Cut Parameters tab, Pencil Tracing, 3 Axis

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Cut Parameters tab, Pencil Tracing, 3 Axis

The following Cut Parameters tab allows you to define the cut parameters for the current 3 Axis Pencil Tracing operation.  You can set Global Parameters, Cut Direction and the Stepover Control 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: Cut Parameters tab, Pencil Tracing, 3 Axis

Dialog Box: Cut Parameters tab, Pencil Tracing, 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 or 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.

Climb Cut

Climb Cut
Conventional Cut

Conventional 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.

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tog_minusDo Multiple Cuts?

This allows you to have 2 or more cut passes and the distance between the cuts can be specified using Stepover Control (see below). Specifying the Number of cuts = 2 results in 2 cuts on both sides of the pencil trace.

Single Cut

Single Cut
Multiple Cuts (3 cuts)

Multiple Cuts (3 cuts)
tog_minusStepover Control
Stepover Control, 3 Axis Operations

Stepover Control, 3 Axis Operations

This allows you to define the spacing between the cuts.  Select from the following options:

% Tool Diameter  
Enter the stepover distance as a percentage value of the tool diameter.

Distance  
Enter the exact stepover distance preferred.

Scallop

(not available for all operations)
Enter the scallop height to determine the spacing between cuts.