Flexmark User English PDF

THE NEW WAY OF MARKING!
User Guide
Flexmark V1
Revision 1.1
Type Main version
Date 14/11/2011
Written by D. Duverney
Controlled by SJ
3 Allée Michaël FARADAY

Parc d’Activités STELYTEC
42400 SAINT-CHAMOND
FRANCE
www.flexmark-marking.com
Tel.: +33 (0)4 77 22 25 91
Fax : +33 (0)4 77 22 38 93
FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France) www.flexmark-marking.com

3 Allée Michaël FARADAY Tel: +33 (0) 4 77 22 25 91 (International) FLEXMARK™ is a brand of Technomark Group
Parc d’Activités STELYTEC Fax: +33 (0) 4 77 22 38 93
42400 SAINT-CHAMOND (France) E-mail: info@flexmark-marking.com V : SJ Le : --/--/-- R : DD
Flexmark wishes to thank you for purchasing Flexmark equipment. You have chosen the first
intelligent and flexible Flexmark tool to mark and identify your products.
More than a simple marking machine, we provide a complete solution that will allow you to fulfil all
your traceability needs.
Our customer service is available for all additional inquiries.
And now, enjoy marking…
SUMMARY
Summary
1. INTRODUCTION.......................................................................................................... 3
A. Safety instructions............................................................................................................. 4
B. PLEASE READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE USING YOUR MARKING
EQUIPMENT ............................................................................................................................. 4
2. Installing and starting the machine ............................................................................ 6
A. Installation ........................................................................................................................ 6
B. Normal condition of use .................................................................................................... 7
C. Starting your marking equipment : .................................................................................... 8
D. Front panel ....................................................................................................................... 8
3. Main screen and general operation .......................................................................... 10
4. Modes and functions ................................................................................................ 13
A. Standard Mode: Editing and inserting lines ...................................................................... 13
a) Text ...................................................................................................................................................... 14
b) Circular – Marking circular messages .................................................................................................. 14
c) Serial Number – Marking a number incrementing automatically. ...................................................... 15
d) Timestamp- Marking Date and Time data ........................................................................................... 16
e) Logo – Marking shapes and drawings.................................................................................................. 17
f) Bar code read – Marking the content of a bar code ............................................................................ 18
g) Pause – Set a pause during a marking process .................................................................................... 18
h) Crossing point – Command the head to move thru a point. ............................................................... 19
i) 3rd axis rotation – Command D axis turning of a given angle ........................................................... 19
B. Position Mode. - Easy shift ..................................................................................... 20

a) Displacement ................................................................................................. Erreur ! Signet non défini.
b) Enter angle value ................................................................................................................................. 21
c) Creating a circular marking. ................................................................................................................. 21
d) Centring – Scrolling with D Axis ........................................................................................................... 22
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FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)

C. Characters Height and density ................................................................................ 23

a) Height .................................................................................................................................................. 23
b) Compression ........................................................................................................................................ 23
c) Matrix- Point density ........................................................................................................................... 23
D. Force Mode - IDI ...................................................................................................... 24
E. Info ........................................................................................................................ 26
F. Test ................................................................................................................................ 27
G. File.................................................................................................................................. 27
a) Parameters: Speed – IDI –D Axis ......................................................................................................... 27
b) Save ..................................................................................................................................................... 28
c) Open .................................................................................................................................................... 29
d) New...................................................................................................................................................... 30
e) USB ...................................................................................................................................................... 30
H. Marking. ......................................................................................................................... 30
I. Your Machine Configuration. ........................................................................................... 31
a) System Parameters: ............................................................................................................................. 31
b) Date and Hour ..................................................................................................................................... 32
c) Information .......................................................................................................................................... 33
d) Licences and machine serial number .................................................................................................. 34
e) Communication ................................................................................................................................... 35
5. Delayed cycle start and RS232 communication ......................................................... 36

A. Delayed cycle start .......................................................................................................... 36
B. RS232 Communication..................................................................................................... 36
a) Opening a file....................................................................................................................................... 36
b) Variable bar code................................................................................................................................. 36
c) Marking................................................................................................................................................ 37
d) Pause and stop .................................................................................................................................... 37
6. Maintenance and every day care.............................................................................. 38

A. Identification of mechanical components......................................................................... 38
B. General maintenance information ................................................................................... 40
C. Cleaning and lubricating the stylus................................................................................... 40
D. Stylus sharpening ............................................................................................................ 42
E. The spring ....................................................................................................................... 42
F. General mechanical maintenance .................................................................................... 43
G. Maintenance of the electronic panel-marking controller .................................................. 43
H. Error code and trouble shooting. ..................................................................................... 44
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1. INTRODUCTION
Flexmark maintains the right to modify information or specifications contained in this manual
without prior warning. You must contact the Flexmark Company to know about any changes that
may have been implemented.
Under no circumstances may Flexmark be liable for any incident, direct or indirect, concerning
damages, however exceptional, including but not exclusively financial losses linked to the use of
information included in this manual.
This clause applies as well in the case where Flexmark would have been informed, and/or would have
known before hand of possible risks, associated with the use of the equipment.
Flexmark guarantees the equipment made by the company, as defined in the general sales
conditions. Unless otherwise specified on our order receipt, our equipment is guaranteed 1 (ONE)
year from the date of delivery.
This guarantee consists in us replacing free of charge the parts identified as defective, except for sub-
assemblies supplied by third parties: in that case the supplier’s guarantee applies.
This guarantee does not apply if the failure results from normal wear of the products, abnormal use,
incorrect maintenance not following the instructions or the state of art, unsuitable storage
conditions, inappropriate environment, excessive usage of the equipment or disrespect of the user’s
manual instructions and/or electrical connections.
None of the repairs made under guarantee leading to a period of non-use, will extend the guarantee
period.
All information included in this manual is confidential and remain the property of Flexmark.
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A. Safety instructions
Important safety information can be found throughout this manual. They are identified by the
following logos:
 : Indicates essential information related to users safety.
 : Indicates information essential to avoid serious damage to the equipment.
 NOTE : Indicates complementary information.
Your Flexmark marking machine has been designed and manufactured to allow use in a workshop
and outside. Nevertheless a few simple precautions must be followed to allow an easy use and an
optimised life to your marking equipment.
B. PLEASE READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE USING

