2.1 VF-YT PP - 3 Station

VF-2YT Pallet Pool - 3 Station - Installation

Introduction

The following procedure will show you how to install a 3 station Pallet Pool on the following machines:

  • VF-2YT
  • VF-2SSYT
  • VM-2

The Next Generation software on the machine must be version 100.22.000.1010 or higher.

The Pallet Pool option is not field installable.

The Pallet Pool option has a room for a total of 4 pallets that can be installed on a VF-2YT with the Pallet Pool option.

The Pallet Pool has 2 servo axes. The PR axis rotates the Pallet Pool saddle and the PS axis extends and retracts the Pallet Pool saddle to load/unload the pallets.

Leveling Screws Hardware

Note: The washers [1] and nuts [2] are installed during shipping and should be saved for installation and not be discarded.

Note: The washer orientation [3] is important.  The conical part of the washer should be against the casting,  see illustration.

Mating the Pallet Pool

1

Remove the shipping bracket [2] from the Pallet Pool by removing the hardware [1] and removing the bracket [2] from the PS trolley plate [3].

2

After taking off the shipping bracket, attach the pallet locking mechanism [1] in its place with the provided hardware [2].

Note: The pallet locking mechanism can be found in the gray rubbermaid tote.

3

Remove the cover [1] and its hardware [2] to expose the air cylinder [4] of the automatic window on the load station and raise the air cylinder [4] so that the brackets [3] and air cylinder are attached as shown.

Repeat this process for the air cylinder of the Auto Window on the VF-2YT. The gray and yellow air line tubing coming from the lube panel will need to be connected to the Auto Window air cylinder, the ports on the air cylinder will have gray and yellow zip ties to show where each tubing connects.

Note: Do this before placing the machine and pallet pool together for easier access.

4

The machine and Pallet Pool should be placed using the anchoring templates. Place the templates over one another so that the points in boxes [1] and [2] line up with each other. View the image for reference.

Important: To ensure that the Pallet Pool does not become mis-aligned, it is recommended that the machine and Pallet Pool be anchored after leveling. Refer to the following link: Anchoring Instructions.

The VF-2YT must be level before the Pallet Pool can be installed. Refer to the VMC-Installation procedure.

5

Use a pallet jack or forklift to move the pallet pool close to the machine. When moving the pallet pool into the machine, center the cross bar opening on the pallet pool around the sheet metal bracket that covers the air cylinder on the auto window of the machine.

A decal [1] has been placed on the rear of the pallet pool to indicate where the pallet forks should lift the pallet pool from.

NOTE: Have the pallet jack pick up the pallet pool from the opposite side of where the slide window would be.

Electrical and Pneumatic Connections

1

Make sure the main circuit breaker is in the [OFF] position and wait until the Vector Drive High-Voltage light turns off.

 Note: The PR (Pallet Rotate) and PS (Pallet Slide) amps are already installed at the factory.

Route the pallet pool cables into the control cabinet as shown in the illustration.

Note: Remove the panel under the electrical cabinet for access to the cables routed from the pallet pool.

Connect the PR motor encoder cable to Maincon PCB channel 15. Install the ferrite filter bead on the motor encoder cable.
Connect the PS motor encoder cable to Maincon PCB channel 16. Install the ferrite filter bead on the motor encoder cable.

Connect the PR motor power cable to the amplifier labeled PR. Install the ferrite filter bead on the motor power cable.

Connect the PS motor power cable to the amplifier labeled PS. Install the ferrite filter bead on the motor power cable.

2

Remove the jumper from P12 and connect PP CHG ST (cable 33-1163) [1] to P12 on the  IOPCB.

Connect PALLET POOL DOOR STAT IO-BRACKET (cable 33-1114) [2] to P13 on the IOPCB.

Connect the pallet receiver Clamp and Unclamp switches to the pigtail [3] on cable 33-1114.

Note: The receiver clamp and unclamp connections are located under the electrical cabinet.

Connect PALLET ALARM (cable 33-1160) [4]  to the pigtail cable at P3 on the SMTC/Triac PCB.

Connect the Pallet Load Station worklights (cable 33-5840) [5] to the Work Light LVPS power supply.

Make sure all the Pallet Pool status bracket connectors are plugged into the correct location.

3

Attach the cable [1] that runs along the top of the Pallet Pool to the prox sensor connection [2] on the Auto Window and run the cable along the top of the Pallet Pool as shown.

4

Route the air line with the T-fitting [1] from the pallet pool cable conduit into the lube panel as shown.

A small piece of air hose will need to be cut to connect to the air line in the lube cabinet [3].

Connect the air hose from the machine air gun [2] to the T-fitting as shown.

