<< Click to Display Table of Contents >> Navigation:  MILL Module > Creating 3 Axis Operations > Horizontal Finishing, 3 Axis

Horizontal Finishing is a toolpath method that can be used either as a pre-finishing operation or as a finishing operation. This method is similar to Parallel Finishing. The major difference is the type of cutting that is performed. Here, the cutter finishes in constant Z planes.

This operation is suitable for parts with have steep walls while Parallel Finishing is more suitable for shallow parts. The tool types commonly used in this method are ball tools. As the cutter follows these horizontal planes, it can either maintain climb/conventional/mixed type of machining. In climb or conventional, the direction of cutting is maintained so as the corresponding cutting condition is maintained on the part. In the mixed type of machining however, the direction of cutting is alternated between each parallel plane, similar to the ZigZag machining in Parallel Finishing.

See also: What Tool Types are Supported by this Operation?