Milling PDF

1
What is EdgeCAM Milling?

The Milling module provides a two-and-a-half, three and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
environment of EdgeCAM. Various milling (driven) tool types can either be loaded from the ToolStore or
defined by parameter.
You can drive the tool with respect to the model geometry using these standard types of machining cycle:
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
The toolpaths resulting from these operations may be then be mirrored, transformed, matrixed or rotated.
If you need to make changes after defining a sequence of these operations you can restructure the
sequence at any time, inserting, editing or removing the individual commands as necessary.
Any changes you make to the original geometry from within the Design environment are reflected in all
machining commands based on that geometry.
Tool movements can be simulated on screen using default or user-generated tool graphics. Full control of
the simulation is provided, including speed controls, swathe mode and simulating specific instructions.
Once a toolpath has been generated, you can display and examine a representation of the material
remaining from a solid rectangular block. Other methods for examining the results of a toolpath are to
render the uncut mesh and reporting on the cycle time.
Most of these features can also be used with the driven tooling of turning centres, enabling C and Y axis
control of the tool.
You can also control machine tool specific functions such as coolant on/off.
When satisfied with the machining operations for the part, you can generate CNC code. EdgeCAM uses
Code Generator files to interpret the machining sequence into a set of CNC instructions for a specific
machine tool type, and outputs this information to an ASCII text file. You can then use the EdgeCAM Editor
or other editors to examine and alter this file as required.
EdgeCAM User Guide
What isParameters
Depth
EdgeCAM for
Milling?
Cycles
In a milling
The
Milling cycle
module
there
provides
are various
a two-and-a-half,
height type three
parameters
and five
that
axis
you
milling
specify
capability
in the Depth
from the
tab.Manufacture
For features and solids you can specify these associatively .
Here is the non-associative way to specify the parameters:
Clearance The Z-value at or above which the tool may move at the rapid rate with no danger of colliding
with the
workpiece.
Profiling
Level Pocket
The Z-value
Milling below which cutting is liable to start (moving downwards). This generally is the topmost point of the shapes you are machining. In a Roughing cycle, for example, cutting will start at this level.
Facemill
(Note
that cutting
not necessarily
start atthree
this level;
in aaxis
Flatlands
for example,
may not be
The Milling
moduleneed
provides
a two-and-a-half,
and five
millingcycle
capability
from thethere
Manufacture
any
flat
regions
at
this
level.)
environment
Slottingof EdgeCAM. Various milling (driven) tool types can either be loaded from the ToolStore or
defined
by
parameter.
Retract
This
is added to the Level value to produce a 'secondary' clearance value within regions; you
Hole
Production
might
want
to
machine
a boss
whichtoisthe
sunk
down
inside ausing
pocket
for example.
You can drive the tool with
respect
model
geometry
these
standard types of machining cycle:
Surface Milling
Depth This is added to the Level value to produce the level at which cutting is to stop.
The toolpaths
Profiling
resulting
from
these
operations
may be
then be mirrored, transformed, matrixed or rotated.
You
can
type in
values or
derive
them
by digitising
entities.
If you Pocket
need toMilling
make changes after defining a sequence of these operations you can restructure the
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
the simulation
Surface Milling
is provided, including speed controls, swathe mode and simulating specific instructions.
Once
a toolpath
has been
generated,
you can may
display
and examine
a representation
the material
The toolpaths
resulting
from
these operations
be then
be mirrored,
transformed,of
matrixed
or rotated.
If
you need
to make
changes
after defining
sequence
render
the uncut
mesh
and reporting
on theacycle
time. of these operations you can restructure the
Any changes
control
of the you
tool.make to the original geometry from within the Design environment are reflected in all
When
satisfiediswith
the machining
for theswathe
part, you
can and
generate
CNC specific
code. EdgeCAM
uses
the simulation
provided,
includingoperations
speed controls,
mode
simulating
instructions.
Once
a toolpath
has
been
generated,
you can display
and examine
representation
theEdgeCAM
material Editor
machine
tool type,
and
outputs
this information
to an ASCII
text file. aYou
can then useofthe
remaining
from
a
solid
rectangular
block.
Other
methods
for
examining
the
results
of
a
toolpath
are to
The way
in which
are useoperations
can vary for
between
cycles.
Any
uniqueCNC
information
is included
in
When
satisfied
with depths
the machining
the part,
you can
generate
code. EdgeCAM
uses
the topics
for each
cycle.
Code
Generator
files specific
to interpret
the machining sequence into a set of CNC instructions for a specific
See Also
Tool Depths with Multiple Profiles
EdgeCAM User Guide
Associative Depth Parameters

In solids based machining, you can make cycle's depth parameters associative to the model and its
features.
Associative Clearance Illustration
Associative Level Illustration
Associative Depth Illustration
You might set the associative clearance option, in the Roughing cycle:
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Milling show, when checked, you specify values that are incremental from key elevations of the
As theFace
illustrations
solid or
feature to be machined. For example, an associative level will be incremental from the top-most
Slotting
point (highest Z value) of the model you select. When not checked, you specify absolute values. (Note that
Hole Production
for features,
the 'key elevations' are given by their Level, Depth and Bottom properties.)
Milling
Note: Surface
These associative
parameters are not available when 3D curve profiling.
EdgeCAM User Guide
Tool Depths with Multiple Profiles

If machining multiple profiles, after the first profile is complete the tool will:
1. Rapid vertically to the clearance plane.
2. Rapid move in the workplane until above the start of the next profile.
3. Rapid down to the retract plane.
4. Feed down to the start point at the depth plane.
5. At the end of the cycle, the tool remains at the depth plane.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Using Wireframe Geometry in Cycles - Overview

See:
Specifying pockets
Specifying Pockets with Islands
Specifying Male Parts
Specifying Open Pockets
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Specifying Pockets
In the Roughing, Profiling and Flat Land Finishing cycles, one or more closed profiles can be selected and
they are automatically interpreted as pockets; that is the inside of the profile will be machined. You need to
manually set the Level and Depth parameters.
When just machining pockets, in the Roughing and Profiling cycles stock should be set to None, in the Flat
Land Finishing cycle, 'Boss' should be unchecked.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Specifying Pockets with Islands

they are automatically interpreted as pockets. Any closed profiles inside pockets are considered islands.
When just machining pockets, in the Roughing and Profiling cycles stock should be set to None; in the Flat
Land Finishing cycle 'Boss' should be unchecked. The cycle will take the island into account once the
toolpath is below the level of the island profile.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Specifying Male Parts
they are automatically interpreted as bosses when stock is also selected. When just machining bosses, in
the Roughing and Profiling cycles stock should generally be set to Profile or Bounding Box; in the Flat Land
Finishing cycle 'Boss' should be checked.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
If the system also has a Surface Licence then the additional stock types may also be used.
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Specifying Open Pockets

In the Roughing and Profiling cycles, as with bosses, open pockets require a stock defined. This identifies
the area(s) to be machined. The example below shows that the toolpath will cut the difference in area
between the part profile and the stock profile.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Specifying the Cutter Direction

The cutter can move along a profile on the left or right hand side. This, combined with the spindle direction,
gives the type of cutting to be either Climb or Conventional. A number of cutting factors, such as the type of
the material being cut affects the type of milling you should select for a cycle.
Mill Type
Effect (Spindle rotation is Clockwise)
Climb
Tool cuts on the left of the profile
Conventional
Tool cuts
on right of thethree
profile
The
Milling module provides
a two-and-a-half,
and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
sequence
See Also at any time, inserting, editing or removing the individual commands as necessary.
Any changes
Climb
Milling you make to the original geometry from within the Design environment are reflected in all
machining commands
Conventional
Milling based on that geometry.
Selecting
a
Mill
Tool movementsType
can of
be<None>
simulated on screen using default or user-generated tool graphics. Full control of
EdgeCAM User Guide
10
Climb Milling
11
Caution: Using this on a hard material could damage the cutter.

Use Climb milling for soft materials such as aluminium.
The tool moves along the left of the profile, so that the cutter rotates like a wheel rolling along the ground.
Climb is often referred to as Upcut when wood routing.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Conventional Milling
12
Caution: Using this on such a soft material could weld swarf to the surface of the material, resulting
in a rough-looking finish.
Use Conventional milling for hard materials such as steel.
As the tool moves along the right of the profile, the cutter rotates so that the cutting forces on the teeth are
increased gradually.
Each tooth starts with a shallow cut that gets thicker until the tooth leaves the material. This action
minimises the stress on the cutter teeth and the material.
environment of
Various
(driven)
types
can either be loaded from the ToolStore or
Conventional
is EdgeCAM.
often referred
to as milling
Downcut
whentool
wood
routing.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Selecting a Mill Type of <None>

Use <None> when the cutter direction is unimportant (as with laser, flame or water cutters), or when cutting
soft material.
If you select different start points on an open profile, the cycle will stay on the same side but switch to the
opposite ends of the profile.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
13
Approaching and Leaving the Work

Most machining cycles automatically move the tool from the current position to approach the start point of
cutting.
In the horizontal plane, the tool moves from its current position to the start point at the rapid rate. The tool
motion then depends on its vertical position. If the tool starts:
Above the Retract plane, the tool rapids to the Retract plane.
Below the Retract plane, the tool rapids up to the Clearance plane and then rapids down to the Retract
plane.
The tool
then
feeds provides
down to the
Depth plane, and
feeds
position
at depth.
Milling
module
a two-and-a-half,
three
and into
five axis
milling
capability from the Manufacture
environment
of
EdgeCAM.
Various
milling
(driven)
tool
types
can
either
be
loaded from the ToolStore or
For more information, see Using Ramp Moves.
You
See can
Alsodrive the tool with respect to the model geometry using these standard types of machining cycle:
Selecting a Start Point
Profiling
Automatically Retracting the Tool
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
14
Selecting a Start Point

Once you have selected all entities to be machined by the cycle, most cycles then offer a default start point
for each selected profile.
This default start point and how you can change it varies depending on what type of cycle it is. For more
information, read up on that particular type of machining.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
15
Automatically Retracting the Tool

The Finish At parameter allows you to control the behaviour of the tool at the end of that milling cycle. This
is not available in the Hole cycle command.
You may select one of these options:
Depth The tool remains 'at depth' at the end of the last pass.
Clearance The tool makes a rapid move to the Clearance plane from 'depth'.
Retract The tool makes a rapid move to the Retract plane from 'depth'.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
16
Using Ramp Moves
17
Although most milling cycles include ways of describing tool approach strategies, EdgeCAM provides two
standaloneMove menu commands to control the approach of the tool to depth:
Ramp Helical Ramp Zig Zag
The parameters for these commands are:
Replace Check this box to select an instruction and then digitise a node on the toolpath of that instruction.
The node is replaced with the new Ramp move.
Orientation Specify an angle from which to start the move, with zero degrees being the three oclock
position.
environment
of EdgeCAM.
Various
tool types
Radius (Helical
only) Specify
the milling
radius (driven)
of the helical
move.can either be loaded from the ToolStore or
You
drive the
tool
with respect
to the model geometry using these standard types of machining cycle:
Pitchcan
(Helical
only)
Specify
the vertical
distance between points at the same XY
position
Profiling
on the helical move.
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
StepAngle
(Helical only) The helix is made up of straight line move segments. Specify the amount by
Slotting
which to change the angle after each segment. The default is 30 degrees.
Hole Production
Angle (Zigzag only) Specify the vertical angle of the ramp, with 90 degrees being a vertical move.
Surface Milling
Length (Zigzag only) Specify the length of each ramp segment, which must be a positive value.
Feedrate Specify the horizontal cutting speed of the tool.
Speed Specify the rotational speed of the tool.
Start Level Specify the absolute height at which the move is to start.
machining (Helical
Direction
commands
Only)
based
Specify
on that
whether
geometry.
the helical move is to be Clockwise or Counterclockwise.
Namemovements
Tool
Specify acan
named
be simulated
cycle. The
onapproach
screen using
movedefault
will beormade
user-generated
to the start tool
of the
graphics.
named cycle.
Full control
This isof
the simulation
mutually
exclusive
is provided,
with theincluding
Replace parameter.
speed controls, swathe mode and simulating specific instructions.
EdgeCAM User Guide
Defining Draft Walls
18
Only available when working with 2D geometry

Within the Roughing, Profiling and Flat Land Finishing cycles you can define a draft wall with optional blend
radii from the cycle dialog. This frees you from having to generate blend radius geometry or other geometry
for the wall. The draft wall parameters will be applied to the profile and any islands contained within the
profile.
Draft Angle This defines the draft angle from the

vertical. The angle is always a positive number
ranging
from
>0 to <90.
The adiagram
here shows
a and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
The
Milling
module
provides
two-and-a-half,
three
draft angle ofof20EdgeCAM.
degrees. The
draftmilling
angle (driven)
runs
environment
Various
tool types can either be loaded from the ToolStore or
from theby
cycle
level to the depth.
defined
parameter.
Draftcan
Angle
= 20
You
drive
thedegrees:
tool with respect to the model geometry using these standard types of machining cycle:
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Upper Radius This is a blend radius between
Facelevel
Milling
the profile
and the draft wall.
UpperSlotting
Radius specified:
Hole Production
Surface Milling
Lower Radius This is a blend radius between
Any
the Depth
changes
andyou
themake
draft to
wall.
the original geometry from within the Design environment are reflected in all
Lower Radius specified:
Both Upper
control
of theRadius
tool. and Lower Radius specified:
Digitise Contour Wall Check this box to take the draft wall values from a digitised entity rather than
entering the individual values. See Digitising Contour Walls.
EdgeCAM User Guide
Digitising Contour Walls

The Roughing, Profiling and Flat Land Finishing cycles allow you to digitise contour walls and supports all
combinations of pockets and bosses i.e.
Pockets within pockets
Bosses on top of bosses

Pockets with bosses
The Milling
Bosses
module
with pockets
provides a two-and-a-half, three and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
When
contour walls
definedusing
by parameter.
the profiles always represent the top of the pocket or boss feature. The contour
wall represents the shape and depth of the feature.
The depth of the walls (feature depth) determines the relationship between profile features. The two
examples below share the same profile geometry, but the walls are defined differently.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Boss in a pocket
Face Milling
In this example the outer profile wall extends down to the base of the inner profile wall. This indicates that
the inner
Slotting
profile is a boss standing up inside the pocket.
Hole Production
Surface Milling
Pocket in a pocket
Here the outer profile wall extends down to the top of the inner profile indicating that the inner profile is
below and therefore must be a pocket inside the pocket.
See
Also
When
satisfied with the machining operations for the part, you can generate CNC code. EdgeCAM uses
Code
Generator
to interpret
the machining
sequence into a set of CNC instructions for a specific
Rules Used whenfiles
Digitising
Contour
Walls
EdgeCAM User Guide
19
Rules Used when Digitising Contour Walls

A contour wall can be created from a single line, arc, curve or a continuous.
When defining nested features it is important that the top or bottom of the contour wall is equal in depth to
the parent or child feature. For example with a boss inside a pocket, the bottom of a boss wall must be at
the same depth as the wall of the pocket.
Pocket boss combinations
By
this
method,
any combination
of pocket
in boss
or boss
pocket
can be defined.
example
Theusing
Milling
module
provides
a two-and-a-half,
three
and five
axis in
milling
capability
from the The
Manufacture
below
shows
a
pocket
with
two
ledges
(bosses)
defined
at
different
depths.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Contour
pocket
Hole
Production
When Surface
the outerMilling
profile represents a pocket the Stock Type must be set to None.
Contour
Once
a toolpath
boss has been generated, you can display and examine a representation of the material
When the outer profile represents a boss the Stock Type must be selected for the cycle to understand that it
must start machining from the stock to the boss feature. The example below has a Profile Stock selected.
EdgeCAM User Guide
20
Arc Bulge Correction
21
When a cycle's NC Output is set to Line Arc Smooth,
you may encounter problems with distortion in arcs.
The is caused by rounding errors (to the controller's
tolerance) being multiplied.
The problem is corrected by outputting bulging arcs as
What is EdgeCAM
four quadrants.Milling?
The correction is optional, controlled by
system variables in the code generator (the correction is
enabled by default). For more information see this topic
from the Code Generator Compiler help.
A rounding
Profiling error of
0.0005mm can
Pocket Milling
cause the arc to
Face Milling
bulge by up to
0.317mm on a
Slotting
50mm radius.
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Radius Rounding Error Correction on almost Complete Arcs

EdgeCAM prevents errors being caused by arc moves that form almost a complete circle, and use 'R'; as in
this example CNC code:
G2 X10.432 Y12.475 R50
In this situation the controller has to calculate the arc centre point. In the CNC file the arc Start point, End
point and Radius are rounded to the format limitation of the Controller. This small error is amplified by the
arc radius and can lead to the centre point being out of position by an unacceptable distance.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Exact Start/End
Rounded Start/End
Face Milling
The error
is monitored, and to prevent it becoming unacceptable a switch to IJK output is enforced.
Slotting
This
solution
is only implemented in code generators based on Version 9.75, or later, templates.
Hole
Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
22
Planar Milling
23
'Planar Milling' refers to cycles which can only operate on flat planes.
Use these commands for driving the tool on or around a profile:
Profile (Cycles menu)
Relative (Move menu) for precise tool positioning relative to the profile's geometry. Make sure you
have read the methods for chaining and branching.
The
module provides
a two-and-a-half,
three
five
axis milling capability from the Manufacture
Use Milling
these commands
or methods
for pocketing
and and
stock
removal:
Facemill (Cycles menu)
Freehand machining (Move menu commands).
Profiling
Pocket
Milling to combine several machining commands (see Operations in Milling for details):
Use these
operations
Face Milling
SlottingFacemilling (Operations menu)
Hole Production
Surface Milling
See Also
Roughing
Slotting
Text Machining
Engraving
Planar
Cycle Parameters
Tool movements
can be simulated on screen using default or user-generated tool graphics. Full control of
Controlling Link Moves
EdgeCAM User Guide
Profile Cycle
24
Use these commands for driving the tool on or around a profile:

2D Profile (superseded)
Profiling (Mill Cycles menu) this cycle also has 3D (surface and solid) capabilities. We recommend
you use this cycle rather than the 2D Profile cycle, as it has more features and a user interface that is
consistent with other recent cycles.
Relative (Move menu) for precise tool positioning relative to the geometry.
Profile (Operation menu) to use several commands together in one operation.
Please note that a new Profile operation was introduced in EdgeCAM version 7.75. The previous Profile
operation is still available to existing parts and will be used if the operation is edited or regenerated. To use
Profiling
the new
method on an existing part, delete the old operation and re-apply the new operation.
Pocket Milling
(See Operational
Programming in Milling for details of using operations.)
Milling
Make Face
sure you
have read the methods for Chaining and Branching.
Slotting
Note - When merging sequences in multiplane milling the Profile cycle is liable to corruption. To ensure
Hole Production
that inserting and merging function correctly, profiles must be created in a defined view, not in "dynamic".
Surface Milling
See
Also
The toolpaths
resulting from these operations may be then be mirrored, transformed, matrixed or rotated.
Applying
Cutter
Compensation
in the
2D Profile
Cycle of these operations you can restructure the
If you need
to make
changes after
defining
a sequence
sequence
at
any
time,
inserting,
editing
or
removing
the individual commands as necessary.
Specifying Profile Start and End Points
Any changes
youwith
make
to the
original geometry from within the Design environment are reflected in all
Removing
Stock
Offset
Profiles
Avoiding Cutting Other Profile Elements
EdgeCAM User Guide
Applying Cutter Compensation in the 2D Profile Cycle

When positioning the tool before using the 2D Profile Cycle, you must follow the rules of the controller
usually this means that you must make the offset greater than the tool radius and use a perpendicular
approach to the work.

defined
spot using the Relative (Move menu) command.
Positionby
theparameter.
cutter in this
Now select the compensation type using Radius Compensation (Tooling menu) command .
The possible
Profilingchoices for Compensation are:
None Pocket
- insertsMilling
a G40 code or equivalent into the machining sequence.
Left - Face
insertsMilling
a G41 code or equivalent.
Right Slotting
- inserts a G42 code or equivalent.
Hole Production
Then use
the Profile
Surface
Milling
command.
Profile vectors can disappear on concave corners, where the radius of the corner is smaller than the tool
The
toolpaths
radius
(see below).
Note that if mill type, profile side and radius compensation side are incompatible, a warning message is
displayed. When regenerating parts from previous versions of EdgeCAM that were defined incorrectly,
compensation side overrides the other parameters. This may cause the profile side to be reversed.
or other
See
alsoeditors to examine and alter this file as required.
Using Cutter Compensation in the 2D Profile cycle
EdgeCAM User Guide
25
Specifying Profile Start and End Points

Once you have specified the parameters for the Profile cycle and the entities you want to machine, you
must choose where the cycle is to start.
Note: The following text assumes that you have set the parameter Default Profile Side (Advanced tab) to
None and the Profile Extension Start/End (Lead tab) to Digitise.
An arrow marks this start point, and also shows the side and direction of machining.
Selecting Initial Start Point
To relocate the start point you can make free digitises around the profile. The system puts the starting arrow
on
samemodule
side (inside
or outside
the profile)three
at one
end
of axis
a profile
segment.
The
Millthe
Type
parameter
Thethe
Milling
provides
a two-and-a-half,
and
five
milling
capability
from
Manufacture
(Climb
or
Conventional)
determines
the
direction
of
the
arrow.
Once
the
start
and
side
has
been
set select
environment of EdgeCAM. Various milling (driven) tool types can either be loaded from the ToolStore
or
Finish.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
If you have checked Mid Point Snapping for the cycle, you can select the mid-points of entities as well as
The
their toolpaths
end points.
Modifying the Start and End Points
You are prompted to digitise the start (arrow) and end (star ) points to alter. Free digitise will move the start
or end independently whereas an entity digitise will move them together (only valid for closed profiles).
You can now dynamically drag the symbols along the profile and place it with a free digitise or entity digitise.
The Mid Point Snap option is not available at this stage but a constructed mid point may be used from the
Input toolbar.
Note - When merging sequences in multiplane milling the Profile cycle is liable to corruption. To ensure
that inserting and merging function correctly, profiles must be created in a defined view, not in "dynamic".
EdgeCAM User Guide
26
Using Submodifiers to Fix the Start and End Positions

You can use the submodifier buttons to specify the start and end positions (for example, by using the MidPoint
submodifier to place the start point at the mid point of a selected entity).

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
27
Start and End Positions for Closed Profiles

When specifying start and end positions for a closed profile, you can also hold down the Ctrl key while
selecting the left mouse button. This sets the end position to be the same as the current start position, and
can be used to dynamically move both start and end around the profile.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
28
Removing Stock with Offset Profiles

An offset is the minimum distance between the edge of the tool and the geometry at any point. By
controlling the offset for the tool you can rough or finish a profile.
Use2D Profile (Cycle menu) with a specified Offset parameter to rough a profile. To do a finishing pass,
set the offset to zero.
The cycle allows you to machine interrupted profiles (profiles separated by 3D distances).

Profiling
Pocket Milling
FaceofMilling
The value
the offset may be positive or negative:
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
29
Avoiding Cutting Other Profile Elements

When a profile has a narrow entrance gap, the 2D Profile Cycle forms a toolpath around the profile and then
moves the tool vertically into the centre of the chamber.
This is also known as necking and keyhole conditions. This example below shows the same profile being
machined three times by different diameter tools. The largest tool attempts to machine the centre and
damages the part.
This may damage the tool, so you must correct the toolpath made by the cycle.
Use the Edit (Instructions menu) command to alter the profile command. Use the Coord Input parameter
to re-specify the co-ordinate input for the command.
Now
perform
two consecutive
Chains
around the profile, avoiding the gap into the chamber.
defined
by parameter.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
30
Face Milling
31
The Face Milling (Cycles menu)

command machines a flat face normal to the tool axis, in an
optimised(lace cut) or climb/conventional (constant cut) pattern.
Mill Type - Optimised
Mill Type - Climb
You digitise to define the boundary (periphery) of the face. You can digitise a loop of chained entities, or a
continuous or a feature. (If you digitise a boss feature for example, the top face of the boss will be
facemilled.) The cuts will be parallel to the longest edge of the boundary.
Nested
boundaries
are supported
a warning
willcan
be either
displayed
if you select
an ToolStore
open boundary
environment
of EdgeCAM.
Variousand
milling
(driven)message
tool types
be loaded
from the
or
or
overlapping
boundaries.
defined
by parameter.
You
offset
the machining
to begeometry
inside or using
outside
the digitised
'Inside offsets'
You can
can specify
drive theantool
withfor
respect
to the model
these
standard boundary.
types of machining
cycle:
can only be up to a maximum of the tool radius.
The Face
Mill dialog offers separate tabs for lead and link moves. Lead moves are non-machining moves
Profiling
immediately before (Lead In) and after (Lead Out) a machining move. Link moves are moves joining a leadPocket Milling
out to a lead-in. All leads and links are checked against the part and any gouging leads are removed.
Face Milling
See Also
Slotting
Specifying
Moves for Face Milling
Hole Lead
Production
Specifying
LinkMilling
Moves for Face Milling
Surface
EdgeCAM User Guide
Specifying Lead Moves for Face Milling

Lead moves are non-machining moves immediately before (Lead In) and after (Lead Out) a machining
move. All leads are checked against the part and any gouging leads are removed.
Please note that the lead type will always be vertical.
Percentage Feed - The feedrate for lead moves is specified as a percentage of the feedrate on the General
tab.
Equal Lead Moves - Check this box to use the moves for Lead In and Lead Out.
Lead In/Out
The
Milling
moduleparameters
provides a are
two-and-a-half,
three
axis milling
from the Manufacture
Angle
andRadius
used to specify
theand
arcfive
segment
of thecapability
lead move.
Length
is used
to specify
defined by
parameter.
the linear segment of the lead move.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
32
Specifying Link Moves for Face Milling

Link moves are moves joining a Lead Out and a Lead In. All links are checked against the part and adjusted
to prevent gouging.
Short Links
Type - Choose between these types of short links:
Straight - A straight linear connection.
Smooth - An arc-like smooth transition between ends.
Percentage Feed - The feedrate for link moves is specified as a percentage of the feedrate on the General
The
tab. Milling module provides a two-and-a-half, three and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
Long Links
Type - Choose between types of long links:
Optimised
- The tool moves up in Z to the highest point on the part (offset by the Safe Distance) along the
Profiling
joining move, followed by a straight horizontal move and a move down to the start of the Lead In or Safe
Pocket
Milling is higher). All of these moves will be at the maximum feedrate specified in the
Distance
(whichever
postprocessor.
The tool then moves down any remaining distance at the Plunge Feedrate.
Face Milling
Clearance
- The tool makes a rapid move to the Clearance plane, followed by a rapid move in XY and a
Slotting
rapid move down to the start of the Lead in or the Safe Distance (whichever is higher). The tool then moves
Holeremaining
Production
down any
distance at the Plunge Feedrate.
Surface Milling
Safe Distance
- Specifies the safe distance above the part from which the tool will feed into position. The
safe distance is also included when calculating the optimised retract height over the model.
Feed When Plunging - When checked, the tool will use the Feedrate when moving down in the Z axis
If
you need
to make
defining
sequence
operations
you can restructure
the
during
the cycle.
Thischanges
is a safeafter
option
when athe
amount of
of these
stock material
is unknown.
When unchecked,
the
sequence
at
any
time,
inserting,
editing
or
removing
the
individual
commands
as
necessary.
tool will rapid to the safe distance above the model then feed into position.
EdgeCAM User Guide
33
Slotting
34
To slot non-profile geometry, use the Slot (Cycles

menu) command.
This has two modes of operation specified by the Strategy parameter: 2D and 3D.
You can also use the Profile cycle with a zero offset to slot profiles.
In operation, the tool rapid moves to a position vertically above the start of the slot. It then rapids down until
it reaches the Retract height from the slot. The tool then feeds down to Depth and starts to move along the
slot.
The
module
provides
two-and-a-half,
three
and five
axis milling
AfterMilling
selecting
the Slot
cycle,a you
are prompted
to select
a Strategy
for capability
the cycle. from the Manufacture
Choose
between:
defined by
parameter.
2D
thethe
tooltool
along
entities
as geometry
lines, arcsusing
and continuous
entities.
You- Drives
can drive
withplanar
respect
to thesuch
model
these standard
types of machining cycle:
3D - Drives the tool along curves and 3D continuous entities.
Profiling
Once you
have selected the Strategy, the parameters for the cycle are displayed.
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
To combine several commands when slotting, use Slotting (Operations menu)
Slotting in Milling for details of using operations.
Programming
. See Operational
Hole Production
See Also
Surface Milling
Slotting in 2D
Slotting in 3D
Choosing
Slottingediting or removing the individual commands as necessary.
sequence Parameters
at any time, for
inserting,
EdgeCAM User Guide
Slotting in 2D
35
Select the Slot (Cycles menu) command and set the Strategy parameter to 2D.
You can now select the remaining parameters for the cycle. See Choosing Parameters for Slotting.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Slotting in 3D
36
Select the Slot (Cycles menu) command and set the Strategy parameter to 3D.
These parameters are unique to 3D slotting:
Link Control - If you are slotting more than one entity, you can choose the method of producing link moves:
Shortest - Produces a 3D linear feed move to the start of the next slot.
Retract- The tool rapids vertically to the Clearance height, rapids in the workplane to the start of the next
slot and feeds down to Depth.
Tolerance - If a Continuous entity contains an arc that does not lie in either the XY, XZ or YZ planes, the
The
Milling
modulewill
provides
a two-and-a-half,
three
and five
axis
milling
capability
fromthis
thetolerance.
Manufacture
resultant
toolpath
break the
arc into a series
of small
linear
moves
which
lie within
defined
parameter.
You canby
now
select the remaining parameters for the cycle. See Choosing Parameters for Slotting.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Choosing Parameters for Slotting

