How to minimize/eliminate bit grooves

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fgriffin
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Joined: Mon Dec 01, 2014 3:43 pm
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How to minimize/eliminate bit grooves

Post by fgriffin »

grooves.jpg
When I mill a 3D piece, the router bit in finish pass leaves small grooves that are difficult to sand out especially when there is small, intricate carving. I use the recommended bit, in my case a 1/8" round nose as well as the other recommended settings. Is there a way to minimize/eliminate the grooves. Does stepover affect this?

Attached file shows the issue. May have to be enlarged to see details

thanks

frank

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scottp55
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Re: How to minimize/eliminate bit grooves

Post by scottp55 »

Yes Frank, Probably stepover. Most people seem to have good luck with 8% as a rule of thumb. Just beginning myself, but had much better results with 6% in hard maple as it really reduced the "fuzzies". More time but better results--some people go even smaller with excellent results.
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fgriffin
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Joined: Mon Dec 01, 2014 3:43 pm
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Re: How to minimize/eliminate bit grooves

Post by fgriffin »

thanks so much. I'll experiment with smaller stepover

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Leo
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Re: How to minimize/eliminate bit grooves

Post by Leo »

If that is a flat bottom pocket you should not be using a ball end mill.

If it is a 3D which is most likely in CUT3D - then definately stepover.

With a 1/8 end mill I may go as low as .005 stepover - then you should at least really close to no sanding needed.

On that picture it looks like your stepover is very large - maybe 75% of the tool diameter - way too large.
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fgriffin
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Joined: Mon Dec 01, 2014 3:43 pm
Model of CNC Machine: Shark

Re: How to minimize/eliminate bit grooves

Post by fgriffin »

Thanks to all for your responses. I am learning CNC and will definitely adjust stepover

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