YOUR MARKING EQUIPMENT
The Flexmark marking machine must be used only by persons trained and qualified in its use.
Flexmark marking equipment uses high voltage power. Therefore it can be dangerous to work with or
around marking machines. The following safety instructions must be followed at all time:
 Switch off and disconnect power supplies when doing any maintenance work on the
machine. OSHA standard recommend that all energy source must be stopped or
disconnected and that all switches must be locked or tagged during a cleaning or
maintenance operation. Make sure the equipment is installed following OSHA standards
 Keep away from all moving parts when the machine is in operation
1. NEVER CONNECT/DICONNECT THE MARKING HEAD IF THE CONTROL PANEL IS UNDER

POWER (Mainly during a marking operation)
An incorrect connection can seriously damage or destroy the electronic components of the
machine and cancel the guarantee.
2. NEVER SCREW/UNSCREW THE KNURLED NUT OF THE PIN ASSEMBLY USING A PLIER OR A
TOOL. Hand tight is enough.
Using a tool could seriously damage the electronic part of the machine. This will void the
machine guarantee.
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3. YOUR EQUIPMENT HAS BEEN DESIGNED TO BE USED IN VARIOUS SITUATIONS;

WHATEVER THE USE OF THE EQUIPMENT, AVOID ANY VIOLENT OR STRONG SHOCK ON ANY
OF THE TWO COMPONENTS OF YOUR EQUIPMENT. AVOID SHOCKS ON THE FRONT PANEL OF
YOUR CONTROL BOX. You could damage the keys or the screen.
4. KEEP YOUR EQUIPMENT AWAY FROM ANY SOURCE OF INTERFERENCE (For example: welding
machine, high frequency generator,…)
5. NEVER TRY TO MARK EMPTY (WITHOUT A PART TO BE MARKED UNDER THE MARKING HEAD)
The distance between the stylus and the part to be marked should never exceed 9 mm when
marking. To do so could destroy your stylus (see graph page 17)
6. MAKE SURE THAT THE AVAILABLE POWER SUPPLY IS THE ONE SUITABLE FOR THIS MACHINE
( 110v or 220v)
7. When using the machine hand held, NEVER POINT OR APPLY THE ACTIVE PART OF THE
STYLUS TOWARD YOURSELF OR A THIRD PERSON.
8. IT IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED TO WEAR PROTECTIVE GLASSES DURING THE MARKING
CYCLE. Small parts coming from the surface being marked could hurt somebody.
9. WHEN USING THE MACHINE ON STAND, WE RECOMMEND TO INSTALL A RUBBER CARPET
BEETWEEN THE SUPPORT AND THE WORKBENCH. The principle of the machine use a
succession of impacts, and this will limit vibrations and noise. It is as well recommended to
install the machine on a heavy support to reduce noise and vibrations.
10. NEVER PUT YOUR HANDS UNDER THE MACHINE DURING A MARKING OPERATION, you could
get severe cuts and/or get caught between the stylus and the part to be marked.
11. DEPENDING ON THE PART TO BE MARKED AND THE CHOSEN DOT DEPTH, THE ACCOUSTIC
PRESSURE OF THE MARKING MACHINE MAY BE GREATER THAN 70 dB (A). Use ear
protection during the marking process.
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2. Installing and starting the machine
A. Installation
Installing your Flexmark marking machine is simple. The work bench arrives in two parts; the column
is fixed on the base.
Please follow the instructions here under to install properly your marking equipment:
 Install the control box in an aerated area, where the temperature will be between 0° and
45°C
 Connect the marking cable head to the control box connector
 Connect the power cable to the control box plug.
The connecting plugs are situated on both sides of the control box:
Connector to
ON/OFF switch optional Connexion to optional
rotation axis delayed start command
and power plug
Marking head
Connector
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USB Host Port USB Device Port RS232 Connector
B. Normal condition of use

