Slot Parameters Tab, Slotting, 2½ Axis

<< Click to Display Table of Contents >>

Navigation:  MILL Module > Creating 2½ Axis Operations > Slotting >

Slot Parameters Tab, Slotting, 2½ Axis

The following Slot Parameters tab allows you to define the cut parameters for the current Slotting operation.  You can set Global Parameters, Cut Pattern, Cut Direction and the Stepover Distance via this tab of the operation dialog.  The Global Parameters section allows you to set the tolerance value to be used in machining.  A uniform thickness or stock that needs to be left around the part can also be specified here.  Refer to each option below.

 

tog_minusDialog Box: Slot Parameters tab
Dialog Box: Slot Parameters tab, Slotting Operations

Dialog Box: Slot Parameters tab, Slotting Operations
tog_minusGlobal Parameters

This is the allowable deviation from the actual part geometry plus the Stock allowance (if any).  In 2 Axis methods, this Tolerance is applied to XY motions only.

Tolerance

Tolerance

How to Increase Tool Path AccuracyTolerances play a vital role in both design engineering and digital manufacturing.  In design, the goal is to allow the broadest tolerance range possible while meeting your design specifications. This is because, generally speaking, there is a direct correlation between tighter tolerances and higher manufacturing costs.

Read the full article...

Stock

This is the thickness of the layer that will remain on top of the part after the toolpath is complete. Roughing operations generally leave a thin layer of stock.  For finishing operations this value is zero.

Stock

Stock

This enables cutter compensation.  The compensation direction, left or right, is determined by the Cut Direction selected (Climb or Conventional).
tog_minusSlot Cut Direction

For Cut Direction, select Natural to follow the direction as it is defined by the start/end points of the selected regions.  Select Reversed to cut in the opposite direction.
tog_minusTreat curves as Slot spines

Check this box if you only have a spine curve(s) to define your slot and then enter the desired Slot Width in the filed provided.  If the Slot Width is wider than the cutter diameter, a  trochoidal toolpath pattern is created.

Slot from Spine Curves

Slot from Spine Curves
tog_minusDetermine open/closed ends using 3D model

Check this box to automatically determine this cutting condition based on the 3D model. DO NOT check this box if you do not have a 3D model.

tog_minusCut Direction

Select Climb (Down Cut) and the tool will be maintained in a downward motion into the stock.

Climb (Down Cut)

Climb (Down Cut)

Select Conventional (Up Cut) and the direction of the tool will be maintained in an upward motion out of the stock.

Conventional (Up Cut)

Conventional (Up Cut)

Understanding Cut Levels in 2½ Axis MachiningOne of the basic concepts to understand in any milling operation is Cut Direction.  It can be characterized by how the flutes of the cutting tool engage the stock material and form the chip that is removed during cutting. In many of MecSoft CAM’s 2½ & 3 Axis toolpath strategies you will see that Cut Direction is defined by selecting one of three options, Climb, Conventional or Mixed.  Let’s take a look at the characteristics of each option.

Read the full article...
tog_minusCleanup Pass

Automatically detect corners that the tool could not reach between cut level and add a toolpath based on the uncut area detected.  Either Linear or Offset cut patterns are used in these areas.

Cleanup Pass

Cleanup Pass
No Cleanup Pass

No Cleanup Pass
tog_minusStepover Distance

Specify the stepover distance for the current operation as a percentage of the active tool diameter (% Tool Dia) and then enter the percentage value.

% Tool Dia.

% Tool Dia.

Specify the stepover for the current operation as an exact Distance and then enter the distance value in the field provided.

Distance

Distance