The Slot cycle provides these parameters:
Feedrate,Plunge Feed and Speed are the standard feeds and speeds for the cycle. For more details see
Setting Feeds and Speeds.
Depth parameters are covered under Depth Parameters. If using 3D Slotting, use the Relative Depth
parameter instead of the Depth parameter.
Name - Specifies the name of the toolpath.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
37
Text Machining
38
EdgeCAM allows you to machine text or text features created using the Text Feature (Geometry menu)
command. Please note that text strings created for machining purposes are entirely different to annotation
text strings created via the Dimensions command.
Only characters defined as TrueType fonts can be machined, company logos etc. in the form of bitmaps
cannot be used for text machining.
Please note that the content of TrueType font files is beyond Pathtraces control and some characters may
prove impossible to machine. Under these circumstances it may be necessary to explode the text feature
so that corrections to the geometry can be made.
The
Millingprovides
module provides
a two-and-a-half,
three and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
EdgeCAM
several ways
of text machining:
Text machining using cycles and operations
Text profiles can be machined using EdgeCAM cycles (such as Areaclear, Lace or Profile cycles) and
operations whether the text is created as a feature or has been exploded into lines and arcs. Please note
Profiling
that the
Areaclear and Lace cycles are only available on the Superseded toolbar.
Pocket Milling
Text machining
Face Millingusing operations (with Solid Machinist Licence)
Text features
Slotting will be displayed in the Features Window and can be machined with any appropriate
EdgeCAM operation.
Hole Production
Surface Milling
Engraving
EdgeCAM
cyclesfiles
(such
Profilethe
andmachining
Areaclear)
offer an Engrave
used with
tool. This
Code Generator
to as
interpret
sequence
into a set option
of CNCwhen
instructions
for aa taper
specific
engrave
is outputs
also available
when machining
text features.
Seecan
Engraving.
machine functionality
tool type, and
this information
to an ASCII
text file. You
then use the EdgeCAM Editor
EdgeCAM User Guide
Engraving
39
EdgeCAM has two cycle commands that can be used for engraving geometry:
Areaclear (superseded) and 2D Profile (Mill Cycles menu)
When using either cycle, click on the Engrave check box in each cycles parameters dialog box to produce
engraving toolpaths.
You can only use engraving if you already have a Taper tool loaded.
This diagram shows a typical engraving toolpath. The tool rides up at the corners to make full use of the
smaller diameter of the tool:
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
Any changes
you make to the original geometry from within the Design environment are reflected in all
See
Also
Creating Engraving Artwork in Other Packages
Engraving
Profiles
the simulation
Engraving
Areas
remaining
a solid rectangular block. Other methods for examining the results of a toolpath are to
Limitationsfrom
of Engraving
EdgeCAM User Guide
Creating Engraving Artwork in Other Packages

Many engraving parts are produced as artwork in a specialist drawing package rather than in EdgeCAM,
usually because many more text fonts and other effects are available. The artwork may also be generated
from a scanned image.
A possible route is to create the engraving geometry in a vector-based drawing package. Export the
geometry as a DXF file, and then load it into EdgeCAM using the Open (File menu) command.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
40
Engraving Profiles
41
If you want to profile geometry when engraving, use the Profile (Cycles menu)
command with the
Engrave parameter check box selected. You must have a taper tool loaded before you can select Engrave.
The cycle generates the toolpath at the specified Depth below the nominated profiles.
It produces a similar toolpath to the Profile cycle except at the internal corners of the profile. Here the
toolpath moves from the current depth to the profile level, taking into consideration the form of the taper
tool. It then returns along the same path to the cutting depth.
If you are cutting reliefs, set the Offset parameter to minus the tools larger radius.
For
more information,
see Limitations
of Engraving
and types
Profilecan
Cycle.
environment
of EdgeCAM.
Various milling
(driven) tool
either be loaded from the ToolStore or
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Engraving Areas
42
If you want to clear material when engraving, use the Areaclear superceded cycle with Engrave checked in
theAdvanced tab. You must have a taper tool loaded before you can check Engrave.
The cycle generates the toolpath at the specified Depth below the selected profiles.
The toolpath is like an Areaclear cycles, except at the internal corners of the profile. Here the toolpath
moves from the current depth to the profile level, taking into consideration the form of the taper tool. It then
returns along the same path to the cutting depth.
If the tool is too narrow to pass between the geometry without cutting into the profiles, the tool lifts to form a
scallop down the centreline of the corner.
The
result of of
these
featuresVarious
is shown
on this
rendered
environment
EdgeCAM.
milling
(driven)
tool solid
typesmodel:
can either be loaded from the ToolStore or
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Holecannot
Production
If the tool
pass between the profiles at any depth then the tool retracts like the Areaclear cycle.
Surface
Milling
For more information, see Limitations of Engraving, and Planar Milling.
EdgeCAM User Guide
Limitations of Engraving
Profiles at different levels are considered as separate profiles.
The process that attaches the engraving moves to the outermost 2D moves can be very slow for a
complicated (dense) concentric area clearance cycle.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
43
Planar Cycle Parameters

Stepover
Profile Cycle Lead Moves
Contouring Parameters
Dynamic Billets for Planar Cycles

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
44
Stepover
45
% Stepover Specifies the exact maximum spacing between each pass as a percentage of the tool
diameter. Entering a value of 100 would, for example, represent a distance of 100% of the tool diameter,
and so the consecutive passes would be no more than one tool diameter apart.
The Stepover value affects the toolpath for a given tool like this:

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
A
stepover commands
of 70%-80%
tendson
to that
be fastest.
machining
based
geometry.
EdgeCAM User Guide
Profile and Profiling Cycle Lead Moves

Lead moves are small
movements added to
the beginning and end
of a cycle. These are
to ensure that the tool
does not start or finish
a pass in contact with
the material, leaving a
markMilling
as it feeds
to the
The
module
next z-level. of EdgeCAM. Various milling (driven) tool types can either be loaded from the ToolStore or
environment
Lead in and out
You
canare
drive
the tool
moves
defined
by with respect to the model geometry using these standard types of machining cycle:
theLength of a linear
move,Profiling
and the Radius
andAngle of an arc
Pocket Milling
move. These
parameters
Face Milling
are
displayed by selecting
Slotting
theLead tab from the
ProfileHole
cycle
Production
dialog
box.
Surface Milling
These
three examples
The
toolpaths
show lead in moves
If
youthe
need
to make
with
effects
of changes after defining a sequence of these operations you can restructure the
sequence
at
any
time, inserting, editing or removing the individual commands as necessary.
these parameters:
remaining
from a solid
rectangular
methods
for examining
the results
of atotoolpath
are to
Profile Extension
Start/End
(Forblock.
openOther
profiles
only) Specify
the amount
by which
tangentially
extend
render
the the
uncut
mesh
cycle time.
or
shorten
start
andand
endreporting
points of on
thethe
selected
profile.
Most
of these
features
also bethe
used
the driven
tooling
of turning
centres,
Overlap
Specifies
thecan
distance
toolwith
will overlap
around
a closed
profile
(see enabling
below). C and Y axis
EdgeCAM User Guide
46
Contouring Parameters in Planar Cycles

The Contouring tab appears in the 2D Profile ,RoughingandProfilingcycles.
UseContouring with straight-sided profiles to create multiple passes where the depth of material is too
great to cut in one pass. Also use contouring to machine a profile whose contours are defined in the
geometry.
Consider how you want to profile and which tool you want to use:

One pass with a taper tool.
Multiple
passes
with a a
taper
tool.
The Milling
module
provides
two-and-a-half,
environment
of
EdgeCAM.
Various
milling
(driven)
Multiple passes with a ballnose tool.
Click
on the
Contouring
button
or tab
to display
the contouring
for the
cycle:
You can
drive
the tool with
respect
to the
model geometry
using parameters
these standard
types
of machining cycle:
Digitise Contour Wall,Draft Angle,Upper Radius,Lower Radius See Defining Draft Walls.
Profiling Specifies the maximum depth of each successive cut. This must be a positive value. If you
Cut Increment
specifyPocket
a value,
one or more roughing passes are generated before the final finish pass.
Milling
Note that
theMilling
Cut Increment must be specified so that the tool intersects the geometry on the first pass.
Face
Otherwise the system cannot detect the geometry and displays an error message. (This allows the system
Slotting
to identify
island profiles correctly.)
Production
In this Hole
example,
the Cut Increment value (a) would produce an error message, but (b) would allow the
systemSurface
to detect
and cut the profile successfully.
Milling
Cusp
Specifying
this generates
an effective
cut increment
at each CNC
level, code.
which EdgeCAM
will not be uses
When Height
satisfied with
the machining
operations
for the part,
you can generate
exceeded.
If you files
specify
Cusp Height,
you mustsequence
also specify
The Cut Increment
will be
Code Generator
to interpret
the machining
intoa aCut
setIncrement.
of CNC instructions
for a specific
used
instead
theand
Cusp
Heightthis
if itinformation
is lower than
effective
increment.
machine
tool of
type,
outputs
to the
an ASCII
textcut
file.
You can then use the EdgeCAM Editor
or
other
editorstoChecking
examine this
andbox
alterstops
this file
required.
Stay
at Depth
theas
tool
from retracting when the tool moves from one profile to the
next, providing the distance moved by the tool is not more than the tool diameter. The alternative is for the
tool to rapid to a safe position. This can vary depending on the Optimise Link Move and the Depth
parameters selections (see below).
EdgeCAM User Guide
47
48

SeeControlling Link Moves.
Optimise Link Moves Checking this box allows the cycle to minimise any retract move between profiles
wherever possible. If the box is unchecked, the tool will always move to the Clearance height between
Profiling
profiles.
Pocket Milling
The cycle determines the retract height by finding the height at which the tool can move freely to the next
Face
Milling
position.
The
cycle then adds the Cut Increment and the Safe Distance to this retract height for added
safety. If the cycle cannot find an optimal path to the next position, the tool will retract to the Clearance
Slotting
plane.
Hole Production
Cut by Region Check this box to force the cycle to machine the profiles in regions. Regions are groups of
Surface
Milling a boss (hill) or pocket (valley). All regions will be completed before the cycle moves to
profiles
that represent
the next region. Otherwise all profiles on a level are machined before moving on to the next level.
This diagram shows the order of machining actions on an example part when the box is checked.
When the Cut by Region parameter is not checked, all profiles on a level are machined before moving on
the next level.
OptimiseRetract Check this box to use an incremental rather than an absolute retract value. After each
pass the tool rapids down to the retract distance above the last pass.
Z Offset Specifies the amount of material to be left on top of the island. Note that islands will not be faced
if the island height plus its Z offset is at or above the Z level settings.
EdgeCAM User Guide
Dynamic Billets for Planar Cycles

From the Advanced tab, click on the DynamicBillet box to create a continuous entity (the 'dynamic billet')
which defines the remaining material on a 2.5D profile. This entity can be selected for a subsequent pass by
a smaller tool. If this box is checked you cannot use the Contouring tab.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
toolpaths resulting
from
operations
The advantages
of using
thisthese
parameter
are: may be then be mirrored, transformed, matrixed or rotated.
you can
remove
a much greater
of material
in tight
corner conditions
sequence
at any
time, inserting,
editingproportion
or removing
the individual
commands
as necessary.
the advanced
algorithm
cusps of uncut
material
approaches
to the are
corner.
Any changes
you make
to the reduces
original geometry
from within
theon
Design
environment
reflected in all
EdgeCAM User Guide
49
Controlling Link Moves

Several parameters work in conjunction to control the rapid and feed link moves between consecutive
profiles. These are:
Stay at Depth Optimise Link Move Safe Distance
The diagrams show how these parameters affect the tools movements between profiles. No Safe Distance
has been specified, except where shown on the diagram.
The safest combination for a Profile cycle is Stay at Depth=Off, Optimise Link Move=Off. You can switch on
these features to reduce cycle times, but you should specify a Safe Distance that will clear any stock
remaining on the part, particularly for the Profile cycle, which will not be aware of the amount of material
The
Millingon
module
remaining
the part.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
50
51

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Drilling, Reaming and Boring

The Hole Cycle (Mill Cycles menu) command provides all the functionality for the different
hole creation methods.
Throughout this chapter, the term drilling in the general sense includes all strategies for creating holes.
The procedure for performing hole cycles depends on your selection of Depth parameters.
You can select points, lines or arcs as input for the EdgeCAM drilling cycles. When selecting arcs, the
centre of the arc is drilled. Please note that arcs must lie in the current CPL. Also see Filtering Drill Entities.
You will be able to optimise the resulting toolpath using different patterns. See Optimising the Toolpath.
You
can alsoof
use
the Hole Various
(Operations
command
to combine
related
commands.
environment
EdgeCAM.
millingmenu)
(driven)
tool types
can eitherseveral
be loaded
fromdrilling
the ToolStore
or
See
Operational
Programming
in Milling for details of using operations.
defined
by parameter.
See Also
Choosing
the Drilling Strategy
Profiling
Filtering
Drill Entities
Pocket
Milling
Specifying
FaceDepth
MillingParameters for Drilling
Controlling
the Tool's Entry Feedrate
Slotting
Controlling
the Tool's Approach to Depth for Drilling
Hole Production
Using Surface
Drilling Subroutines
on a Milling Centre
Milling
Output Drilling in Longhand Format
Using Drilling Canned Cycles on a Turning Centre
sequence at
Optimising
the
any
Toolpath
time, inserting, editing or removing the individual commands as necessary.
EdgeCAM User Guide
52
Choosing the Drilling Strategy

Use the Strategy parameter on the General tab to select the way in which you want to create the hole.
Choose from:
Drill- The tool retracts between pecks at the rapid rate.
Chipbreak- This cycle works in the same way as Drill, but the tool retracts by 1mm or .05 after each peck.
Ream - The tool feeds to Depth, then feeds up to the Clearance plane.
Bore - The tool retracts between pecks at the rapid rate. When the tool reaches the specified Depth for the
cycle, the tool spindle stops. The tool then indexes, locks and shifts before retracting to avoid scoring the
bore
hole. module provides a two-and-a-half, three and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
The Milling
environment
EdgeCAM.
Various milling
toolas
types
can either
be loaded
fromreversed
the ToolStore
or
Tap- The tooloffeeds
to the specified
Depth (driven)
and dwells
required.
The spindle
is then
and the
defined
by
parameter.
tool feeds out.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
53
Filtering Drill Entities
54
The Filtering tab of the Hole cycle dialog allows you to define how entities to be drilled are filtered. (Not
available for axial drilling)
Arc Centres
As Tool Diameter Check to only drill arcs of the same diameter as the tool (plus or minus tolerance
specified below).
Incomplete Arcs When checked, incomplete arcs (i.e. arcs that are not a full circle) will be drilled.
Minimum
Specifies
the minimum arc
size
be drilled.
The MillingDiameter
module provides
a two-and-a-half,
three
andtofive
environment
of
EdgeCAM.
Various
milling
(driven)
tool
types
Maximum Diameter Specifies the maximum arc size to be can
drilled.
Tolerance Specifies the tolerance used when matching tool to arc.
Lines
Profiling
Vertical Check to set level and depth from vertical line, any non-vertical lines will be ignored.
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
5.0 Compatibility
Slotting
Drill Duplicates
- (Compatibility switch) EdgeCAM automatically detects pre-version 5.0 drilling cycles and
checksHole
this Production
box when coincidental drill points are found.
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Specifying Depth Parameters for Drilling

Each drilling cycle has a set of Depth parameters that control the vertical motion of the tool before, during
and after each drilling operation.
The Depth tab of the Hole cycle dialog offers the following parameters:
Clearance Defines the height the tool lifts to between holes and at the end of the cycle.
Retract Defines the height the tool retracts to between pecks.
Level An absolute value that defines the surface of the workpiece.
Depth Defines the depth of the hole to be drilled.

Intelli
Drill of EdgeCAM. Various milling (driven) tool types can either be loaded from the ToolStore or
environment
defined
by parameter.
This functionality
is not available for axial fixed tool drilling.
You can
drive
the tooltowith
model
geometry
usingThe
these
standard
of machining
cycle:
Multi
Level
Check
drillrespect
a seriestoofthe
holes
at differing
levels.
level
for the types
cycle will
be taken from
the
digitised geometry (arc, line or point). The cycle applies the Depth and Retract values relative to the Level of
the digitised
entity. Any specified Level parameter value is ignored.
Profiling
Multi Depth
(Code Generator dependent) Check to drill a series of holes at different depths, the depth for
PocketMilling
the cycle is taken from an arc, line or point at the base of the hole. Where an entity to define the depth is not
Face
selected
theMilling
Depth parameter from the cycle dialog will be used. If arcs with a (connecting) vertical line are
selected
the
Slottingdepth will be taken from the vertical line. Please note that it is still necessary to specify a Depth
value (which will not be applied), otherwise an error will be displayed.
Hole Production
It is necessary to check Multi level in order for the Multi Depth option to work.
Surface Milling
See Also
The
resulting
from these operations may be then be mirrored, transformed, matrixed or rotated.
Tooltoolpaths
Depths with
Hole Cycles
If
you need
to make
changes
after defining
Drilling
a Series
of Points
at Differing
Levelsa sequence of these operations you can restructure the
Drilling a Series of Points at Differing Depths
Retract
Values
in Drilling
machining
commands
based on that geometry.
EdgeCAM User Guide
55
Tool Depths with Hole Cycles

Tool Moves without Pecking
For a normal (no pecking) drilling cycle, the tool:
1. Rapid moves in the workplane until over the first drill hole.
2. Rapids down to the retract plane.
3. Feeds down to the depth plane.
4. Rapids out to the clearance plane.

5. Rapid moves in the workplane to the next drilling point, and so on.
defined
6. Atby
theparameter.
end of the cycle, the tool rapids to the clearance plane.
Tool Moves with Pecking
Profiling
For a pecking drilling cycle, the tool:
Pocket Milling
Milling
1. Face
Rapids
move in the workplane until over the first drill hole.
2. Slotting
Rapids down to the clearance plane.
3. Hole
FeedsProduction
down to the first peck depth.
Surface
Milling
4. Rapids out
to the retract plane.
The
5. toolpaths
Rapids down
resulting
to a from
Safethese
Distance
operations
(specified
mayon
bethe
then
Step
be mirrored,
tab) awaytransformed,
from the material.
matrixed or rotated.
If you
6. Feeds
need todown
maketochanges
the second
afterpeck
defining
depth,
a sequence
and so on of
until
these
the operations
depth planeyou
hascan
been
restructure
reached.the
7. Rapid moves in the workplane to the next drilling point, and so on until all holes in the cycle have
Any changes
been drilled.
At the end of the cycle, the tool rapids to the clearance plane.
EdgeCAM User Guide
56
Drilling a Series of Points at Differing Levels

To use the hole cycle with multi level set
1. Select the Hole (Mill Cycles menu) command. A dialog appears showing the parameters for the
cycle.
2. Enter the parameters for the cycle.
3. On the Depth tab, select the Intelli Drill option Multi Level.
4. Digitise the entities to be drilled. This also provides the Z level information for each hole. The cycle
applies the Depth and Retract values relative to the Level of the digitised entity.
environment
5. Perform
ofaEdgeCAM.
Finish.
Various milling (driven) tool types can either be loaded from the ToolStore or
The toolpath is now generated.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
57
Drilling a Series of Points at Differing Depths

Please note that this option is Code Generator dependent.
To use the hole cycle with multi depth set
1. Select the Hole (Cycle menu) command; A dialog appears showing the parameters for the cycle.
2. Enter the parameters for the cycle.
3. Milling
On the
Depthprovides
tab, select
the Intelli Drill option
Multi
Depth.
The
module
a two-and-a-half,
three and
five
4. Digitise the entities to be drilled. If a point or an arc is selected the specified Depth will be applied. If
arcs with a (connecting) vertical line are selected the depth will be taken from the vertical line. Please
note
thatthe
it istool
stillwith
necessary
a Depth
valueusing
(which
will not
be applied),
otherwise
an cycle:
error
You can
drive
respecttotospecify
the model
geometry
these
standard
types of
machining
will be displayed.
Profiling a Finish.
5. Perform
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
58
Retract Values in Drilling

When completing a Hole Cycle dialog you are asked for depth settings of ZLEVEL, RETRACT
DISTANCE, DEPTH and ZCLEAR.
For single level cycles the RETRACT DISTANCE is passed to the Code Generator as a Retract Plane set at
ZLEVEL+RETRACT. If no retract distance is given the Retract Plane defaults to the Clearance Plane
Height.
For Multi level drilling the ZLEVEL is ignored and a RETRACT distance is passed to the Code Generator. If
a RETRACT distance is not stated it defaults to the ZCLEAR height. The Code Generator will then set up a
Retract plane based on the height of the first point and that Retract Distance. For this reason it is
recommended
that in
Multi Level
Drilling a RETRACT
distance
should
be entered
the dialog.
The Milling module
provides
a two-and-a-half,
three and
five axis
millingalways
capability
from theinManufacture
environment
of EdgeCAM.
Various
milling
(driven) toolthat
types
can either
from the
If any multilevel
cycles are to
be used
it is suggested
for best
resultsbeallloaded
hole cycles
withToolStore
the sameor
tool
defined
by
parameter.
should be treated as multilevel. A combination of multilevel and single level cycles with the same tool may
not
expected
Yougive
can the
drive
the tool NC
withoutput.
respect to the model geometry using these standard types of machining cycle:
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
59
Controlling the Tool's Entry Feedrate

Note that this functionality is only available with Code Generator files that have the Entry modifier
number specified on the Drill macro line.
When drilling into hardened material, you may want to use a slower feedrate until the drill tip has completely
entered the material.
To set this, use the Entrytabs parameters for the hole cycle. The Entry tab does not appear if you are
using a Tap, since a constant speed to feed ration must be maintained.
The Entry tab will only be displayed if the Subroutines parameter has been set to Pathtrace.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
The Entry parameters are:
Tool
Diameterisprovided,
Check this
box to apply
Entry Feed
rate
untiland
the simulating
full diameter
of the instructions.
tool is in the
the simulation
including
speedthe
controls,
swathe
mode
specific
material. This is mutually exclusive with EntryDepth. Note that this parameter cannot be used if your
Once
toolpath
currenta tool
has ahas
flatbeen
tip. generated, you can display and examine a representation of the material
Entry
Specify
the value
(or Digitise)
the incremental
depth to which the system is to apply the Entry
renderDepth
the uncut
mesh and
reporting
on the cycle
time.
Feed rate. Below this depth, the Plunge Feed rate is to be used.
Entry
Specify the feedrate to be used down to either:
controlFeed
of the tool.
the Entry Depth, or
when the tool
drilled into
material sequence
to its maximum
Code Generator
fileshas
to interpret
thethe
machining
into adiameter.
set of CNC instructions for a specific
This depends on which parameter you used to define the Entry Depth.
EdgeCAM User Guide
60
Controlling the Tool's Approach to Depth for Drilling

A series of parameters under the Step tab define how the tool pecks down to the specified Depth for the
hole cycle:
Cut Increment Specifies the amount of material penetrated by each peck by the tool. This value can be
reduced each peck by the Degression value.
Degression Specifies the distance that the Cut Increment is reduced by on each peck.
This also defines the smallest possible Cut Increment. If the Cut Increment is reduced to an equal or lower
value compared to the Degression value, the Cut Increment is set to the Degression value.
Safe
Distance
Specifies
height from thethree
current
depth
of themilling
hole that
the tool
moves
to before each
The Milling
module
providesthe
a two-and-a-half,
and
five axis
capability
from
the Manufacture
peck.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
61
Using Drilling Subroutines on a Milling Centre

The Subroutines parameter is present in milling cycles that could allow the machine tool controller to
generate subprograms.
Select between:
Controller Allows the controller to generate subprograms if more than one operation is performed on an
identical pattern (for example, a set of points).
Pathtrace Stops the controller from generating subroutines.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
62
Output Drilling in Longhand Format.

Longhand cycle expansion is implemented in all standard milling code wizard templates.
It is not available for controller subroutines, stand-off boring or tapping cycles.'

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
63
Using Drilling Canned Cycles on a Turning Centre

The Canned Cycles parameter is present in turning cycles that could use existing cycles held by the
machine tool controller.
Check the box to use the controller canned cycle for the drilling cycle. Leave blank to use the CNC code
generated by EdgeCAM.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
64
Optimising the Toolpath

The Optimise Path parameter allows you to select the most appropriate toolpath optimisation strategy.
Choose between the following options:
None The holes will be machined in the order in which they were selected.
Return to start The holes will be machined in an order to give the shortest path based on a need to
return to the start point at the end of the cycle.
Closest Neighbour The holes will be machined in an order to give the shortest path based on always
machining the next nearest hole.
Alternatively, the holes can be machined in one of the following patterns:

X Lace by parameter. X One Way
Y Lace
Y One Way
defined
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
PleaseSlotting
note that the direction of drilling is dependent on the tool position at the start of the toolpath.
Hole Production
Note on merging optimised hole cycles
Surface Milling
When sequences are rationalised or otherwise re-ordered, a number of cycles are frequently grouped
The toolpaths
resulting by
from
these tool.
operations
may be
then cycles
be mirrored,
transformed,
matrixed
or rotated.
together
for machining
a single
In the case
of hole
this gives
rise to a canned
cycle
(G81 etc)
in
the
NC
file
for
each
EdgeCAM
cycle
instruction.
Using
the
Merge
Hole
Cycle
option
of
the
Rationalise
command
enables
youinserting,
to group such
instructions
intothe
a single
cycle
so that multiple,
identical holes may be
sequence at
any time,
editing
or removing
individual
commands
as necessary.
drilled with one G81 canned cycle instead of many individual canned cycles each drilling one hole.
If cyclescommands
have different
optimisation
the combined cycle is set to <none> and is not optimised. The order
machining
based
on that geometry.
of drilling will be as if cycles had never been optimised and thus the toolpath may change.
EdgeCAM User Guide
65
Thread Milling
66
EdgeCAMs Thread Mill (Cycles menu) command allows you to create a thread up
or down the vertical axis of the machine. The cycle supports straight, taper, multi-start
and arc lead-in/lead-out options. You can also machine multiple threads within the
same command.
Note that the thread units can differ from the units used for the rest of the part. If you get an unexpected
result from this cycle, check the values you used for the cycle parameters.
This example shows four views of a single-start external thread with an arc lead in and out.
Normally,
start defining
thread by selecting
entity.
arccapability
represents
thethe
major
diameter of
The Millingyou
module
providesthe
a two-and-a-half,
three an
andarc
five
axis This
milling
from
Manufacture
an external thread,
or the minor
diameter
an internal
threadcan
(see
example).
You from
can also
digitise a point
environment
of EdgeCAM.
Various
millingof(driven)
tool types
either
be loaded
the ToolStore
or
that
represents
the centre
defined
by parameter.
of the thread (when using the thread milling cycle with hole features for example).
In this case, use the Major/Minor Diameter fields on the Thread tab to specify the major/minor diameter for
Youthread.
can drive the tool with respect to the model geometry using these standard types of machining cycle:
the
On the Depth tab, you can use the LevelandDepthparameters to define the start and end heights for the
thread.Profiling
Alternatively, depths may be specified as distances above and below the defined geometry using
theUpper
andLower
Pocket
Milling Distance parameters. All measurements are taken from the bottom of the thread, so
if you define an overlapping tool, the system mills a thread above this height.
Face Milling
On the Thread tab, the Thread Side parameter sets the thread as internal or external, and the Hand of
Slotting
Thread
parameter sets the thread as left or right-handed. See Defining the Thread.
Hole
Production
The thread's
direction of cut depends on these parameter values and is explained under Determining the
ThreadSurface
Mill CutMilling
Direction.
See Also
Defining the Thread
Making Single Start Threads
machining
Making
Multiple
commands
Starts based on that geometry.
Cutting
Tool
movements
One Pitchcan
at abe
Time
Leading In and Out in Thread Milling
How the Thread Mill Cycle Calculates the Feed Rate
render the uncut
Compensating
formesh
the Tool
and Radius
reporting
in on
Thread
the cycle
Milling
time.
Specifying
Most
of these
Tooling
features
Parameters
can alsofor
be Thread
used with
Millthe driven tooling of turning centres, enabling C and Y axis
EdgeCAM User Guide
Defining the Thread
67
Use these Thread tab parameters to define the shape of the thread:
Major/Minor Diameter - Normally, you would start defining the thread by selecting an arc entity. This arc
represents the major diameter of an external thread, or the minor diameter of an internal thread. You can
also digitise a point that represents the centre of the thread (when using the thread milling cycle with hole
features for example). In this case, use these fields to specify the major/minor diameter for the thread.
Pitch of Thread Specifies the pitch of the thread

(the pitch is the distance travelled down the axis of
the thread
theprovides
thread has
rotated through
The
Milling when
module
a two-and-a-half,
360).
environment
of EdgeCAM. Various milling (driven) tool types can either be loaded from the ToolStore or
You can
drivethe
thesame
tool with
respect
to the
the thread,
model geometry
using these
Pitch
is NOT
as the
lead of
which is calculated
asstandard
follows: types of machining cycle:
Lead = Pitch of thread x Number of starts.
Profiling
Number of Starts Specifies the number of starts for the thread. If you want more than one start, the starts
will bePocket
equallyMilling
spaced around the top of the thread.
Face Milling
Start Slotting
Angle Specifies
the start
angle
of the
Hole
Production
initial thread. The default
Surface
Milling
is 0. The
angle
is
measured from the
The
toolpaths
direction
of theresulting
X axis from these operations may be then be mirrored, transformed, matrixed or rotated.
the changes after defining a sequence of these operations you can restructure the
Ifanticlockwise
you need to in
make
direction ofatthe
axis. inserting, editing or removing the individual commands as necessary.
sequence
anyYtime,
Depth of Thread Specifies the
depth of the thread to be machined.
Thread Side Selects an Internal or External thread.