 Power supply : 110V 50-60 Hz or 220V 50-60 Hz
 Temperature : 0 – 45 °C
 Relative humidity : 0 – 90%
 Electro-magnetic compatibility (C.E.M):
EN55022 (2006 +A1/2007)
EN55024 (1998 + A1/2001 + A2/2003)
EN 61000-6-2 (2005)
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment.
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.
This product belongs to Class A. In a domestic environment, this equipment could emit radio
interferences and in that case, the user may have to take appropriate actions to eliminate those
interferences.
Your Flexmark marking machine is conforming without any reserve to regulations and the certified
trial reports are available on request.
In case of intensive use, the active part of the machine (marking solenoid) can reach the
temperature of 70°C. Do handle this element without an adapted protection and/or let it cool down
before any intervention.
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C. Starting your marking equipment :
Your Flexmark marking equipment needs a power supply, either 110V or 220V
To know what voltage is required for your machine, please refer to the mark made on the metal
plate next to the power plug:
Type of power supply
To power up your marking equipment, switch on the on/off switch (photo page 6)
The system starts then the marking head is initialised, moving to find its origin references.
Please make sure the stylus will not encounter any obstacle during this movement.
D. Front panel
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Position mode
Info
Height and
density mode Test mode
Force mode File mode
Confirm
Cancel
Erase
Alphanumeric
keyboard
Shift
Start marking
Stop marking
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3. Main screen and general operation

Once the machine is started, the screen (if no error has occurred at the power up) looks like this:
File name Time IDI Marks counter

mode
Current line
info
Graphical view
Tool bar
The file name shown is the one of the current file.

If the file has been modified but not saved, a small star* is added at the end of the name, to warn the
user. Once the modifications have been saved (see save or automatic save), the star disappears.
The time of the system can be updated thru Date and hour
The marks counter is incrementing at the end of each mark realised. It can be re-initialized in info
mode . It will be set back to zero every time the machine starts.
Note: a cancelled marking will not be accounted for.
The data for the current line (the selected line) is displayed as follow:
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Number Type Content Info

value
 Number: the number of the line. The lines are numbered and arranged in a growing order.
 Type: the type of the line. Depending on the function of the line, this can be:
o Text
o Date and time
o Serial number
o Logo
o Rotation
o Crossing point
o Variable code bar
o Pause
 Content: the content of the line. This is the text to be marked for a text line, or another
content, depending on the line type
 Info value: this field includes information relevant to the current line. This information
depend on the actual tool bar and its type is indicated by the icon which can be:
o x and y position (line reference point)
o height (size)
o compression
o angle
o diameter in radiant mode
o matrix
force
In the graphic view, the current line is presented in green and is framed by an orange line:
The graphic view is the image on the screen of the marking which will be made. It includes a square
grid, allowing easy positioning. The grid units can be set in mm or inches (see system parameters )
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The graphic view shows the points outside the marking windows with a “forbidden” icon:
The tool bar displays different functions, depending on the modes selected with the command on the
right and left of the screen.
Most of the modifications done by the operator must be confirmed by the confirm key:
.
The cancel key : suppress the modification done and allows to come back to standard mode.
The marking is launched by the start button.

.
A single click on the stop button commands a pause in marking. A second click cancels the
marking and the machine goes back to its original position.
The cycle time after marking can be read using the “t” key
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4. Modes and functions
A. Standard Mode: Editing and inserting lines

This is the machine default mode. In this mode, the tool bar presents the following functions:
Select Select
Edit Insert a new previous Delete
next line
selection line line
The presence of icons: select previous, Select next and delete depends on the current line and the
number of lines. For example, if the current line is the first one (or alternatively the last one), select
previous icon (alternatively select next) is not present. If there is only one line in a file, delete icon will
not be present, as the program needs to have at least one line in a file.
Edit selection shows the windows of edition corresponding to the line except for pause and way
point which cannot be edited.
Insert a new line displays the following window:
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Select the type of line to insert using displacement arrows and confirm with:
a) Text
Editing/inserting a text displays the following window:
Enter the text to be marked and confirm with: .
The tool bar shows the logo allowing special characters insertion. When pressing this
key, a window presents the special characters that can be inserted:
The tool bar shows 4 arrows allowing moving inside the window, and a key to add the
special character selected.
Confirm with
Note: When the special characters window is open it is still possible to select standard characters,
using the usual keyboard.
b) Circular – Marking circular messages
Circular is a short cut to describe marking a message following a circle shape
Page 14 out of 48

Enter the diameter figures, select the direction and confirm with
The direction defines the alignment of the characters on the circle. If it is “normal” then the bottom
of the characters is aligned on the circle. If it is “reversed”, the top of the characters is aligned on the
circle of the set diameter
Then type the text as in a)
For more details see circular function
c) Serial Number – Marking a number incrementing automatically.
A serial number is a number that increments at the end of each marking. It can be made of digits
and/or letters. The following window shows how to configure it.
The field value is the current value of the serial number. It will increase of the step value following
the frequency (number of marking) selected
For example: Value 2 will become 3 after 5 markings if we have selected 1 for step and 5 for
frequency.
Other example: value 10 will become 8 after 3 markings if we have selected -2 for step and 3 for
frequency.
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The number of digits shown in the Value field is very important as the serial number cannot have
more digits than the original one.
For example, if Value is 0, the serial number will increase until 9 then will start again from 0.
But if Value is 00, the serial number will increase until 99 before starting back from 0.
It is possible to reset the serial number automatically. Several choices are possible for this function:
 None: the serial number is never reset.
 Day: the serial number is reset every day.
 Value: The serial number is reset when it reaches the maximum value defined in end at .
The starting at field is the value given to the serial number when it is reset. The end at field is the
maximum value used when we want a reset on the Value criteria.
Once again, the number of digits is essential for the Starting at and End at fields. There must be
coherence, and therefore the same number of digits for all this values.
It is important to realise that all the blank fields (not grey) should be filled up, otherwise an error
message will be shown, to be acknowledge with
d) Timestamp- Marking Date and Time data
Timestamp is a specific variable containing a date and/or time. It is automatically updated by the
system. The following window shows how it is configured:
Enter the text in the code field and type the data as you wish, using the # sign before each entry, as
shown in the examples at the bottom of the window.
In the Preview field you can see in live the result of your entry. (The actual message that will be
marked)
Example:
Page 16 out of 48

e) Logo – Marking shapes and drawings
Inserting logos is an option needing an optional licence (see licences). It allows inserting logos
created with the Flexlog PC program inside a marking file.
When inserting (or editing) a logo, a window opens allowing you to select the desired logo from the
logo files list entered in the memory of the machine:
Select the logo and confirm with