Route the orange [4] and blue [5] hoses from the inner load station window air cylinder to the bottom solenoid in the lube panel as shown. The ports on the solenoid will have orange and blue zip ties to show where each hose is connected.

Parameters and Settings

1

Set the main circuit breaker to the ON position.

Push [POWER ON].

Zero Return all the Axes

Do the following to enable the pallet pool option on a VF-2YT.  

Important:  You will need to do this step if you perform a option 5 clean install option on a VF-2YT with a pallet pool.

Set setting 382 Disable Pallet Changer to None.

Find the Haas Pallet Pool Parameters decal on the E-Stop on the Pallet Pool machine.  Write down the values.

Use the USB Service key to go into Service Mode.

Press [DIAGNOSTIC] Go to the PARAMETERS> Factory setting tab.

Set the following factory settings values:

  1. 2128 [:] Pallet Pool Type = Hook
  2. 15.019 [:] PR-Axis Invisible = False
  3. 16.019 [:] PS-Axis Invisible = False
  4. 15.004 [:] PR-Axis Disable = False
  5. 16.004 [16:3] PS-Axis Disabled = False
Set the Grid and TC offsets for PR and PS axis
 
  1. 15.078 PR-Axis Tool Change Offset = Use the decal value.
  2. 15.140 PR-Axis Grid Offset = Use the decal value.
  3. 16.078 PS-Axis Tool Change Offset = Use the decal value.
  4. 16.140 PS-Axis Grid Offset = Use the decal value.
  5. Zero Return after the grid offset is adjusted

Base Level Pallet Pool

1

Verify all outer supports feet are NOT touching the floor.

Make sure the pallet pool sit on 3 points, the leveling foot that is not touching the puck is the one closest to the machine control cabinet [1].

The distance from the floor to the bottom on the Pallet Pool base should be approximately 3.5 inches.

2

Move the saddle to its home position if it is not already, place the bubble level on the trolley plate and rough level with respect to X & Y. 

NOTE: Rough level by adjusting the 3 leveling feet without adjusting the 4th in the air.

Once the base is leveled on the 3 points, bring the 4th leveling screw down to touch the pad.

Assigning Missing Pallets on Scheduler

1

It is possible to enter a condition where the shelves in the pallet scheduling page are not assigned [1]. This will not allow the PR and PS to zero return or recover the machine. 

This section will explain how to assign the missing shelves, if your machine is not in this condition please skip to the next section. 

First, press [CURRENT COMMANDS] and navigate to the Pallet Schedule Table tab.

2

Press [EMERGENCY STOP] [1] and highlight the shelf tab on pallet number one.

With [EMERGENCY STOP] pressed, type the letter A and press [ENTER]. This will assign shelf A to pallet number 1 [2].

3

Repeat the previous step for the remaining pallet numbers in alphabetical number [1].

NOTE: The shelves can be re-assigned at any point  however the user chooses by repeating the same process (e.g. pallet number 3 can be assigned shelf B).

 

Align Pallet Drop Off Station

1

Insert the Service Key USB and put the machine in Service Mode.

Make sure there are no obstructions inside the machine or inside the pallet pool area. Pull out all the [E-STOPS] and [RESET] the alarms.

Press [ZERO RETURN] and then press [ALL]. The machine will zero return all the axes.

Once all the axis are zero returned press [RECOVER]. A pop up box will appear, select [2] for Pallet Changer Recovery.

2

Press [H] and then the [DELETE] [1] button. This will rotate the saddle [3] towards station H (as shown in the image).

Press [F1] [2] to open the auto window [4].

3

Jog the X & Y axes to the positions the values in Factory Settings 1.310 and 2.310, respectively. 

Adjust the height on the pallet pool evenly if needed to be able to slide the pallet from the machine to the saddle.

In the Pallet Changer Recovery page press [F2] to unclamp the pallet [1] in the machine and try to manually slide the pallet [1] onto the pallet saddle [2]. Adjust Factory Setting 2.310 to adjust the y-axis position if necessary.

If more adjustment is needed once Factory Setting 2.130 is adjusted, adjust Factory Setting 2147 to adjust the shelf H PR offset.

Once the pallet saddle [2] and the receiver are properly aligned, manually jog the PR axis 4 degrees off and jog the PS and PR axes to manually hook the pallet.

Once the pallet is hooked and fully extended onto the receiver, set parameter 2137 [:] SHELF H SLIDE OFFSET.

In the Pallet Changer Recovery page while the pallet in the machine is hooked, press [INSERT] to return the pallet slide to home.

4

Once the pallet is moved off of the receiver [1], remove the nylon washers [2] that are on the (4) surrounding pins.

Align Pallet Loading Station

1

Level the load station by placing a bubble level on the load station table and adjusting the outer most feet [1].

