How to do a rough cut pocket with 1/4?

[stefonroman]

Hello: I am trying to do a simple sign. I am pocketing the letters (the letters are raised. ) I will ultimately be using a 1/8 ball nose end-mil for the final pass. My question is how do I set up the pocket so that I can rough out the big areas with a 1/4 bit first? Then how do I set up the pocket for the 1/8 ball nose end-mill so that it is not air cutting the whole time?

thanks
Stefon

[FixitMike]

In the Pocket Toolpath window:
Select the 1/8" tool you wish to use.
Check the Use Larger Area Clearance Tool box and Select the 1/4" tool.

I would suggest using end mills rather than ball end tools for this type of project. End mills will be faster because you can use a greater value for the stepover. Check the previews doing it both ways and see which you prefer. Check the ramp plunge moves box for best results.

[stefonroman]

Thanks Mike, however I don't see that option in cut 2d. Perhaps it is only available in Aspire or VCut?

[FixitMike]

In cut 2D Pro:

[Adrian]

Make sure you have the "show advanced toolpath options" at the top of the pocket toolpath dialog checked or you won't see the options for the clearance tool. It's off by default.