The logo then appears in the graphic view, as for example this IDI logo
Page 17 out of 48

f) Bar code read – Marking the content of a bar code
The content must be set using a bar code reader

When you choose to insert a bar code read, the following window opens:
You must enter the maximum number of characters to be allocated to the content. If the bar code
reading is longer than this number, then it will be cut to get into the selected size. Only the first
characters will be printed.
As long as no code bar is read, an empty space of the defined size is shown in the graphic view when
the bar code read line is selected:
g) Pause – Set a pause during a marking process
A marking line can have a pause status.

In that case the marking is done for the lines defined before this pause, and then the marking stops
for a pause (Standby of the machine)
Use the Start and Stop buttons to stop or cancel the marking in progress. (see Marking)
Inserting a Pause can be necessary, for example, if the part to be marked has to be moved during the
marking process.
Page 18 out of 48

h) Crossing point – Command the head to move thru a point.
It is possible to force the head to move thru a defined point.

When a crossing point is defined, it is shown on the graphic view as an orange point.
In the example shown above, the marking head will move following the black arrows between the
two lines to be marked, because we have inserted a crossing point ( instead of using the direct red
arrow way)
Use the line displacement (see position mode) to position correctly the crossing point.
Using crossing points allows to define marking head displacement circuits , which can be useful for
parts with complex shapes.
i) 3rd axis rotation – Command D axis turning of a given angle
If the machine is equipped with third axis (D axis) rotation option, you can force this axis to rotate
during the marking. This function is only available if the rotation axis is set in generator mode (see
file parameters).
Enter the value of the rotation angle desired then confirm with: .
Note: this function can be useful when marking on different faces of the same part (for example a 6
faces part)
Page 19 out of 48

B. Position Mode. - Easy shift

Pressing position key sets the tool bar to position mode:
Move to the Move Move Move to the

left upwards downwards right Next
Enter Negative Positive Centre

Previous angle Circle
Circle
The Next key allows showing the next commands of the tool bar and the previous key shows the
previous commands of the tool bar.
The Easy Shift key allows positioning precisely the message with reference to the part to be marked.
To activate or deactivate this function, see machine configuration
Positioning actions on the screen, will command marking head displacements at the same time,
when this function is active.
a) Position
The position arrows allow positioning of the current line.

The movement can be seen on the grid and the position values(line origin point at the bottom left of
the line outline) appears in the info value field
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b) Enter angle value
The Enter Angle key is used to adjust the line angle.
Each strike on the key increases the angle by steps of 5° and the value appears in the Info Value field
To come back to 0° (horizontal text), you have to make a full turn, up to 360°.
c) Creating a circular marking.
The Circular setting keys are used to adjust the diameter of a circular marking
The current Diameter Value is shown in the info value field :
If the diameter value is positive, the bottom of the characters is aligned on the virtual circle. If this
value is negative, then the top of the characters is aligned on the circle.
Page 21 out of 48

In this example the same text (ABCDEF) is done with a positive diameter value (left) and with the
same value but negative (right)
By default, the machine sets the beginning point a 0 (parallel to the X Axis). To modify the beginning
point, you only have to modify the value of the angle using Enter Angle
d) Centring – Scrolling with D Axis
The centre key allows centring the current line within the marking window.
If the line is a circular text (see previously) and if the diameter of the virtual circle fits in the marking
window, then the centre of the virtual circle is centred.
In other cases, the outline of the text to be marked is centred.
If the file contains only 1 line, it is centred on X AND Y axis.
If the file contains more than 1 line then it is centred only on X axis
If third Axis option is activated, and if the marking is configured in circle mode (see parameters file)
then the centre key is replaced by the scrolling key.
This key allows scrolling the development of the part to be marked. See file parameters
Page 22 out of 48

