Pocket

[nat_wheatley]

I'm toolpathing 1 1/2" x 5" pockets using a 3/8" bit. The first pass would start in the center, and create what looked like a dog bone. Next pass appeared to be the same pattern, outside of the first. Final pass cut the pocket shape (rectangle) inside the line. Any idea why it cut the 'dog bone' instead of a series of rectangles. It ends up being alot of awkward moves for the machine.
Thanks.

[beacon14]

If you are using a large stepover there can be some uncut little spots left in the corners. The dogbone path cleans up those little spots. You can reduce the stepover and see if it helps but it will increase the machining time

[nat_wheatley]

Thanks David. I do remember I did have a very large stepover, unnecessarily so.