Hand of Thread Selects a Right or Left-Handed thread.
See Also
EdgeCAM User Guide
Determining the Thread Mill Cut Direction
68
Cutting a Tapered Thread

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Determining the Thread Mill Cut Direction

Use this table to calculate the cut direction for the cycle:

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
69
Cutting a Tapered Thread

If you are using a taper tool, the cycle creates a thread with the same taper angle as the tool. Otherwise, the
cycle produces a normal thread.
To specify a tapered thread, use the Taper Angle parameter on the Thread tab of the Thread Mill cycle.
In this example below, a value of -15 has been entered as the Taper Angle parameter:

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
70
Making Single Start Threads

Select the Thread Mill (Cycles menu) command.
On the Lead tab, define how the tool approaches and leaves the thread by specifying the Lead In and
Lead Out parameters.
On the Thread tab, ensure that Number of Starts is set to 1.
Threading starts at the position specified in the Start Angle parameter (which defaults to 0), milling a
thread of the specified Lead (Lead of the thread = Pitch of thread x Number of starts) andDepth of Thread.
Click on OK once you have defined the cycle parameters.

The
Milling
module
provides
a two-and-a-half,
Select
the arc
geometry
to use
for the cycle. three and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
In
this example
an external
thread has been generated with a Start Angle of 270:
defined
by parameter.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
71
Making Multiple Starts
72
To Mill a Thread with Multiple Starts

1. Select the Thread Mill (Cycles menu) command. A box appears containing the parameters for the
cycle.
2. Define how the tool approaches and leaves the thread by specifying the Lead parameters.
3. On the Thread tab, specify the Number of Starts required.
4. Use the Change Start Height parameter to specify how the other starts approach the thread (only
valid for threading downwards). See Changing the Start Height when Making Multiple Starts.
5. Click
on OK after you have defined the cycle parameters.
defined
by parameter.
6. can
Digitise
to use
for model
the cycle.
You
drive the
the arc
toolgeometry
with respect
to the
geometry using these standard types of machining cycle:
7. Perform a Finish.
Profiling
The toolpaths are now generated for the cycle.
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Changing the Start Height when Making Multiple Starts

If you do not set Change Start Height, the tool leads in at new start angle. The start angles are evenly
spaced around the thread, so in this example the second start is 180 around the thread (see example).

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
If you do set Change Start Height, the tool leads in at a higher position at the original Start Angle and
Milling
starts Surface
to thread.
Here the start point is half a pitch higher but at the same XY position as the first start point
(see example).
EdgeCAM User Guide
73
Cutting One Pitch at a Time

Cutting the thread may need more than one revolution of the cutter around the workpiece. You can control
this using the Thread Mill cycles Maximum Cut 360 parameter.
If you leave the Maximum Cut 360 parameter box empty, the tool cuts the full thread in one pass.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
If
youtoolpaths
mark theresulting
Maximum
Cutthese
360 parameter
thebe
tool
has completed
a full matrixed
360 (oneorpitch)
of
The
from
operationsbox,
may when
be then
mirrored,
transformed,
rotated.
thread, it leads out and then leads in before cutting another pitch of the thread.
EdgeCAM User Guide
74
Leading In and Out
75
Select the Leadtab to display the lead in and out parameters for the thread.
Select the method of lead in/out using the parameter Type In/Out. The parameter settings are:
Arc1 (Arc Radius)
Direct (Distance)
Arc 2 (Arc Distance)
See
Also
environment
defined
by
parameter.
1) Method
Using the Arc Radius (Arc
You
the tool
with respect
Usingcan
thedrive
Distance
(Direct)
Methodto the model geometry using these standard types of machining cycle:
Using the Arc Distance (Arc 2) Method
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Using the Arc Radius (Arc 1) Method

This brings the tool in tangentially in to the start of the thread, as defined by the parameters Radius In/Out,
Angle In/Out and Planar In/Out.
Radius Defines the radius of the lead move arc as a percentage of the arc geometry you select for the
cycle. The default value is 50%.
Angle Defines the included angle that lead moves pass through. The default value is 180.
Planar Specifies whether the lead move should have any vertical movement associated to it. If you do not
check this box, then the arc lead moves have the same amount of vertical movement as the actual
threading.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
76
Using the Distance (Direct) Method

This method brings the tool directly in to the start of the thread.
You must specify the parameter Distance In/Out:
Distance In Defines the distance from the thread geometry at which the lead move starts.
The tool then feeds into to the piece until it reaches the full cut depth (defined by Thread parameter Depth
of Thread).
When the tool has completed a full thread it moves directly away from the workpiece by the value specified
inDistance Out parameter.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
77
Using the Arc Distance (Arc 2) Method

This method brings the tool in tangential to the start of the thread, as governed by the parameter Distance
In/Out.
You must specify this parameter:
Distance Defines the perpendicular distance at the thread start angle plus 30, from which the radial lead
move takes place.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
78
How the Thread Mill Cycle Calculates the Feed Rate

EdgeCAMs Thread Milling module uses the formula:
Where:
fr = New feed rate

The
Milling
module
fi = Input
feed
rate provides a two-and-a-half, three and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
c
= Thread
(arc selected)
circumference
thread by
defined
parameter.
c
= Toolpath
line)
circumference
toolcan
You
drive the(centre
tool with
respect
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
79
Compensating for the Tool Radius in Thread Milling

Warning- You must obey the rules of the Controller when applying or removing compensation. It is
the user's responsibility to bear in mind the limitations of this facility for each CNC control system.
Compensation Choose between the Pathtrace andControllertool radius compensation methods. This
determines how the code generator produces CNC code from this command.
As a tool radius compensation facility is also present in many CNC control systems, you may wish to
consider how best to use these apparently similar facilities.
Controller Compensation
If you select Controller, any code generated for this cycle will be based on the geometry used for the cycle.
The tool radius compensation facility on CNC controllers allows the operator to use tools of different
diameters
from those specified by the programmer, without needing to change the program.
Profiling
Some Pocket
users assume
Milling a tool of zero diameter within the CNC program and allow the operator to select a
suitable tool. This policy has one major disadvantage: the rules for applying and removing tool radius
Face Milling
compensation
are sometimes complex and you must strictly follow them for the cycle to operate correctly.
Slotting
Note: If
you select Controller compensation, the controller might not create an offset path similar to the
EdgeCAM
even if you have specified an equivalent tool radius compensation.
Hole cycle
Production
Surface Milling
Pathtrace Compensation
The
resulting from
these operations
may be
then
be mirrored,
transformed,
matrixed or rotated.
If youtoolpaths
select Pathtrace,
the system
will output offset
data
based
on the centre
of the tool.
If
you need
to factor
make is
changes
after
defining compensation
a sequence of the
these
operations
you is
can
restructure
When
a CRC
used with
Pathtrace
straight
line move
calculated
by the
multiplying
sequence
at
any
time,
inserting,
editing
or
removing
the
individual
commands
as
necessary.
the tool radius with the CRC factor. The start of the compensation move is then calculated as if controller
compensation
withmake
a fullto
radius
offset were
beingfrom
used.
The the
move
lengthenvironment
seen on screen
and in the
Any changes you
the original
geometry
within
Design
are reflected
in NC
all file
will
be
adjusted
for
Pathtrace
compensation
to
show
the
move
from
comp
start
to
the
Pathtrace
offset
toolpath. When working with this method, the Canned Cycle option must be checked.
EdgeCAM User Guide
80
Specifying Tooling Parameters for Thread Mill

These parameters specify the details of the tool to be used in this cycle. The only information the system
uses from the Toolchange command is the tool diameter.
Number of Teeth Defines the number of teeth on the tool.
Overlap of Teeth This parameter defines the number of teeth to be overlapped by this cycle. The overlap
cannot exceed the number of teeth on the tool.
Tools with the same number of teeth less the Overlap value produce the same toolpath.
For example, a tool with 6 teeth and an overlap of 2 teeth produces the same toolpath as a tool with 4 teeth
and
overlap.
The no
Milling
module provides a two-and-a-half, three and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
environment
EdgeCAM.
(driven)
tool
types
can be
either
be either
loadedthe
from
theofToolStore
Pitch of Toolof
- Specifies
theVarious
pitch ofmilling
the teeth
on the
tool.
It must
equal
pitch
the threadoror
defined
by
parameter.
the lead of the thread.

You lead
can drive
tool with
respect toasthe
model geometry using these standard types of machining cycle:
The
of thethe
thread
is calculated
follows:
LeadProfiling
= Pitch of thread x Number of starts
Taper Angle Specifies the internal angle of the tool, and therefore the angle of the thread to be cut. See
Pocket Milling
underCutting a Tapered Thread.
Face Milling
Hand of Tool Selects the hand of tool to be used, and together with Mill Type indicates the direction of
milling.Slotting
See Determining the Thread Mill Cut Direction.
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
81
Roughing Cycle
82
You use the Roughing (Cycles menu) command to produce a gouge-protected roughing cycle, using a
concentric or lacing clearance pattern on 2D geometry as well as features, surfaces, solids and STL
models.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Faceincludes
Milling an option to select a number of points that define the entry point for each region. The
The cycle
Approach Type modifier on the Approach tab offers you the ability to start the Roughing cycle from preSlotting
drilled hole(s) and set a preference for Ramp or Helical approach.
Hole Production
The cycle has been optimised for high speed machining, including tangential links between passes and
Surface
Milling
optimised
retract
moves.
The
includes
the following
features:
The cycle
toolpaths
resulting
from these
operations may be then be mirrored, transformed, matrixed or rotated.
Associative depth parameters.
Intermediate slices to reduce the size of the step left by the roughing cycle.
machining
commands
based
on that geometry.
Flat Land
detection
to machine
down to the specified Z Offset from the top of the island(s) and/ or the
base of pockets.
the simulation
is definition
provided, with
including
speed
controls,
Draft Wall
optional
blend
radii. swathe mode and simulating specific instructions.
Once a
toolpath
has beenfor
generated,
you can
display
andthat
examine
a representation of the material
Clean
Up Stepover
the last pass
at each
Z level
is machined.
Corner Type option to control the behaviour of the cycle on sharp corners.
Close Open Pockets option to treat all pockets as closed pockets (concentric strategy only).
controlRest
of the
tool.
Roughing
to remove material left behind by the roughing cycle.
You can
also control
machine
Trochoidal
milling
in full tool
widthspecific
cuts. functions such as coolant on/off.
When Optional
satisfied high
with speed
the machining
corners.operations for the part, you can generate CNC code. EdgeCAM uses
See Also
Using Adaptive Feedrates - Roughing Cycle
Controlling the Approach Moves in the Roughing Cycle
Selecting the Approach Type
Selecting the Link Method
Avoiding Clamps and Fixtures
Intelligent Lead and Link Moves
EdgeCAM User Guide
Using the Roughing Cycle

1. Select the Roughingcommand.
2. In the subsequent Roughing dialog, enter the parameters to set up the cycle. Set Model Type to the
geometry of the shapes you are to machine; Wireframe, Surface or Solid. To machine features,
choose Solid.
You can use wireframe to specify pockets,pockets with islands,male parts (bosses),open pockets.
Note that Model Type is only available with a Surface Milling or Solid Machinist licence. Without this
The Milling
the setting
module
is effectively
provides awireframe.
two-and-a-half, three and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
3. Click OK; the dialog closes so that you can...
4. Follow the prompts at the left hand end of the status bar. You are prompted to:
Select the geometry (wireframe, surface, solid or feature - depending on your Model Type setting)
Profiling
that makes up the shape to be machined.
Pocket Milling
To produce machined non-vertical side walls using wireframe, specify contour wall geometry
Face(optional).
Milling See Digitising Contour Walls and Defining Draft Walls.
Slotting
Select the stock (optional).
HoleSelect
Production
a containment boundary (optional).
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
83
Using Trochoidal Milling

Please note that Trochoidal Milling requires a 3-Axis Milling licence.
In the Approach tab of the Roughing cycle you can specify that Trochoidal milling should be used for full
width cuts (that is cuts that exceed the specified % stepover).

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
If you
need to
make there
changes
sequence
of these
can restructure
the from
In
a narrow
channel
mayafter
not defining
be room afor
a trochoidal
cut, inoperations
this case you
the channel
is excluded
sequence
the
cycle. at any time, inserting, editing or removing the individual commands as necessary.
Any changes
you make milling
to the original
from
within into
the Design
reflected
in allthe
When
using Trochoidal
the toolgeometry
cannot run
as tightly
corners.environment
These areasare
can
be cut with
machining
commands
Rest
Roughing
cycle. based on that geometry.
EdgeCAM User Guide
84
Using Adaptive Feedrates - Roughing Cycle

You can opt for the feedrate to be automatically adjusted throughout the toolpath, to take into account the
effective %Stepover.
For example, when cutting a narrow channel, the cut may be 'full width', that is the effective stepover is
100%. In this situation the feedrate could be reduced to reduce the loading on the tool.
Conversely, for smaller cuts, where the effective stepover is less than the specified %stepover, the feedrate
could be increased to reduce the machining time, without overloading the tool.
The amount of adjustment is indicated along the toolpath; the darker the colour, the more the feedrate has
been reduced.
You
use the Feedrate
options
in themilling
cycle's(driven)
Approach
tab. You
'Minimum%'
andthe
'Maximum%'
environment
of EdgeCAM.
Various
tool types
canspecify
either be
loaded from
ToolStore or
values,
which
control
the
amount
of
adjustment.
Here
is an
example
where:
You can
drive
the tool
with respect to the model geometry using these standard types of machining cycle:
%Stepover
is set to 50.
Profiling
Maximum%
is set to 300.
Pocket Milling
Minimum%
Face Millingis set to 10.
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
Use
'Increment(%)'
value
to control
sensitivity
of tooling
the feedrate
adjustment.
smallCvalues
fine
Mostthe
of these
features can
also
be usedthe
with
the driven
of turning
centres,Use
enabling
and Yfor
axis
adjustment,
at
the
expense
of
bulkier
CNC
code
and
slower
cycle
processing.
Use
large
values
for
coarse
adjustments, with less bulky CNC code and faster cycle processing.
Note that adaptive feedrates are only applied to moves in XY. They are not applied to any 'end cutting'
When satisfied
with theSee
machining
forby
the
part,
you can
generate
code.
uses in
plunge
(ramp) moves.
how thisoperations
is indicated
the
different
colour
for theCNC
helical
partEdgeCAM
of the toolpath
Code
Generator files to interpret the machining sequence into a set of CNC instructions for a specific
this
example.
EdgeCAM User Guide
85
86

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Defining Stock for the Roughing Cycle

The Roughing cycle offers a number of methods to define the shape of the stock that the part is to be made
from.
By defining a stock type the cycle can determine the most appropriate approach and ensures that all stock
is removed without machining across areas where no stock exists. Stock definition is particularly important
for identifying external areas so the cycle can machine open sided pockets and excess material. When the
stock is coincident with the part the cycle will not generate unnecessary toolpaths
The stock defined in the Roughing cycle is not automatically related to any stock features that may have
been defined in Design.
The Stock
MillingType
module
provideshas
a two-and-a-half,
command
five options: three and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
Profiling
Pocket
Milling on the usage of the different stock types, please click on the links below:
For further
information
None Face Milling
Slotting
3D Model
Hole Production
Thickness
Surface
Bounding
Box Milling
Profile
sequence
The
Stock at
Offset
any time,
is a 3D
inserting,
offset that
editing
canor
optionally
removing
bethe
applied
individual
to allcommands
stock types,
asbut
necessary.
is required for the
Thickness type.
machining
Rest
Roughing
commands
automatically
based on
uses
thattogeometry.
same stock type as the previous roughing cycle.
EdgeCAM User Guide
87
Stock Type: None
88
With Stock Type set to None the Roughing cycle will only machine closed pockets
Digitised Input: None
Usage: Machining pockets only. May require a containment boundary.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Stock Type: Bounding Box

A bounding box is a rectangular box that is placed around the extents of the 2D or 3D entities selected for
machining. This box (not displayed) is used to define the stock envelope.
Usage: Machining rectangular parts that contains pockets and/or open sided pockets.
2D Example
What is EdgeCAM
Milling?
3D Example
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
89
Stock Type: 3D Model
90
You can digitise a solid model, surface(s) or an STL model to represent the stock volume. It is
recommended that the entities representing the stock are placed on a separate layer for easy selection and
show/hide
Digitised Input: You will be prompted to digitise surfaces, solid or STL entities that represent the stock
volume.
Usage: A stock model is available which represents a casting, forging or pre-machined material that is not a
simple offset of the finished part.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
Note that digitised Stock/Fixtures (Geometry menu) can only select solids. Therefore EdgeCAM
The toolpaths
resulting
theseoroperations
Simulator
cannot
displayfrom
surface
STL stock.may be then be mirrored, transformed, matrixed or rotated.
EdgeCAM User Guide
Stock Type: Thickness

The entities selected for machining are offset by the Stock Offset value and used as the stock definition.
This option can only be used when machining surfaces, solids or STL models.
Usage: This feature is useful for casting and forging that form a constant wall thickness.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
The Stock Offset is a 3D offset that can optionally be applied to all stock types, but is required for the
Hole Production
Thickness type.
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
91
Stock Type: Profile
92
Select a 2D geometric profile to represent the stock edge. When selecting this option, you will be prompted
to digitise the stock profile.
Digitised Input: Lines, arcs, continuous, boss or pocket feature that form a closed 2D boundary.
Usage: Any flat faced straight walled stock shape

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Using Containment Boundaries in Roughing

In addition to selecting stock it is also possible to select a containment boundary. Boundaries are 2D closed
profiles that are used by the cycle to contain the toolpath to the selected area. This can be used to rough
specific areas or to avoid clamps and fixtures (see Avoiding Clamps and Fixtures). The toolpath is not
allowed to cross the boundary.
The boundary information selected for the main roughing cycle is also used by any subsequent rest
roughingcycles.
Pocket Regions
As can be seen from the image below the boundary does not need to be the edge of the pocket. The
The
Milling
module is
provides
a two-and-a-half,
toolpath
generated
identical
in both instances.
Complex Boundary
Simple Boundary
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
Open Regions
The
examples
below show
that
and stock area can be contained within a containment boundary.
machining
commands
based
onthe
thatpart
geometry.
This is ideal for restricting the toolpath to particular areas of the model. As can be seen the toolpath centre
Toolfollows
movements
can be simulated
on screen
using
default
or user-generated tool graphics. Full control of
line
the containment
boundary
when on
the stock
area.
To ensure that the tool still approaches from outside the stock you must make sure that the containment
Once
a toolpath
been to
generated,
can display
examine
a representation
of thethe
material
boundary
is largehas
enough
allow the you
approach.
If the and
boundary
is too
close it will restrict
toolpath and
remaining
from
a
solid
rectangular
block.
Other
methods
for
examining
the
results
of
a
toolpath
are to
force a closed pocket behaviour.
EdgeCAM User Guide
93
94

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Intermediate Slices
95
Intermediate slices may be used to reduce the size of the step left by the roughing cycle.
Only the step region is machined for intermediate slices.
Intermediate slices will always be cut from bottom to top within each cut increment to reduce
unnecessary cutting.
This method roughs and semi-roughs the part in one cycle while allowing the tool to cut to its maximum
depth for the main increments.
Component
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Main Cut
Increments
Hole Production
Surface Milling
machining commands
Intermediate
Slices
EdgeCAM User Guide
Detecting Flat Lands
96
In the Roughing and Profiling cycles, check Detect Flat Land (Depth tab) to make sure that there is a
cutting pass at the height of any flat region.
Without this option checked, the last (lowest) pass occurs when there is not sufficient depth remaining for
another full cut (as specified by the Cut Increment).

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
We recommend to leave the option unchecked when working with large surface parts with no flat areas
If
need processing
to make changes
toyou
increase
speed.after defining a sequence of these operations you can restructure the
EdgeCAM User Guide
Specifying a Clean Up Stepover

A clean up pass (the outermost pass of each pocket) will ensure that any cusps left by the cycle are
machined away. The Clean Up % Stepover specifies the stepover for this pass as a percentage of the tool
diameter.
The advantage of this option is that the tool loading on the final pass can be significantly reduced as the tool
takes a smaller cut. This is particularly beneficial when machining thin walled pockets.
If this field is left blank the main % Stepover will be used. Please note that the stepover for the clean up
pass cannot exceed the main stepover, if a larger value is entered this will be clamped to the main stepover.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
render
theusing
uncutthe
mesh
and
reporting
the up
cycle
time. is limited to 20% to avoid leaving behind pegs of
When
Lace
strategy
the on
clean
stepover
material.
EdgeCAM User Guide
97
Controlling Sharp Corners

The Corner Type (Contouring tab) option allows you to control the behaviour of the cycle on sharp
corners. Choose between the following options:
Round - The toolpath rolls around a sharp corner, which will produce a conical form on drafted cycles.

Profiling
Sharp - The sharp edge will be maintained.
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
98
Close Open Pockets
99
Concentric strategy only

The Close Open Pockets option on the General tab allows you to specify how to machine open areas.
When unchecked, the tool will work from the outer edge inwards.
When checked, all open pockets will be treated as closed pockets and the tool will start in the middle
and work outwards.
The
module
provides
two-and-a-half,
and five
axisPockets
milling capability
The Milling
following
example
showsa the
toolpath withthree
the Close
Open
option unchecked:
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
This
example
shows
theand
toolpath
withon
thethe
Close
render
the uncut
mesh
reporting
cycleOpen
time.Pockets option checked:
EdgeCAM User Guide
100

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Rest Roughing
101
ARest Rough option is available on the General tab of the cycle. This continues the machining of material
left by a previous cycle (that the tool was too large to cut, for example).
You can select the cycle to be rest roughed by checking Digitize Roughing (also on the General tab).
Without this checked the previous roughing cycle (or rest roughing cycle) is automatically selected.
As the diagram below shows, you can 'cascade' rest roughs (where a rest rough removes material left be a
previous rest rough), with no limit to the number of rest roughs cascaded.
Note that rest roughing automatically uses the same stock type and boundary information as the cycle
being rest roughed.
If no appropriate cycle precedes the rest rough cycle an error message will be displayed.
When rest roughing, the following parameters cannot be modified: Tolerance, Offset, Stock Type,
Stock Offset.
Profiling
RoughPocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
Rest Rough
remaining
from
a solid rectangular block. Other methods for examining the results of a toolpath are to
Second
Rest
Rough
EdgeCAM User Guide
Avoiding Clamps and Fixtures

Avoidance areas can be defined as surfaces, solid models or STL models.
Select these additional entities along with the entities that are to be machined.
The cycle offset is applied to these entities in the same fashion as to the model itself. So it is necessary to
add any additional clearance requirements into the clamp models.
It is not necessary to draw a complete 3D model of any avoidance area. Just create a flat surface of the
desired shape and ensure the height of the surface is at the highest point of the real clamp.
Levelprovides
to <None>
sets the heightthree
of theand
cycle
the milling
highestcapability
point of the
model.
This will
TheSetting
Milling the
module
a two-and-a-half,
fivetoaxis
from
the Manufacture
include
any
surfaces
that
have
been
included
for
clamp
avoidance.
Therefore
it
is
recommended
that aor
environment of EdgeCAM. Various milling (driven) tool types can either be loaded from the ToolStore
<value>
is
used
to
specify
the
height
of
the
part.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
102
High Speed Cornering Option
103
The General tab of the Roughing Cycle dialog features a High Speed Cornering option.
Setting
Relative
Advantages/Disadvantages
Toolpath
Lower machine stresses.

Reduced toolpath length.
A radius is
Toolspeed maintained.
introduced into sharp
Reduced cycle time.
toolpath corners.
The
Milling
module
provides
a two-and-a-half,
This is the default.
More
CNC code. three and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
Less CNC code.
All toolpath
Profilingcorners
have an angle from
Pockethowever
Milling
the profile,
sharp.
Face Milling
Higher machine stresses.

Increased toolpath length.
Toolspeed reduced.
Increased cycle time.
Slotting
Note Hole Production
Surface Milling
The final pass does not have introduced rounded corners. This always follows the profile, subject to
The toolpaths
resulting
fromsetting
these (0
operations
may
be mirrored, transformed, matrixed or rotated.
the Minimum
Radius
in the case
of be
thethen
illustration).
If you The
needintroduced
to make changes
after defining
a sequence
of these operations
you can restructure
thecycle.
corner radius
is not fixed.
It is a percentage
of the % Stepover
setting for the
EdgeCAM User Guide
Controlling the Approach Moves in the Roughing Cycle

All lead moves are gouge protected against the model and stock. The tool will move into position in XY then
(if necessary) rapid to the Safe Distance above the material before applying the selected approach type.
For a detailed list of Approach Types, see Selecting the Approach Type for the Roughing Cycle.
Calculating the Ramp Angle
The cycle is capable of calculating the maximum ramp angle based on the tool geometry. This is achieved
by specifying the Maximum Plunge Depth of the tool which used with the Tool diameter to calculate the
maximum Ramp Angle.
Click
here to view
a diagramVarious
illustrating
this(driven)
modifier.
environment
of EdgeCAM.
milling
You canCutting
drive the
Centre
Tool
A check box on the Approach tab denotes whether a tool is capable of centre cutting. i.e. plunge cutting.
Profiling
The state
of this modifier can affect the ramp moves.
Pocket Milling
Non-centre
Face Milling cutting tools are never allowed to plunge cut and will use the specified Ramp Angle or
the calculated Ramp Angle (whichever is the shallowest). Any pocket area that cannot apply a
Slotting
ramp
will no be machined.
Hole Production
Centre
cutting tools can plunge by the Maximum Plunge Depth. The tool will only plunge the ramp
move
cannot
be applied.
Surface Milling
Tip: To force the tool to plunge cut set the Ramp Angle to 90 degrees, check the Centre Cutting tool
Ifmodifier
you need
makethe
changes
afterPlunge
defining
a sequence
of these operations you can restructure the
andtoleave
Maximum
Depth
field blank.
Maximum
Plunge Depth
machining commands
This
modifier
specifies
maximum
in thedefault
Z-axis or
that
the tool can plunge
feed. TheFull
value
will be
Tool movements can bethe
simulated
ondistance
screen using
user-generated
tool graphics.
control
of
used
to
check
that
the
ramp
move
does
not
exceed
this
value.
The
maximum
plunge
is
assumed
to
be
equal to the Cut Increment when modifier is left blank.
Note onfrom
specifying
Approach
TypeOther
and Maximum
Plunge
Depth the results of a toolpath are to
remaining
a solid the
rectangular
block.
methods for
examining
render
the uncut
mesh
andisreporting
on the
time.
If Maximum
Plunge
Depth
set to 0 the
toolcycle
cannot
plunge or ramp. Therefore, the cycle can only machine
external
areasfeatures
or pocket
areas
have with
pre-drilled
holes.
Most
of these
can
alsothat
be used
the driven
tooling of turning centres, enabling C and Y axis
Approaching
from the
outside
You can also control
machine
tool specific functions such as coolant on/off.
The
XYsatisfied
Standoff
modifier
allows you
to specifyforthe
distance
between
the stock
andcode.
the tool
when uses
When
with
the machining
operations
the
part, you
can generate
CNC
EdgeCAM
approaching
fromfiles
outside.
Previously,
a hard coded
value into
of 1mm
inches) was
Code Generator
to interpret
the machining
sequence
a set(or
of 0.03937
CNC instructions
for used.
a specific
See Also
Selecting the Approach Type for the Roughing Cycle
Selecting the Automatic Approach Type
EdgeCAM User Guide
104
Selecting the Approach Type for the Roughing Cycle

The Roughing cycle offers you the ability to start the cycle from pre-drilled hole(s) and set a preference for
Ramp or Helical approach.
The Approach Type (Approach tab) provides the following options:

Automatic - The cycle automatically applies an appropriate ramp method. See Selecting the Automatic
Profiling
Approach
Type.
Pocket
Millinga pre-defined drill point as the point of entry. The tool will plunge down the nearest hole
Pre-Drill
- Specify
to the Face
start point
in a region. When no valid point is available the tool will ramp instead.
To ensure that a
Milling
valid point is available, create a point or a set of points that represent the XY position of the hole at full
Slotting
diameter
depth. Prior to using the Roughing cycle, drill the points you have created. When choosing a tool
for theHole
drill cycle,
we would recommend you select the Full Diameter Depth Type option on the More tab of
Production
the tool change dialog.
Surface Milling
The tool will rapid down the hole to the desired depth unless it is within the safe distance of the pre-drill
point
where it will
feed tofrom
depth
from
the safe distance
above
point. Iftransformed,
Feed Whenmatrixed
Plungingorisrotated.
checked
The toolpaths
resulting
these
operations
may be then
bethe
mirrored,
the tool will feed down the hole at the Plunge Feedrate.
The point
represents
Tool movements can be simulated on screen using default or user-generated
thetool
XY graphics. Full control of
the simulation is provided, including speed controls, swathe mode and simulating
specific
instructions.
position
of
the hole of the material
Once a toolpath has been generated, you can display and examine a representation
and theof a toolpath are to
remaining from a solid rectangular block. Other methods for examining the results
full
diameter
Most of these features can also be used with the driven tooling of turning centres,
depth. enabling C and Y axis
Helix - Helical approach to the pocket. The cycle will always attempt to place a helical approach in pocket
areas before any other approach type.
Ramp
- Ramp
approach
to the this
pocket.
The cycle
willASCII
always
attempt
to place
a ramp
in pocket
machine
tool type,
and outputs
information
to an
text
file. You
can then
use approach
the EdgeCAM
Editor
areas
before
any
approach
type.
or other
editors
toother
examine
and alter
this file as required.
If the Maximum Plunge Depth is set to 0 the tool cannot plunge or ramp. Therefore, the cycle can only
machine external areas or pocket areas that have pre-drilled holes.
EdgeCAM User Guide
105

