Possible to cut with one tool?

[changrudy]

Hi guys,

I have a piece here that I would like to mass produce. It's only one corner of a square casing. The step and center cutout would be done using a 3/8 down cut bit. Is it possible to cut the small cutout on the x-z plane using that same bit? Reason being to reduce the bit change.

The way I see that this can be done is to figure out each (x,y,z) point on the model and write a custom shopbot program. With a square end bit moving in the x-Z axis with an 8% stepover would give the proper radius, would it not?

Thanks,

Rudy

[mitch_prest]

was the part done in solidworks??? send me the solid .. prest_m@yahoo.ca


mitch

[harryball]

Basically, you want to plunge along an arc. As Z- you need the correct X+ rate to create the desired profile. I think creating a dish in Aspire with a raster cut would be able to do what you want.

/RB

[changrudy]

RB,

Yes, that's what I want to do. Plunge the z along an arc. I get that effect if I use partworks 3D but I have those radius on all four corners of the box so it would would plunge for the x-z plane but then it would not for the y-z plane.

Is there a way to plunge in an arc in partworks or artcam without doing the whole part in 3D?

Thanks,

Rudy

[harryball]

hmm... you might be able to create 2 opposing tool paths with a smooth entry ramp. Then edit the .sbp file to eliminate the return move that squares up the ramp. With that method you should be able to create a slot with arcs in and out.

It may also be able to be done with the fluting toolpath feature.

/RB

[Brady Watson]

Is there a way to plunge in an arc in partworks or artcam without doing the whole part in 3D?


Yes, you can do this in ArtCAM using the Feature Machine toolpath strategy. You need an underlying 3D relief in order to define the Z moves.

Take your time understanding how to do multiple Z stepdowns when using Feature Machining. It works opposite the way you might think in this regard.

If you have to do a lot of these, it might be possible to do this with a shaped cutter (like an Ogee) and 2D strategy - but not with just one bit.

-B