Profiling with two size cutters

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Rodder
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Profiling with two size cutters

Post by Rodder »

Maybe a rookie question but its my first. Like pocketing with a larger clearance tool and a second smaller tool for sharper corners, is there a way to do the same with the profile cut? In the attached, I really don't want to cut the entire profile with a 1/16" end mill.

Thanks!
Jerry
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FixitMike
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Re: Profiling with two size cutters

Post by FixitMike »

If the larger cutter is 3/8" and the smaller cutter 1/16":

Offset the profile vector slightly more than .375. (.380")

Select the original and offset vectors. Calculate a pocket toolpath, using a 1/16" end mill with the Use larger Area Clearance Tool box checked with a 3/8" end mill selected.

Save a 3/8" end mill profile toolpath, and the pocket toolpath that uses the 1/16" end mill. Be sure to run the profile toolpath first.

Suggestion: Ramp Plunge moves for both bits.
Good judgement comes from experience.
Experience comes from bad judgement.

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dwilli9013
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Re: Profiling with two size cutters

Post by dwilli9013 »

Sounds like what you are trying to do is rest machining.
Have a look at this video it explains it pretty well.

D-Dub
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Rodder
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Re: Profiling with two size cutters

Post by Rodder »

Yes, maybe rest maching, but I'm only using vcarve pro. Thx!

I'm going with FixitMike's technique for now. Only problem now is the toolpath for the 1/16" cutter still wants to go around the complete outline. That's where I'm at. Thx!

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Adrian
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Re: Profiling with two size cutters

Post by Adrian »

You could use the Solid option on the toolpath tab to see where the large bit will fit and then, using a copy of the main vector, delete all the parts that it can reach. That will leave a series of open vectors that you could toolpath with the smaller bit. You would need to adjust the start node on some of them to get the bit to cut on the "correct" side.

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Rcnewcomb
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Re: Profiling with two size cutters

Post by Rcnewcomb »

Rest machining is just for 3D components and toolpaths. It does not apply to profile, pocket, or V-Carve toolpaths.
- Randall Newcomb
10 fingers in, 10 fingers out, another good day in the shop

Rodder
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Re: Profiling with two size cutters

Post by Rodder »

Well, until I figure it out, I just cut with a 1/16" EM. Got 4 cut out before breaking the two bits I had.
Cutting .125" 6061.
DOC- .025"
24K RPM
25 IPM
ramp plunges over an inch
isopropyl alcohol mist

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adze_cnc
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Re: Profiling with two size cutters

Post by adze_cnc »

One solution similar to Adrian's but using closed shapes to reduce the need to flip start points is included herein.
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Rodder
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Re: Profiling with two size cutters

Post by Rodder »

Excellent adze. Makes sense. Thanks!

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