Toolpath problem

[sweetwood]

I'm making a contour toolpath for a 2d chain. Simple - just cutting something out. I'm trying to use a .5" tool, but it keeps creating a path that is too close to the outline...something close to .3652" would work perfect, but WTF, I want it to be .5"???

What am I missing?

[Superman]

1st is to check your tool settings, 1st LH tab is for actual tool sizes used for toolpath calculations, RH tab is for the tool's parameters ( speed/feed blah-blah) and naming etc. Middle tab is for graphic picture icons of ttol shapes

Next, look at the operation's parameters XY offset ( 0 for no allowance, +ive to make the tool stand away from the contour,-ive to make the cutter cross over the contour

Cutter comp type:
Wear, Computer, should give on-screen paths exactly as the machine should/would do it, machine settings must also be correct.
Control can give funny paths, lead in/outs should be larger than the tool radius
Off makes the path on top of the contour, XY offset -if used, steps the cutter to the side by that amount ( side depends on which Left/Right setting is used )--good for single passes thru the middle of features before having to profile them

[sweetwood]

Thanks man. I think I've found the problem. It was leaving -.178 worth of stock. It was in the parameters screen.