The Link Method (Approach tab) option allows you to specify how the tool is to start each level and region
within the cycle.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Choose between the following options:
Slotting
Always Ramp The tool will apply the appropriate ramp to the next region.
Hole Production
Always Stay At Depth The tool will feed in XY to next region or depth.
Surface Milling
Optimised An estimate of the shortest cycle time is used to determine the best link method (either Always
Ramp
or Always
Stay Atfrom
Depth).
The toolpaths
resulting
these operations may be then be mirrored, transformed, matrixed or rotated.
EdgeCAM User Guide
106
Profiling Cycle
107
You use the Profiling Cycle to produce a gouge-protected profiling cycle based on wireframe geometry,
surface geometry and STL models, solid geometry or features. See Using the Profiling Cycle for more
information.
The cycle finishes the selected geometry in a series of XY profiles down the Z axis.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
Main Cycle features include:
If you Associative
need to make
changes
after defining a sequence of these operations you can restructure the
depth
parameters.
Multiple passes.
Flat Land
detection.
machining
commands
Common
interface
for 2D andon
3Dscreen
input. using default or user-generated tool graphics. Full control of
Tool movements can be simulated
the simulation
is Cutter
provided,
including
Integrated
Radius
Compensation.
Once a
toolpath
has been
generated,
you can display and examine a representation of the material
Gouge
protected
leads
and links.
Manual
control.
renderAutomatic
the uncut &
mesh
andstart/end
reportingpoint
on the
cycle time.
Minimum
Radius
adjustment.
controlCorner
of the tool.
Type option to control the behaviour of the cycle on sharp corners.
You can
also control
machine
specific functions such as coolant on/off.
Nearest
neighbour
& cuttool
by region.
When Helical
satisfied
with the machining operations for the part, you can generate CNC code. EdgeCAM uses
profiling.
Bounding
entities
that limit
the
cycle to a to
portion
of the
selected
surface(s).
machine
tool type,
and outputs
this
information
an ASCII
text
file. You
can then use the EdgeCAM Editor
or other
editorsminimum
to examine
alter this
file as angles.
required.
Optional
andand
maximum
contact
Check Surfaces, which protect surfaces from machining.
3D curved profile support (Wireframe). Also profiles that are non-parallel to the CPL.
Shallow area finishing.
Undercut Machining.
As this Profiling cycle includes 2D options, it effectively supercedes the old Profile cycle. We recommend
the Profiling cycle as it offers more features and has a user interface that is consistent with other recent
cycles.
EdgeCAM User Guide
Using the Profiling Cycle

1. Select the Profilingcommand.
2. In the subsequent Profiling dialog, set the modifiers to set up the cycle. Set Model Type to the
geometry of the shapes you are to machine; Wireframe, Surface or Solid. To machine features,
choose Solid.
You can use wireframe to specify pockets,pockets with islands,male parts (bosses),open pockets.
Note that Model Type is only available with a Surface Milling or Solid Machinist licence. Without this
The Milling
the setting
module
is effectively
provides awireframe.
two-and-a-half, three and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
defined
Tobymachine
parameter.
profiles
that curve in three dimensions, or that have a plane that is non-parallel to the
CPL, check 3D Profiling (General tab).
3. ClickOK; the dialog closes so that you can...
Profilingthe prompts at the left hand end of the status bar. You are prompted to:
4. Follow
Pocket Milling
Select the geometry (wireframe, surface, solid or feature - depending on your Model Type setting)
Face Milling
that makes up the shape to be machined.
Slotting
Specify start and end points.
Hole Production
To produce machined non-vertical side walls using wireframe, specify contour wall geometry
Surface
(optional).
Milling See Digitising Contour Walls and Defining Draft Walls.
Select
a containment
boundary
(optional).
The toolpaths
resulting
from these
operations
may be then be mirrored, transformed, matrixed or rotated.
EdgeCAM User Guide
108
Selecting the Mill Type in the Profiling Cycle

Mill Type Optimised On the General tab, check this box to allow the cutting tool to lace back and forth
betweenopen profiles in a region.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface
Millingor Conventional, the tool performs a constant cut strategy.
IfMill Type
is Climb
EdgeCAM User Guide
109
Note: This is not available when 3D curve profiling.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
110
111

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Cutter Radius Compensation

Controller compensation is fully integrated into the Profiling cycle. The Left/Right side is determined
automatically from the mill type, and the compensation calls are also made automatically between multiple
profiles and/or levels. (Note that these settings override any Radius Compensation settings set using
commands.)

Note
that thisof
can
only be used
withmilling
wireframe
geometry,
2D features
and
features
environment
EdgeCAM.
Various
(driven)
tool types
can either
be2D
loaded
fromwith
the contouring.
ToolStore or
When
3Dbycurve
profiling the setting is fixed at 'None'.
defined
parameter.
Compensation
None - The output toolpath is for the centre of the tool. No radius compensation codes are output specifying
Left or
Profiling
Right for any further radius compensation applied at the controller.
CentrePocket
Line (2D
Milling
only) - The output toolpath is for the centre of the tool. Codes (typically G41/42) are output
specifying Left or Right for any further radius compensation applied at the controller. (These will typically
Face Milling
be compensations for wear on the tool.)
Slotting
Geometry (2D only) - The output toolpath is for the edge of the tool. Codes (typically G41/42) are output
specifying
HoleLeft
Production
or Right, for compensation to be applied at the controller to calculate the centre toolpath.
Note that the toolpath is not simply the entity or feature outline - the toolpath will not contain internal corners
Surface Milling
with a smaller radius than that of the tool, for example.
Note:
sequence
You at
areany
recommended
time, inserting,
to specify
editing or
tools
removing
with a diameter
the individual
equalcommands
to, or larger,
asthan
necessary.
is likely to be used on
the machine. This is to avoid controller problems, and problems with the machined part not being as
simulated in EdgeCAM.
As a further precaution you can specify a minimum radius, as explained below in the section Possible
Errors with Controller Compensation.
CRC
Thisbeen
is thegenerated,
machine tool
CRC
offset
register.
Once Register
a toolpath has
youcontroller
can display
and
examine
remaining
from
a
solid
rectangular
block.
Other
methods
for
examining
the results of a toolpath are to
Applying & Removing Cutter Compensation
When applying and removing cutter radius compensation (CRC) you must follow the rules of the machine
Most
of these
features
canmoves
also beaccordingly.
used with the
driven
tooling expect
of turning
centres,
enabling
Y axis
tool and
specify
your lead
Most
controllers
CRC
to be applied
onCaand
perpendicular
control
of
the
tool.
linear approach move. This move is generated automatically by EdgeCAM when Centerline or Geometry is
specified.
It can
be overridden
by specifying
a perpendicular
in on/off.
the cycle lead parameters.
You can also
control
machine tool
specific functions
such as value
coolant
The
length
of the
automatically
generated
move
specified
in can
the code
generator
machine
section.uses
A
When
satisfied
with
the machining
operations
foristhe
part, you
generate
CNC code.
EdgeCAM
Radius
Compensation
of 1.5
the default.
CRC is applied
(G41/G42)
on the first linear
lead in move
Code Generator
files tofactor
interpret
theismachining
sequence
into a set
of CNC instructions
for a specific
and
cancelled
(G40)
onoutputs
the lastthis
linear
lead out move.
machine
tool type,
and
information
to an ASCII text file. You can then use the EdgeCAM Editor
or
other
editors
to
examine
and
alter
this
file
as
required.
Geometry (G41/42)
The perpendicular lead length is 1.5 * cutter radius.
EdgeCAM User Guide
112
113

Centerline (G41/42)
The default
perpendicular lead length is 0.5 * cutter radius.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
None
No automatic leads are generated and no CRC codes are output. Toolpath is centerline only.
the simulation
is provided,
including
Possible
Errors
with Controller
Compensation
Once
a toolpathcycles,
has been
you can
display and examine
a representation
the material
For
'Geometry'
the generated,
controller applies
a compensation
offset based
on the tool of
radius
the operator
remaining The
fromoffset
a solid
rectangular
block.
Other
methods
for examining
results ofspecifies
a toolpath
to tool
specifies.
reduces
internal
corner
radii
in the toolpath,
and if the operator
theare
same
render that
the uncut
mesh and
onorthe
cycle time.
radius
was specified
in reporting
EdgeCAM,
a larger
one, zero or negative corner radii will produced, possibly
causing an error condition.
control
of the below
tool. could cause the controller to error. It shows the situation in EdgeCAM; the part outline
The example
is in green and the tool centre path in yellow. It is when the controller re-creates the tool centre path that the
problems may arise.
To help in this situation you can use the Minimum Radius parameter (see Minimum Radius for full details).
EdgeCAM User Guide
This would make the corners less sharp, reducing the possibility of controller errors.
114

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Specifying Profiling Start and End Points

All but the Default Side and Profile Extension options below require a a 3-Axis Milling licence.
The Plunge, Retract, Start and End points can be set:
manually (by digitising - see below),
or automatically by making settings in the cycle dialog's Start/End tab (click the dialog's Help button or
clickhere for more details).
In the dialog you can make settings dependent on others; for example you can make the Start/End point
'Near Plunge/Retract'. Alternatively you can make the plunge point 'Automatic', when it will be at the
Start/End point (allowing for lead moves). Note that you can also make the Plunge point at 'Centre of Area'.
defined
After
a plunge
by parameter.
at a digitised
plunge point, the tool moves in XY to a position ready to start making the lead
moves.
WhenProfiling
merging sequences in multiplane milling it is possible that digitised start and end points will move. To
ensure this doesn't occur your start and end points should be positioned in a defined view, not in
Pocket Milling
"dynamic". Alternatively use one of the automatic start and end controls.
Face Milling
Slotting
Digitising the Start and End Points
Hole Production
In general the start and end points are initially positioned at the profile edge start or mid point that is nearest
Surface
Milling to digitise (select) the profile.
to where
you clicked
Here
for example,
the start
The toolpaths
resulting
fromand
end points are positioned halfIf
youalong
needatoside
make
changes
way
of the
pocket,
sequence
at
any
time,
inserting,
near to the digitise that selected editing or removing the individual commands as necessary.
the
Anypocket.
changes you make to the original geometry from within the Design environment are reflected in all
You then see prompts to digitise the start and end points, when you can click to select them and drag them
to new positions on the profile. In some cases you can also click to select the side of the profile to be
machined.
Depending on the circumstances, there are constraints on how you can move the start and end points.
When machining an open wireframe for example, the start point is automatically moved to one end of the
You can
profile
or also
the other,
controlaccording
machine to
tool
which
specific
sidefunctions
you select,
such
andasthe
coolant
Mill Type
on/off.
setting (Climb, Conventional or
Optimised).
Code Generator
When
profiling a files
surface,
to interpret
there isthe
no machining
initial start/end
sequence
point that
into you
a set
can
of CNC
move.instructions
You need afor
point
a specific
or line to
machineand
digitise,
toolthe
type,
start/end
and outputs
point this
is positioned
information
near
to this.
an ASCII text file. You can then use the EdgeCAM Editor
EdgeCAM User Guide
115
Corner Strategies in the Profiling Cycle

Please note that to use corner strategies you need a 3-Axis Milling licence
The Control tab of the Profiling cycle offers a number of strategies for external sharp corners. (These
cannot be applied when CRC is set to 'Geometry'.)
An example strategy is the Twizzle:

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
The full set of strategies are:
Round (default setting)
Tool radius roll over
which maintains tool
Once a toolpath has been generated,
youwith
can the
display
and examine a representation of the material
contact
corner.
In some cases this
causes the corner to be
Most of these features can also beeroded
used with the driven tooling of turning centres, enabling C and Y axis
Sharp Replaces the
You can also control machine toolroll
specific
functions
such as coolant on/off.
over with
a sharp
corner.
The
tool
looses
contact
with the
corner. into a set of CNC instructions for a specific
Code Generator files to interpret the
machining
sequence
Twizzle - Replaces the
roll over with a twizzle
move.
The Twizzle Radius
modifier specifies the
radius of the twizzle.
Where corners include a
very narrow internal
angle, the twizzle is
omitted.
EdgeCAM User Guide
116
High Speed - Replaces

the roll over with a
rounded corner with a
radius of 75% of the
tool's radius. This helps
maintain tool velocity.
For the corner strategy to take effect on 2D Profiling the Corner Type (Contouring tab) modifier must
be set to Sharp.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
117
Using Boundaries in the Profiling Cycle

Sometimes you will want to only machine one particular part of a model. In the example below, one edge of
a shape is being profiled. It is not necessary to machine around the entire shape, so the area of the cycle
has been limited by defining a boundary:

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
When Hole
usingProduction
an undercut tool, the boundary entities can be '3D', that is they can curve in three dimensions,
or lie in a plane that is not parallel to the CPL.
Surface Milling
Note that lead in and lead out moves may be outside the boundary.
EdgeCAM User Guide
118
Intelligent Lead & link Moves
119
Lead moves are small movements added to the beginning and end of a cycle. These are to ensure that the
tool does not start or finish the cycle in contact with the material, and to provide for the application or
removal of cutter radius compensation.
All leads are checked against the part to ensure they do not gouge if the lead move cannot be fitted the
start point of the cycle will be automatically adjusted. If a lead move still cannot be fitted it will be removed,
and an error message displayed.
The profiling cycle utilizes the standard leads and links as used by all 3D surface finishing cycles. The
following sections provide more details in the context of the Profiling cycle.
The
Milling
module
provides
a two-and-a-half,
Leads
applied
to the
Profiling
cycle
The
three
show
defined
byexamples
parameter.
the effects of the different lead parameters, any combination of these lead moves
is permissible (note that when 3D curve profiling the profile is effectively flattened down onto a flat XY plane
Youprocessing
can drive the
for
the tool
leads).
.
Profiling
Angle & Radius
Pocket Milling
The angle specifies the amount of arc lead.
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
Angle, Radius & Length
The length value is applied tangentially to the
arc.
You can also control machine tool specific functions such Angle
as coolant
on/off. Length & Perpendicular
& Radius,
When satisfied with the machining operations for the part, Perpendicular
you can generate
CNC code.
EdgeCAM
uses
generates
an additional
right
Code Generator files to interpret the machining sequence angled
into a set
of
CNC
instructions
for
a
specific
linear lead.
or other editors to examine and alter this file as required. If compensation is set to centerline or controller
the perpendicular move is generated
automatically.
Links applied to the Profiling cycle

Link moves are moves joining a lead-out to a lead-in.
EdgeCAM User Guide
There are long links and short links. Long links are made at rapid or high feed rate and short links are
always at feed. The distance to determine a short link can be specified in the cycle link parameters. If the
distance from the last lead out move to the next lead in move is equal or less than the short link distance a
short link will be applied.
Long links
When the long links are set to Clearance, the
tool retracts to the clearance plane between
each pass.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
When the long links are set to optimized the

tool retracts to the last depth of cut and moves
The toolpaths resulting from these operations may be then to
bethe
mirrored,
or high
rotated.
start of transformed,
the next leadmatrixed
in move at
feedrate.
Short
Links
Code Generator
files to interpret the machining sequence into a set of CNC instructions for a specific
EdgeCAM User Guide
120
A Step link feeds across in XY to the next lead in

position and then feeds down in Z to the next
depth of cut. This is the condition used for the
Entry Milling licence.

Profiling
A Straight link feeds directly from the lead out

position to the next lead in position.
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
A Smooth link generates a smooth transition
the lead
out position toofthe
lead in
Once a toolpath has been generated, you can display andfrom
examine
a representation
thenext
material
move.
remaining from a solid rectangular block. Other methods for
examining the results of a toolpath are to
EdgeCAM User Guide
121
Machining by Region with the Profiling Cycle

Regions are groups of profiles that represent a boss (hill) or pocket (valley).
When the Cut by Region (Control tab) parameter is checked, each region is completed before moving onto
the next region. This diagram shows the order of machining actions on an example part with this parameter
selected:

Profiling
Pocket Milling
When the Cut by Region parameter is not checked, all profiles on a level are machined before moving on
Face Milling
the next level.
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
122
Nearest Neighbour
123
Please note that to use Nearest Neighbour you need a 3-Axis Milling licence.
The profiles will be machined in an order to give the shortest path based on always machining the next
nearest profile. If this is not checked the profiles will be machined in the order they were digitized.
This is not applicable to 3D, since all toolpaths are nearest neighbour. The digitised order has no influence
on a 3D toolpath.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Helical Profiling
124
Helical profiling can be applied to 2D and 3D geometry. A spiral toolpath is generated ensuring the tool is
always in contact with the material eliminating potential marks on the component made through leading in
and leading out. This has the additional benefit of reduced cycle times because lead moves are not required
at each level . The pitch of the helix is controlled by the cut increment.

HelicalProfiling
toolpaths can only be applied to closed profiles.
HelicalPocket
profiling
can be output as helical arc moves (typically G2/G3). To enable this, 'NC Output' (cycle
Milling
dialog's General tab) must be set to 'Line Arc Smooth', and Helical Arcs must be supported in the code
Face(inMilling
generator
the Code Wizard you set the 'Helical Arc Capability' machine parameter). We only recommend
this forSlotting
vertically-walled components to prevent problems caused by the constantly changing arc radius.
Note: Hole
Helical
Profiling is not available when 3D curve profiling.
Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
3D Curve Profiling
125
You can machine wireframe profiles that vary in height (Z value) along their length, these are:
Profiles that curve in three dimensions.
Planar profiles in a plane non-parallel to the CPL.
To machine these profiles you check the 3D Profiling box in the General tab. This would be useful in
removing the flashing from moulded components, for example.
Note that 3D Profiling is only available with Model Type (in the cycle dialog's General tab) set to Wireframe.
The
module provides
two-and-a-half,
and entities
five axisinmilling
capabilityyou
fromwill
theprobably
Manufacture
Tip: Milling
when double-clicking
to a
select
a profile of three
adjoining
3D, remember
need to
environment
of
EdgeCAM.
Various
milling
(driven)
tool
types
can
either
be
loaded
from
the
ToolStore or
hold down the Ctrl key, for more details see Selecting Contiguous Entities by Chaining.
The height of the cycle's z-level passes is dependent on the Level modifier, and normally you specify this as
You
can drive
the tool
with3D
respect
to the model
geometry
usingcannot
these standard
machining
an absolute
value.
When
curve profiling
however
the height
be fixed, types
so youofspecify
Levelcycle:
as an
incremental offset from the height of the profile. (So specifying a Level and Depth of 0 produces a toolpath
that follows
Profiling
the profile at the same height, wherever the profile is positioned vertically.)
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
Retract and Depth are relative to Level, so they are influenced by the 3D Profiling setting. Clearance is
absolute, so it is not affected.
Otherwise, when 3D curve profiling you use the cycle in the same way, apart from:
Offset parameter
becomes
purely XY
offset. speed controls, swathe mode and simulating specific instructions.
theThis
simulation
is a
provided,
including
CRC
and generated,
CRC register
Once Compensation
a toolpath has been
yousettings
can display and examine a representation of the material
These become unavailable. The toolpath is always for the bottom centre of the tool. The toolpath follows
the geometry, offset by the tool radius in the XY plane (as viewed down the tool axis). (This applies to any
wireframe
Most
of theseprofiling.)
features can also be used with the driven tooling of turning centres, enabling C and Y axis
Lead
Moves
You can
also control machine tool specific functions such as coolant on/off.
The satisfied
cycle dialog's
Lead
tab modifiers
operate
if the
is flattened
a flat
XY EdgeCAM
plane.
When
with the
machining
operations
foras
the
part,profile
you can
generateinto
CNC
code.
uses
Modifiers made unavailable by setting 3D Profiling
General tab
Z Offset (use the Level value to set an offset from the profile height).
Minimum Radius.
Compensation (permanently set to 'None').
Depth tab
Cusp Height
Helical
EdgeCAM User Guide
Detect Flat Lands.
126
Control tab
All the modifiers.
Start/End tab
Start
End
Overlapprovides a two-and-a-half, three and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
The Milling module
Contouring
defined
by parameter.
All the modifiers
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Controlling the Finish in the Profiling Cycle

Two parameters control the finish when machining a part using the Profiling cycle. These are Cut Increment
and Cusp Height.
The Cut Increment and Cusp Height parameters work together to define how each successive level is
generated. For example, it is possible that on a dome, each modifier would take precedence in turn.
When near the top of the dome, where the slope is gentle, Cusp Height would be in control.
When reaching the end of the dome, the slope is nearly vertical. In this case the Cusp Height may
exceed the Cut Increment, and therefore the Cut Increment overrides the Cusp Height
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
When machining nearly flat surfaces, the limiting factor is the cycle tolerance. Profiles will not be produced
Surface Milling
where the vertical distance between levels is less than the specified cycle Tolerance value.
The toolpaths
these
operations finish,
may be
then
be mirrored,
transformed,
matrixedthe
or handle
rotated. of
Cusp
Height isresulting
a useful from
method
of controlling
but
on the
example notice
that, although
the
part
is
now
well-defined
by
the
cycle,
extra
passes
have
been
generated
around
the
larger
surface.
These
passes
willtime,
not add
anything
to the
finish
will extend
the totalascycle
time. Using these
sequence
at any
inserting,
editing
or surface
removing
the but
individual
commands
necessary.
parameters can result in a trade-off between overall surface finish and cycle time.
When
satisfied
the
operations
for the
part, you
can generate
code. EdgeCAM
uses
In
these
cases itwith
may
bemachining
better to either
use Finish
Shallow,
Contact
Angles CNC
in conjunction
with Parallel
Code cycle
Generator
files below.
to interpret the machining sequence into a set of CNC instructions for a specific
Lace
as shown
See Also
EdgeCAM User Guide
127
Finish Shallow Areas
128
Using Contact Angles

Using Boundaries

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Undercut Profiling
129
When using the Profiling cycle you can machine undercuts. To do this you need to:
For the tool, specify a Lollipop or T-Slot type, along with an 'Undercut Distance' value. Set both of
these in the Toolchange dialog's General tab. Alternatively you can select an appropriate undercutting
tool from the ToolStore.
When creating the cycle, in the cycle dialog's General tab set Model Type to Surface or Solid.
Also in the General tab, check Undercut.

When
using an
undercut tool,
boundary
entities
cantool
be types
'3D'; that
they be
canloaded
curve in
three
environment
of EdgeCAM.
Various
milling
(driven)
can iseither
from
thedimensions,
ToolStore oror
lie
in a plane
that is not parallel to the CPL.
defined
by parameter.
The toolpath will undercut up to a maximum of
the specified Undercut Distance. This means
Profiling
that where
the geometry demands a larger
undercut, passes are still made but material is
Pocket Milling
left un-machined.
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Finishing Shallow Areas

Please note that the Projection strategy requires an Advanced Surface Milling licence.
As the surface becomes more horizontal, the Z-level passes become more spaced out (looking at rightangles onto the surface), this may lead to a non-uniform finish.
The cycle gives you options for inserting extra passes to correct this.
You use the Finish Shallow Areas option on the cycle's Controltab; you can:
Take module
no special
measures
for the shallow
areas
'None').
The Milling
provides
a two-and-a-half,
three
and(choose
five axis
milling capability from the Manufacture
Finish shallow areas with a 'Constant Cusp' strategy.
Thedrive
extra
passes
arerespect
createdtobythe
projecting
the Z level
passes
with
an offset
calculated
to givecycle:
a
You can
the
tool with
model geometry
using
these
standard
types
of machining
constant cusp height. The extra passes are stopped if and when they meet a Z level pass.
Profiling
Finish
shallow areas with a 'Projected' strategy.
Pocket Milling
The extra passes are created by projecting the Z level passes across the surface with a constant XY
Face Milling
offset
(as you'd see looking from the top), which is defined by the %Stepover value. The extra passes
are stopped if and when they meet a Z level pass.
Slotting
Hole Production
Note
that for the extra passes, the 3D toolpath spacing (as you'd see looking at right angles onto the
surface) gets smaller as the surface gets flatter. This is the opposite of the Z-level areas, where the
Surface Milling
3D spacing gets larger as the surface gets flatter.
The toolpaths
from these
may be
then be
mirrored,for
transformed,
matrixed
or rotated.
Machineresulting
shallow areas
with aoperations
'Parallel' (lace)
strategy
(generally
use on flat faces
of prismatic
type
parts).
All these strategies use the %Stepover parameter.
For the shallow areas the 'Type' lead parameter is forced to Vertical.
Constant Cusp Strategy Example
the simulation
is provided,
including
Projection
Strategy
Example
One speed controls, swathe mode and simulating specific instructions.
Once a toolpath
hasExample
been generated,
you can display and examine a representation of the material
Projection
Strategy
Two (Zoom)
EdgeCAM User Guide
130
Using Check Surfaces
131
Please note that Check Surfaces requires an Advanced Surface Milling licence.
Check surfaces are surfaces or face features that you want to make sure are not cut by a cycle. This might
represent for example:
a face that is not selected to be cut, but is at risk of being gouged by the cutting of an adjacent face,
an area that would be cut as part of the face feature selected for the cycle, but that you want to
exclude from cutting.
You
can usemodule
check provides
surfaces aintwo-and-a-half,
the Profiling and
Parallel
Lace
Usefrom
Check
in the
The Milling
three
and five
axiscycles.
millingCheck
capability
the Surface
Manufacture
cycle's
Control
and youVarious
will be prompted
to select
surfaces
to check
against,
environment
of tab
EdgeCAM.
milling (driven)
tool the
types
can either
be loaded
fromafter
the selecting
ToolStorethe
or
item
to be
defined
by machined.
parameter.
The
Offset
modifier
allows you
to control
how muchusing
the toolpath
stands off
the of
check
surfaces.
This
YouCheck
can drive
the tool
with respect
to the
model geometry
these standard
types
machining
cycle:
is a 3D offset applied to the check surfaces/faces.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
be you
aware
thattoatthe
external
corners
the from
3D offset
can
theenvironment
toolpath to stop
short as in
thealloffset
AnyPlease
changes
make
original
geometry
within
thecause
Design
are reflected
protects
part
of
the
surface.
The
toolpath
onsimulated
the left below
showsusing
how the
lower
surface prevents
the toolFull
from
Toolexample
movements
can be
on screen
default
orcheck
user-generated
tool graphics.
control of
machining
the
entire
horizontal
face.
(The
lower
check
surface
is
being
used
to
prevent
its
face
from being
gouged by a tool roll-round.) We would recommend that the lower check surface be de-selected, and
Once
toolpath Edges'
has been
generated,
you
can display
and examine
representation
'Ignorea External
used
instead to
prevent
the gouge,
as showna on
the right. of the material
The illustration above involves a Parallel Lace cycle. Here is the same point illustrated using a Profiling
cycle:
EdgeCAM User Guide
132
* see below

* Note that a vertical surface cannot be machined if a check surface is selected that is adjacent to the top
The
Milling
modulethat
provides
a two-and-a-half,
three the
andsurface
five axis
milling in
capability
from the
Manufacture
edge.
This means
the cycle
could not machine
marked
the illustration
while
the sloping
environment
of
EdgeCAM.
Various
milling
(driven)
tool
types
can
either
be
loaded
from
the
ToolStore or
surface is a check surface.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Flat Land Finishing Cycle

Use the Flat Land Finishing (Cycles menu) command to finish machine the flat areas of the
shapes you identify for machining ('flat' meaning normal to the tool (z) axis). This cycle is ideally
suited to parts that are typically multilevelled with many flat land regions.
As the cycle is not designed to detect shallow areas the flat lands must be perfectly flat.
You identify the shapes to be machined in a similar way to the Profiling and Roughing cycles. Using
wireframe geometry for example, you specify a level and depth value, and only the flat regions within this
range
are machined.
You specify
how to interpret
theand
geometry
checking
on unchecking
the Boss
The
Milling
module provides
a two-and-a-half,
three
five axisbymilling
capability
option.
defined
by parameter.
This interpretation
is necessary
because the tops of bosses (and islands), and the bottoms of pockets are
treated
differently.
When
cutting
a top,
themodel
tool can
make ausing
cutting
passstandard
that extends
the edge
of the
You can drive the tool with respect
to the
geometry
these
typesbeyond
of machining
cycle:
flat region. When cutting a bottom, the tool can only make cutting passes wholly contained within the flat
region, as otherwise they would contact the walls of the pocket.
Profiling
You can base the cycle on Wireframe, Surface or Solid (also includes features) geometry.
Pocket Milling
The cycle applies one of three strategies, concentric, lace and finish pass only. For further information on
Millingplease click here.
these Face
strategies,
Slottingboundaries are fully supported and enable the cycle to be restricted to specified areas.
Containment
Holeemploys
Production
The cycle
standard Level and Depth settings to control which levels are to be machined:
Surface Milling
The Minimum Width parameter controls the minimum width of flats to be detected, for example if this is set
to 2mm, flats narrower than 2mm will be ignored.
The cycle offers standard offset control with an additional stand off distance. You can either specify a threedimensional toolpath offset from the surface and/or an XY stand off distance.
The Finish Pass strategy is used to finish off the component walls. The cycle will cut by region, using
nearest next calculation. The default approach move into each region is horizontal.
Please note that the
cycle does not support a cut increment as it is intended as a finishing cycle.
"Rest Machining" allows you to machine rest material areas that have been left by a larger tool in a previous
machining cycle (not limited to Flat Land Finishing, previous cycle may have been Roughing or Parallel
Lace for example). See Rest Machining in the Flat Land Finishing Cycle.
An Close Open Pockets option allows you to (concentric strategy only). See Close Open Pockets in the
Flat Land Finishing Cycle.
To use the Flat Land Finishing cycle
EdgeCAM User Guide
133
Note on using Flat Land Finishing With Corner Radius Tools