C. Characters Height and density
This mode shows the following tool bar:
Increase Decrease Increase Decrease Change the

height height compression compression matrix
a) Height
The height (size) of the actual line is modified by the increase height and decrease height keys. The
height appears in the info value field:
Please note that a change in height modify as well the width of a line, and therefore its overall
dimension.
b) Compression
The compression of the line can be modified by the increase compression and decrease compression
keys. It appears in the info value window:
The compression does not modify the height, but changes the looks of the line (compressed or
extended).
The ratio height/width of the characters can vary from 50% to 200%.
This command is only valid for text files.
c) Matrix- Point density
The point matrix used for the text content can be selected from the 3 following choices:
 5x7 : characters are defined by a matrix of 5x7 points
 9x13 : characters are defined by a matrix of 9x13 points
 Continuous : characters points are spaced by 0.2 mm
The info value window shows the matrix actually selected
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5x7 9x13 continuous
D. Force Mode - IDI
The marking force is adjustable with the tool bar following a growing scale:
The selected force is shown in the info value field :
The depth of the marking depends on the strike force, but as well on the distance between the
stylus and the part.
It is recommended to use the following distances stylus/part for the 5 forces:
 Force 1 : distance of 1 mm
 Force 2 : distance of 1.5 mm
 Force 3 : distance of 2 to 4 mm
Respecting those distances is very important to obtain good result.
For weak forces (1, 2 even 3), If the stylus is too far it will not even touch the part when marking.
For high forces (4 and 5), the furthest the stylus (within its possible run), the strongest the hit will be.
Note: the force parameters are set for all the lines of one file
To reduce the obligation of distance setting, Flexmark offers you IDI technology.
When activating IDI function (see file parameter) a constant marking force is applied, whatever the
distance stylus/part is, in the range of 1 to 8 mm.
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When IDI function is activated, the machine makes a test impact to evaluate the distance and adjust
the force used to correspond to what is asked for.
IDI function is available in two different modes:
 Flat mode: The test impact is done at each line beginning. This is ideal for flat shapes, with
little slope.
Note: Ideal to have the same hitting force on the parts, without worrying about the distance.
 Curved mode: The test impact is done at each character beginning. This mode allows a
constant force when marking on cylinders, corrugated parts, …
Note: Ideal to mark parts with a constant force when they present an uneven distance along
the length of the marking.
Marking on a corrugated part, using IDI

The IDI mode is indicated on main screen by the following icons:
IDI non activated
IDI flat
IDI curved
Page 25 out of 48

E. Info
Info opens a window displaying important information relating to the marking:
Current Force Overall

line/Number of dimensions
lines
Type
Content
Position
Height Compression
Angle Circular
Matrix Line dimensions
The first line of this window contains general information applying to the complete file.
 Number of lines
 Force
 Overall dimensions of the complete message
The other information applies only to the current line:
 Type and content
 Position
 Height- Compression
 Angle – circular marking diameter
 Matrix
 Line dimensions
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It is possible to get information on the other lines, by using the arrows in the tool bar.
The key allows reseting the marking counter to zero (marking counter shown in
main screen).
F. Test
In test mode, the tool bar presents the following keys:
Position Outline Simulation
Position allows to correctly position the line by moving the marking head. This is similar to easy shift.
And this key is not present when easy shift is operational.
Outline allows testing the outline of the actual line. The marking head is then moving around the line,
following its outside border.
Simulation allows simulating the marking. The machine does all the operations of the real marking,
except percussions.
G. File
In File mode, the tool bar presents these keys:
Parameters Save Open New USB
a) Parameters: Speed – IDI –D Axis
The parameters key allows setting the marking file parameters using the following window:
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3 marking speed are possible: Low, medium, high. The fastest the speed is, the more the risk to alter
marking quality is high.
Note: to mark small characters (less than 2 mm) prefer low speed
IDI allows selecting IDI mode for the current marking file. There are 3 IDI modes
 Off (no IDI)
 IDI flat mode
 IDI curved mode
For more information on IDI use, please refer to Force– IDI.
If the machine is equipped with a D axis, the file can be associated with a D axis function.
D axis accessory must be activated beforehand with system parameters.
There are 3 possible options for D axis:
 None : marking is made without D axis
 Circumference: The marking is made on the part circumference. It is essential to enter the
part diameter (accuracy ±0.1 mm) as the marking window will be adjusted to the used
perimeter. The marking head moves simultaneously along the 3 axis and it is possible to
make helicoidal marking on cylindrical parts.
 Generator: The marking is done along x y, so flat. Nevertheless, by inserting rotations
(rotation function) in the marking file, the D axis will apply these rotations. Therefore it is
possible to mark hexagonal parts in this mode
b) Save
Save allows saving the file
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Enter the file name, then enter up to 3 lines of comments and confirm with .This window
appears, even if the file has already been saved.
It allows to change the file name (function save under)
If a file has already this name, a confirmation window will open:
Confirm with .
c) Open
Open allows opening a file:
Text field
List
Comments
You can enter the file name in the reserved field, the right and left arrows allowing moving in the text
field. The corresponding file will then be outlined in the list. Entering the first letters of the file name
will automatically select it.
You can as well type in the first letters of the file name; the file list will automatically be filtered using
this data.
The file can as well be selected using the up and down arrows to move in the list.
Confirm the file to be open with

The wastebasket key is used to delete the selected file.
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d) New
New allows you to create a new file.

You are automatically redirected towards file parameters
Then towards new line creation
e) USB
USB allows importing and exporting data via a USB key. This key only appears if a USB key is
connected.
The USB key must be formatted FAT or FAT32 to be recognised by the machine.
Import recovers automatically all the marking files and all the logos saved on the USB key and saves
them on the controller.
Export saves all the files and all the logos contained in the controller onto the USB key.
When exporting, a historic file of all markings is saved on the USB key. It is in text format and gives
date, name of the file, and how many times it has been marked.
H. Marking.
Start marking is made by pressing : .
The following window will then appear during the time of the marking.
Pressing will put the marking in pause:
Page 30 out of 48

A second touch on will stop the marking and the head will return to its origin point.
A touch on will restart the marking after a pause.