2

Once the loading station is leveled, manually jog the pallet [1] into the load station until it is above the first two rollers [2].

Adjust the outermost leveling feet of the load station until the rollers [2] just barely make contact with the pallet [1].

The pallet should run smoothly across all of the rollers. Once the pallet rolls smoothly across all of the rollers, touch the inner feet to the ground if they are not yet.

At this point, use the Pallet Changer Recovery page to send the pallet into the Load Station and rotate the trolley plate out so that the pallet is no longer hooked on the trolley plate and verify that the locking mechanism dowel pin latches the pallet correctly.

If the locking mechanism is not latching the pallet properly, adjust the inner feet to help adjust the locking mechanism.

Important: Do not over adjust the inner leveling feet.

Jog the pallet out of the load station and proceed to the next step.

Note: If there are still issues when sending the pallet into the load station, use the following steps to further adjust the load station alignment.

3

Follow this step if there are still issues when sending the pallet into the load station.

Remove the sheet metal cover [1] from the load station table.

Loosen the (4) bolts [2] that secure the load station table.

After slowly jog the pallet [3] into the load station, but do not unhook it from the trolley.

4

Follow this step if there are still issues when sending the pallet into the load station.

Slowly hand jog the pallet [1] off the load station so that the first two bolts [2] on the load station table are visible. Tighten the bolts [2].

Continue jogging the pallet [2] out of the load station so that the other (2) bolts [3] are showing. Tighten the bolts [3].

Once all bolts are tightened, torque them to 50 ft-lbs in a star pattern.

After the bolts are torqued, reattach the sheet metal piece that was removed in the previous step.

Align Remaining Pallet Shelves

1

First level all of the pallet shelves.

Place a bubble level on shelve G and adjust the outside leveling foot until the shelve is leveled.

Repeat this for shelves E and F and their respective leveling feet.

2

Use the Pallet Changer Recovery page to send the pallet to shelf G and hand jog the PS axis until the pallet is over the first two rollers of the load station.

Touch the leveling foot for this station to the ground and adjust it until the rollers just make contact with the bottom of the pallet.

The pallet should run smoothly across all of the rollers.

At this point, use the Pallet Changer Recovery page to send the pallet into shelf G and rotate the trolley plate out so that the pallet is no longer hooked on the trolley plate and verify that the locking mechanism dowel pin latches the pallet correctly.

If the locking mechanism is not latching the pallet properly, adjust the leveling foot to help adjust the locking mechanism.

Repeat this for shelves F and E.

3

There should have been grease added to the trolley plate at [1] and on all of the dowel pins [2] in the pallet latch mechanisms, if this grease has rubbed off in shipping add more grease to these locations.

It should also be verified that the dowel pin in the pallet station latching mechanism makes at least 0.25 inches[3] of contact with the trolley plate. If this is not the case, Adjust leveling feet to ensure the right amount of contact is being made at each pallet shelve.

Setting Up Pallet Stations

1

Please refer to the PALLET POOL OPERATORS MANUAL for how to load the pallets onto the machine using the Pallet Scheduling Table.

 Important: If there is no pallet on the pallet arm then the PR will go into the station at a 4 degree offset when the pallet arm is commanded into slide to a specified station using the recovery page. It goes in at a 4 degree offset to avoid hitting the pallet locking mechanism on the pallet stations, therefore when in the recovery page and the control asks if the pallet arm is holding a pallet it MUST be answered correctly or a collision may happen between the pallet arm and the pallet locking mechanism.

2

Install the tray and air gun [1] and the load station worklights [2] on the pallet pool as shown.

Place the provided totes under the Pallet Pool coolant discharge trays to catch the coolant and chips that drains from the pallets. One tote goes under the load station [3] and the other goes where the machine and pallet pool meet [4].

Empty the totes as needed. 

Test the pick up / drop off operation on the remaining stations by using the pallet pool recovery functions.  

Install the anchors.

Note: When loading the pallets into the pallet Load Station, make sure to use a proper lifting mechanism. Each pallet weighs approx 250 lbs.

Important: Each pallet has a max capacity of 750 lbs.

Verification

Load the pallets into all of the stations and the load station, leaving the machine receiver without a pallet. 

WARNING: Do NOT run this program unless ALL pallets are loaded into the machine.

Put the machine at 25% rapid and run the following program to verify that the machine cycles through all the pallets correctly.

M50 P1 ;

M50 P2 ;

M50 P3 ;

M50 P4 ;

M30 ;

2.2 EC PP - 6 Station

EC-400 Pallet Pool - Installation

EC-400 Pallet Pool Installation - How To Video

Introduction

The following procedure will show you how to install a Pallet Pool on a EC-400 Horizontal Machining Center.

The Next Generation software on the machine must be version 100.19.000.1110 or higher.

