and rollers for wear or obstructions.
3. Proper Laser Alignment on the Autoblaster
Step 1: Turning on the Laser
To activate the laser:
1. Go to the machine’s menu.
2. Select the “Define Without Leveling” function – this will turn on the laser.
Once the laser is on, you will likely notice it is not perfectly aligned.
Step 2: Moving the Machine for Proper Alignment
1. Move the machine to the starting position.
2. Adjust the laser to align exactly with the bridge's lower edge.
3. Tighten the laser mount by hand – this is enough to keep it securely in place.
Step 3: Ensuring Proper Calibration
By aligning the laser with the lower edge of the bridge, we ensure that:
1. The laser is perfectly parallel to the table.
2. It is correctly positioned about the left and right sides of the Autoblaster.
Final Check
Once you have adjusted the laser, double-check its position by moving the machine along the table and ensuring the laser follows a straight line. If necessary, make minor adjustments to perfect the alignment.