Skip to main content

Hold Down Program

Andy Fancher
  • Updated

This article was created to provide some information on hold down programs:

  • Edit the Width & Length Trim on ALL MATERIALS so they're at least 1"
    • This can be done in Libraries-Materials in Mozaik
  • In the Optimizer go to Libraries-Machines-Setup CNC Router-Hold Down Setup
    • Check 'Require Hold Downs'
    • Choose the desired tool to drill the hold downs & click 'OK'
    • Click OK until you're back to the main window of the Optimizer
  • Optimize a Material & click on the Pattern
  • Click Generate GCode-Edit Hold Downs
    • From here, you'll click on the sheet to add the Hold Down operations. Each time you click, a small red circle with a crosshair will be added
    • Add the hold downs to your sheet. We generally recommend 2-3 on the short edges and 4-5 on the long edges
    • Once you've added the Hold Downs, click where is says to exit the Hold Down editor
  • Generate your GCode & only check 'Create Hold Down Program'
    • Rename the file 'Hold Downs' or something similar for reference
  • Now that the Hold Down program has been created, go back to Libraries-Machines-Setup CNC Router-Hold Down Setup & un-check 'Require Hold Downs'

 

With the Hold Down program created, you can nest your Jobs as needed. You will need to run the Hold Down GCode before all other GCodes so you can attach the sheets to the spoil board. If your Z-Zero is set to 'Top of Material' you may need to generate generic hold down programs for each common material thickness to ensure the CNC doesn't go too deep into the spoil board.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Related articles