Pocketing around letters ?

[SScnc]

Here's the situation, in X2 I have a pocket toolpath that uses a .1250 em that pockets down .100 around letters.

Then the next t/p is a contour using a .050 em that follows the outside of the letters also down .100 and sharply defines them. This of course is producing raised lettering.

My problem is that in several places between the letters there are small "islands" sort of like pins sticking up that are left because the .1250 em is too large to go between and the .050 em isn't cutting them because it's too small to get them on the contour run.

So, my question is, is there a utility in X2 to handle this or do I have to make geometry around these problems then pocket that down .100 ?

It seems like I saw something about this but I don't remember where.

I've run the whole program cutting wax to have a tangible verify (before cutting aluminum or steel) and it turned out perfect except for this. The letters are on a arc if that make any difference.

Sorry for the long post but trying to provide enough information.

Thanks

[crr]

have you tried the cleanup toolpath? It asks you to define the previous toolpath and cutter, and it "looks" for these types of things, and then goes and cuts them out.

[Mike Mattera]

Copy your first pocket toolpath. In the copy pick a smaller tool and then set the parameters for "Remachining" (Pocket Parameter page - Pocket Type - Remachining). It will pocket only what left from the previous toolpath. You can keep copying this toolpath and using smaller tools until the "bulk" of the material is gone.

Then do the finish Contour.

Mike Mattera

[Mike Mattera]

Are you on Maintenance? X3 has Engraving as a standard feature. That would do all of the sharp corners in raised letters, with pointed engraving tools. Very cool stuff. Load it up if you have it.

Mike Mattera

[SScnc]

I got it done using "multi passes". I'll take a closer look into cleanup and remachining on the next design.

I'll check into upping to X3 also, looks great.

Thanks for the help !