Cut Parameters tab, Steeps Z (Horizontal Hill) Finishing, 3 Axis

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Cut Parameters tab, Steeps Z (Horizontal Hill) Finishing, 3 Axis

The following Cut Parameters tab allows you to define the cut parameters for the current 3 Axis Steeps Z (Horizontal Hill) Finishing operation.  You can set Global Parameters, Machining Area, Cut Direction and the Stepdown 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, Steeps Z (Horizontal Hill) Finishing, 3 Axis

Dialog Box: Cut Parameters tab, Steeps Z (Horizontal Hill) 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_minusMachine Areas Steeper Than

This section allows you to define the Steepness Angle (A). This angle controls which regions will be machined. The system identifies all areas of the part that are steeper than this angle from the horizontal and creates machining regions that are used in the subsequent machining process.
tog_minusCut Direction

The Cut Direction can be controlled by specifying either Climb (Down Cut), Conventional (Up Cut) or Mixed.

Climb Cut

Climb Cut
Conventional Cut

Conventional Cut
Climb/Conventional Cut

Mixed

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_minusStepdown Control (dZ)

This section allows you to define the spacing between the horizontal cut levels for the roughing operation. The spacing can be specified either % Tool Diameter, a specific Distance or as the total Number of Levels desired.