The pointed needle probe functions as a centre finder and is used to locate features such as scribed lines or centre punched marks. It works by positioning the spindle of the machine directly above these points on a workpiece. This is a necessary step in the drilling of holes or the machining of features.
Step 1 – Insert probe
Insert the probe into the body of the wiggler.
Step 2 – Mount wiggler
Mount the wiggler into the chuck or collet of your milling machine or drill press.
Step 3 – Secure workpiece
Secure the workpiece in a vice or base-plate underneath the spindle of the machine.
Step 4 – Start machine
Start your machine, setting it to run at 1000RPM.
The needle probe will start to centre itself.
Using a wooden pencil, press on the side of the probe to keep it still until it stops wobbling and runs true to centre.
When the probe has centred itself, it will be hard to move with the pencil.
When you try to centre the wiggler with a pencil, its movement may start to resemble that of a helicopter propeller.
If this happens, the probe is not secure enough in the body.
You will need to turn off the machine, remove the wiggler, retighten the knurled nut on the body and reinstall the wiggler in the machine.
Step 5 – Turn off machine
Once the probe is centred, turn off the machine.
Then, move the table so that the point of the needle probe is positioned on the scribed line or centre punch mark on the workpiece.