Are your bends not aligning properly? Improper X-Axis calibration on the E21 Controller could be the cause. Learn how to calibrate it for perfect results.

Calibrating the X-Axis on your E21 Controller is crucial for ensuring precise bending operations. This guide will walk you through the calibration process, helping you optimize the accuracy of your press brake. Now, let’s go step by step to help you calibrate your E21 Controller’s X-Axis for optimal bending precision.

Accurate calibration of the X-axis is crucial for achieving precise bending results. Follow these steps to set your XP to 25 mm and calibrate the X-axis for correct measurements.

Calibration Process:

1. Program and set XP to 25 mm:

● On the E21 controller, navigate to the programming interface and enter the desired XP (back gauge position) value as 25 mm. This value represents the exact position where the back gauge should stop to ensure accurate bending. After inputting 25 mm, confirm the entry and proceed to the next step. It is essential to double-check this setting to avoid misalignment in the bending process. If necessary, adjust the XP value based on material thickness and bending requirements. Proper X-axis calibration guarantees consistent bending angles and enhances the precision of your press brake operations.

2. Run the machine:

● Once the XP value is set on the E21 controller, you can proceed with the bending process. Start by ensuring that the backgauge is correctly positioned according to the calibrated XP setting. Then, run a test bend using a scrap piece of metal to verify the accuracy of the calibration. Observe the bending angle and position, making sure the backgauge stops at the correct distance. If adjustments are needed, fine-tune the XP value accordingly. Once confirmed, you can begin full-scale production, ensuring consistent and precise bending results for all workpieces. Proper calibration reduces material waste and enhances efficiency.

3. Measure the bent plate:

● After completing the bending process, carefully measure the actual length of the bent plate using a caliper or measuring tape to ensure accuracy. In this instance, the measured length is 24 mm, which is 1 mm shorter than the intended 25 mm. This discrepancy indicates that the X-axis position needs calibration to achieve precise bending results. An incorrect X-axis setting can lead to variations in bending dimensions, affecting the overall quality of the final product. To correct this, adjustments must be made in the E21 controller’s X-axis parameters, ensuring the material is positioned accurately before the next bend.

4. Stop the machine:

● Pressing the red STOP button on the E21 controller is a crucial safety measure to temporarily halt machine operations. This function is essential when adjustments are needed, errors occur, or emergency situations arise. Once pressed, the machine will immediately stop, preventing further movement of the press brake’s components. This feature helps operators avoid potential damage to workpieces and ensures workplace safety. To resume operations, verify that all settings are correct, clear any obstructions, and reset the system as required. Always use the STOP button responsibly and in accordance with safety guidelines to maintain optimal machine performance and operator protection.

5. Access the Calibration Menu:

●Double-click the P button on the E21 controller to enter the programming section, where you can set and adjust bending parameters. This section allows users to configure the X-axis (backgauge) positioning, ensuring precise material positioning for accurate bends. Once inside, you can input the desired backgauge position, modify settings for multiple bending steps, and optimize calibration for different materials and thicknesses. Properly setting the X-axis calibration improves bending accuracy and repeatability, reducing material waste and setup time. After making adjustments, always confirm the settings and test a sample bend to verify the calibration before full-scale production.

6. Enter the password:

● When the system requests a password, enter 1212 using the numeric keypad. After entering the password, press the ENTER button to confirm. This action grants you access to the TEACH page, where you can proceed with the X-axis calibration process. The TEACH page allows users to set and adjust machine parameters, ensuring precise control over the backgauge positioning. Proper calibration of the X-axis is crucial for achieving accurate bending results. If you encounter any issues while entering the password or accessing the TEACH page, refer to the machine manual or consult HARSLE’s technical support for assistance.

7. Calibrate the X-axis:

● On the TEACH page of the E21 controller, navigate to the first item, which is directly related to X-axis calibration. This function allows you to accurately adjust the backgauge position, ensuring precise bending results. By selecting this option, you can enter the calibration mode, where you can set the reference position and fine-tune the X-axis movement. Follow the on-screen prompts to input the correct measurements and confirm the calibration. Proper calibration ensures that the backgauge moves according to programmed values, reducing bending errors and improving overall accuracy. Regular X-axis calibration helps maintain consistent performance and high precision in metal bending operations.

● In this field, enter the actual measured length, which in this case is 24 mm. This step ensures that the press brake accurately recognizes the real positioning of the backgauge. Precise input of this value is crucial for achieving consistent bending accuracy. If the measured length differs from the preset value, adjusting it here allows the E21 controller to compensate for any discrepancies, improving repeatability. After entering the correct length, confirm the input by pressing the appropriate key. This calibration step helps eliminate errors in the X-axis movement, ensuring high precision bending and reducing material waste.

● After adjusting the X-axis calibration settings on the E21 controller, press the ENTER button to confirm and apply the changes. This step ensures that the newly set backgauge position is accurately recorded in the system. Once applied, the controller will update its internal measurements, allowing for precise bending operations. It is essential to verify the calibration by performing a test bend and measuring the results. If necessary, fine-tune the settings to achieve optimal accuracy. Proper X-axis calibration improves repeatability and ensures that each bend meets the required specifications, reducing material waste and enhancing production efficiency.

8. Return to the SINGLE page:

● Double-click the P button once more to navigate back to the SINGLE page on the E21 controller. This action ensures that the system exits the parameter setting interface and returns to the standard operating screen. The SINGLE page is the default interface where you can set and adjust bending programs for your press brake. By returning to this page, the controller is ready for normal operation, allowing you to proceed with bending tasks. If needed, you can re-enter parameter settings by pressing the P button again, ensuring seamless adjustments to the X-axis calibration or other machine settings.

9. Re-test by bending another plate:

● Perform another bending operation using the same settings and carefully measure the resulting plate dimensions. Ensure that the measurement is taken accurately using a caliper or other precision measuring tools. Compare the actual bend position with the programmed value on the E21 controller. If the measurement still deviates from the expected value, make minor adjustments to the X-axis settings accordingly. Repeat this process until the bending result matches the desired specifications. Proper calibration ensures high precision in metal bending, reduces material waste, and enhances overall production efficiency. Always verify multiple times to achieve the most accurate alignment.

● The final step in the X-axis calibration process is to measure the actual bending length of the workpiece. After making the adjustment and performing a test bend, use a precise measuring tool to check the flange length. The length should now be 25 mm, which indicates that the backgauge position has been correctly set, ensuring accurate material positioning for consistent bending results. If the measurement is incorrect, repeat the calibration steps and make fine adjustments as needed. A properly calibrated X-axis significantly enhances bending precision, minimizes errors, and improves overall efficiency in sheet metal fabrication.

By following these steps, you can successfully calibrate the X-axis on your E21 controller and achieve precise bending results. Ensure regular calibration to maintain accuracy and optimize machine performance.

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