See Also
Specifying Pockets Using Wireframe
Specifying Pockets with Islands Using Wireframe
Specifying Male Parts Using Wireframe

Defining Draft Walls
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
134
Flat Land Finishing Strategies

The cycle automatically detects the flat areas on the model and applies one of three strategies. The
available strategies are:
Concentric - Generates a concentric areaclearance pattern across flat faces, followed by a finish pass:

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
The toolpaths
resulting
from
these
operations
may
thenatbethe
mirrored,
transformed,
matrixed
rotated.
Lace
- Generates
a linear
lacing
pattern
across
flatbe
faces,
angle specified,
followed
by a or
finish
pass:
Finish pass - Generates a finish pass only:
EdgeCAM User Guide
135
136

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Using Boundaries in Flat Land Finishing

Sometimes you will want to only machine one particular part of a model. Containment boundaries are fully
supported and enable the cycle to be restricted to specified areas:

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
137
Using the Flat Land Finishing Cycle
138
You should have one or more surfaces ready to machine.
1. Select the Flat Land Finishing (Cycles menu)
command.
2. Set the parameters for the cycle and click OK.
3. Select the surfaces you want to machine and perform a Finish.
4. Digitise boundaries if required (see Using Boundaries in Flat Land Finishing) and perform a Finish.
EdgeCAM now produces the toolpath.
Note on using Flat Land Finishing with corner radius tools
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Rest Machining in the Flat Land Finishing Cycle

"Rest machining" allows you to machine rest material areas that have been left by a larger tool in a
previous machining cycle (not limited to Flat Land Finishing, previous cycle may have been Roughing or
Parallel Lace for example).
Choose between the following three modfiers to define the rest material area:
Previous Tool Radius - Specifies a tool radius value for the tool that will define the rest machining area.
Previous Corner Radius - Specifies a corner radius value for the tool that will define the rest machining
area.
Previous
Offprovides
- (Only available
when previous
cycle
Flat
Landcapability
Finishingfrom
cycle)
a stand
The MillingStand
module
a two-and-a-half,
three and
fivewas
axis
milling
theSpecifies
Manufacture
off
distance
value
that
will
define
the
rest
machining
area.
The
Stand
Off
Distance
is
specified
on
the
General
tabparameter.
of the cycle.
defined by
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
139
Close Open Pockets in the Flat Land Finishing Cycle

Concentric strategy only
The Close Open Pockets option on the General tab allows you to specify how to machine open areas.
When unchecked, the tool will work from the outer edge inwards.
When checked, all open pockets will be treated as closed pockets and the tool will start in the middle
and work outwards.
The
module
provides
two-and-a-half,
and five
axisPockets
milling capability
The Milling
following
example
showsa the
toolpath withthree
the Close
Open
option unchecked:
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
This example shows the toolpath with the Close Open Pockets option checked:
EdgeCAM User Guide
140
Using Flat Land Finishing With Corner Radius Tools

Where the corner radius of the tool is the same as the fillet radius around the base of the flat, the cycle
cannot machine exactly up to the wall of the component. The diagram below shows the tool radius is
tangential to the triangulated model but stands off the side wall by more than the tolerance. Where greater
accuracy is required on the component walls use either the Profiling or 2D Profile cycle prior to the Flat
Land Finishing cycle.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
Specifying a larger corner radius on your tool will force the Flat Land Finishing cycle to machine closer to
Once
the
wall.
a toolpath has been generated, you can display and examine a representation of the material
EdgeCAM User Guide
141
Surface Milling
142
EdgeCAMs surface milling module can simultaneously control the XYZ linear axes of the machine tool.
Exact mathematical definitions are used to store and display EdgeCAM surfaces. The accuracy of a surface
milling toolpath therefore depends entirely on the value you specify for the Tolerance parameter for that
cycle.
Also see Notes on Surface Creation.
Operations menu commands
Cycles
menu
commands
The Milling
module
See Also
Roughing Cycle
Parallel
Lace Cycle
Profiling
Profiling
CycleMilling
Pocket
Constant
Cusp
Finishing
Face
Milling
Rest Finishing
Slotting Cycle
Flat Land
HoleFinishing
Production
Projection
Cycles
Surface
Milling
Pencil Mill Cycle
Feeding the Tool Over Parametric Surfaces
EdgeCAM User Guide
Parallel Lace Cycle
143
Use the Parallel Lace (Cycles menu)
command when milling several surfaces at the same time.
Parallel Lace includes in-built gouge protection, which makes it the ideal cycle to machine multiple surfaces
with.
You can use this cycle for roughing (by specifying values for the Level, Cut Increment and Safe Distance
parameters), semi-roughing or finishing the surface.
The Parallel Lace cycle applies lead moves to all levels when a Cut Increment has been specified.
You
can also
use a provides
boundingaentity
to limit thethree
cycle and
to afive
portion
the selected
surface(s).
The Milling
module
two-and-a-half,
axisof
milling
capability
environment
of
EdgeCAM.
Various
milling
(driven)
tool
types
can
either
be
loaded
from the ToolStore
or
This cycle works best with flat or gently curved parts. When machining parts with significant
bulges and
defined
by
parameter.
depressions, consider using the Profilingcycle instead.

The Control tab offers a number of modifiers that can be used to optimise the Parallel Lace toolpath
Profiling
You
canMilling
choose whether to automatically maintain 'Up Mill' or 'Down Mill' cutting whatever the angle
Pocket
of the surface. See Choosing Up or Down Mill in the Parallel Lace Cycle.
Face Milling
You can restrict the toolpath generated by the cycle by specifying minimum and maximum contact
Slotting
angles. See Using Contact Angles.
Hole
Production
You can
specify Check Surfaces, which are surfaces that you don't want to be machined.
Surface
Milling
The Exclude
Flat Areas option allows you to exclude flat areas. These can be machined separately
using the Flat Land Finishing cycle. See Excluding Flat Areas in the Parallel Lace Cycle.
Use the Perpendicular Lace option to re-machine steeper areas. See Using the Perpendicular Lace
Option.
Improve the lead in/out conditions by removing any rollovers on the external edge of the part. See
Ignoring External Edges.
The tool normally rolls around any external corner and maintains contact. In some cases this causes
the corner to be eroded, so EdgeCAM offers several corner control strategies. See Corner Strategies
in the Parallel Lace Cycle.
To
usethe
theuncut
Parallel
Lace
render
mesh
andcycle
reporting on the cycle time.
You
have
one orcan
more
to machine.
Mostshould
of these
features
alsosurfaces
be usedready
with the
driven tooling of turning centres, enabling C and Y axis
1. can
Select
Parallel
Lacetool
command.
You
alsothe
control
machine
specific functions such as coolant on/off.
2. Set
the parameters
for the cycle
and click
When
satisfied
with the machining
operations
forOK.
the part, you can generate CNC code. EdgeCAM uses
Code
Generator
files
to
interpret
the
machining
sequence
into
a set of CNC instructions for a specific
3. Select the surfaces you want to mill and then perform
a Finish.
Digitise
boundaryand
entities
limit
of the cycle and then perform a Finish.
or 4.
other
editorsany
to examine
alterto
this
filethe
as extent
required.
The system now produces the toolpath.
Also See
Depth Parameters in Surface Cycles
EdgeCAM User Guide
Choosing Up or Down Mill in the Parallel Lace Cycle

Requires an Advanced Surface Milling licence
There are 'Strategy' settings in the dialog's control tab for controlling the tool direction.
WithOff selected the toolpath follows the
normal parallel lace stripes.
defined
by parameter.
In general,
an Up Mill cut is best, so that the
cutting
is done
thewith
siderespect
of the tool.
You
can drive
thebytool
to theTomodel geometry using these standard types of machining cycle:
maintain Up Mill cutting along the stripe, it is
broken into opposite-direction portions.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
However,
Up Mill cutting towards a steep face
may overload the tool, so in this case Down
Slotting
Mill is better.
Hole Production
Surface Milling
sequence
The
break at
points
any time,
in theinserting,
stripes are
editing
always
or at
removing
the lowest
the or
individual
highest commands
points in theas
stripe.
necessary.
For flat
Any
changes
high planes,
you make
the to
break
the original
is at onegeometry
end or other
fromofwithin
the flat.
theFor
Design
flat low
environment
planes, the
are
break
reflected
is in the
in allmiddle
machining
of
the flat. commands based on that geometry.
You can
Tool
movements
prevent unwanted
can be simulated
breaks on slight
screenundulations
using default
using
or user-generated
the Filter Angletool
setting.
graphics.
A region
Full control
must beof
the simulation
tilted
by more than
is provided,
this angle
including
from the
speed
horizontal,
controls,
along
swathe
the direction
mode and
of simulating
the stripe, specific
to causeinstructions.
a break. Typical
values would be 10-20 degrees.
EdgeCAM User Guide
144
Excluding Flat Areas in the Parallel Lace Cycle

The Exclude Flat Areas option on the Control tab allows you to optimise the Parallel Lace toolpath by
excluding flat areas when maching the model. This can be useful when a more suitable tool and cycle can
be employed, such as an endmill or bullnose cutter with the Flat Land Finishing cycle with a wider stepover.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
145
Using the Perpendicular Lace Option

Requires Advanced Surface Milling licence
The Perpendicular Lace option on the Control tab automatically re-machines the steep regions on the
model that would normally leave a poorer finish compared to the rest of the model. This is achieved by
using two Parallel Lace toolpaths to machine the part. The first toolpath machines the flatter areas, while the
second Parallel Lace cycle is applied at 90 degrees to the primary cut direction.
Choose from the following options:
Primary Bounded - The primary parallel lace toolpath is excluded from the steep regions leaving these
areas to be cut only with the secondary, perpendicular toolpath.
defined by
parameter. - Uses the Perpendicular Lace option but allows the primary toolpath to machine the
Primary
Unbounded
entire model first. The perpendicular toolpath then re-cuts the steep regions.
Use the Contact Angle to control the extent of primary and secondary toolpaths.
Profiling
Primary
Bounded
Pocket
Millingoption
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
146
Corner Strategies in the Parallel Lace Cycle

The tool normally rolls around any external corner and maintains contact. In some cases this causes the
corner to be eroded, so EdgeCAM offers several corner control strategies.

Use the Strategy parameter on the Control tab of the Parallel Lace cycle to choose the appropriate corner
Profiling
strategy:
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Round Tool radius rollover

that maintains tool contact with
the corner.
Hole Production
Surface Milling
The toolpaths resulting from these
operations
may
then be mirrored, transformed, matrixed or rotated.
Sharp
Replaces
theberollover
with adefining
sharp corner.
The of these operations you can restructure the
If you need to make changes after
a sequence
toolpath
past the
sequence at any time, inserting,
editingextends
or removing
the individual commands as necessary.
corner until it intersects with
Any changes you make to thethe
original
next geometry
section. from within the Design environment are reflected in all
Twizzle
- Replaces
the
roundor user-generated tool graphics. Full control of
Tool movements can be simulated
on screen
using
default
with a twizzle
move. swathe mode and simulating specific instructions.
the simulation is provided, including
speed controls,
High Speed - Replaces the
with afunctions
blended such
corner.
You can also control machine rollover
tool specific
as coolant on/off.
The toolpath extends past the
When satisfied with the machining
operations
for the part,
corner
until it intersects
with you can generate CNC code. EdgeCAM uses
Code Generator files to interpret
the
machining
sequence
the next section, where it is into a set of CNC instructions for a specific
machine tool type, and outputsthen
thisblended
information
ASCII
withtoa an
radius
of text file. You can then use the EdgeCAM Editor
or other editors to examine and
alter
this
file
as
required.
50% of the tool radius to
maintain toolpath tangency
and will help the tool maintain
its velocity.
Twizzle Radius - Specifies the radius of the twizzle move.
EdgeCAM User Guide
147
Ignoring External Edges in the Parallel Lace Cycle

Check the Ignore External Edges option on the Control tab of the Parallel Lace cycle and the toolpath will
automatically ensure that any roll overs on the external edge of the part are removed by finishing the
toolpath at the tangent point between the tool radius and the edge of the part before applying any lead
moves.
This will improve the lead in/out conditions as shown in the picture below, particularly when specifying a
tangential lead.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Ignore
External Edges unchecked
Ignore External Edges checked
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
148
Constant Cusp Finishing

Use the Constant Cusp Finishing (Cycles menu)

command to generate a 3D toolpath that
maintains a constant surface stepover from one pass to the next.
The Constant Cusp Finishing cycle produces a toolpath that can be defined from a drive curve or boundary.
To use the Constant Cusp Finishing cycle
The
provides
two-and-a-half,
three
You Milling
should module
have one
or morea surfaces
ready to
machine.
1. Select the Constant Cusp Finishing command.
2. Set the parameters for the cycle and click OK.
3. Select
the surfaces you want to machine and perform a Finish.
Profiling
4. Digitise
boundaries if required (see Using Boundaries in Constant Cusp Finishing) and perform a
Pocket Milling
Finish.
Face Milling
5. Digitise a single drive curve, if required (see Using Drive Curves in Constant Cusp Finishing) and
Slotting a Finish.
perform
Hole Production
EdgeCAM now produces the toolpath.
Surface Milling
The
See toolpaths
Also
If
you need
to makeinchanges
defining a sequence of these operations you can restructure the
Depth
Parameters
Surface after
Cycles
Using
Contact
Angles based on that geometry.
machining
commands
EdgeCAM User Guide
149
Using Boundaries in Constant Cusp Finishing

The Constant Cusp cycle will collapse from the selected boundary or outer edge of the selected surfaces.
This generates an even surface finish over the entire model.
The cycle can be limited by entering the number of passes required.
If multiple boundaries are defined (e.g. nested boundaries), the region machined will be the same as the
parallel lace cycle.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
150
Using Drive Curves in Constant Cusp Finishing

When a drive curve is selected the toolpath offsets on both sides. The toolpath will expand in/out from the
curve for the specified number of passes or until it comes into contact with the boundary or the edge of the
selected surfaces.
You need to define a boundary to restrict the toolpath, otherwise the cycle will cut the complete surface.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
machining
commands
based
on that
geometry.
The
drive curve
is a single
entity,
which
can be a line, arc, continuous or curve.
EdgeCAM User Guide
151
Rest Finishing Cycle
152
The Rest Finishing

cycle produces a toolpath that only machines the region where material has
been left by a previous machining cycle.
The range to be machined is defined as the areas that cannot be machined by a tool of a given radius. The
toolpath will collapse from the outer edge of this region, producing a toolpath that maintains a constant
stepover in 3D from one pass to the next. This generates an even surface finish. Note that the toolpath will
The
Milling
module walls.
not ride
up vertical
If
multiple
areas are
defined
byrest
parameter.
detected, the toolpath will be machined one region at a time, in height order with
the highest first.
The Pencil Trace option allows you to machine a final pass along the centre line of the machined area.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
Please note that this cycle is restricted to ballnose tools.
EdgeCAM User Guide
Using the Pencil Trace Option when Rest Finishing

The Pencil Trace option on the Generaltab of the Rest Finishing cycle allows you to machine a final pass
along the centre line of the machined area. It will only be applied to regions that would normally be found by
the Pencil Mill cycle and can be used to help clean up any cusps.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
153
Projection Cycles
154
EdgeCAM provides a series of cycles for surface machining, based on projecting existing or new 2D cycles
onto surfaces:
Project Toolpath Finishing cycle

Project Boundary Collapse Finishing
produced by projecting an existing Planar cycle cycle produced by projecting an Areaclearance
onto one or more surfaces.
cycle onto one or more surfaces*.
The Milling
Projectmodule
Flow Curves
provides
Finishing
a two-and-a-half,
cycle three and
Project
five axis
Circular
milling
Pattern
capability
Finishing
from the
cycle
Manufacture
environment
produced by of
projecting
EdgeCAM.
a Lace
Various
cyclemilling
based(driven)
on fortool
round
types
bosses
can either
or pockets,
be loaded
with three
from the
pattern
ToolStore or
defined
two curves
by parameter.
onto one or more surfaces*.
strategies (Radial,Concentric and Spiral)*.
You can
drive theare
tool
These
toolpaths
allwith
fullyrespect
gouge-protected.
With all projection toolpath cycles, the toolpath can be clipped to selected containment boundaries. You can
select Profiling
more than one boundary, and boundaries may lie inside another so as to define a region. However,
one boundary
may not overlap another, and a single boundary may not intersect itself.
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
* Note that these projection cycles require an Advanced Surface Milling licence.
Hole Production
Surface Milling
See Also
Project
Toolpath
Cycle from these operations may be then be mirrored, transformed, matrixed or rotated.
The toolpaths
resulting
Project
Boundary
Collapse
Cycle
If you need
to make
changes
sequence
at
any
time,
inserting,
editing or removing the individual commands as necessary.
Project Flow Curves Cycle
Any changes
you
make Cycle
to the original geometry from within the Design environment are reflected in all
Project
Circular
Pattern
Cut Across and Step Angle
Toolpath
Off Surface
for Projection
the simulation
is provided,
includingCycles
remaining
from a solid
rectangular
block. Other methods for examining the results of a toolpath are to
Depth Parameters
in Surface
Cycles
EdgeCAM User Guide
Project Toolpath Cycle

The Project Toolpath
them.
155
cycle finishes surfaces by projecting the toolpath from an existing cycle onto
The existing cycle:

Must be an Areaclear, Lace, Profile, Slot, Facemill, Text, Roughing or Profiling.
Must have a single pass toolpath; that is it cannot have a Cut Increment set. This would lead to
unpredictable results.
Must have its Model Type option set to Wireframe (applies only to Roughing and Profiling cycles).
defined
parameter.
by the existing cycle, the Project cycle defines the approach strategy and the
With theby
toolpath
defined
depth
parameters.
You can
drive the tool with respect to the model geometry using these standard types of machining cycle:
To use
Profiling
Project Toolpath
Pocket Milling
1. Make sure that the last instruction in the current sequence is a cycle that conforms to the above
Face
Milling
conditions
(you will probably specially create this cycle, using a profile related to your surface).
Slotting
2. Select
the Project Toolpath
Hole Production
cycle.
3. Specify
parameters for the cycle and click OK.
Surface the
Milling
4. Digitise the surfaces for projection and then perform a Finish.
The
now generated.
If youtoolpath
need toismake
changes after defining a sequence of these operations you can restructure the
Any
See changes
Also
Intelligent
Leadisand
Link Moves
the simulation
provided,
including speed controls, swathe mode and simulating specific instructions.
EdgeCAM User Guide
Project Boundary Collapse Cycle

Note that the Project Boundary Collapse cycle requires an Advanced Surface Milling licence
The Project Boundary Collapse
cycle is similar to the Project Toolpath cycle projecting a 2D
Areaclear cycle. However, Project Boundary Collapse achieves this in a single step and also supports
containment boundaries.
An example of the cycle is shown here:
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
The toolpaths
resulting
thesethrough
operations
be Boundary
then be mirrored,
or rotated.
This
functionality
is alsofrom
available
the may
Project
Collapsetransformed,
operation matrixed
.
sequence
at anyBoundary
time, inserting,
editing or removing the individual commands as necessary.
To use Project
Collapse
1. Select the Project Boundary Collapse
cycle.
the2.simulation
Complete
is the
provided,
parameters
including
for the
speed
cycle
controls,
and click
swathe
on OK.
mode and simulating specific instructions.
Once
3. a
Digitise
toolpath
thehas
surfaces
been generated,
on which toyou
project
can the
display
toolpath.
and examine a representation of the material
4. Digitise a Line, Arc, Continuous or a Curve to act as a profile. This must be a closed profile.
5. Digitise any containment boundary entities to form a closed boundary and then perform a Finish.
control
of the
The cycle
nowtool.
generates the toolpath.
When
satisfied with the machining operations for the part, you can generate CNC code. EdgeCAM uses
See Also
Depth
Parameters
in Surface
machine
tool type, and
outputsCycles
this information to an ASCII text file. You can then use the EdgeCAM Editor
or
other
editors
to
examine
and
Intelligent Lead and Link Moves alter this file as required.
EdgeCAM User Guide
156

Note that the Project Flow Curves cycle requires an Advanced Surface Milling licence
The Project Flow Curves
machining:
cycle lets you specify two geometric entities to guide the direction of

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
The first pass follows the first selected curve (when viewed from above) and the final pass follows the
second selected curve. Intermediate passes gradually blend from the first curve to the second.
You must digitise two entities from which to generate the toolpath. Valid entity types are lines, arcs, curves
and continua.
The Start point of the cycle is taken from the nearest end of the first digitised entity. Once this point has
been reached, the tool feeds directly along the first entity. The number of passes is calculated from either
the
% Stepover
or a Planar
distance,
butdefault
the final
always feeds
directly
on the
Toolspecified
movements
can be simulated
on screen
using
orpass
user-generated
tool
graphics.
Fullsecond
control of
entity
(even if this
is an uneven
cut). speed controls, swathe mode and simulating specific instructions.
the simulation
is provided,
including
You
control the
move
betweenyou
toolpath
stripesand
using
Constant
Cut. When this
boxmaterial
is unchecked,
Oncecan
a toolpath
haslink
been
generated,
can display
examine
a representation
of the
the
toolpath
lacea cuts
stripes.
When
themethods
box is checked,
the tool
in toolpath
the same
direction
remaining
from
solidbetween
rectangular
block.
Other
for examining
thealways
resultscut
of a
are
to
as
the first
entity and
clear at on
thethe
endcycle
of each
render
the uncut
meshretracts
and reporting
time.stripe.
To
control
the features
finish in Project
Curves,
youdriven
can specify
% Stepover,
is aCpercentage
Most
of these
can alsoFlow
be used
with the
toolingeither
of turning
centres, which
enabling
and Y axis of
the
toolof
diameter,
control
the tool. or a Planar Distance. The two options are mutually exclusive. The Stepover value
specifies the maximum gap between adjacent stripes in the XY plane. However, this means that the gap will
be smaller than specified in some places.
This
functionality
alsooutputs
available
the Project
Flow Curves
. the EdgeCAM Editor
machine
tool type,isand
thisthrough
information
to an ASCII
text file.operation
You can then use
To use Project Flow Curves
See Also
EdgeCAM User Guide
157
Project Circular Pattern Cycle

Note that the Project Circular Pattern cycle requires an Advanced Surface Milling licence
The ProjectCircular Pattern cycle is used for finish-machining round bosses or pockets, achieving a high
finish with minimum input. The cycle is subdivided into three modes, selected using the Strategy
parameter:
Radial
Concentric
Spiral
What
is EdgeCAM Milling?
These strategies are described under separate headings.

environment
of EdgeCAM.
milling (driven)
tool types
can
The Project Circular
PatternVarious
operation
also provides
this
functionality.
Below an example of a radial toolpath
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
To
use
Project Circular
Once
a toolpath
has beenPattern
generated, you can display and examine a representation of the material
render
the uncut mesh and reporting on the cycle time.
See Also
Most
of these
features in
can
also be
used with
the driven tooling of turning centres, enabling C and Y axis
Machining
a Segment
Project
Circular
Pattern
Radial Strategy for Project Circular Pattern
Concentric Strategy for Project Circular Pattern
Spiral
Strategy for
Project
Circular
Pattern
Code Generator
files
to interpret
the
machining sequence into a set of CNC instructions for a specific
EdgeCAM User Guide
158
To use Project Circular Pattern
159
To use Project Circular Pattern
1. Select the Project Circular Pattern
cycle.
2. Complete the parameters for the cycle and click OK.
3. Digitise the surfaces to be projected onto and then perform a Finish.

4. Digitise the outer arc.
The
5. Milling
Optionally
module
digitise
provides
an entity
a two-and-a-half,
to set the inner
three
radius
and value
five axis
.
milling capability from the Manufacture
6. Digitise the containment boundaries to form a closed boundary and then perform a Finish.
The
nowthe
generates
toolpath.
You cycle
can drive
tool withthe
respect
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Machining a Segment in Project Circular Pattern

The toolpath always starts at 0 degrees (3 oclock) and machines a complete circle, unless modified by the
Start Angle and End Angle.
You can specify a Start Angle and End Angle to limit the cycle to a segment of the circle. The start and
end angles are entered in the same fashion as creating a geometric arc, in that the segment is always anticlockwise from the start angle to the end angle. When the Direction is specified as clockwise the toolpath
starts at the end angle, and when the Direction is counterclockwise the toolpath begins at the start angle.
When only a start angle is entered, the cycle machines a complete circle, starting at the specified value.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
160
Radial Strategy for Project Circular Pattern

Selecting the Radial strategy for the Project Circular cycle
produces the type of toolpath shown here.
You can control the finish by specifying either a Planar
Distance, or a Stepover representing the distance at the
outer edge between adjacent cuts, or the Step Angle
between cuts. The three options are mutually exclusive.
You can
the toolCut
with
respect
to the model
geometry
using
machining
When
thedrive
Constant
box
is unchecked,
the tool
laces up
andthese
downstandard
the radialtypes
linesof
and
links the cycle:
ends by
following the inner or outer arc, thus producing a continuous path to project.
When Profiling
Constant Cut is checked, the radial lines are cut in a constant direction (which depends on the Start
parameter).
PocketFinally,
Milling the Direction determines which way to go around the feature.
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
161
Concentric Strategy for Project Circular Pattern

Selecting the Concentric strategy for the Project Circular
cycle produces the type of toolpath shown here.
To control the finish, specify either a Planar Distance or a
Stepover representing the distance between adjacent
cuts.
When the Constant Cut box is checked, the tool cuts each concentric arc in the same direction, performing
a retract move between each cut.
Profiling
When Constant Cut is unchecked, the tool lace cuts between concentric arcs and ignores the Direction
Pocket Milling
modifier.
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
162
Spiral Strategy for Project Circular Pattern

Selecting the Spiral strategy for the Project Circular cycle
produces the type of toolpath shown here.
To control the finish, you can specify either a Planar
Distance, or a Stepover that represents the distance
between adjacent cuts. The two options are mutually
exclusive.
The
at either
the inner
arcgeometry
(dependent
onthese
Start)standard
at the nominated
Start Angle.
The
You toolpath
can drivestarts
the tool
with respect
to or
theouter
model
using
types of machining
cycle:
Angle defaults to 0 degrees (3 oclock). Once positioned on the surface using the standard approach
method, the cycle will commence. The Direction will force the tool to cut CLW or CCLW.
Profiling
The cycle performs a finish pass on the inner arc (if given) and the outer arc. The tool will cut completely
Milling
aroundPocket
the start
circle, then cut the spiral, then cut the finish circle.
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
163
Cut Across and Step Angle

Cut Across Project Flow Curves only. To change the direction of the cut to be between the ends of the
curves, check this box. Each straight-line stripe links one curve to the other proportionally along the length
of the two curves. The link moves between stripes follow the selected entities:

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Step Angle
Project Circular Radial only.
Specifies
the
Slotting angle between cuts for a Radial
strategy.
Hole Production
In thisSurface
exampleMilling
Step Angle is set to 10
degrees.
EdgeCAM User Guide
164
Toolpath Off Surface for Projection Cycles

If no surface exists when projecting a toolpath, the toolpath follows the contour of the surface until the hole
is encountered, the tool will then retract and start on the other side. The lead and link moves will be applied
according to the current settings.
Gap Long Link - Clearance
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
HoleLink
Production
Gap Long
- Optimised
Surface Milling
Most
of these
can also be used with the driven tooling of turning centres, enabling C and Y axis
Gap Short
Linkfeatures
- Straight
EdgeCAM User Guide
165
Pencil Mill Cycle
166

The Pencil Mill
cycle (and Operation) is used to clean up material remaining from a previous
(finishing) cycle, for example cusps left at the end of a Parallel Lace cycle and consists of a single pass
along internal surface edges and intersections.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
You can select any number of surfaces, STL models or solid models for this cycle which will then detect all
Surface
Milling and place a toolpath at that point. The order of machining should, where possible, try
internal
intersections
to link intersections together to form a continuous path. This will have the effect of keeping the tool down on
The
toolpaths resulting from these operations may be then be mirrored, transformed, matrixed or rotated.
the surface.
If
need path"
to make
changes
after defining
a sequence
of these
operations
youof
can
restructure
the
A you
"shortest
between
successive
curves
will be taken
to reduce
the length
non-cutting
moves.
As part of the data input for this cycle, you will be able to define containment boundaries. Any pencil curves
Any
changes
you make
to the original
from
arewill
reflected
in all to
outside
the specified
boundaries
will begeometry
discarded
andwithin
thosethe
thatDesign
cross environment
the boundaries
be trimmed
machining
commands
based
on
that
geometry.
their edges.
Tool
movements
can offers
be simulated
default or user-generated tool graphics. Full control of
The Pencil
Mill cycle
support on
for screen
multipleusing
passes.
Please note that the Pencil Mill operation uses the "old" (i.e. pre-version 7.50) cycle.
See
Also
render
the uncut mesh and reporting on the cycle time.
Multiple
Passes
Most of these
features can also be used with the driven tooling of turning centres, enabling C and Y axis
control
of
the
tool.
Down Milling
You
can also
control
machine
Intelligent
Lead
and Link
Moves
EdgeCAM User Guide
Multiple Passes
167
The Pencil Mill cycle offers support for multiple passes, i.e. you can add additional passes either side of the
centre trace using the Number of Passes and % Stepover parameters on the Generaltab.