The Pallet Pool option is currently not field installable.

Important: To ensure that the Pallet Pool does not become mis-aligned, it is recommended that the machine and Pallet Pool be anchored. Refer to the following link: Anchoring Instructions.

The Pallet Pool option has 6 pallet stations plus 1 pallet in the machine. A maximum of 7 pallets can be installed on a EC-400 with the Pallet Pool option.

The Pallet Pool has 2 servo axes. The PR axis rotates the Pallet Pool ram and the PS axis extends and retracts the Pallet Pool ram to load/unload the pallets.

The EC-400 must be level before the Pallet Pool can be installed. Refer to the EC-400 Installation procedure.

To level the machine without the Pallet Pool connected to the machine, do the following: 

Make sure that there is a shorting block [1] installed on the top two pins of the P12 connector on the I/O PCB 

Make sure there is a jumper (P/N 33-0527) [2] connected to I/O PCB at P14.
 Note: These jumpers are needed to operate the machine without the Pallet Pool.

 Disable the pallet pool, change setting 382 Disable Pallet Changer to Pallet Pool.

Note: The above step will disabled the Pallet Pool to allow you to zero return the machine so it can be leveled.

Refer to the EC-400 - Installation procedure.

Leveling Screws Hardware

Note: The washers [1] and nuts [2] are installed during shipping and should be saved for installation and not be discarded.

Note: The washer orientation [3] is important.  The conical part of the washer should be against the casting,  see illustration.

Moving the Pallet Pool Into Position

The following procedure will show you how to attach the Pallet Pool assembly to the EC-400.

1

Place a pallet on the machine load station. This pallet will be used in the leveling and alignment section.
NOTE: Do not place any of the pallets in the pallet pool at this time.

Remove the shipping brackets and all packing material from the Pallet Pool assembly. Remove the pallet pool guard panels [1].

Raise the Pallet Pool support feet [2] off the ground.

2

Pallet Pool Panel Alignment Arms Installation

Install the alignment arms [1] on to the pallet pool casting with the provided hardware.
NOTE: Zip-tie the cables and hoses to the pallet pool casting so you can move the pallet pool assembly into position without damage.

Use a pallet jack with long forks [2] to move the pallet pool assembly into position.

Move the pallet pool assembly so the alignment arms [1] are within 3 - 6” (76 - 152 mm) of the base casting locating tabs.
NOTE: If you don’t have a pallet jack with long forks. We recommend having the machine riggers place the Pallet Pool within the distance mentioned above.

Install the leveling pads [3] under the pallet pool and lower the pallet pool. 

3

Pallet Pool Turnbuckle Installation

Install the turnbuckles [3] with the provided hardware (SHCS, washer, and bushings [1]) onto the alignment arms [2] and the base casting [4].

Evenly tighten the turnbuckles until the alignment arms mate with the base casting. During this time, lower or raise the pallet pool assembly so the pallet pool coolant drip pan [5] goes on top of the EC-400 coolant pan.
NOTE: Be sure the drip edge of the EC-400 goes over the pallet pool sheet-metal.

4

Pallet Pool Coolant Drip Pan

To prevent coolant from running out of the machine apply sealant around the coolant drip pan.

Once both alignment arms are fully mated with the casting, loosen the turnbuckles about two turns.

5

Lifting Decal

The following decal is placed on the machine for safely moving the machine.

Electrical Installation

1

The following procedure will show you how to connect the electrical connections to the EC-400.
NOTE: The PR (Pallet Rotate) and PS (Pallet Slide) amps are already installed at the factory.

Turn [OFF] the main circuit breaker and wait until the Vector Drive High-Voltage light turns off.

Remove the operator side access panels [1].
Route the pallet pool cables [2] as shown in the illustration. The pallet pool work lights are routed among these cables. 

Connect the PR motor encoder cable to Maincon PCB channel 15

Connect the PS motor encoder cable to Maincon PCB channel 16.

Connect the PR motor power cable to the amplifier labeled PR. Install the ferrite filter bead on the motor power cable.

Connect the PS motor power cable to the amplifier labeled PS. Install the ferrite filter bead on the motor power cable.

2

The pallet pool work lights are connected to the LVPS on the bottom left corner of the cabinet to the proper terminals labeled on the cable.

3

Find the aux front panel cable (P/N 33-0528) inside the electrical cabinet on remove the jumper (P/N 33-0531) [1].

Route the aux front panel cable (P/N 33-0424A) [2] from the Pallet Pool and connect it to the pig tail of cable (P/N 33-0528).

Remove jumper (P/N 33-0527) [3] from I/O PCB at P14. Install the pallet pool status cable (P/N 33-0427) to the pallet pool bracket and route the cable and connect it to the I/O PCB at P14 [4].

