Help me reduce the machining time for this project

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Mackmc
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Joined: Sat Dec 04, 2021 1:02 pm
Model of CNC Machine: 6040

Help me reduce the machining time for this project

Post by Mackmc »

I could really use some advice and how to reduce the machining time for this project down significantly from 44 hours. I thought about using a bowl bit for most of the hogging but I wasn't sure how to add that toolpath to the project. Thank you in advance for any assistance.

Mack
Registered Aspire User

The file was too large to post here so here is a link to download the file. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iRUhgX ... sp=sharing

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SteveNelson46
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Re: Help me reduce the machining time for this project

Post by SteveNelson46 »

This may help. I deleted the roughing tool passes and created vector boundries to limit the toolpaths. Then created toolpaths for the cutouts and positioned the model in the center of the board thickness. It still needs more work but I think you can get a general idea. 3D toolpaths always take a long time but I think this significantly reduced the cut times.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MXYMXu ... sp=sharing
Attachments
Kahaha.png
Steve

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Leo
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Re: Help me reduce the machining time for this project

Post by Leo »

In addition to what Steve said.

If your machine allows you can use a larger roughing cutter - plus increase the pass depth - plus increase the stepover amount (I use 75% a lot) - plus increase feedrate to get chipload up to around .003 - .005
The toolpaths for the cutout areas should be 2D toolpaths not 3D. 2D is a LOT faster.
This will all significantly reduce time.
Imagine the Possibilities of a Creative mind, combined with the functionality of CNC

Mackmc
Posts: 13
Joined: Sat Dec 04, 2021 1:02 pm
Model of CNC Machine: 6040

Re: Help me reduce the machining time for this project

Post by Mackmc »

Steve,

Thank you for reworking my file! It's perfect now as far as I can tell. You taught me about creating profile toolpaths. I appreciate VERY MUCH the work you put into helping me.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Mack

Mackmc
Posts: 13
Joined: Sat Dec 04, 2021 1:02 pm
Model of CNC Machine: 6040

Re: Help me reduce the machining time for this project

Post by Mackmc »

Leo,

Thank you for more excellent advice. I've had trouble with bit chatter on deep cuts like these so I took a conservative approach and then manually increase the feedrate within Mach3 Mill as the Amana bit will tolerate.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Mack

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SteveNelson46
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Re: Help me reduce the machining time for this project

Post by SteveNelson46 »

Glad I could help.
Steve

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rscrawford
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Re: Help me reduce the machining time for this project

Post by rscrawford »

For bowls like that, you should try the moulding toolpath. You get a much better finish (and faster) than with the finish toolpath. You are working with smooth vectors rather than pixelated models.
Russell Crawford
http://www.cherryleaf-rustle.com

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