# Axis-specific assignment of tool length compensation (#TLAX, #TLAX DEFAULT)

In initial state, the tool length is always considered in the third main axis of the new place when the plane changes (G17, G18, G19). This is useful if the tool head (or tool axis) is orientable and machining takes place in the relevant plane.

This behaviour is not required with non-orientable (fixed) tool heads. If a change in place is only intended to program an approach motion, the tool length and its orientation can remain in the original main axis or can be assigned fixed to a specific main axis by the following NC command:

Syntax:
#TLAX [ <axis_name> + | - ]

<axis_name> | Name of main axis in which tool length is included and orientation is specified + or -

The following rule applies to orientation assignment:

Assignment rule of tool length compensation

In initial state (G17), tool length compensation is included in the third (Z). The direction (orientation) is specified by the sign ‘+’. This corresponds in the X-Y plane to the command #TLAX [Z+].

On machines with non-orientable tool heads that are mainly used for 3D machining in G17, this behaviour can also be preset by the channel parameter P-CHAN-00420; it is then not necessary to program #TLAX.

The command below cancels the fixed assignment of tool length compensation to a specific axis. Tool length is then considered in the third main axis of the current plane again.

Syntax:
#TLAX DEFAULT

## Programing Example

Contour circular motions in different planes with tool length compensation in constant orientation

%tlax

N010 G0 X0 Y0 Z0

N020 V.G.WZL=33 G161

N030 X0 Y0 Z0

N040 #TLAX [Z+] ;Tool length compensation in Z+

N050 G18

N060 G01 X0 Z50 F2000

N070 G02 X50 Z0 I50 K50 F1000

N080 G17

N090 G03 X100 Y50 I50 J50

N100 G19

N110 G03 Y0 Z50 J50 K50 F1000

N120 G18

N130 G02 X0 Z50 I50 K50 F1000

N140 #TLAX DEFAULT ;Deselect tool length compensation in Z+,

;Tool length is included in Y (G18)

N150 G17

N160 M30

Contour approach motions in G17, G18, G19 with tool length compensation in constant orientation