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Siemens SINUMERIK Controller
Program/G-code · Intermediate · 30-120 minutes
Siemens 61742 - Retraction plane is within the machining range
Alarm 61742 occurs when CYCLE950 (approach cycle) detects a collision risk during tool approach and the NCK cannot execute automatic correction via the configured approach strategy. This typically indicates either inadequate clearance plane definition, improper MD parameter configuration for approach behavior, or conflicting geometry in the workpiece coordinate system that prevents safe tool positioning.
61742
Siemens 61742 - Retraction plane is within the machining range
Retraction plane is within the machining range
Control reaction: Interpreter stop NC Start disable in this channel. Interface signals are set. Alarm display.
Root Cause Summary
Alarm 61742 occurs when CYCLE950 (approach cycle) detects a collision risk during tool approach and the NCK cannot execute automatic correction via the configured approach strategy. This typically indicates either inadequate clearance plane definition, improper MD parameter configuration for approach behavior, or conflicting geometry in the workpiece coordinate system that prevents safe tool positioning.
Safety
- Only qualified personnel should diagnose and clear control alarms; follow the machine builder's safety procedures and lockout/tagout where hardware work is required.
Causes and Fixes
- 1
In SINUMERIK 840D, navigate to Diagnostics > Parameters > Machine Data (MD). Verify MD20050 (APPROACHING_FEED_RATE) is set to a positive value; recommend 10-20% of rapid feed rate.
Do not set MD20050 to zero or negative values.
- 2
Check CYCLE950 call syntax: verify CLEARANCE parameter (typically 2nd parameter) specifies clearance height in mm above part surface. Cross-reference with actual workpiece setup height (MD20090 - TOOL_LENGTH_OFFSET_REFERENCE).
Clearance must exceed maximum tool runout and any fixturing protrusions.
- 3
Verify workpiece coordinate system (WCS) offset in active G-code program matches physical setup. Use PLC menu > Offsets > G54-G59 or set via G10 L20 P# commands to confirm Z-origin placement.
- 4
Reduce approach feed rate by 50% in subsequent CYCLE950 call to allow NCK more computation time for collision detection avoidance.
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