Connect pallet alarm cable [5] (P/N 33-0482) to the I/O PCB at P50.
Make sure all the Pallet Pool status bracket connectors are plugged into the correct location.

NOTE: Store the Pallet Pool jumpers in a safe location, these will be used by the service personnel to move or service the machine.

Enable Pallet Pool

Do the following to enable the pallet pool option on a EC-400.  

Important:  You will need to do this step if you perform a option 5 clean install option on a EC-400 with a pallet pool.

Set setting 382 Disable Pallet Changer to None.

Find the Haas Pallet Pool Parameters decal that came with the pallet pool.  Write down the values.

Use the USB Service key to go into Service Mode.

Press [DIAGNOSTIC] Go to the PARAMETERS> Factory setting tab.

Set the following factory settings values:

  • 15.004 [:] PR-Axis Disable = False
  • 16.004 [16:3] PS-Axis Disabled = False
  • 16.078 PS-Axis Tool Change Offset = Use the decal value.
  • 15.078 PR-Axis Tool Change Offset = Use the decal value.
  • 15.140 PR-Axis Grid Offset = Use the decal value.
  • 16.140 PS-Axis Grid Offset = Use the decal value.
  • 2128 [:] Pallet Pool Type = HPU Lift
  • 2129 [:] Pallet Loading Shelf = SHELF A
  • 740 Pallet Pool Max Pallet Count  = 7  (Allows six storage locations + 1 machining station).

Hydraulic Installation

The following procedure will show you how to connect the hydraulic hoses to the EC-400.

Remove the EC-400 hydraulic power unit access panel [1].

Locate the Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU) [2] pallet pool manifold. Remove the plugs.

The hydraulic hoses are not labeled you will need to look at the hydraulic cylinder and connect them as shown in the illustration. Connect the clamp hydraulic hose [3] to the HPU manifold labeled “CLAMP”.

Connect the Unclamp hydraulic hose [4] to the HPU manifold labeled “UNCLAMP/BRAKE ENGAGE”.

Power [ON] the machine and [RESET] all the alarms. This will turn on the HPU. Make sure there is no hydraulic fluid leaks around the hose fittings. If alarms occur after [RESET], power off the machine and verify the electrical connections.

Assigning Missing Pallets on Scheduler

1

It is a possible to enter a condition where the shelves in the pallet scheduling page are not assigned [1]. This will not allow the PR and PS to zero return or recover the machine. 

This section will explain how to assign the missing shelves, if your machine is not in this condition please skip to the next section. 

First, press [CURRENT COMMANDS] and navigate to the Pallet Schedule Table tab.

NOTE: The VF-2SSYT 3 Station Pallet Pool was used to create the images, but the same process will apply for all pallet pool machines. 

2

Press [EMERGENCY STOP] [1] and highlight the shelf tab on pallet number one.

With [EMERGENCY STOP] pressed, type the letter A and press [ENTER]. This will assign shelf A to pallet number 1 [2].

3

Repeat the previous step for the remaining pallet numbers in alphabetical number [1].

NOTE: The shelves can be re-assigned at any point  however the user chooses by repeating the same process (e.g. pallet number 3 can be assigned shelf B).

 

Leveling and Alignment

Although the pallets were aligned before the pallet pool was shipped, it is recommended that you verify all pallet positions are properly aligned upon installation. The G and A load station positions should be verified. If the positions change it will affect placement on all of the other stations.

1

Insert the Service Key USB and put the machine in Service Mode.

Make sure there are no obstructions inside the machine or inside the pallet pool area. Pull out all the [E-STOPS] and [RESET] the alarms.

Type [PS], press [ZERO RETURN] and press [SINGLE]. The machine will zero return PS-axis.

Type [PR], press [ZERO RETURN], and press [SINGLE]. The machine will zero return PR-axis.

Press [ZERO RETURN] and then press [ALL]. The machine will zero return all the axes.

Once all the axis are zero returned press [RECOVER]. A pop up box will appear, select [2] for Pallet Changer Recovery.

2

The Pallet Changer Recovery screen shows the Pallet Pool Status. Make sure the Pallet Lifter is Down [1]. If not press [ALTER] to bring the Pallet Lifter down.

Press [G] and then the [DELETE] button. This will rotate the pallet lifter towards station G.

 

   

3

Set Pallet Gap

With pallet on the H-Frame and the Pallet Pool in the down position, extend the RAM and Forks under the pallet.  Use the Gap Gauge [1] 25-14354 to set the height of the Pallet Pool.  The Distance between the pins on the forks and the bottom of the Pallet surface should be the thickness of the Gap Gauge (.054") at all 4 pins.

Adjust the pallet pool slider by jogging the PS or PR axis so the forks align correctly underneath the pallet.  