In hand-held mode, a quick press on the cycle starting trigger will command a marking test and a
long one will start marking. Once the marking or the test has begun, a press on the trigger will
command a pause. To end the pause, a quick press on the trigger will restart the marking or test and
a long press will stop the marking.
I. Machine Configuration.
The machine configuration mode can be reached by pressing simultaneously shift + file
The tool bar then becomes:
Parameters Time Info Licence Communication
a) System Parameters:
Pressing this key opens this window:
Page 31 out of 48

It is then possible to configure:

 D Axis: None, D axis or D max axis. The offset on y axis is then shown. It is the Y position of D
axis with reference to the marking window.
 Language : language choice
 Units : millimetres or inches
 Autosave : activated or deactivated. . If activated the actual file will be automatically saved at
shutdown.
 Brightness : setting of the screen lightning
 Easy Shift : activated or deactivated
Use the up and down arrows to move inside the window and the right and left arrows to change the
values.
b) Date and Hour
The Controller date and hour can be changed, as well as the time zone:
Page 32 out of 48

c) Information
The information window shows several data relating to the machine:
The state of the different sensors is indicated by LED’s green or red depending on their state:
activated or deactivated
1, 2, 3 and 4 keyboard keys are used to activate/deactivate the corresponding output.
Note: this menu allows a quick diagnostic of the machine and to check interfacing of the outside
components.
Page 33 out of 48

This key start an auto diagnosis:
This will initiate several mechanical controls:

 Impactor analysis: make an impact and check that the current circuit is correct.
 Cross table analysis: check the origin detection and that there are no hard point along the
mechanical axis.
 Z axis analysis (if present): Command the D axis to rotate one way then the other way. The
operator must check by himself the movement of the axis.
 Output verification: Commute the 4 output (1 to 4) one at the time. The operator should ear
the relays changing state.
d) Licences and machine serial number
The licences numbers are entered in the licence window:
Licences are necessary for FlexSoft software (after the demo date), use of logos (FlexLog) and PC
software FlexWindows.
Page 34 out of 48

If the licence number entered is valid the field changes colour from red to green:
The number in the title of the window is the machine serial number that you will be asked when
ordering a licence number.
e) Communication
Communication parameters can be configured:
Use the navigation arrows to change parameters.
Page 35 out of 48

5. Delayed cycle start and RS232 communication

Your Flexmark controller is equipped with a connection for delayed cycle start and a RS232 serial
port.
A. Delayed cycle start

The delayed cycle start can be used with either of the following accessories:
 Delayed cycle pedal: Used to start a marking cycle
 Button box: Used to start and stop a marking cycle.
B. RS232 Communication
The controller communication protocol allows using the system as a « slave », by sending orders thru
the RS232 serial port.
The system waits for orders with the following structure:

[STX][Command 1][Command 2]…[Command N][ETX]
[STX] correspond to character ASCII 02 and defines the beginning of the frame.
[ETX] correspond to character ASCII 03 and defines the end of the frame.
Each command ends with [CR], end of command indicator; its ASCII value is 13.
There are several possible commands:
a) Opening a file
Opening a file is done by command A followed by the name of the file:

For example, to open the test file, the following frame is sent:
[STX]ATEST[CR][ETX]
b) Variable bar code
It is possible to give the value of variable bar code with the command character = followed by the
desired value.
For example, to give the value TEST to the variable bar code, the frame to send will be:
[STX]BCB=TEST[CR][ETX]
Page 36 out of 48

c) Marking
To start marking use the command D

Example : [STX]D[CR][ETX]
To get frames giving information on the end of the marking, the return must be activated by the
command R followed by character 1 (or 0 if this function is deactivated)
Exemple [STX]R1[CR][ETX]
In that case the following frames are emitted by the marking machine:
 When the last marking point is done, the controller sends the end of marking frame:
[STX]Marking End[ETX]
 When the marking cycle is finished, and the head is back to the origin, the controller sends
the end of cycle frame:
[STX]Cycle End[ETX]
d) Pause and stop
The marking can be put in pause by sending command Q.

Example : [STX]Q[CR][ETX]
The pause holds as long as no other command is sent.
Emit marking frame starts again the marking process. Emit another pause command stops the
marking and the heads goes back to origin.
Page 37 out of 48

6. Maintenance and every day care
All maintenance operations must be done with the machine out of power.. The
power cable must be unplugged.
A. Identification of mechanical components
Stylus assembly
1 General view of the marking machine
Page 38 out of 48

Guiding rod
Translation screw
Pin assembly
Guiding rail
Guiding wheel
Guiding bar
2 Marking machine mechanical components view
Page 39 out of 48

Return spring
Stylus guide
Knurled nut
Core
Stylus
3 Stylus assembly open view
B. General maintenance information

The maintenance operations of your Flexmark equipment are limited.
The active part requiring the most care is the stylus assembly. It is absolutely necessary to lubricate
the stylus to avoid that it gets stuck inside its guide.
In case of accumulation of dust, metal parts…the stylus movement can show some hard points
affecting the marking quality.
The lubrication frequency is variable, depending on the conditions of use of your machine.
Environment, number of marking, matrix, hitting force are all parameters affecting the maintenance
frequency.
As an indicator, we recommend (for 5 x7 matrix marking):

 Very intensive use (+ de 10 000 characters/day) : daily
 Intensive use (4000 characters/day) : twice a week
 Moderate use (1000 characters/day) : Once a week
C. Cleaning and lubricating the stylus
 Make sure the power is off