Number of Passes - Specifies the number of additional passes either side of the center trace.
% Stepover
- Specifies the exact maximum spacing between each pass as a percentage of the tool
Profiling
diameter when adding additional passes either side of the centre trace . Entering a value of 100 would, for
Pocket
Millinga distance of 100% of the tool diameter, and so the consecutive passes would be no
example,
represent
more than
tool diameter apart.
Faceone
Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Down Milling
168
This option will analyse a curve and find the high and low points along its length. At these points the curve
will be machined from the high point to the next low point where the tool will retract and move to the next
high point etc.
The General tab of the dialog offers a check box which allows you to enable this option. You can specify
theDown Mill Angle (range between 0-90 degrees) which defines the minimum angle at which down
milling is used. This will ensure that curves are not split up at every slight change in angle. The default
angle is 30 degrees.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
This example shows that it is unnecessary to split the curve at the high point, as the angle from the start is
The toolpaths
resulting
below
the minimum
angle:
EdgeCAM User Guide

The dialogs for all surface cycles offer a Lead and Links tab.
Lead moves are non-machining moves immediately before (Lead In) and after (Lead Out) a machining
move. All leads are checked against the part and any gouging leads are removed.
Link moves are moves joining a lead-out to a lead-in.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
Any
See changes
Also
Specifying Lead Moves
Advanced
Lead
the simulation
is Options
provided, including speed controls, swathe mode and simulating specific instructions.
Specifying
Link Moves
Once a toolpath
has been generated, you can display and examine a representation of the material
EdgeCAM User Guide
169
Specifying Lead Moves

A lead move consists of either an arc or line joining onto or off a machining segment. The arc is specified by
theAngle and Radius parameters and the linear segment by a 3D Length.
You can choose between the following orientations:
None No lead move applied, just safe distance.
Horizontal* Horizontal lead in a horizontal plane
Tangential In a vertical plane, leading tangentially off the toolpath.
Vertical In a vertical plane, joining at a horizontal tangent.

Normal
Normal
to the surface.
environment
of EdgeCAM.
defined
by
parameter.
*When the lead type is set to Horizontal the lead in/out angle can be set to a maximum of 180 degrees. For
all
a maximum
90 degrees
is allowed.
Youother
can types
drive the
tool with of
respect
to the model
geometry using these standard types of machining cycle:
Profiling
NOTE:
If you have specified a depth and do not want the lead move to go below this level use vertical or
horizontal only.
Pocket Milling
The Feedrate
for lead moves is specified as a percentage of the feedrate on the General tab.
Face Milling
CheckSlotting
Apply To Long Link Only to only apply lead moves where they join long link moves. These lead
moves will only be applied at the beginning (lead in) or end (lead out) of a region.
Hole Production
If Length, Angle and Radius are set to 0 or unspecified there will be a lead of zero length, i.e. no lead
move.Surface Milling
The
ensure
that the
feeds
from the may
Safebe
Distance.
the starttransformed,
of the lead move
is notorthe
Safe
The cycles
toolpaths
resulting
fromtool
these
operations
then be Ifmirrored,
matrixed
rotated.
Distance off the model then a feed move will be inserted.
Also see
Advanced
Options
machining Lead
commands
EdgeCAM User Guide
170
Advanced Lead Options

The Lead tab of the Profiling,Pencil Mill and Flat Land Finishing cycles offers a number of advanced
options.
Apply Safe Distance to Horizontal Lead Moves
Overlap Distance for Closed Profiles
Profile Extensions
Automatic Start Point

Instead
of trimming
a lead move
back
because
of gouge
protection,
the start
point will
environment
of EdgeCAM.
Various
milling
(driven)
tool types
can either
be loaded
fromautomatically
the ToolStoremove
or
along
the
toolpath
until
the
lead
move
can
be
fitted
the
safe
distance
away
from
the
gouge
point.
In
thecan
event
that
suitable
position to
cannot
be found
the original
will betypes
usedofand
the leadcycle:
will be
You
drive
thea tool
with respect
the model
geometry
using start
thesepoint
standard
machining
trimmed away as before.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
171
Apply Safe Distance to Horizontal Lead Moves

The Apply Safe Distance option on the Lead tab of the Profiling,Pencil Mill andFlat Land Finishing
cycles affects the behaviour of horizontal lead moves. Rather than plunging down onto the model faces the
tool will stop at the Safe Distance specified on the Links tab, then angle the lead move down to the cut
increment.
Safe Distance
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Plunge
Feed
Hole Production
Surface Milling
You
Apply
canSafe
alsoDistance
control machine tool specific functions such as coolant on/off.
EdgeCAM User Guide
172
Overlap Distance for Closed Profiles

The Overlapoption on the Lead tab of the Profiling,Pencil Mill andFlat Land Finishing (on finish pass
only) cycles allows you to specify an overlap distance for closed profiles and helps avoid leaving small
marks on the component. The toolpath will start as specified, follow the closed profile back to the start point
and then continue past for the specified distance.
The overlap distance will be restricted so that it cannot exceed the profile length.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
173
Profile Extensions
174
On the Lead tab of the Profiling,Pencil Mill andFlat Land Finishing (on finish pass only) cycles you can
specify an extension distance for the start and end of the profile (for open profiles only). This helps avoid
leaving small marks on the component. The open toolpath will be extended tangentially by the distance
specified.
The extensions will be gouge checked and removed if they are found to gouge the component. Typically the
extensions are not suitable in concave regions of the model.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Specifying Link Moves

Link moves are moves joining a Lead Out and a Lead In. All links are checked against the part and adjusted
to prevent gouging.
A distinction between Short and Long link moves is made.
Short Link = Feed Move
Long Link = Rapid or High Feedrate Move
Short links are links where the 3D distance between the end point of the previous machining segment
and the start point of the following machining segment is less than the Short Link Distance.
environment
If you specify
of EdgeCAM.
a ShortVarious
Link Distance
milling of
(driven)
0 only tool
one types
type of
can
linkeither
will be
begenerated,
loaded from
namely
the ToolStore
Long Links.
or
You
drive
the
respect
Shortcan
Links
can
betool
onewith
of three
types:
Smooth An arc-like smooth transition between ends.
Profiling
Straight A straight linear connection.
Pocket Milling
Step A connection consisting of two straight lines. Either a move in XY is followed by a move down in Z
Face Milling
OR a move up in Z is followed by a move in XY.
Slotting
Long Links
Hole Production
can be one of two types:
Optimised
Surface
The
Milling
tool moves up in Z to the highest point on the part (offset by the Safe Distance) along the
joining move, followed by a straight horizontal move and a move down to the start of the Lead In or Safe
The toolpaths
resulting
from these
may bedown
then any
be mirrored,
matrixed
orFeedrate.
rotated.
Distance
(whichever
is higher).
Theoperations
tool then moves
remainingtransformed,
distance at the
Plunge
All
of
these
moves
will
be
at
the
maximum
feedrate
specified
in
the
postprocessor.
sequence
at that
any all
time,
inserting,5.75
editing
or removing
the individual
commands
Please note
pre-version
pencil
milling cycles
will use this
link type as
by necessary.
default.
Any changes
you tool
make
to theaoriginal
geometry
within the
Design
environment
are
reflected
all a
Clearance
The
makes
rapid move
to thefrom
Clearance
plane,
followed
by a rapid
move
in XYinand
machining
onthe
thatLead
geometry.
rapid
movecommands
down to thebased
start of
in or the Safe Distance (whichever is higher). The tool then moves
down
any remaining
at theon
Plunge
Feedrate.
Tool movements
candistance
be simulated
screen
using default or user-generated tool graphics. Full control of
the simulation
speed controls,
swathe
and simulating
instructions.
Safe
Distanceisprovided,
Specifies including
the safe distance
above the
part mode
from which
the tool willspecific
feed into
position. The
safe
distance
is
also
included
when
calculating
the
optimised
retract
height
over
the
model.
remaining
from
a solid rectangular
block. the
Other
the results
of down
a toolpath
to
Feed When
Plunging
When checked,
toolmethods
will use for
theexamining
Feedrate when
moving
in theare
Z axis
render the cycle.
uncut This
meshisand
reporting
the the
cycle
time. of stock material is unknown. When unchecked, the
during
a safe
optionon
when
amount
tool
the safecan
distance
then tooling
feed into
Mostwill
of rapid
these to
features
also beabove
used the
withmodel
the driven
of position.
turning centres, enabling C and Y axis
control
of the
At the start
of tool.
the surface machining cycles the tool will rapid to the clearance plane first, then continue
down
to
the
start
of the
lead move.
You can also control
machine
EdgeCAM User Guide
175
Using Contact Angles
176

In some cycles there are 'Minimum Contact Angle' and 'Maximum Contact Angle' limits (in the Control tab).
Only the areas where the contact angle is within these limits are machined.
The cycles are Profiling, Constant Cusp Finishing and Parallel Lace.
The contact angle is between the normal to the surface (at the point of contact) and the tool axis. You can
specify angles between 0 and 90, except for Minimum Contact Angle which can only be up to 85. The
defaults are 0 (min) and 90 (max). Here is an example:
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
This may have the effect of breaking the toolpath down into regions. In this case the normal rules for leads,
The
resulting
thesetooperations
may
bethe
then
be mirrored,
linkstoolpaths
and ordering
will befrom
applied
each region,
and
move
between transformed,
the regions. matrixed or rotated.
If
need
make changes
after into
defining
sequenceadditional
of these Z
operations
you may
can restructure
Toyou
avoid
thetotoolpath
fragmenting
smallasections,
level passes
be includedthe
outside the
sequence
at
any
time,
inserting,
editing
or
removing
the
individual
commands
as
necessary.
contact angle range.
Any
make to the original geometry from within the Design environment are reflected in all
See changes
a Profilingyou
example.
See a Parallel Lace example.
noteisthat
the minimum
and
maximum
contact
angle
cannot
the samespecific
value. instructions.
the Please
simulation
provided,
including
speed
controls,
swathe
mode
and be
simulating
EdgeCAM User Guide

The Level and Depth parameters control the start and end finish depth in all surface cycles (except Pencil
Mill).
These parameters can be found on the General tab of the dialog and offer three possible settings:
None Level and depth are taken from the model extents.
Digitise You are prompted to digitise an entity or enter the appropriate co-ordinates. Note: A flat surface
can be used to specify a digitised depth parameter for a cycle by forcing an entity digitise on a surface. If
the surface is not flat to the Z axis of the machine the Z point returned is arbitrary.
environment
Value
TypeofinEdgeCAM.
a value. Various milling (driven) tool types can either be loaded from the ToolStore or
Note: When Level is set to <None> the Depth parameter is automatically set to <None>.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
177
Batch Mode
178
Batch Mode can be applied to all surface cycles.

You may find that some cycles take some time to generate the appropriate toolpaths. Checking the Batch
Mode(Cycles menu) command lets you to bypass the toolpath generation and move on to other tasks in
the worksession. At the end of the worksession, turn off Batch Mode and generate the batched toolpaths by
selecting Regenerate.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Cache Files
179
All surface cycles generate a number of cache files. Storing the cycle information in the cache means that
only parameters that have been changed will be regenerated on an edit. This can considerably speed up
the time required to edit existing toolpaths.
You can specify the location for the cache files and the maximum size of the cache folder on the Surface
tab of the Preferences (Options menu) dialog.
You can
drive
the tool
respect
modelunder
geometry
using these standard
typesUse
of machining
cycle:
Folder
By
default,
thewith
cache
files to
arethe
created
the \edgecam\cam\tmp
folder.
this parameter
to
specify a new location for the files.
Profiling
Maximum
Size (Mb) Specifies the maximum size of the cache folder. If the specified limit is reached the
oldest Pocket
files willMilling
be deleted first.
Face Milling
Note
Slotting
When
processing a surface cycle the cache limit may be ignored to allow the command to be
Hole Production
completed as long as enough free disk space is available.
Surface Milling
Cache files are automatically version checked and if the EdgeCAM version differs from the cache the
The toolpaths
resulting from
cycle is completely
recalculated.
EdgeCAM User Guide
Loading and Saving STL Files

EdgeCAM surface models can be saved as STL (stereolithography) ASCII/Binary files.
You can also open/insert STL files, however they can only be machined using surface cycles (except Pencil
Mill).
When opening or inserting an STL file, EdgeCAM will automatically generate a bounding box.
You can also intellisnap the corner points of the triangles which is useful for creating boundaries and
digitising cycle depth parameters.
STL
entities
can be
rotated,atranslated,
mirrored
using
the appropriate
Edit,the
Transform
The
Milling
module
provides
two-and-a-half,
threeand
andscaled
five axis
milling
capability from
Manufacture
commands.
For
large
STL
models,
any
transformation
may
take
some
time.
Please
note
scalingora
environment of EdgeCAM. Various milling (driven) tool types can either be loaded from thethat
ToolStore
part
will
scale
the
tolerance
to
which
the
triangles
represent
the
original
model.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
180
Collision Checking Tool Holders in Surface Cycles

This functionality allows you to check cycles and operations for possible tool holder collisions with selected
surfaces or solids.
If collisions are detected a message will be displayed advising you of the minimum holder Z offset
necessary to machine the part safely.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
To use this functionality, a tool holder must be defined in the toolchange. You can generate a tool holder
definition
Surface
by opening
Milling the ToolStore and defining a graphics file on the Mounting tab. This can be a
predefined .csv file or a profile drawn in EdgeCAM. The holder Z offset specifies the distance from the
The toolpaths
fromtothese
operations
holders
datumresulting
point (CPL)
the shank
datum.
To
use collision
machine
tool type,checking
and outputs this information to an ASCII text file. You can then use the EdgeCAM Editor
EdgeCAM User Guide
181
Feedrates Within Surface Cycles

This applies to all cycles in the Milling Environment, although it is most applicable to the 3D Slot, and
Surfacecycles.
The Plunge feedrate is used when the tool is moving downwards at an angle of over 45 degrees (the Z
distance is greater than the XY distance). At all other times, the tool uses the Feedrate.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole
Production
Moving
at High
Feedrate in Surface Cycles
Millinginstead of rapid moves when optimised is selected for long link moves to ensure that
Use a Surface
high feedrate
the tool is moved in a straight line and no unresolved or dog-leg moves are produced.
You can define the value for the high feedrate within the Code Wizard or by editing the machine parameters
If
you
need to make
changes
and
specifying
the Max
High after
Feeddefining
value. a sequence of these operations you can restructure the
EdgeCAM User Guide
182
Specifying Surface Finish

You control the finish of the surface indirectly by specifying various cycle parameters. Usually a higher
surface finish needs a longer completion time for the cycle.
The relevant parameters are:
Tolerance Specifies the maximum deviation of any linear toolpath segment from the mathematical
surface definition.
Do not confuse this with the Display Tolerance, which simply controls how the surface appears on the
screen.
Number
of module
Passesprovides
Specifies
the number of three
passes
tofive
be made
in the capability
cycle.
The Milling
a two-and-a-half,
and
axis milling
environment
of
EdgeCAM.
Various
milling
(driven)
tool
types
can
either
be
loaded
from the ToolStore or
More passes give a better finish.
Stepover Specifies the distance between successive tool passes as a percentage of the tool diameter (0You can drive the tool with respect to the model geometry using these standard types of machining cycle:
100%).
The finish improves when a lower percentage is used.
Profiling
Cusp Height Specifies the height of the uncut material between each pass. This is the maximum
Pocket
Milling and the part may achieve a better finish than specified on sections of the machined
allowable
deviation,
area. The
improves when a lower Cusp Height is used.
Facefinish
Milling
WhenCut
Increment and Cusp Height are used together, the stepover generated by the Cusp Height is
Slotting
applied to every depth.
Hole Production
Using this parameter usually increases the calculation time for the cycle, so it is best used for finishing
Surface
operations
(seeMilling
below).
If the Cusp Height parameter is left blank, the Stepover value will be applied to the cycle as normal.
However if a Cusp Height has been stated, the Stepover value represents the maximum stepover of the
tool. This would come into effect when using an Endmill on a flat (or near-flat) surface, where the Cusp
Height would try to step over the width of the tool.
EdgeCAM User Guide
183
Using a Negative Offset in Surface Cycles

A negative offset cannot be equal or greater than the tool radius. When machining with a negative offset this
produces the same results as reducing the tool radius by the offset, e.g. a 4mm ballnose tool used on a
cycle with a -1.5 offset means the part is calculated using a 1mm ballnose tool. If the resultant tool size is
very small please be aware that the tool could fall between small gaps in the model and the calculation time
increases.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
184
Problems when Machining Offset Surfaces

Creating surfaces from continuous entities made from many short line segments can cause problems when
you later try to machine the surface. This is because these line segments become discontinuous when
EdgeCAM produces an offset surface for generating toolpaths.
To avoid this problem, use the Curves, Smooth (Geometric menu) command to create single smoothed
entities from the continuous entities.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
185
Output Tolerance and Line Arc Smooth

Even if you enable 'Line Arc Smooth' in a cycle's General tab, very large radius arcs may be output as a
line.
What is EdgeCAM
Milling?
chord distance
If the 'chord distance' is less than the machine's Output Tolerance setting (Machine Parameters dialog,
General tab), the arc is output as a line.
defined
byas
parameter.
Note
that
a general rule you should set the Output tolerance to the resolution of the NC controller. Most
metric formats are 4,3 (3 decimal places), so set Output tolerance to 0.001mm. Inch format is 3,4 (4 decimal
places), so set the output tolerance to 0.0001. This setting is 'modal'; it defaults to the last value you set,
and is remembered from one EdgeCAM session to the next.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
186
Optimising for Speed and Memory Use

The amount of memory used and the calculation time are mainly influenced by the size of the component,
the cycle tolerance, tool diameter and complexity of the model. To reduce the risk of running low on memory
and increase speed:
Use an appropriate tolerance
Avoid specifying unnecessarily small tolerances (which also increases the amount of NC data
produced).
The Milling
provides
a two-and-a-half,
three
Breakmodule
down your
machining
into separate
cycles
definedMachining
by parameter.
large areas in one cycle uses a disproportionately large amount of memory compared to
dividing
up
the area
into portions,
machining
each
with
a separate
cycle.
You
can use cycle:
You can drive the tool
with respect
to the and
model
geometry
using
these
standard
types
of machining
boundaries to create the smaller portions.
Profiling
Machine one boundary per cycle
Pocket Milling
If you select multiple boundaries in a cycle, EdgeCAM collision checks within a box that encloses all
Face Milling
these boundaries. All the enclosed region must be processed, draining resources. It is better to
Slotting
machine each boundary in a separate cycle, when the 'rapid to clearance level' moves between the
cycles ensure there are no collisions.
Hole Production
In this example selecting all four corner boundaries in one cycle would enclose the centre feature, so
Surface Milling
it would be processed for collision checking. Machining each corner as a separate cycle would be
faster as
it wouldfrom
exclude
the
centre feature.
The toolpaths
resulting
these
operations
To help machine bounded areas on the same model you can turn on Batch Mode, which inhibits
You can
also control
machine
specific
functions
suchuse
as the
coolant
on/off.Window to copy the cycle and
processing.
Set
up and tool
apply
the first
cycle, then
Sequence
then
edit
the
boundary
information
for
each
cycle.
Then
turn
off
BatchCNC
Modecode.
and generate
the
When satisfied with the machining operations for the part, you can generate
EdgeCAMalluses
cycles
at
once.
This
saves
time
waiting
for
each
small
area
to
process
before
selecting
the
next.
or other
editorsyour
to examine
Choose
cycle and alter this file as required.
Note that cycles which use a full 3D constant offset algorithm are more memory intensive. These are:
Constant Cusp
Rest Finish
Profiling with Finish Shallow Areas set to Constant Cusp, with Helical checked or a Cusp
Height specified.
Cycles that use less memory include:
Parallel Lace
EdgeCAM User Guide
187
Profiling (without Finish Shallow)

Use large ball or bull nose tools
For example a 1mm (0.04) tool will use 10 times the memory of a 10mm (0.4) tool. An Endmill
(sharp corner) will use more memory than a Bull or Ball nose cutter.
Periodically clear the Undo / Redo Buffer
At convenient times save and re-load the part to clear the buffer. The buffer stores the previous state
of the toolpaths each time you edit, regenerate or add commands. This is a very useful, but when
generating large surface toolpaths it can be expensive on memory.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
188
Feeding the Tool Over Parametric Surfaces

There are two commands for feeding a tool over a parametric surface:
The Surface Feed (Move menu) command allows you to feed a tool over a selected surface, using
3D co-ordinates.
You can specify start and end points of the feed move using free digitises, grid digitises or co-ordinate
input.
If you set the Dynamic parameter, you can move the tool directly by moving the mouse.
The other parameters for the cycle are similar to Feed (Move menu).
environment
Because
of the
EdgeCAM.
start andVarious
end point
milling
co-ordinates
(driven) tool
are types
converted
can either
into the
besurfaces
loaded from
UV the
co-ordinates,
ToolStore this
or
defined
cycle
by parameter.
cannot be used
on trimmed surfaces. The UV co-ordinates apply to the surface before it was

trimmed.
The Surface Feed UV (Move menu) command allows you to feed a tool over a selected surface,
using
UV co-ordinates relating to that surface:
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
Most of
features
canmove
also be
used with
the driven
of turning
and Yitsaxis
A these
Surface
Feed UV
is always
straight
in UV tooling
space (as
showncentres,
above), enabling
but in 3D Cspace
shape
controlisofdetermined
the tool. by the shape of the surface.
EdgeCAM User Guide
189
Checking the Validity of a Surface

It is possible to create or import invalid surfaces that can later cause problems when applying machining
cycles. To validate your surfaces, display the surface normals by using the Surface Normals (Verify
menu) command. Generally, the normals should display a fairly regular pattern with no abrupt change in
vector.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
190
Problem Areas
191
Degenerate surfaces (surfaces that cross over themselves)

Degenerate surface curves on trimmed surfaces (surface curve intersects with itself)
Tangent continuous corners on Coons Patches

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Five Axis Milling
192
Three basic types of cycle are available in Five Axis Milling:

Five Axis Areaclear (Cycles menu)
Five Axis Drill (Cycles menu)
Five Axis Slot (Cycles menu)
These
milling
cyclesprovides
each have
several machining
that milling
you can
select. from the Manufacture
The Milling
module
a two-and-a-half,
threestrategies
and five axis
capability
environment
EdgeCAM.
Various
milling (driven)interpolate
tool typesthree
can either
loaded
from the ToolStore
or
The Five AxisofMilling
module
can simultaneously
linearbe
and
two independent
rotary axes,
defined
by
parameter.
from the following axes:

You
can drive
the tool
X
- linear
movement
in with
the Xrespect
axis to the model geometry using these standard types of machining cycle:
Y- linear movement in the Y axis
Profiling
Z- linear movement in the Z axis
Pocket Milling
A- rotation about the X axis
Face Milling
B- rotation about the Y axis
Slotting
C- rotation about the Z axis
Hole Production
Each Code Generator specifies exactly which axes are available to a particular machine tool.
Surface Milling
Important Notes:
is not taken
account
when youofgenerate
and display
solid
model. the
If you Tool
needorientation
to make changes
after into
defining
a sequence
these operations
youacan
restructure
sequence
at
any
time,
inserting,
editing
or
removing
the
individual
commands
as
necessary.
There is no automatic gouge detection.
Any changes
make
to the original
from
within the
Design
are reflected
Islands you
are not
recognised
whengeometry
generating
toolpaths
for the
Fiveenvironment
Axis Areaclear
cycle. in all
Surface groups may not be selected to be machined, as they will usually contain more that one
Tool movements
surface. can be simulated on screen using default or user-generated tool graphics. Full control of
remaining
See Also from a solid rectangular block. Other methods for examining the results of a toolpath are to
Areaclearance in Five Axis
Drilling
in Five
Axis
control of
the tool.
Slotting
Fivecontrol
Axis machine tool specific functions such as coolant on/off.
You caninalso
Specifying
Five with
Axisthe
Cycle
Parameters
When satisfied
machining
operations for the part, you can generate CNC code. EdgeCAM uses
EdgeCAM User Guide
Areaclearance in Five Axis

Use the Five Axis Areaclear (Cycles menu)
using endmill, bullnose or ballnose cutters.
193
command to machine all EdgeCAM surface types,
To use the Five Axis Areaclear cycle

You must have a surface ready to be machined, and you should be familiar with the Areaclear cycle.
The
1. Milling
Selectmodule
the Five
provides
Axis Areaclear
a two-and-a-half,
(Cyclesthree
menu)
and five command.
axis millingAcapability
box appears
fromcontaining
the Manufacture
the
environment
parameters
of EdgeCAM.
for the cycle.
2. Set the parameters for the cycle and click on OK.
3. Digitise the surface.
4. Digitise
Profilingthe first corner of the surface.
5. Digitise
the second corner of the surface.
Pocket Milling
6. Select
the side of the surface for the toolpath.
Face Milling
7. Perform
Slotting a Finish.
The system
Hole Production
now generates the toolpath.
Surface Milling
See Also
Using Five Axis Areaclear Strategies
EdgeCAM User Guide
Using Five Axis Areaclear Strategies

The available surface strategies determine how passes and the linking moves are generated. Choose from
these strategies:
Constant Cut All passes are made in the same direction. The tool retracts at rapid to the clearance plane
between passes. The tool re-orients and rapids down to the Retract distance before feeding to the start of
the next pass.
The pass direction is taken from a digitise defining the start corner and a digitise defining the direction.
Laced Passes are made in alternate directions, changing direction on the surface at the feedrate if the
tool is an endmill or bullnose. Otherwise the tool retracts at rapid, re-orients and feeds back onto the
The
Milling module provides a two-and-a-half, three and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
surface.
The
pass
is taken
from a digitise defining the start corner and a digitise defining the direction.
defined
bydirection
parameter.
Lace
with
Retract
Passes
are made
in model
alternate
directions,
retracting
to the clearance
plane between
You can
drive
the tool
with respect
to the
geometry
using
these standard
types of machining
cycle:
passes as for the Constant Cut strategy.
Tangent
A single pass is made by the cutting edge of a taper tool between two specified boundaries on
Profiling
the surface (see below).
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
The surface boundaries that are used are determined by the digitises defining the start and direction for the
cycle.
This strategy does not use any specified Overshoot values for the cycle.
EdgeCAM User Guide
194
Drilling in Five Axis
195
Use the Five Axis Drill (Cycles menu)

normal to the surface at the drill point.
command to drill points on a surface. Drilling takes place
To use the Five Axis Drill cycle

You must have a surface ready to be machined, and you should be familiar with the Drillcycle.
The
1. Milling
Selectmodule
the Five
provides
Axis Drill
a two-and-a-half,
(Cycles menu)
three and
command.
five axis milling
A box appears
capabilitycontaining
the parameters
environment
for the of
cycle.
EdgeCAM. Various milling (driven) tool types can either be loaded from the ToolStore or
2. Set the parameters for the cycle and click on OK.
3. Digitise the surface.
4. Select
the side of the surface for the toolpath.
Profiling
5. Perform
a Finish.
Pocket Milling
6. Digitise
one or more locations to drill.
Face Milling
7. Perform
Slotting a Finish.
The system
Hole Production
now generates the toolpath.
Surface Milling
See Also
Using Five Axis Drill Strategies
EdgeCAM User Guide
Using Five Axis Drill Strategies

The available drilling strategies are:
Drill The tool retracts at the rapid rate between pecks and on completion.
Chipbreak The tool retracts a short distance at the rapid rate between pecks and on completion.
Ream The tool retracts at the feed rate between pecks and on completion.
Bore The boring tool centres itself in the hole and retracts at the rapid rate between pecks.
See under Drilling, Reaming and Boring for further information on drilling cycles.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
196
Slotting in Five Axis
197
Use the Five Axis Slot (Cycles menu)

to the surface at all points along the curve.
command to machine a surface curve. The tool is held normal
To use the Five Axis Slot cycle

You must have a surface ready to machine, and you should be familiar with the Slot cycle.
1. Select the Five Axis Slot (Cycles menu)

command. A box appears containing the parameters
for the cycle.
defined
2. Set
bythe
parameter.
parameters
for the cycle.
You
3. can
Click
drive
on the
OK tool
to accept
with respect
the parameters.
4. Digitise the surface curve.
Profiling
5. Select the side of the surface on which to generate the toolpath. Press F1 to toggle between the two
Pocket Milling
sides.
Milling
6. Face
Perform
a Finish.
Slotting
Hole Production
See Also
Surface Milling
Using
Five Axis
Slot Strategies
The toolpaths
resulting
EdgeCAM User Guide
Using Five Axis Slot Strategies

The available machining strategies are:
On This drives the contact point of the tool along the surface curve. The start point is the end of the curve
nearest to the digitise selecting the curve for the cycle.
Climb The toolpath is offset to the left of the direction of travel.
Conventional The toolpath is offset to the right of the direction of travel.
Note that the offset follows these rules:
Endmills are offset by the Tool Radius.