NOTE: Machines built after October 2019 have four locating dowel pins on the Pallet Pool fork. The dowel pins must align with the locating holes underneath the pallet. 

4

Pallet Pool Side to Side Leveling

Place a precision level [1] parallel to the X-Axis on top of the load station pallet and record the machine level readings.

Loosen the left rear leveling screw [2] until it does not make contact with the pad.
NOTE: The pallet pool may drift a small amount from the machine as you level it. Make sure the turnbuckles are loose about two turns to prevent the pallet pool assembly from binding.

Press [ALTER] to raise the pallet lifter.

Use the front leveling screws [3] to raise or lower the pallet pool until you match the side to side level of the pallet pool to the machine. Press [ALTER] to lower and raise the pallet lifter and make sure the bubble on the level remains the same. 

5

Place the precision level [1] parallel to the Z-axis and record the machine level readings. Press [ALTER] to raise the pallet lifter and adjust the rear right screw until the bubble matches the level.

Use the rear right leveling screw [2] to raise or lower the pallet pool until you match the front to back level of the pallet pool to the machine. Press [ALTER] to lower and raise the pallet lifter and make sure the bubble on the level remains the same.

Once the level matches, lower the rear left leveling screw [3] until contacts the pad.

During the leveling process, the alignment arms may have shifted from the casting. Tighten the right and left turnbuckles until the alignment arms are fully mated with the casting.

Lower the supporting feet until they touch the ground.

Go to Factory Settings 2136 [:] Shelf G Slide Offset and 2146 [:] Shelf G Rotary Offset, and make sure the values match the PS and PR axis position, if not update the values

6

Press the [INSERT] button to return the slide home.

Press the letter [A] and then [DELETE] button. This will rotate the pallet lifter to the A station.

Select the pallet slide axis use the RJH slowly jog the PS axis towards the A station.

Verify that the pallet pool will pick up and drop off the pallet at the A station.

Test the pick up / drop off operation on the remaining stations by using the pallet pool recovery functions. Mechanically adjust each station tray by loosing the bolts and moving the tray to align to the pallet if necessary.

Install the anchors.

Install the Pallet Pool guard panels.

Set factory setting 2056 [:] HYDRAULIC POWER UNIT TYPE to 2 (On Demand). 

2.3 VC PP - 6 Station

Under Construction

EC-400 is used for illustration purpose, but these same steps apply for VC-400 installation

Introduction

The following procedure will show you how to install a Pallet Pool on a VC-400 Horizontal Machining Center.

The Next Generation software on the machine must be version 100.19.000.1110 or higher.

The Pallet Pool option is currently not field installable.

Important: To ensure that the Pallet Pool does not become mis-aligned, it is recommended that the machine and Pallet Pool be anchored. Refer to the following link: Anchoring Instructions.

The Pallet Pool option has 6 pallet stations plus 1 pallet in the machine. A maximum of 7 pallets can be installed on a VC-400 with the Pallet Pool option.

The Pallet Pool has 2 servo axes. The PR axis rotates the Pallet Pool ram and the PS axis extends and retracts the Pallet Pool ram to load/unload the pallets.

The VC-400 must be level before the Pallet Pool can be installed. Refer to the VC-400 Installation procedure.

To level the machine without the Pallet Pool connected to the machine, do the following: 

Make sure that there is a shorting block [1] installed on the top two pins of the P12 connector on the I/O PCB 

Make sure there is a jumper (P/N 33-0527) [2] connected to I/O PCB at P14.
 Note: These jumpers are needed to operate the machine without the Pallet Pool.

 Disable the pallet pool, change setting 382 Disable Pallet Changer to Pallet Pool.

Note: The above step will disabled the Pallet Pool to allow you to zero return the machine so it can be leveled.

Refer to the VC-400 - Installation procedure.

Leveling Screws Hardware

Note: The washers [1] and nuts [2] are installed during shipping and should be saved for installation and not be discarded.

Note: The washer orientation [3] is important.  The conical part of the washer should be against the casting,  see illustration.

Moving the Pallet Pool Into Position

The following procedure will show you how to attach the Pallet Pool assembly to the VC-400.

1

Place a pallet on the machine load station. This pallet will be used in the leveling and alignment section.
NOTE: Do not place any of the pallets in the pallet pool at this time.

Remove the shipping brackets and all packing material from the Pallet Pool assembly. Remove the pallet pool guard panels [1].

Raise the Pallet Pool support feet [2] off the ground.

2

Pallet Pool Panel Alignment Arms Installation

Install the alignment arms [1] on to the pallet pool casting with the provided hardware.
NOTE: Zip-tie the cables and hoses to the pallet pool casting so you can move the pallet pool assembly into position without damage.