 Position the machine sideways (stylus in horizontal position) or up on the column at the
highest (top) position.
 Unscrew the knurled nut by hand. Never use a tool.
Page 40 out of 48

Using a tool as a universal spanner for example can definitely damage your machine.
 Pull out the guide, the return spring, the stylus and the core.
 Clean as necessary the core, the stylus and the guide, using a dry, clean rag.
 Use Vaseline oil from your maintenance kit: pour a little bit of fine oil inside the guide and on
the stylus.
 Put back together the parts, in the order and in the way shown on the stylus assembly open
view.
 Tighten the nut onto the electric coil without force (see the warnings and usage precautions)
Page 41 out of 48

D. Stylus sharpening
The stylus is a wearing part of the Flexmark machine.

Repetitive markings (especially on hard materials) will blunt the pin. So the quality of the impact dots
(circularity, depth) is decreasing with time;
Alternatively, a lateral shock on hard material can nick the tip and produce a bad quality marking.
All styluses supplied with your Flexmark machine (standard or optional) are made of one piece
tungsten carbide. So a sharpening operation is possible, as long you use an appropriate grind.
Tip angles :
The standard styluses are sharpened with a 90° tip. This angle is the best for optimised marking
quality/life time. Nevertheless we offer different sharpening angles for specific applications: (60°,
120°, Aeronautic with a 0,2mm round tip).
Check first the sharpening angle of your stylus before starting any sharpening operation.
The stylus can turn freely inside its guide. So a non-concentric sharpening will always result in
bad quality marking.
E. The spring
The action of the spring is essential to good marking quality. A “lazy” spring will not allow the stylus
to come back up fast enough, and the dots could be weak, or not regularly spaced. If you get this
problem, change the spring.
Proceed in the same manner than for a lubrication operation to disassemble the stylus assembly.
The life time of the spring depends on the stylus movement, the vibration frequency and the
operating temperature of the stylus assembly.
Free length of the spring: 53.5 mm.

It is admitted that the spring should be considered as “tired” when its length is less than 51 mm
Page 42 out of 48

F. General mechanical maintenance
When performing maintenance operation, make sure to disconnect your controller to avoid any
movement from the mechanic parts.
As for the stylus assembly, the other mechanical parts require minor maintenance. Nevertheless we
recommend:
 Keep as clean as possible the guiding rod to optimise the life span of your marking
equipment, and maintain marking quality.
To do so, turn down the machine so the stylus is facing you, and using a dry rag and/or a degreasing
solution, clean the guiding rods on all their length.
 Make sure as well that all the components shown on the “marking machine mechanical
components view” are kept as clean as possible.
To do so, turn down the machine so the stylus is facing you, and wipe the dirty parts with a dry rag.
You can as well use a “dry compressed air gun” to do this cleaning.
Once clean, it is advisable to lubricate all rolling parts with the Vaseline oil available in your
maintenance kit. It will help removing the recalcitrant dust parts at the first movements of the
mechanic parts as well as keeping mechanical movements smoother.
The cleaning frequency depends directly on the usage conditions of the machine. A visual control will
be sufficient to detect quickly any scrub marks on the guide
As a guide
 Very tough environment use: Once a week
 Normal environment use : Once a month
 Clean environment use :Twice a year
G. Maintenance of the electronic panel- marking controller
No specific maintenance is necessary. Just make sure not to use the controller in a confined place.
The natural air flow will be enough to cool down the controller. See chapter “use conditions”
The electronic panel contain power components, so it produces heat. It is normal that your keyboard
gets warm during intensive use.
The panel is temperature regulated: in case of very intensive use, in hot ambient temperature, near
the maximum allowed value, a message can appear on the screen.
The only maintenance to be recommended is to pass a dry clean rag from time to time, to keep the
best possible usage.
Page 43 out of 48

H. Error code and trouble shooting.

The Flexmark machine will help you to detect any malfunction that could happen. If a problem is
detected, error codes can appear on the screen.
The window will close with
Please refer to the following table to identify your problem.
Error code / Problem Probable reason Corrective Action
Error 1 : Memory error Restart the controller

If still at fault, call SCAV
Error 2 : File error 1- Restart the controller

2-Recreate the file following
the method described at§5-G-d
And delete the defective file
3- Contact SCAV
Error 8 : Short circuit stylus The pin assembly cable is cut or Check the pin assembly cable
damaged condition and restart the
controller
The connector of the pin Check the connector of the pin

assembly is not plugged assembly cable and restart the
properly, or damaged controller
The marking head cable is cut Check the marking head cable
or damaged condition and restart the
controller
Page 44 out of 48

Error 9: Open circuit The pin assembly cable is cut or Check the pin assembly cable
controller

The marking head cable is cut Check the marking head cable
or damaged condition and restart the
controller
Contact SCAV
Error 10 : weak current The pin assembly cable is cut or Check the pin assembly cable
controller

