Pocket stepover > 100%?

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hack613
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Pocket stepover > 100%?

Post by hack613 »

I'm wanting to create cool effects by having the stepover to be over 100 percent. The software doesn't allow it.

Obviously I could then tell the system I have a bigger cutter than I really have but is there a better way?

tomgardiner
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Re: Pocket stepover > 100%?

Post by tomgardiner »

1. Use a ballnose bit. 2. Create your own toolpath with offset lines joined and run a profile on the line.

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hack613
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Re: Pocket stepover > 100%?

Post by hack613 »

thanks for the reply!

That's actually what I'm doing.. I'm making the lines in cad and then doing follow profile... but it takes so long to make so many lines for what I'm up to.

The job I'm working on has taken hours so I'm wanting to let the CAM take care of it.

Okay I'll keep doing what I'm doing and keep my eyes out for another solution...

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Adrian
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Re: Pocket stepover > 100%?

Post by Adrian »

Depends exactly what you're doing with the vectors but if you're doing the type of work it sounds like you're doing you should look at the texture facilities in VCarve.

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hack613
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Re: Pocket stepover > 100%?

Post by hack613 »

Okay, so textures can make even lines a different spacings that are wider then the cutter? I'll have a look...

Thanks...

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adze_cnc
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Re: Pocket stepover > 100%?

Post by adze_cnc »

Try this: create a pocket toolpath and tell VCarve that you are using a 3/8" bit at 100% step-over with no "Profile Pass". Now, cut the job using a 1/8" cutter.

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Re: Pocket stepover > 100%?

Post by rscrawford »

To draw many lines, I draw two lines with the start point on opposite ends, spaced the correct distance apart. Then use the 'array' feature to make as many copies as I need, and the spacing will be perfect. Much quicker than trying to set up a pocket tool path exactly how you want it, and you get exactly what you want.
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