Use a pallet jack with long forks [2] to move the pallet pool assembly into position.

Move the pallet pool assembly so the alignment arms [1] are within 3 - 6” (76 - 152 mm) of the base casting locating tabs.
NOTE: If you don’t have a pallet jack with long forks. We recommend having the machine riggers place the Pallet Pool within the distance mentioned above.

Install the leveling pads [3] under the pallet pool and lower the pallet pool. 

3

Pallet Pool Turnbuckle Installation

Install the turnbuckles [3] with the provided hardware (SHCS, washer, and bushings [1]) onto the alignment arms [2] and the base casting [4].

Evenly tighten the turnbuckles until the alignment arms mate with the base casting. During this time, lower or raise the pallet pool assembly so the pallet pool coolant drip pan [5] goes on top of the VC-400 coolant pan.
NOTE: Be sure the drip edge of the VC-400 goes over the pallet pool sheet-metal.

4

Pallet Pool Coolant Drip Pan

To prevent coolant from running out of the machine apply sealant around the coolant drip pan.

Once both alignment arms are fully mated with the casting, loosen the turnbuckles about two turns.

Electrical Installation

1

The following procedure will show you how to connect the electrical connections to the EC-400.
 NOTE: The PR (Pallet Rotate) and PS (Pallet Slide) amps are already installed at the factory.

Turn [OFF] the main circuit breaker and wait until the Vector Drive High-Voltage light turns off.

Remove the operator side access panels [1].
Route the pallet pool cables [2] as shown in the illustration. The pallet pool work lights are routed among these cables. 

Connect the PR motor encoder cable to Maincon PCB channel 15

Connect the PS motor encoder cable to Maincon PCB channel 16.

Connect the PR motor power cable to the amplifier labeled PR. Install the ferrite filter bead on the motor power cable.

Connect the PS motor power cable to the amplifier labeled PS. Install the ferrite filter bead on the motor power cable.

2

The pallet pool work lights are connected to the LVPS on the bottom left corner of the cabinet to the proper terminals labeled on the cable.

3

Find the aux front panel cable (P/N 33-0528) inside the electrical cabinet on remove the jumper (P/N 33-0531) [1].

Route the aux front panel cable (P/N 33-0424A) [2] from the Pallet Pool and connect it to the pig tail of cable (P/N 33-0528).

Remove jumper (P/N 33-0527) [3] from I/O PCB at P14. Install the pallet pool status cable (P/N 33-0427) to the pallet pool bracket and route the cable and connect it to the I/O PCB at P14 [4].

Connect pallet alarm cable [5] (P/N 33-0482) to the I/O PCB at P50.
Make sure all the Pallet Pool status bracket connectors are plugged into the correct location.

NOTE: Store the Pallet Pool jumpers in a safe location, these will be used by the service personnel to move or service the machine.

Enable Pallet Pool

Do the following to enable the pallet pool option on a VC-400.  

Important:  You will need to do this step if you perform a option 5 clean install option on a VC-400 with a pallet pool.

Set setting 382 Disable Pallet Changer to None.

Find the Haas Pallet Pool Parameters decal that came with the pallet pool.  Write down the values.

Use the USB Service key to go into Service Mode.

Press [DIAGNOSTIC] Go to the PARAMETERS> Factory setting tab.

Set the following factory settings values:

  • 15.004 [:] PR-Axis Disable = False
  • 16.004 [16:3] PS-Axis Disabled = False
  • 16.078 PS-Axis Tool Change Offset = Use the decal value.
  • 15.078 PR-Axis Tool Change Offset = Use the decal value.
  • 15.140 PR-Axis Grid Offset = Use the decal value.
  • 16.140 PS-Axis Grid Offset = Use the decal value.
  • 2128 [:] Pallet Pool Type = HPU Lift
  • 2129 [:] Pallet Loading Shelf = SHELF A
  • 740 Pallet Pool Max Pallet Count  = 7  (Allows six storage locations + 1 machining station).

Hydraulic Installation

The following procedure will show you how to connect the hydraulic hoses to the VC-400.

Remove the VC-400 hydraulic power unit access panel [1].

Locate the Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU) [2] pallet pool manifold. Remove the plugs.

The hydraulic hoses are not labeled you will need to look at the hydraulic cylinder and connect them as shown in the illustration. Connect the clamp hydraulic hose [3] to the HPU manifold labeled “CLAMP”.

Connect the Unclamp hydraulic hose [4] to the HPU manifold labeled “UNCLAMP/BRAKE ENGAGE”.

Power [ON] the machine and [RESET] all the alarms. This will turn on the HPU. Make sure there is no hydraulic fluid leaks around the hose fittings. If alarms occur after [RESET], power off the machine and verify the electrical connections.