For
other tools:
environment
Tool
is offset
by Tool
Radius
plus
any specified
You
canparameter
drive the tool 0with respect to the
model
geometry
using
these
standard
types ofOffset
machining cycle:
Depth
value.
Profiling
Negative Depth parameter
Pocket
Milling
or Corner
Radius
Tool
Tool is offset by Tool Radius plus any specified Offset

value (not endmills).
FaceDepth
Millingparameter
Negative
For ballnose and bullnose cutters only.
< ToolSlotting
or Corner Radius
The offset is calculated for the point of tool contact.
For example, Depth = -5, Tool Radius = 2, Corner Radius = 1.
Hole Production
The negative Depth is greater than either the Tool or Corner Radius, so the tool is offset by the Tool Radius
Surface
Milling
plus any
specified
Offset value.
EdgeCAM User Guide
198
Specifying Five Axis Cycle Parameters

The parameters for the cycle are:
Strategy See the specific strategy types for each cycle.
Final Retract Check this box to insert a move to the retract distance.
True Position Check this box to force the machine tool controller to hit specified parts of the toolpath.
After the toolpath has been generated, you can specify those portions of the toolpath that are to be in TRUE
POSITION mode.
When you generate the CNC code for the machining cycle, the system forces the tool to pass through the
The
Milling module
a two-and-a-half,
three
andtoolpath.
five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
co-ordinates
of eachprovides
TRUE POSITION
segment
of the
Partial
this box
defined byCheck
parameter.
to machine part of a surface within a digitised surface curve.
Canned
Cyclethe
Check
thisrespect
box to to
use
canned cycles.
Leavestandard
blank totypes
use EdgeCAMs
CNC
You can drive
tool with
thecontroller
model geometry
using these
of machining
cycle:
code.
Feedrate
Specifies the rate of movement in the workplane.
Profiling
Plunge
Feed Milling
Specifies the rate of movement in the direction of the tool axis.
Pocket
Link Feed
Specifies the rate of movement for each linking move between passes. If this is not specified,
Face Milling
Plunge Feed is used.
Slotting
Speed Specifies the tool spindle speed.
Hole Production
Cusp Height A method of determining the surface finish. Specify the maximum height of material to be
Surfacepasses.
Milling
left between
Number
of Passes
Afrom
method
of operations
determiningmay
the be
surface
finish.
Specify
the numbermatrixed
of passes
the
The toolpaths
resulting
these
then be
mirrored,
transformed,
orover
rotated.
selected surface.
Tolerance
Specifies
the maximum
deviation
of thethe
generated
toolpath
from the
selected surface.
sequence at any
time, inserting,
editing
or removing
individual
commands
as necessary.
Step
Distance
(Areaclear
only)
This geometry
modifier allows
you tothe
split
the moves
by the specified
distance.
Any changes
you
make to the
original
from within
Design
environment
are reflected
in all This
is
necessary
for
machines
that
do
not
resolve
the
rotary
axes
with
the
linear
axes.
Stay
at Depth (Areaclear
and Slot
This
stops
the cycle
from retractingtool
between
passes
Tool movements
can be simulated
ononly).
screen
using
default
or user-generated
graphics.
Full before
control of
moving
into position.
the simulation
Lead
/ Out tabs
Specify
the Feedrate
anddisplay
Angle at
which
the tool
approaches orofleaves
the surface.
Once In
a toolpath
hasbeen
generated,
you can
and
examine
a representation
the material
Length
specifies
distance
from block.
the surface
to which
Lead In or
Outofparameters
operate.
remaining
from athe
solid
rectangular
Otherup
methods
forthe
examining
theLead
results
a toolpath are
to If
the
Feedrate
is not
specified,
the system
uses
the time.
Plunge Feed rate instead.
render
the uncut
mesh
and reporting
on the
cycle
See
Also
control
of the tool.
Specifying
Five
Axis Tool
Parameters
You can also
control
machine
Specifying
Five with
Axisthe
Depth
Parameters
When satisfied
machining
operations for the part, you can generate CNC code. EdgeCAM uses
EdgeCAM User Guide
199
Specifying Five Axis Tool Parameters

These parameters control the tool orientation during the cycle.
The Lead angle is the angle between the tool and the surface normal (or the vertical axis of the machine
tool), in the plane including the pass direction. A positive angle is in the pass direction (see below).

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
The Side angle is the angle between the tool and the surface normal (or the vertical axis of the machine
Surface
tool), in
a planeMilling
at 90 to the pass direction. A positive angle is to the left of the pass direction (see below).
Alternate Lead Clear this box to apply the Lead angles in the direction of the first pass.
or otherthis
Check
editors
box to
to apply
examine
the and
Leadalter
angles
this relative
file as required.
to the current pass.
Alternate Side Clear this box to apply the angles at the first pass.
Check this box to apply the angles relative to the current pass.
Lead Start Specifies a Lead angle to alter the tool orientation by at the start of a cut.
Lead End Specifies a Lead angle to alter the tool orientation by at the start of a cut. If you do not enter a
value, the cycle uses the Lead Start angle. If you do specify a value, the cycle interpolates the Lead angle
as the tool moves along the cut.
Side Start Specifies a Side angle to alter the tool orientation by at the start or end of a cut.
Side End Specifies a Side angle to alter the tool orientation by at the end of a cut. If you do not enter a
value, the cycle uses the Side Start angle. If you do specify a value, the cycle interpolates the Side angle as
the tool moves along the cut.
EdgeCAM User Guide
200
Relative To Select the axis that the Lead and Side angles are taken from.
Normal To use the angles relative to the surface normals.
Vertical To use the angles relative to the machine tools vertical axis (not the same as the driven tool
axis).

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
201
Specifying Five Axis Depth Parameters

Clearance Specifies a plane at an absolute height for the tool to move to during and after the cycle. If you
do not specify a value you are asked to digitise an entity. The Clearance plane is set to the height of this
entity.
Retract This must be specified, and defines the distance the tool feeds towards and away from the
surface, measured relative to the surface normal.
Depth Specifies a depth of cut for the cycle, measured relative to the surface normal at each point.
Clearance Plane Specifies the CPL to be used for the Clearance plane. Leave blank to use the XY plane
of the Initial CPL. Select the box to be offered a choice of all available CPLs when entering co-ordinate data
The
Milling
module provides a two-and-a-half, three and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
for the
cycle.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
202
What is Rotary Milling?
203
Rotary Milling is the ability to perform 2D and 2.5D machining cycles around or on the end of a cylinder.
When performing radial machining (around the cylinder), the tool is restricted to moving parallel to and
around the rotary axis. The tool is always oriented radially to the centreline of the rotary axis.
Radial Machining - Rotary Mode
Radial Machining - Planar Mode

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
machining
commands
on that
When
performing
axialbased
machining
(ongeometry.
the end of the cylinder), the tool's Z axis is parallel to the rotary axis.
Note that EdgeCAM Rotary Milling only supports table-mounted axes. Whether one or both of these
Once
machining
a toolpath
options
hasis been
opengenerated,
to you is dependent
you can display
on yourand
machine
examine
tool.
Rotary
Milling
render the
uncutExamples
mesh and reporting on the cycle time.
EdgeCAM User Guide
Choosing Your Machine Tool

You must ensure that your machine tool is correctly oriented before you begin machining. There are two
areas of concern:
Machine Datum
Initial CPL
The Machine Datum is used to define the point about which the rotary axes revolve. This is defined through
a check box parameter when starting a new Machining Sequence.
If
youMilling
checked
the Machine
parameter,three
you will
prompted
to digitise
a point
the
The
module
provides Datum
a two-and-a-half,
andbe
five
axis milling
capability
fromrepresenting
the Manufacture
centre
of rotation.
OtherwiseVarious
the system
picks
the origin
of CPL
as the
centre of
rotation.
environment
of EdgeCAM.
milling
(driven)
tool types
canTop
either
be loaded
from
the ToolStore or
defined
by parameter.
The Initial
CPL defines the start datum for the Machining Sequence. This acts as the zero reference for
both
rotary
axes.
You can
drive
the tool with respect to the model geometry using these standard types of machining cycle:
Note:Profiling
The axis of rotation on the machine must align with the unwrapped geometry, or else you will
not bePocket
able to
machine the geometry.
Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
control
of the tool.
See Also
You
can also
tool specific
functions
such as coolant on/off.
Machine
Toolcontrol
Supportmachine
for Multiplane
and Rotary
Machining
When
satisfied
with the
machining operations for the part, you can generate CNC code. EdgeCAM uses
Choosing
the Milling
Mode
EdgeCAM User Guide
204
Machine Tool Support for Multiplane and Rotary Machining

The following 4 and 5 axis machine tool configurations support Multiplane and Rotary machining (for tablemounted rotary axes):

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
Note: 4 axis
machines
use the Primary
axis for
rotaryfor
machining,
5 of
axis
machineare
tools
remaining
from
a solid rectangular
block. Other
methods
examiningwhereas
the results
a toolpath
to
always
use
the
Secondary
axis.
Wherever
the
"rotary
axis"
is
mentioned
elsewhere
in
this
manual,
this will refer to the Primary or Secondary axis depending on your machine tool.
These machine tool configurations can be generated within the Code Wizard (using the Rotary Milling
You
can also control machine tool specific functions such as coolant on/off.
template).
When
satisfied
with machine
the machining
operations for
part, you
generate
CNC code.
EdgeCAM
uses
You can
verify your
tool configuration
bythe
selecting
thecan
Machine
Parameters
(Verify
menu)
Code
Generator
files
to
interpret
the
machining
sequence
into
a
set
of
CNC
instructions
for
a
specific
command:
EdgeCAM User Guide
205
Choosing the Milling Mode

Within the Milling environment, the default milling mode is Planar. To switch to Rotary milling use the
Rotary mode (M-Functions menu) command.
This command is only available in Manufacture mode, with a Code Generator capable of rotary machining.
The command inserts a Rotary Mode or Planar Mode instruction into the machining sequence.
Rotary mode is only available when the tool is in a Radial or Axial position. The diagram below shows the
two valid Rotary orientations - Radial and Axial. The Index (Move menu) command is used to move the tilt
axis.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Please see your Machine Tool documentation for details of your tool's start orientation.
Slotting
Note Hole Production
When Surface
milling inMilling
an 'axial' orientation in Rotary Mode positioning between hole locations will take advantage
of rotary axis positioning. All other cycles will make use of Cartesian (xy) tool paths.
SeeAxial Milling.
EdgeCAM User Guide
206
Milling in Rotary Mode

Before attempting a rotary milling operation, ensure that you have selected:
a rotary Code Generator Machine Tool
if necessary, use the Index (Move menu) command to tilt the rotary axis into the Radial or Axial
position (5 axis machines only)
What is EdgeCAM
Milling?
command.
theRotary mode (M-Function menu)
The
followingof
commands
available
for Rotary
environment
EdgeCAM.are
Various
milling
(driven)Milling:
Angular
(Move
You can
drive the
tool menu)
Profiling
See Also
Pocket Milling
Moving Around the Rotary Axis
Face Milling
Resetting the Rotary Datum
Slotting
Rotating Machining Instructions
Hole Production
Configuring the Rotary Machining Output
Surface Milling
Rules Used to Determine the Angular Position of the Tool
The
Axialtoolpaths
Milling resulting from these operations may be then be mirrored, transformed, matrixed or rotated.
EdgeCAM User Guide
207
Moving Around the Rotary Axis

While milling in Rotary mode, the tool is restricted to movement along and around the rotary axis.
Any linear movement that would alter the tool's distance from the centre of rotation is wrapped to the
appropriate angular position, as shown below.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
For example,
Slotting on an A axis rotary machine, the tool can move along the X axis but any Y motion is
converted into an angular move around the A axis.
Hole Production
Note that you can specify an angular co-ordinate directly in the Co-ordinate Input dialog by stating the
Milling
correctSurface
axis letter
and angle. You could do this, for example, by entering A90. If you had to, you could also
do this by entering a distance in the Y axis equal to one quarter of the circumference (pi times D over 4).
The
resulting
from these
operations
may was
be then
be mirrored,
transformed,
rotated.
The toolpaths
real use for
this is when
the distance
to travel
originally
described
as a linearmatrixed
distance or
around
the
cylinder.
sequence
at any
time,
inserting,
editinglets
or removing
the
commands
necessary.
The Angular
(Move
menu)
command
you specify
anindividual
angular move
aroundasthe
rotary axis of the
machine
tool, you
while
optionally
new XYZfrom
position.
Any changes
make
to the stating
originalageometry
within the Design environment are reflected in all
machining
commands
based
on
that
geometry.
As can be seen from the diagram below, the current CPL and tool remain aligned with respect to each other
as
themovements
tool movescan
to the
angular
The co-ordinate
information is always
related Full
to the
current
Tool
be new
simulated
onposition.
screen using
default or user-generated
tool graphics.
control
of
CPL,
but the Angular
moveincluding
is alwaysspeed
around
the Rotary
axis.mode and simulating specific instructions.
the simulation
is provided,
controls,
swathe
EdgeCAM User Guide
208
Resetting the Rotary Datum

The final position of a cycle may leave the tool at a large rotational angle, which can be described by an
angle in the range 0-360 degrees. If you then make an Angular Move, to say 90 degrees, the tool must
unwind many times, as shown below:

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
the
simulation
is provided,
controls,
mode and
simulating
specific
instructions.
To avoid
this situation,
useincluding
the Resetspeed
Rotary
Datumswathe
(M-Functions
menu)
command
to reset
the rotary
angle
the range
degrees. Note
has and
no effect
on the
tool position oroforientation:
Once ainto
toolpath
has 0-360
been generated,
you that
can this
display
examine
a representation
the materialonly the
rotary
angle
will
change.
render
the uncut
and reporting
the cycle
There must
be anmesh
equivalent
functionon
available
ontime.
the machine tool to perform this operation.
EdgeCAM User Guide
209
Rotating Machining Instructions

The Transform, Rotary Rotate (Edit menu) command (only available when the Mill Mode is Rotary) is
used to rotate machining instructions around a nominated centre of rotation. The selected machining
instructions are moved around the rotary axis, with an angular linking move between each rotational
increment.
Note that the selected instructions to be transformed must be all rotary or all planar the
instructions may not be mixed.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
Note that the linking moves will be different between Rotary and Planar rotations for axial work.
EdgeCAM User Guide
210
211

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Configuring the Rotary Machining Output

The Code Generator/ Wizard can be configured to output different co-ordinate information depending upon
the machine tool type:
Output relative to tool depth- a common output method for milling machines. The main effect is that
arcs that are machined at a different radius to the unwrapped envelope become elliptical and are
therefore output as a series of feed moves.
Output relative to geometry level (Wrapped radius)- a common output method for lathes and for
machines that can store the radius information and output all toolpath data relative to that level. The
main effect is that all arc information is output at the Wrapping radius regardless of tool depth.
environment
Outputofrelative
EdgeCAM.
to the
Various
unwrapped
milling (Planar)
(driven) tool
geometry
types can
- for either
machines
be loaded
with controllers
from the ToolStore
that can wrap
or
defined
planar
by parameter.
toolpaths directly (all CNC information is output as if Planar mode was active). An example
machine tool that uses this type of output is the Bostomatic.
For more information on how to select these features, see the Code Generator and Code Wizard
documentation.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
212
Rules Used to Determine the Angular Position of the Tool

1. For toolpath moves with no Depth parameter values entered (Feed, Rapid etc.), the Wrap radius
parameter determines the angular position. If you leave the Wrap Radius parameter blank, the system
uses the current tool position.
2. For cycles that use Depth parameters (for example, Face Mill), the cycle level determines the Wrap
Radius.
3. For cycles that use entities to determine the toolpath, the level of the geometry determines the Wrap
Radius. This means that you keep the correct angular position with respect to the selected geometry.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
213
Axial Milling
214
You can only use the Axial mode on C or some 4/5 axis machines.
If your machine tool's primary or secondary axis is C, the initial start-up is in the Axial plane. If not, by
indexing the machine using the Index (Move menu) command, you can tilt the axis through 90 degrees to
allow machining on the end of the component (AB and BA machines).
Select the Rotary Mode (M-Functions) command to activate the rotary axis mode. The example below
shows the different toolpaths EdgeCAM generates when performing a drilling operation on the end of the
rotary axis:
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
In Rotary mode, you still enter co-ordinates in the same manner as for Planar mode (Cartesian), but the
resultant
CNC resulting
output will
be angular
(polar). may be then be mirrored, transformed, matrixed or rotated.
The toolpaths
from
these operations
Note
thattorotary
paths after
like this
are only
used by of
hole
cycles.
All otheryou
cycles
will generate
xy tool
If you
need
maketool
changes
defining
a sequence
these
operations
can restructure
the
paths.
EdgeCAM User Guide
Multiplane Milling
215
This allows you to rotate the machine tool pallet so that you can perform milling operations on a new face in
the same Manufacture session.
Before attempting a multiplane milling operation, ensure that you have selected:
a multiplane/rotary Code Generator Machine Tool
What is EdgeCAM
Milling?
command (the default).
thePlanar mode (M-Function menu)
This
concept
is similar
to thataoftwo-and-a-half,
using the Select
CPL
menu)
to createfrom
geometry
on a new
The Milling
module
provides
three
and(Geometry
five axis milling
capability
the Manufacture
plane
(in fact of
you
would do Various
this to create
geometry
a multiplane
You cannot
alter
the CPLor
environment
EdgeCAM.
millingthe
(driven)
tool for
types
can eitherpart).
be loaded
from the
ToolStore
when
in by
Manufacture
without selecting a new machining sequence, but the command Index (Move
defined
parameter.mode
menu) does allow you to specify the new orientation of the pallet or workplane.
The new pallet orientation is usually determined by referring to an existing CPL. This is called indexing a
CPL.
Profiling
The re-orientation process is simulated on screen by the tool making a rapid arc move. Note that as the part
Pocket Milling
is not shown to rotate, the tool always appears to move in the OPPOSITE direction to that specified for the
pallet.Face Milling
Once the
Slotting
workplane has been re-oriented, you are free to continue using standard machining cycles.
Index Hole
can also
Production
be used to do a datum shift.
Surface Milling
Combining Components and Sequences
The
toolpathsto,
resulting
frominsert
thesesequences
operationswhen
may inserting
be then be
mirrored,
transformed,
matrixed
rotated.
It
is possible
optionally,
a part
as a component
into
anotherorpart.
It is
also
possible
to
then
merge
the
separate
sequences
into
a
single
sequence
and
to
rationalise
that
sequence
tool,time,
indexinserting,
angle orediting
CPL. The
most common
use for these
features
in loading components
sequence by
at any
or removing
the individual
commands
as is
necessary.
onto a machine with rotary axes so that a combination of parts or multiples of the same part can be
Any changes
you
make
to the original
geometry
within the Design environment are reflected in all
machined.
Also
see
Combining
Components
andfrom
Sequences.
When merging sequences in multiplane milling the Profile cycle is liable to corruption. To ensure that
inserting and merging function correctly, profiles must be created in a defined view, not in "dynamic".
See Also
render theofuncut
mesh and reporting on the cycle time.
Example
Indexing
Most
of these
features can
also be used with the driven tooling of turning centres, enabling C and Y axis
Limitations
to Multiplane
Milling
Specifying Index Parameters
EdgeCAM User Guide
Example of Indexing
216
In this example a machining sequence has been selected with an Initial CPL of Right. This is appropriate
for a machine tool with the pallet oriented at an angle of zero degrees on the B axis.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
The Index command has been selected with the Name parameter set to CPL Front. The pallet rotates to
orient
the tool
a position
normal
CPL Front.
The Direction
set to Clockwise.
If you need
to in
make
changes
after to
defining
a sequence
of theseparameter
operationshas
youbeen
can restructure
the
SeeCreating Geometry in Different Planes.
EdgeCAM User Guide
Limitations to Multiplane Milling

Your current machining sequence must be using a code generator file (specified in the Machine Tool
parameter) that supports movement about one or two rotary axes as well as three linear axes.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
217
Specifying Index Parameters

Angle Specifies the angle in degrees through which to rotate the primary rotary axis. Defining an angle
creates a new CPL*.
Datum Type Choose the type of datum shift from the previous co-ordinate system origin.
Absolute Uses a G50 series co-ordinate shift.
Incremental Uses a G92 series co-ordinate shift.
Direction- The pallet can move in one of two directions. Use this parameter to select the direction in which
the pallet re-orientates.
The Milling
module provides a two-and-a-half,
and five
Anticlockwise/Clockwise
Choose thethree
direction
of rotation.
Shortest
The pallet moves to reach its new location using the shorter of the two directions.
defined by
parameter.
Name
Match
thetool
workplane
orientation
the CPL
selected
from
this standard
list. This types
rotatesofboth
the primary
You can
drive the
with respect
to the to
model
geometry
using
these
machining
cycle:
and secondary axes to a new orientation.
DatumProfiling
Shift Specifies a shift in X, Y and Z co-ordinates for the datum or origin.
MillingCPL has not been aligned correctly to the machine tool axes when indexing to a 5-axis
*If thePocket
user-defined
CPL the
message
Face
Milling "aligning CPL axes with machine tool axes" will be issued. Prior to version 5.75,
EdgeCAM would create a new CPL aligned to the machine tool axes and name this CPL1, CPL2 etc, the
Slotting would then index to this new CPL. This may be inconvenient if you wish to configure your
index command
code generator
to output the original CPLNAME directly to the NC code. In version 5.75, the new (indexed
Hole Production
to) CPL retains the name of the original CPL, with the name of the original CPL being appended with .1. It
is nowSurface
possibleMilling
to name a CPL and output this name directly to the NC code.
When
indexingresulting
to a standard
CPL (Top,
Front may
etc) that
is not
to the
machine axis
a warning
is
The toolpaths
from these
operations
be then
bealigned
mirrored,
transformed,
matrixed
or rotated.
displayed "Cannot align standard CPL with machine tool axes". In this case a user-defined CPL must be
If
you need
to make changes after defining a sequence of these operations you can restructure the
created
for indexing.
EdgeCAM User Guide
218
World Co-ordinate Input in Manufacture

World Co-ordinate Input
A machining sequence can define a Machine Datum which represents the 'World Origin'. Any Co-ordinate
input within a machining sequence would now reference the Machine Datum as the World origin, rather than
the Design world origin. The co-ordinate plane would still be with respect to the current CPL.
For example, if you type 'WX0Y0Z0', the tool goes to the origin of the Machine Datum rather than the
current CPL.
Angular Co-ordinate Input in Manufacture Mode

When
in rotary
co-ordinate
can(driven)
be used
fortypes
entering
angular
position.
environment
of mode,
EdgeCAM.
Variousinput
milling
tool
canan
either
be loaded
defined
by
parameter.
For example, you can create a feed move by entering 'Y50B90' into the Co-ordinate input dialog. The tool
will
Y50the
and
rotate
B90. Note
the Wrap
radius
must
be set
correctly
within
the Feed dialog.
Youfeed
can to
drive
tool
with to
respect
to thethat
model
geometry
using
these
standard
types
of machining
cycle:
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
219
Locking the View Down the Tool Axis

The Track CPL port is a selected user-defined port which is always orientated to view down onto the active
CPL, including Wrap CPLs.
Access to the Track CPL port is through the Track CPL parameter in the Drawing, Configure (View
menu)dialog.
Select the appropriate user-defined port to become the new Track CPL port.
Select None to de-activate the port (if it is the current Track CPL port).
Note
that you
must provides
have at least
one user-defined
setaxis
a Track
CPL
port, since
ports cannot
The Milling
module
a two-and-a-half,
threeport
andtofive
milling
capability
fromstandard
the Manufacture
be
re-orientated.
environment
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
220
Operations Overview
221
Operations are ready made lists of instructions. They are typically useful in many situations, and save you
having to create each of the instructions individually. As with cycles, you are prompted for user input, so that
you can, for example, select the feature to be machined.
Operations appear in a folder style in the
Sequence Window.
You can click the '+' symbol to open the operation

and see its instructions. You can click the '-'
The
Milling
module
a two-and-a-half, three and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
symbol
to close
the provides
operation.
Profiling
Pocket
Milling
Operations
are
intelligent, with a high degree of automation. They typically include a move-to-toolchange,
tool specification
Face Millingor selection from the ToolStore, approach moves, compensation (where applicable), and a
machining cycle.
Slotting
You can use operations as a quick starting point, that you subsequently edit to fine tune. You can edit the
Holewhen
Production
operation,
the changes cascade down into the individual instructions. Alternatively you can edit the
individual
instructions.
Surface
Milling (Note however that some edits to the instructions destroy the operation; just leaving
behind its instructions).
EdgeCAM User Guide
Using Operations - General

Here are the general steps in using any other operation:
1. Select the operation command from the menu.
2. Follow the status bar prompts; digitise the features to be machined for example.
3. Complete the operation's dialog that then appears. You specify, for example, the % Stepover and Cut
Increment for roughing cycles.
For 'new style' operations Roughing, Profiling, Flat Land Finishing, Chamfer, when completing the
The Milling
dialogs
module
you see
provides
explanatory
a two-and-a-half,
illustrations three
and animations;
and five axis
you
milling
can rest
capability
the cursor
from on
thethese
Manufacture
to see textenvironment
based information
of EdgeCAM.
popups.
For any other operations, click the dialog's Help button for information.
You can apply an operation to a feature directly:
Profiling
1. Show
Features Window and right-click on the feature.
Pocketthe
Milling
2. In
the Milling
subsequent shortcut menu click the operation option you want to apply to the feature.
Face
3. Follow
Slottingsteps 2 and 3 above.
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
222
Using Batch Mode for Operations
223
You may find that some operations (usually Surface operations) take some time to generate the appropriate
toolpaths.
In this case you can:
1. Activate the Batch Mode command.

2. Create the operations.What is EdgeCAM
3. De-activate the Batch Mode command.
Milling?
The
4. Milling
Generate
module
the provides
toolpathsafor
two-and-a-half,
the operations
three
using
and
thefive
Regenerate
axis milling
command.
capability from the Manufacture
While
Batch
Mode is active,
no toolpaths or screen tool simulations are displayed.
defined
by parameter.
Note
thatdrive
if youthe
attempt
to generate
nogeometry
code is produced
for any
batched
operations
othercycle:
than a
You can
tool with
respect toNC
thecode,
model
using these
standard
types
of machining
comment.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Standard Sequence for Milling Operations

These are the machining instructions performed as standard for each operation:
Coolant Off (If selected in Preferences)
Spindle Stop (If selected in Preferences)
Rapid to Toolchange
Toolchange
Coolant (From Preferences)
Spindle
(From
Preferences)
The Milling
module
environment
of
EdgeCAM.
Various
milling (driven)
tool types
either beto
loaded
from
the ToolStore
None of these instructions will
be performed
if the current
toolcan
is identical
the tool
definition
for the or
defined
by
parameter.
operation. A milling tool is considered to be identical if the tool diameter, corner radius, tool type and turret
position
thethe
same.
You can are
drive
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
224
Specifying Preferences for Milling Operations

The Preferences (Operations menu)
command allows you to specify a range of preferred values
that will apply to all subsequent machining cycles and operations. You must have initialised a machining
sequence or you will not be allowed to specify any values.
For details on value click the Help button in the Operation Preferences dialog, that the command opens.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
225
Using the Tool Store in Operations

Many tabbed dialogs for Operations contain tooling parameters, allowing you to define the tool to be used in
that part of the Operation. Instead, you can browse for a tool record held within the ToolStore. On selecting
that record, all tooling parameters are completed with the selected tools data.
To select a tool, click on Find to display the ToolStore dialog:
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Select the appropriate tool and click OK to dismiss the ToolStore. You can now see the Operation dialog
with the
appropriate
Surface
Millingvalues entered.
If
to use
make
changestool,
afterclear
defining
a sequence
of these
operations
can restructure
the
If you
you need
want to
a different
the tools
name from
the field
before you
clicking
again on Find.
EdgeCAM User Guide
226
Index Operation
227
The Index (Operations menu)

command allows you to perform an incremental or absolute datum
shift to a specified angle or a selected datum.
See Also
Sequence of Instructions in the Index Operation
Using the Index Operation

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Sequence of Instructions in the Index Operation

Index
Move Rapid to the specified Clearance value
Move Index to either the specified angle or datum

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
228
Using the Index Operation
1. Click on the IndexOperation
229
button .
2. Complete the dialog box for the operation. Click OK.

EdgeCAM now indexes the tool.

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Hole Operation
230
The Hole (Operations menu) command allows you to combine several related
drilling commands in one instruction.
See Also
Sequence of Instructions in the Hole Operation
Using the Hole Operation

Hole Operation Termination
defined
Hole
Operation
by parameter.
Preparation
Strategy
Hole Cycle
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Sequence of Instructions in the Hole Operation

Centre/Spot
[Standard Sequence]
Drill Cycle
Preparation*
[Standard Sequence]
Drill Cycle
Roughing
environment
[Standard Sequence]
Drill Cycle
Finishing
[Standard
Sequence]
Profiling
M-Functions
Spindle (If Strategy = Tap Direction derived by hand)
PocketMilling
Drill/Bore/Tap
Cycle
Face Milling
*Note Slotting
that Preparation could occur after Roughing if you check the Preparation tabs After Roughing box.
See the Standard Sequence for Milling Operations for details of the standard sequence.
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
231
Using the Hole Operation
1. Click on the HoleOperation
232
button.
2. Digitise one or more positions depending on the selection method you chose. Perform a Finish to stop
selecting positions for the operation.
3. Complete the dialog box for the operation. Click on OK.
EdgeCAM now generates the toolpaths for the hole operation, including any moves to position the tool.
Note on using the Hole operation with solid parts
When using the Hole operation on a solid part with a tool selected from the ToolStore, if the solid is updated
with a different hole diameter, the tool will not be updated. A warning message is displayed giving the name
of the tool and specifying that the ToolStore tool diameter and hole diameter do not match.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Hole Operation Termination

This parameter is available from the General tab:
Termination: Select the method for ending the hole:
Blind The hole does not break through
another face of the part.

