Cut Parameters tab, Horizontal Finishing, 3 Axis

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Cut Parameters tab, Horizontal Finishing, 3 Axis

The following Cut Parameters tab allows you to define the cut parameters for the current 3 Axis Horizontal Finishing operation.  You can set Global Parameters and Cut Direction 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: Cut Parameters tab
Dialog Box: Horizontal Finishing, 3 Axis

Dialog Box: Horizontal Finishing, 3 Axis
tog_minusGlobal Parameters
Global Parameters, 3 Axis Operations

Global Parameters, 3 Axis Operations

The Global Parameters section allows you to set the tolerance value to be used in machining. Intol and Outol are allowable deviations (tolerances) from the actual part geometry plus the Stock layer (if any).  A uniform thickness or stock that needs to be left around the part can be specified here.

Intol / Outol
Inward tolerance - the maximum thickness of material that can be removed from the Stock layer.  Outward tolerance is the maximum thickness of material that can remain above the Stock layer.

 

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.

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Stock  
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, but for finishing operations this value is zero.
tog_minusCut Direction

The Cut Direction of the toolpath can be specified either as Climb, Conventional or Climb/Conventional by selecting the appropriate radio buttons. As mentioned before, in climb or conventional, the direction of cutting is maintained so as the corresponding cutting condition is maintained on the part. In the Climb/Conventional type of machining however, the direction of cutting is alternated between each parallel plane.

Climb Cut

Climb
Conventional Cut

Conventional
Climb/Conventional Cut

Climb/Conventional

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.

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tog_minusTool Action when Containment is Encountered

Use this option to select how the tool should move when encountering a containment region.  Select Retract to Clearance or Follow Containment.

Retract

Retract
Follow

Follow