Assigning Missing Pallets on Scheduler

1

It is a possible to enter a condition where the shelves in the pallet scheduling page are not assigned [1]. This will not allow the PR and PS to zero return or recover the machine. 

This section will explain how to assign the missing shelves, if your machine is not in this condition please skip to the next section. 

First, press [CURRENT COMMANDS] and navigate to the Pallet Schedule Table tab.

NOTE: The VF-2SSYT 3 Station Pallet Pool was used to create the images, but the same process will apply for all pallet pool machines. 

2

Press [EMERGENCY STOP] [1] and highlight the shelf tab on pallet number one.

With [EMERGENCY STOP] pressed, type the letter A and press [ENTER]. This will assign shelf A to pallet number 1 [2].

3

Repeat the previous step for the remaining pallet numbers in alphabetical number [1].

NOTE: The shelves can be re-assigned at any point  however the user chooses by repeating the same process (e.g. pallet number 3 can be assigned shelf B).

 

Leveling and Alignment

Although the pallets were aligned before the pallet pool was shipped, it is recommended that you verify all pallet positions are properly aligned upon installation. The G and A load station positions should be verified. If the positions change it will affect placement on all of the other stations.

1

Insert the Service Key USB and put the machine in Service Mode.

Make sure there are no obstructions inside the machine or inside the pallet pool area. Pull out all the [E-STOPS] and [RESET] the alarms.

Type [PS], press [ZERO RETURN] and press [SINGLE]. The machine will zero return PS-axis.

Type [PR], press [ZERO RETURN], and press [SINGLE]. The machine will zero return PR-axis.

Press [ZERO RETURN] and then press [ALL]. The machine will zero return all the axes.

Once all the axis are zero returned press [RECOVER]. A pop up box will appear, select [2] for Pallet Changer Recovery.

2

The Pallet Changer Recovery screen shows the Pallet Pool Status. Make sure the Pallet Lifter is Down [1]. If not press [ALTER] to bring the Pallet Lifter down.

Press [G] and then the [DELETE] button. This will rotate the pallet lifter towards station G.

 

   

3

Set Pallet Gap

With pallet on the H-Frame and the Pallet Pool in the down position, extend the RAM and Forks under the pallet.  Use the Gap Gauge [1] 25-14354 to set the height of the Pallet Pool.  The Distance between the pins on the forks and the bottom of the Pallet surface should be the thickness of the Gap Gauge (.054") at all 4 pins.

Adjust the pallet pool slider by jogging the PS or PR axis so the forks align correctly underneath the pallet.  

NOTE: Machines built after October 2019 have four locating dowel pins on the Pallet Pool fork. The dowel pins must align with the locating holes underneath the pallet. 

4

Pallet Pool Side to Side Leveling

Place a precision level [1] parallel to the X-Axis on top of the load station pallet and record the machine level readings.

Loosen the left rear leveling screw [2] until it does not make contact with the pad.
NOTE: The pallet pool may drift a small amount from the machine as you level it. Make sure the turnbuckles are loose about two turns to prevent the pallet pool assembly from binding.

Press [ALTER] to raise the pallet lifter.

Use the front leveling screws [3] to raise or lower the pallet pool until you match the side to side level of the pallet pool to the machine. Press [ALTER] to lower and raise the pallet lifter and make sure the bubble on the level remains the same. 

5

Place the precision level [1] parallel to the Z-axis and record the machine level readings. Press [ALTER] to raise the pallet lifter and adjust the rear right screw until the bubble matches the level.

Use the rear right leveling screw [2] to raise or lower the pallet pool until you match the front to back level of the pallet pool to the machine. Press [ALTER] to lower and raise the pallet lifter and make sure the bubble on the level remains the same.

Once the level matches, lower the rear left leveling screw [3] until contacts the pad.

During the leveling process, the alignment arms may have shifted from the casting. Tighten the right and left turnbuckles until the alignment arms are fully mated with the casting.

Lower the supporting feet until they touch the ground.

Go to Factory Settings 2136 [:] Shelf G Slide Offset and 2146 [:] Shelf G Rotary Offset, and make sure the values match the PS and PR axis position, if not update the values

6

Press the [INSERT] button to return the slide home.

Press the letter [A] and then [DELETE] button. This will rotate the pallet lifter to the A station.

Select the pallet slide axis use the RJH slowly jog the PS axis towards the A station.

Verify that the pallet pool will pick up and drop off the pallet at the A station.

Test the pick up / drop off operation on the remaining stations by using the pallet pool recovery functions. Mechanically adjust each station tray by loosing the bolts and moving the tray to align to the pallet if necessary.

Install the anchors.

Install the Pallet Pool guard panels.

Set factory setting 2056 [:] HYDRAULIC POWER UNIT TYPE to 2 (On Demand). 

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