Slow pocket on small holes with ramps

[WWBeds]

I use a 1/4" bit to pocket about 10 holes on a process that I do regularly. These holes are 3/8" diameter.

The problem I have, because of the ramp and a circle, it takes a really long time per hole (about 1 min./hole making 3 passes to the 3/4" depth)

I program a 1" zig zag ramp. Is there something I can do to make this go faster?

[gc3]

3/8" diameter bit using peck drilling function

[srwtlc]

If you have to use a 0.25" bit, you can try raising your plunge rate for the tool, but due to the size or short length of the toolpaths, the machine may never get out of ramp rate speed. You could up that a little as well for this situation. VR and adjust ramp value and maybe even the move ramp rate value. Record the defaults to return to later.

[WWBeds]

gc3 I am trying to avoid a tool change.

Scott, thanks. I'll play around with those values.

[scottp55]

Try a Profile Toolpath, Inside the line, WITH a Spiral Ramp.
Use a fair amount of spirals as it goes VERY quickly.
X,Y Feed nowhere near as important as Plunge Speed for finding the sweet spot to keep bit cool!
A couple test holes should give it to you.
Allowance will let you dial in a Perfect size, and a Final Pass(under Edit Passes) of say .001" gives a Nice smooth hole , as there's virtually no pressure in the bit.
Another benefit is you can use it for holes 50-90% of the Diameter of the bit:)
I had three different size holes on my modified Bill Young spoilboard I made 2 of....and it was only 1 bit for the holes:)

Used it on thousands of buttonholes, and cribbage board holes, as it turned out to be the fastest/cleanest method.

[Gary Campbell]

Use a profile with spiral ramp, not a pocket

[WWBeds]

It's amazing how something as simple as that can be overlooked by me for so long. Pocket vs. inside profile. Thank you! That did in in about 1/5 the time and no telling how much more life I'll get out of my bits.

[srwtlc]

Good catch, spiral is what I do as well, but got hung up on your "pocket and ramp". ;)

[Brady Watson]

Watch out for nails...

Gene.... Palumbo was trying to link up with you