Step block question using V9

[COPO427]

Hi,

I am trying to cut a simple 3 step block in my Haas mini-mill. the block is 2x2x6 inches. I want to create 3 steps. 2 of the steps are 1/2" down form one to another incrementaly. so the 3 steps should be 2, 1.5, 1.0 in the Z direction.

The problem is that I can't get the peripherey of the end mill to cut along the verticle wall to make it 2x2. It stays away .150 creating a 2 x 2.150 area. Almost like it doesn't recognize the verticle wall even though it has been selected.

This is a solid. I am using surface, finish parallel. with the tool path at 90 deg. cutting across in the y plane.

How do I get the tool to my finished dimension of 2x2? Also I am using a 1/2" 2 flute end mill.

This seems soo simple but there is something I am not doing right.

Thanks for any help

[Steve Arteman]

finish parallel will not cut verticle walls, can you use 2-d contour?
Steve Arteman
www.cad2cam.net

[COPO427]

Originally Posted by Steve Arteman finish parallel will not cut verticle walls, can you use 2-d contour? Steve Arteman www.cad2cam.net

I guess I could try the 2-d contour. This will need a DXF file instead of an IGES?

[Steve Arteman]

If this is a solid use the line on the edge of the solid face for cotour. if it is a surface model go to create, curve, one edge and use this line.
Steve
ww.cad2cam.net

[Steve Arteman]

Because it it a solid or a surface model does not mean you have to use surface milling this sounds like a perfect example of not using surface milling. your Iges file shoud be good enough to use the edges to generate a 2-d contour toolpath if not as I said above use the method above.
Steve
www.cad2cam.net

[COPO427]

Originally Posted by Steve Arteman Because it it a solid or a surface model does not mean you have to use surface milling this sounds like a perfect example of not using surface milling. your Iges file shoud be good enough to use the edges to generate a 2-d contour toolpath if not as I said above use the method above. Steve www.cad2cam.net

Ok I understand. I just tried the curve, one edge and I get a Z vector pointing positive (up) is this arrow direction of Z movement? I think it should be pointing down towards the surface? how do I change the direction?

Thanks much

[Steve Arteman]

drag that arrow to the edge click the mouse this creates the curve or line the arrow direction is the normal direction (top or bottom of the surface)

[COPO427]

Steve,

Thanks for the help on this matter.

Another question. How can do I get the entities to join together to form a contour tool path? When I go to toolpaths-contour-chain, I am only allowed to pick one entity. Then it says "end here." I want all four entities joined.

thanks again

[cadcam]

Are you chaining the wire fram if so when it stop at the end of one entity just pick the next and so on.

[Steve Arteman]

you are welcome, if the entities are not trimmed together you might get this message. If you are reaching the end of one then pick the next until you have chained all you need to do the contour.
Steve
www.cad2cam.net

[COPO427]

Thanks for all the help guys.

I would like someone to look at the file I have created. It still is not right and not sure what to do.

How do I attach .MC9 file?

Thanks again

[COPO427]

Ok I think I figured it out using the .ZIP.

Please let me know what you guys think.

Thanks much