Error 13 : Missing marking head The marking cable is not Check that the marking head is
correctly connected to the correctly connected and the
controller connector locked then restart
the controller
The marking head cable is cut Check the cable condition
Can happen only during A mechanical blockage Check if the marking head path
marking controller initialisation prevents the machine to go to is free then restart the
its origin point controller
With power off, check that the
machine can reach its origin
position freely
The detection card is faulty If still at fault, call SCAV
Error 14 : Origin X and Y error The pin assembly is Check if the marking head path
mechanically stopped by an is free then restart the
outside obstacle controller
Can happen only after a first or The detection elements are Check that the detection tabs
n marking faulty are not bent, and so not
passing inside the detectors
Page 45 out of 48

and restart the controller
The detection card is faulty Contact SCAV
Error 15 : Origin X error The pin assembly is Check if the marking head path
Can happen when starting, X detection element is faulty Check that the X detection tab
after the first marking or after n is not bent, and so not passing
markings inside the detector and restart
the controller
Error 16 : Origin Y error The pin assembly is Check if the marking head path
Can happen when starting, Y detection element is faulty Check that the Y detection tab
after the first marking or after n is not bent, and so not passing
markings inside the detector and restart
the controller
Error 39, 40, 41, 42 : EEPROM Contact SCAV

error
Error 43,44,45,46: USB key The USB key in use is faulty Try a different USB key
error
Restart the controller
Internal controller fault Contact SCAV.
Error 47 : Internal error Restart the controller

Contact SCAV
Error 48 : Demo error The demonstration date is Contact the marketing

passed department
Error 49 : Window error A marking point is outside the Check if there is a warning flag
marking window showing a marking outside the
marking window in the marking
Page 46 out of 48

preview. Reposition the text.

If problem persists, call SCAV
Error 50 : Temperature error The machine stayed too long in Stop the controller for about 10
easy shift mode, the motors minutes then start again
stayed too long under power
The ambient temperature is Stop the controller for about 10

outside specifications minutes then start again
Marking in a row many files Decrease the number of dots

with big number of characters by using a different font.
and using a high quality matrix
Reduce marking speed
Reduce marking force
Error 1 : Unknown error Restart the controller

Contact SCAV.
The controller screen does not The controller is not powered Check if the power cable is
work up properly connected
Check the on/off switch
position
Eventually call SCAV
The marking depth is not The stylus tip is worn or Re sharpen or replace stylus
sufficient and/or not regular damaged
The stylus is dirty and/or Clean and lubricate stylus

partially stuck
The spring is worn/ too weak Change the return spring
The distance Stylus/part to be Move the head nearer to the

marked is nearly 10 mm and part
irregularity of the part causes
the stylus to reach its stop limit
Eventually call SCAV
No impact is done when You are performing a test In handheld operation a short
marking marking and not a marking press on the trigger starts a
Page 47 out of 48

cycle test, a long one a marking

cycle.
The stylus is blocked and/or is Clean the stylus, check the

not going down/or up spring and if the core is
present. Hand tight the nut
The machine is making unusual The driving systems and/or Clean the mechanical parts
noises guides are too dirty following the user’s manual
guidelines
If problem persists call SCAV
Marking quality is not The part to be marked is not Fix/bolt the part or keep firmly
satisfactory and/or characters correctly fixed in place or the the machine on a face as
are not well formed machine is not well maintained straight as possible on the part
on the part to be marked
The marking speed is too high Reduce marking speed,

for the character size increase character size
The impact depth is too much Decrease marking force, use a

for the character size and the less precise matrix, increase
matrix used character size or move the
machine closer to the part.
Page 48 out of 48


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THE NEW WAY OF MARKING!

3 Allée Michaël FARADAY

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France) www.flexmark-marking.com

B. Position Mode. - Easy shift ..................................................................................... 20

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)

C. Characters Height and density ................................................................................ 23

D. Force Mode - IDI ...................................................................................................... 24

5. Delayed cycle start and RS232 communication ......................................................... 36

6. Maintenance and every day care.............................................................................. 38

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)

 : Indicates essential information related to users safety.

 : Indicates information essential to avoid serious damage to the equipment.

 NOTE : Indicates complementary information.

B. PLEASE READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE USING

1. NEVER CONNECT/DICONNECT THE MARKING HEAD IF THE CONTROL PANEL IS UNDER

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)

3. YOUR EQUIPMENT HAS BEEN DESIGNED TO BE USED IN VARIOUS SITUATIONS;

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)

2. Installing and starting the machine

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)

USB Host Port USB Device Port RS232 Connector

B. Normal condition of use

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)

C. Starting your marking equipment :

Type of power supply

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)

Force mode File mode

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)

3. Main screen and general operation

File name Time IDI Marks counter

The file name shown is the one of the current file.

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)

Number Type Content Info

o x and y position (line reference point)

o diameter in radiant mode

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)

The marking is launched by the start button.

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)

4. Modes and functions

A. Standard Mode: Editing and inserting lines

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)

Editing/inserting a text displays the following window:

Enter the text to be marked and confirm with: .

b) Circular – Marking circular messages

Circular is a short cut to describe marking a message following a circle shape

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)

c) Serial Number – Marking a number incrementing automatically.

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)

d) Timestamp- Marking Date and Time data

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)

e) Logo – Marking shapes and drawings

Select the logo and confirm with

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)

f) Bar code read – Marking the content of a bar code

The content must be set using a bar code reader

g) Pause – Set a pause during a marking process

A marking line can have a pause status.

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)

h) Crossing point – Command the head to move thru a point.

It is possible to force the head to move thru a defined point.

i) 3rd axis rotation – Command D axis turning of a given angle

FLEXMARK Tél : 04 77 31 04 02 (France)