Through The hole is to break through
another face of the part. The tool passes
Profiling
through
the part by an amount specified
(in thePocket
Preferences)
Milling by the Safe
Distance.
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
233
Hole Operation Preparation Strategy

Strategy Select the preparation strategy you want to use for the hole operation:
No preparation Here is a hole feature
with no preparation:

Countersink ofSpecifies
a tapered
environment
EdgeCAM.
preparation
hole. Countersink
has an
defined
by parameter.
included angle of 45 degrees. You can

You
drive
tool with respect
only can
define
thethe
countersink
using either
Depth or Diameter. Here is a hole feature
prepared
Profiling
with a countersink:
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Counterbore
Slotting Specifies a fixed diameter
preparation hole. Here is a hole feature
Holewith
Production
prepared
a counterbore:
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
234
Profiling Operation
235
The Profiling (Operations menu) command allows you to use several commands together in one
operation.
This operation supports Wireframe, Feature, Surface and Solid as input.
Please note that this operation was introduced in EdgeCAM 9.0, so:
Features created prior to EdgeCAM Version 9.0 are treated as wireframe. For full associativity, recreate the features in the latest EdgeCAM version, before applying the operation.
The Milling
module
provides
a two-and-a-half,
three and
milling
capability
the Manufacture
Part files
created
in EdgeCAM
prior to Version
9.0 five
mayaxis
contain
examples
of from
the older
superseded
environment
of
EdgeCAM.
Various
milling
(driven)
tool
types
can
either
be
loaded
from
the ToolStore or
operation. You might want to delete these operations and re-apply the new operation.
Note
alsodrive
that the
the tool
settings
the operation
are derived
from
a number
of sources;
notofjust
the Operations
You can
with for
respect
to the model
geometry
using
these standard
types
machining
cycle:
(menu) Preferences dialog. These are documented in the Profiling Operation Cycle Settings topic and in
the help on the Operation Preferences dialog.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
See Also
FaceofMilling
Sequence
Instructions in the Profiling Operation
Using Slotting
the Profiling Operation
Hole
Production
Profiling Cycle
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Sequence of Instructions in the Profiling Operation

Profiling
[Standard Sequence]
Profiling Cycle

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
236
Using the Profiling Operation
1. In the Operations menu or toolbar click Profiling Operation
237
2. Digitise either the Wireframe profile(s), Features, Surfaces or Solid you wish to Profile. For wireframe
you will need to position the Start/Side Arrow on the side to be machined (otherwise this is automatic).
(When a Feature or Solid is selected the Depth values are Associative. Wireframe and Surface use
an Absolute Clearance and Level with an incremental Depth.)
3. Perform
Finish.
environment
ofaEdgeCAM.
defined
by
parameter.
4. Select a containment boundary if required

You
drive the
5. can
Perform
a Finish.
Profiling
EdgeCAM
now
generates the toolpaths for the profiling operation, including any moves to position the tool.
Pocket
Milling
For surface
geometry the operation allows blank level and depth fields. When no values are specified level
Face Milling
and depth are taken from the model.
Slotting
Hole Production
Profile Material on the Left
Surface Milling
This option is used to take advantage of the feature material side and to maintain associativity between
thetoolpaths
feature and
the Profile
The
resulting
from operation.
manually
identifying
in EdgeCAM
Solidof
Machinist,
the direction
of the
profile is the
If When
you need
to make
changesfeatures
after defining
a sequence
these operations
you can
restructure
automatically
such that
the material
is on the left.
Checking
the Profile
Material on the Left
sequence
at anyselected
time, inserting,
editing
or removing
individual
commands
as necessary.
option on the General tab of the Preferences (Operations menu) dialog will allow the machining
Any
changes
to theside
original
geometry
from within
Design
environment
in all
operation
toyou
cut make
the correct
of the
feature without
any the
further
intervention
from are
the reflected
user.
This method can be used on wireframe geometry by chaining the profile in the correct direction so as to
Tool
movements
can beonsimulated
maintain
the material
the left. on screen using default or user-generated tool graphics. Full control of
EdgeCAM User Guide
Profiling Operation - Cycle Settings

General
NC output:
Line arc Smooth
Z Offset:
blank (3d offset is

applied)
Minimum radius:
not set
Depth
Detect
lands:
You
canflat
drive
the toolchecked
Finish at Clearance: checked
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Control
Face Milling
Slotting
Cut by Region: checked
Hole Production
Finish Shallow: not set
Surface Milling
Corner strategy: round
Mill Type:
Climb
Start
End
Any changes
Plunge/Retract:
Tool
movements can beAutomatic
Longest side:
any
Proportional
Distance:
.5
remaining
from
a solid rectangular
Profile extensions:
not set
Leads
Type:Generator files to
Horizontal
Code
interpret the machining sequence into a set of CNC instructions for a specific
Equal Lead moves: checked
Percentage Feed:
100
Apply safe distance: unchecked

Angle:
90
Radius:
from dialog
Links
EdgeCAM User Guide
238
Short Link distance .2 inch or 5mm

Type
straight
Percentage Feed
100
Long Link Method Optimised

Safe Distance
.2 inch or 5mm

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
239
Chamfer Operation
240
The Chamfer (Operations menu) command generates a single profile pass by

selecting the top profile of a chamfered edge.
Features created prior to EdgeCAM Version 9.0 are treated as wireframe. For full associativity, recreate the features in the latest EdgeCAM version, before applying the operation.
Part files created in EdgeCAM prior to Version 9.0 may contain examples of the older superseded
operation.
You
might want
to delete these
operations
the new operation.
The Milling
module
provides
a two-and-a-half,
three
and fiveand
axisre-apply
milling capability
Note
also
the settings
for the operation are derived from a number of sources; not just the Operations
defined
bythat
parameter.
(menu) Preferences dialog. These are documented in the Chamfer Operation Cycle Settings topic and in
Youhelp
can on
drive
tool withPreferences
respect to the
model geometry using these standard types of machining cycle:
the
thethe
Operation
dialog.
Profiling
See Also
Pocket Milling
Sequence of Instructions in the Chamfer Operation
Face Milling
Using the Chamfer Operation
Slotting
Chamfer Operation Notes
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Sequence of Instructions in the Chamfer Operation

Chamfer
[Standard Sequence]
Profiling Cycle

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
241
Using the Chamfer Operation

1. Click on the Chamfer Operation button.
2. Digitise the Wireframe profile(s) or Feature. Perform a Finish.
(When a Feature or Solid is selected the Clearance and Level are values are Associative and the
Depth is incremental. Wireframe and Surface use an Absolute Clearance and Level with an
incremental Depth.)
3. If wireframe was selected position the Start/Side Arrow (this is automatic for features).
The
4. Milling
Complete
module
the provides
dialog box
a two-and-a-half,
for the operation.
three
Click
and
onfive
OK.
EdgeCAM
generates
defined by now
parameter.
the toolpaths for the chamfer operation, including any moves to position the tool.
For
geometry
blankgeometry
level and using
depth these
fields.standard
When notypes
values
specified
level
Yousurface
can drive
the tool the
withoperation
respect toallows
the model
of are
machining
cycle:
and depth are taken from the model.
Profiling
Break Distance
Pocket Milling
The Profile selected for chamfering is assumed to be the top edge of the Chamfer (chamfer has been
Face Milling
modelled). If the Profile represents the un-chamfered profile then the Break Distance modifier is used to
cut into
Slotting
the profile to produce the chamfer.
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
242
Chamfer Operation - Cycle Settings

General
NC output:
Line arc Smooth
Offset:
calculated from break distance
Z Offset:
Minimum radius: not set

The
Milling module provides a two-and-a-half, three and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
Depth
Depth:
Detect flat lands:
not set
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Control
Face Milling
Slotting
Cut by Region: checked
Hole Production
Corner strategy: sharp
Surface Milling
Mill Type:
climb
Start End
Plunge/Retract:
Automatic
machining
commands based
on that geometry.
Longest
side: can beany
Tool
movements
Proportional Distance: .5
Profile extensions:
not set
remaining
from a solid rectangular
Most
Leadsof these features can also be used with the driven tooling of turning centres, enabling C and Y axis
Type:
Horizontal
EqualGenerator
Lead moves:
checked
Code
files to
interpret the machining sequence into a set of CNC instructions for a specific
Percentage Feed: 100
Apply safe distance: unchecked
Angle:
90
Radius:
from dialog
Links
EdgeCAM User Guide
243
Short Link distance: .2 inch or 5mm

Type:
straight
Percentage Feed:
100
Long Link Method: Optimised

Safe Distance:
.2 inch or 5mm

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
244
Chamfer Operation Notes

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
sequence
any time,
inserting,
editing oraremoving
theby
individual
as necessary.
The at
Chamfer
Operation
generates
single pass
selectingcommands
the top profile
of a chamfered edge.
Any changes
make to
original
geometry from
withinthe
thedepth
Design
are reflected in all
The toolyou
definition
is the
used
to automatically
calculate
andenvironment
offset.
The tool is offset into the profile by the distance specified.
Once
a toolpath
has been generated, you can display and examine a representation of the material
Note on
drawing
As
most
drawings
do not
draw
the break
edge,
thetime.
Break Distance modifier can be used when chamfering
render
the
uncut mesh
and
reporting
on the
cycle
profiles that have been drawn without a chamfer. This alters the depth and offset in the profile cycle to
Most
of these
features
can also
beedge.
used with the driven tooling of turning centres, enabling C and Y axis
machine
the desired
corner
break
EdgeCAM User Guide
245
Face Mill Operation
246
Face Mill (Operations menu) allows you to combine a series of commands in one
instruction.
Note also that the settings for the operation are derived from a number of sources; not just the Operations
(menu) Preferences dialog. These are documented in the Face Mill Operation Cycle settings topic and in
the help on the Operation Preferences dialog.
environment
Please
note of
that
EdgeCAM.
this operation
Various
wasmilling
introduced
(driven)
in EdgeCAM
tool types 9.0,
can either
so: be loaded from the ToolStore or
Features
created
prior
to EdgeCAM
Version
9.0 are using
treatedthese
as wireframe.
For full
reYou can
drive the
tool with
respect
to the model
geometry
standard types
ofassociativity,
machining cycle:
create the features in the latest EdgeCAM version, before applying the operation.
Profiling
operation. You might want to delete these operations and re-apply the new operation.
Pocket Milling
See Also
Face Milling
Sequence
of Instructions in the Face Mill Operation
Slotting
Using Hole
the Face
Mill Operation
Production
Face Milling
Cycle
Surface
Milling
Face Mill Operation Cycle settings
EdgeCAM User Guide
Sequence of Instructions in the Face Milling Operation

The sequence is:
[Standard Sequence]
Face Milling Cycle

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
247
Using the Face Mill Operation
1. In the Operations menu or toolbar, click Face Mill
248
2. Digitise boundary entities for the cycle and perform a finish. You can digitise features or wireframe
profiles (chained entities or a continuous).
3. Complete the dialog box for the operation. Click OK. The dialog provides help in the form of
explanatory images and AVIs.
EdgeCAM now generates the toolpaths for the Face Milling cycle, including any moves to position the tool.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Face Mill Operation - Cycle settings

Below are the settings for the Face Milling cycle, when created as part of a Face Mill operation.
General tab
Mill Type: Climb (preferences setting ignored)
Tolerance: 0.002 inch/0.05 mm
Depth tab
Clearance
Unchecked
wireframe
boundaryusing
digitises,
feature
boundary cycle:
You
can drive the tool with
respect toforthe
model geometry
these checked
standardfor
types
of machining
Associative:
digitises
Profiling
Level Associative:
Pocket Milling
Unchecked for wireframe boundary digitises, checked for feature boundary

digitises
Depth:
Face Milling
Incremental from level
Slotting
Lead tab
Hole Production
Percentage
Feed:
Surface
Milling100
Equal
Lead Moves:
Checked
The
toolpaths
resulting
IfDepth:
you need to make changes
after
defining
incremental
from
level a sequence of these operations you can restructure the
Links tab
Short
Links Type:
Smooth
the
simulation
is provided, including
Short aLinks
Percentage
Feed:
100 you can display and examine a representation of the material
Once
toolpath
has been
generated,
Long Links
Type:mesh and reporting
Clearance
render
the uncut
on the cycle time.
Longof
Links
Safe
Distance:
0.2used
inch/5with
mmthe driven tooling of turning centres, enabling C and Y axis
Most
these
features
can also be
EdgeCAM User Guide
249
Slotting Operation
250
Slotting (Operations menu)

instruction.
allows you to combine several manufacturing commands into one
See Also
Sequence of Instructions in the Slotting Operation
Using the Slotting Operation

environment
Slot Cycle of EdgeCAM. Various milling (driven) tool types can either be loaded from the ToolStore or
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Roughing Operation
251
The Roughing (Operations menu) command allows you to use several commands together in one
operation.
The Milling
module
provides
three9.0
and
five
axis milling
capability
from
Manufacture
Features
created
prior atotwo-and-a-half,
EdgeCAM Version
are
treated
as wireframe.
For
full the
associativity,
reenvironment
of
EdgeCAM.
Various
milling
(driven)
tool
types
can
either
be
loaded
from
the
ToolStore or
create the features in the latest EdgeCAM version, before applying the operation.
You can
drive theYou
toolmight
with respect
the model
these standard
of machining cycle:
operation.
want to to
delete
these geometry
operationsusing
and re-apply
the newtypes
operation.
Note also
that the settings for the operation are derived from a number of sources; not just the Operations
Profiling
(menu) Preferences dialog. These are documented in the Roughing Operation Cycle settings topic and in
Pocket
Milling
the help
on the
Operation Preferences dialog.
Face Milling
See Also
Slotting
Sequence
Instructions in the Roughing Operation
Hole of
Production
Using Surface
the Roughing
MillingOperation
Roughing Cycle
Roughing Operation Cycle settings
EdgeCAM User Guide
Sequence of Instructions in the Slotting Operation

Slotting
[Standard Sequence]
Slot Cycle

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
252
Using the Slotting Operation
1. Click on the Slot Operation
253
button.
2. Digitise the slot. Perform a Finishto stop selecting entities to slot.

3. Digitise a new start and end point for the active profile (if necessary).
4. Hold down the Ctrl key while selecting the left mouse button to toggle between selecting a new start
point and a new end point.
5. Milling
Perform
a Finish.
The
module
environment
of
EdgeCAM.
Various
milling
(driven)
toolon
types
6. Complete the dialog box
for the
operation.
Click
OK.can either be loaded from the ToolStore or
EdgeCAM now generates the toolpaths for the slot operation, including any moves to position the tool.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Thread Mill Operation
254
Thread Milling (Operations menu)
allows you to combine a series of commands in one instruction.
See Also
Sequence of Instructions in the Thread Mill Operation
Using the Thread Mill Operation
The
Milling
Thread
Mill module
Cycle provides a two-and-a-half, three and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Sequence of Instructions in the Thread Mill Operation

Thread Milling
[Standard Sequence]
Thread Cycle
See theStandard Sequence for Milling Operations for details of the standard sequence.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
255
Using the Thread Mill Operation
1. Click on the Thread MillOperation
256
button.
2. Digitise circle to define thread.

3. Perform a Finish.
EdgeCAM now generates the toolpaths for the Thread Mill operation, including any moves to position the
tool.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Sequence of Instructions in the Roughing Operation

Roughing/Rest Roughing
[Standard Sequence]
Roughing Cycle

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
257
Using the Roughing Operation

1. Click the Operations menu and click Roughing button.
2. Digitise the Wireframe profile(s), Features, Surfaces or Solid you wish to be machined, then perform a
Finish.
an Absolute Clearance and Level with an incremental Depth.)
3. Digitise the boundary entities (if any are required), then perform a Finish.
The
4. Milling
Complete
module
the provides
dialog box
a two-and-a-half,
for the operation.
5. ClickOK.
EdgeCAM
nowthe
generates
toolpaths
the roughing
operation,
including
anytypes
moves
position the
tool.
You can drive
tool withthe
respect
to thefor
model
geometry
using these
standard
of to
machining
cycle:
For surface geometry the operation allows blank level and depth fields. When no values are specified level
and depth
Profiling
are taken from the model.
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
258
Roughing Operation - Cycle settings

Below are the settings for the Roughing cycle, when created as part of a Roughing operation. There is an
indication where the Operation Preferences (Operations Menu) settings are ignored.
General tab
Strategy:
Spiral
NC output:
Line arc Smooth (preferences setting ignored)
Mill Type:
Climb (preferences setting ignored)
environment
of EdgeCAM.
Various
milling
(driven) tool types can either be loaded from the ToolStore or
Z Offset:
blank
(3d offset
is applied)
Cut by Region:
checked (preferences setting ignored)
High Speed Cornering checked
Profiling
Close open pockets:
Pocket Milling
Stock offset:
Face Milling
unchecked
0
Slotting
Depth tab
Hole Production
Milling checked
DetectSurface
flat lands:
The
toolpathsslices:
resultingnot
from
Intermediate
setthese operations may be then be mirrored, transformed, matrixed or rotated.
Approach
tab
machining commands
the
simulation
is provided, including
Approach
Type:
Automatic
Once a toolpath has been generated,
you can -display
andif examine a representation of the material
from toolstore
checked
Centre Cutting
Tool:
remaining
from a
solid rectangular
block.
Other
methods
for examining the results of a toolpath are to
not set
Maximum Plunge Depth:
from toolstore
control
of the tool.
Ramp Angle:
from toolstore
Percentage Feed:
100
Link Method:
Code
Generator files to interpretOptimised
the machining sequence into a set of CNC instructions for a specific
Safe Distance:
.2 inch or 5mm
XY Stand Off:
.05inch or 1mm
The approach move into the material is determined by the toolstore tooling parameters: Centre cut, Ramp
angle & Max plunge depth. If these parameters are blank or tooling has been defined on the fly centre cut
is set to ensure the cycle is generated.
EdgeCAM User Guide
259
Surfaces Operation
260
UseSurfaces (Operations menu) to combine a series of commands in one instruction.
See Also
Sequence of Instructions in the Surface Operation
Using the Surface Operation
Parallel
Laceof
Cycle
environment
EdgeCAM. Various milling (driven) tool types can either be loaded from the ToolStore or
defined
by
parameter.
Profiling Cycle
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Sequence of Instructions in the Surfaces Operation

Roughing
[Standard Sequence]
Parallel Lace or Z Level Roughing Lace or Z Level Roughing Areaclear or Z Level Roughing External Boss
(Note that Z Level Roughing Lace, Z Level Roughing Areaclear and Z Level Roughing External Boss are all
superseded cycles.)
Finishing
[Standard
Sequence]
environment
defined
by
parameter.
Parallel Lace/Profiling/Constant Cusp Finishing
YouPlease
can drive
tool
respectCusp
to thestrategy
model geometry
using these
standard
types
of machining
cycle:
notethe
that
thewith
Constant
is only available
with an
Advanced
Surface
Milling licence.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
261
Using the Surfaces Operation
1. Click on the SurfaceOperation
262
button.
2. Digitise the surfaces to be machined, then perform a Finish.

4. Digitise a point or a line to act as the start position for the operation, then perform a Finish.
5. Complete the dialog box for the operation, then click OK.*
EdgeCAM
now
generates the
toolpaths
for(driven)
the surface
including
any moves
the tool.
environment
of EdgeCAM.
Various
milling
tool operation,
types can either
be loaded
fromto
theposition
ToolStore
or
*defined
The operation
allows blank
level and depth fields. When no values are specified level and depth are taken
by parameter.
from the model.

Note that the Surface operation will still give an error for level and depth if Z Level
Roughing is used (Lace, Areaclear or Boss) since these cycles require level and depth input.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Rest Finishing Operation
263

The Rest Finishing (Operations menu)
one instruction.
command allows you to combine a series of commands in

See Also
The
Millingof
module
provides
a two-and-a-half,
Sequence
Instructions
in the
Rest Finishing three
Operation
Using the Rest Finishing Operation
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Sequence of Instructions in the Rest Finishing Operation

Rest Finishing
[Standard Sequence]
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
264
Using the Rest Finishing Operation
265
1. Click on the Rest FinishingOperation
button.
The
module
a two-and-a-half,
three
and
fiveOK.
axis
4. Milling
Complete
the provides
dialog box
for the operation,
then
click
* milling capability from the Manufacture
defined by now
parameter.
the toolpaths for the rest finishing operation, including any moves to position the
EdgeCAM
generates
tool.
* The operation allows blank level and depth fields. When no values are specified level and depth are taken
from the
model.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Flat Land Finishing Operation

Not available under an Entry Milling licence.
The Flat Land Finishing (Operations menu) command allows you to use several commands together in
one operation.
Features
created
prior atotwo-and-a-half,
EdgeCAM Version
are
treated
as wireframe.
For
full the
associativity,
reThe Milling
module
provides
three9.0
and
five
axis milling
capability
from
Manufacture
create the
features inVarious
the latest
EdgeCAM
version,
before
operation.
environment
of EdgeCAM.
milling
(driven)
tool types
canapplying
either bethe
loaded
operation.
want to to
delete
these geometry
operationsusing
and re-apply
the newtypes
operation.
You can
drive theYou
toolmight
with respect
the model
these standard
of machining cycle:
Note also that the settings for the operation are derived from a number of sources; not just the Operations
Profiling
(menu) Preferences dialog. These are documented in the Flat Land Finishing Operation Cycle Settings
topic and
in the
help on the Operation Preferences dialog.
Pocket
Milling
Face Milling
See Also
Slotting
Sequence of Instructions in the Flat Land Finishing Operation
Hole Production
Using the Flat Land Finishing Operation
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
266
Sequence of Instructions in the Flat Land Finishing Operation

Requires a Surface Milling or Solid Machinist licence
Flat Land Finishing
[Standard Sequence]
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
267
Using the Flat Land Finishing Operation
268
Not available under an Entry Milling licence.
1. Click on the Flat Land Finishing Operation
button.
2. Digitise the wireframe (profile), features, surfaces or solid to be machined, then perform a Finish.
an Absolute
Level with anthree
incremental
The Milling
moduleClearance
provides aand
two-and-a-half,
and five Depth.)
4. Complete the dialog box for the operation, then click OK.
EdgeCAM now generates the toolpaths for the finishing operation, including any moves to position the tool.
Profiling
For surface geometry the operation allows blank level and depth fields. When no values are specified level
and depth
areMilling
taken from the model.
Pocket
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Flat Land Finishing Operation - Cycle Settings

General
Strategy:
concentric
Mill Type:
climb
NC output:
Line arc Smooth
Minimum Width: not set (uses cycle default)

The
Milling module
Offset:
blank
Leads
Type:Profiling
Horizontal
Milling checked
EqualPocket
Lead moves:
Face Milling
Percentage Feed: 100
Slotting
Apply safe distance: checked
Hole Production
Angle:
90
Surface Milling
Radius:
from dialog
extensions:
not set after defining a sequence of these operations you can restructure the
IfProfile
you need
to make changes
Links
Tool
can .2
beinch
simulated
Shortmovements
Link distance:
or 5mmon screen using default or user-generated tool graphics. Full control of
Type:
straight
remaining
from
a solid100
rectangular block. Other methods for examining the results of a toolpath are to
Percentage
Feed:
Long Link Method: Optimised
control
of the tool. .2 inch or 5mm
Safe Distance:
EdgeCAM User Guide
269
Project Boundary Collapse Operation

Project Boundary Collapse (Operations menu)
2D Areaclearance cycle onto one or more surfaces.
270
is a finishing operation produced by projecting a
See Also
Sequence of Instructions in the Project Boundary Collapse Operation
Using the Project Boundary Collapse Operation

environment
of EdgeCAM.
Project Boundary
Collapse Various
Cycle milling (driven) tool types can either be loaded from the ToolStore or
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Sequence of Instructions in the Project Boundary Collapse Operation

Project Boundary Collapse
[Standard Sequence]
Project Boundary Collapse Cycle

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
271
Using the Project Boundary Collapse Operation
1. Click on the Project Boundary CollapseOperation
272
button.

3. Digitise one or more profiles to collapse, then perform a Finish.
4. Digitise the containment boundary entities (if any are required), then perform a Finish.
5. Complete the dialog box for the operation, then click OK.*
EdgeCAM
now
generates the
toolpaths
for(driven)
the project
including
any moves
environment
of EdgeCAM.
Various
milling
toolboundary
types cancollapse
either beoperation,
loaded from
the ToolStore
or to
position
theparameter.
tool.
defined by
*You
Thecan
operation
drive the
allows
tool with
blank
respect
level and
to the
depth
model
fields.
geometry
When using
no values
these
are
standard
specified
types
levelofand
machining
depth are
cycle:
taken
from the model.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Project Flow Curves Operation

Project Flow Curves (Operations menu)
is a finishing operation produced by projecting a planar
Lace cycle based on two curves onto one or more surfaces.
See Also
Sequence of Instructions in the Project Flow Curves Operation
Using the Project Flow Curves Operation

environment
EdgeCAM.
Project Flow of
Curves
Cycle Various milling (driven) tool types can either be loaded from the ToolStore or
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
273
Sequence of Instructions in the Project Flow Curves Operation

Project Flow Curves
[Standard Sequence]

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
274
Using the Project Flow Curves Operation
1. Click on the Project Flow Curves Operation
275
button.

3. Digitise the first entity to flow along. The cycle will start at the closest end of the entity to the digitise.
4. Digitise the second entity to flow along.
The
module
a two-and-a-half,
three
and
fiveOK.
axis
6. Milling
Complete
the provides
dialog box
for the operation,
then
click
defined
by now
parameter.
the toolpaths for the project flow curves operation, including any moves to
EdgeCAM
generates
position
tool.
You can the
drive
Profiling
from the
model.
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Project Circular Pattern Operation

Project Circular Pattern (Operations menu)
276
is a finishing operation for round bosses or pockets.
See Also
Sequence of Instructions in the Project Circular Pattern Operation
Using the Project Circular Pattern Operation
The
Milling
module
provides
Project
Circular
Pattern
Cyclea two-and-a-half, three and five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Sequence of Instructions in the Project Circular Pattern Operation

Project Circular Pattern
[Standard Sequence]
Project Circular Pattern Cycle

Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
277
Using the Project Circular Pattern Operation
1. Click on the Project Circular PatternOperation
278
button.

3. Digitise an entity to act as the outer arc.
4. Digitise an entity to act as the inner arc.
The
module
a two-and-a-half,
three
and
fiveOK.
axis
6. Milling
Complete
the provides
dialog box
for the operation,
then
click
defined
by now
parameter.
the toolpaths for the project circular pattern operation, including any moves to
EdgeCAM
generates
position
tool.
You can the
drive
Profiling
from the
model.
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Pencil Mill Operation
279
Pencil Milling (Operations menu) is a finishing operation making a single pass along internal
edges. Please note that the Pencil Mill operation only supports ballnose cutters.
A new pencil mill cycle was introduced in EdgeCAM version 7.50. Please note that the Pencil Mill
operation uses the "old" (i.e. pre-version 7.50) cycle.
See Also
The
Millingof
module
provides
a two-and-a-half,
Sequence
Instructions
in the
Pencil Mill Operation
Using
Mill Operation
definedthe
byPencil
parameter.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Sequence of Instructions in the Pencil Mill Operation

Pencil Mill
[Standard Sequence]
Pencil Mill Cycle
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
280
Using the Pencil Mill Operation
281
1. Click on the Pencil MillOperation
button.
3. Digitise the containment boundary entities (if required), then perform a Finish.
4. Milling
Complete
the provides
dialog box
for the operation,
then
click
The
module
a two-and-a-half,
three
and
fiveOK.
EdgeCAM now generates the toolpaths for the pencil mill operation, including any moves to position the
tool.
Profiling
Pocket Milling
Face Milling
Slotting
Hole Production
Surface Milling
EdgeCAM User Guide
Copyright
282
(C)1988-2005 Pathtrace Engineering Systems. All rights reserved.

Pathtrace Engineering Systems and its registered resellers or sub-resellers shall have no liability or
responsibility to the licensee or any other person or entity with respect to any liability, loss or damage
caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly by this product, including but not limited to any
interruption of service, loss of business or anticipatory profits or consequent damages resulting from the use
or operation of this software.
Microsoft, Windows and Windows NT are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

MemoHASP is a registered trademark of Aladdin Knowledge Systems Ltd.
The
Milling module
providesofaRainbow
two-and-a-half,
three and
five axis milling capability from the Manufacture
NetSentinel
is a trademark
Technologies,
Inc.
environment
of
EdgeCAM.
Various
milling
(driven)
tool
types
OpenGL(r) and Optimizer are trademarks of Silicon Graphics can
Inc. either be loaded from the ToolStore or
defined
by
parameter.
Parasolid is a trademark of Unigraphics Solutions Inc.

Autodesk
Inventor
(tm)with
is arespect
trademark
of Autodesk
Inc.
You can drive
the tool
to the
model geometry
using these standard types of machining cycle:
SolidWorks is a registered trademark of SolidWorks Corporation.
Solid Edge is a registered trademark of EDS Inc.
Profiling
PTC, Pro/DESKTOP,
Pro/ENGINEER(r), GRANITE (tm) One, are trademarks or registered trademarks of
Parametric
Technology
Corporation or its subsidiaries in the U.S. and in other countries.
Pocket Milling
AutoCAD and DXF are registered trademarks of Autodesk Inc.
Face Milling
MicroStation
is a trademark of Bentley Systems Inc., an affiliate of Intergraph Corporation.
IGDS Slotting
is a trademark of Intergraph Corporation.
EdgeCAM Simulator and EdgeCAM Verify use technology developed by Lightworks Designs Ltd.
Hole
Production
ACIS is
a trademark
of Spatial Technology, Inc., and was developed in co-operation with Three-Space, Ltd.,
Cambridge,
England,
Surface
Milling and Applied Geometry Corporation, Seattle, Washington.
Other brands and product names are trademarks of their respective owners.
The information contained within this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent
If
you need to make
after
defining
a sequence
of these operations
you can
the a
a commitment
on thechanges
part of the
vendor.
The
software described
in this document
is restructure
furnished under
sequence
at
any
time,
inserting,
editing
or
removing
the
individual
commands
as
necessary.
licence agreement and may only be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of the agreement.
Pathtrace Engineering Systems
45 including
Boulton Road
Reading
Berkshire
England
RG2 0NH
the simulation is provided,
speed
controls, swathe
mode
and simulating
specific instructions.
Telephone
+44 (0)118
975
6084 and
Facsimile
+44
(0)118 975 6143
Once a toolpath has been
generated,
you can
display
examine
a representation
of the material
remaining from a solid rectangular block. http://www.edgecam.com
Other methods for examining the results of a toolpath are to
EdgeCAM User Guide

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1

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Associative Depth Parameters

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4. Feed down to the start point at the depth plane.

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Only available when working with 2D geometry

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Draft Angle This defines the draft angle from the

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