V carve using multiple bits

[dstacey]

I have been making some vcarve signs for Christmas and it seems like it takes a long time to clean out the pocket area. I have been using .25 inch bit to clean out the pocket, but it doesn's fit into all of the letter spaces so I wanted to switch to a .125 inch bit. However this looks like it much longer. Is there a way to use the smaller bit to clean out around the letters then clear out the larger real estate with a bigger bit using part works?

Thanks for the help.
Dave

[Brady Watson]

If using PartWorks, you can use 2 square end tools in the Pocketing toolpath, but not in the v-carving toolpath with flat bottom option. So, you could do an area clear with an 1/8" bit, and check 'Use Larger Area Clearance Tool' in the Pocketing toolpath and use your 1/4" to get all the big stuff.

-B

[dstacey]

Thanks Brady.

Please let me make sure I under stand:
What your suggesting is that I clear out a rectangle pocket around the outside of the letttering and make the vcarve toolpath only cut a smaller rectangle inside the other with the smaller bit.

If this is right I think I can follow but I still can't see the option to use a "Larger Bit"

Is this a box somewhere I just can't see?

Dave

[Brady Watson]

Without a screenshot or CRV of what you are doing...It's just a shot in the dark.

Try what I suggested and run a 3D toolpath preview to test the results...

-B

[zeykr]

Dave,
He's saying to do the larger rectangle with a Pocket toolpath and the smaller with an area clear.

[dstacey]

Thanks Guys, I'll give it a try.
Dave

[joe]

I'd suggest there are at least a dozen answers to this problem.

We are a little short of information which leaves us guessing for an answer. And there isn't a photo to show us the situation.

Knowing the "material and bits" are very important. I'm very critical of bit sharpness along with the cuting strategy. Some woods like Cypress are soft and stringey leaving fuz behind. A quick spray with shellac and a second shallow pass will do the job. The real hard, hardwoods seldom need much cleaning up. Feed and speeds have to be calculated each time the work begins. Since lumber will vary in density and moisture it's best to do a little testing.

Joe