Poll for all machinists

[HuFlungDung]

Before machining a pocket, which do you think would be handiest:

a) Drill a hole full depth with a different tool. Then begin the pocket with the tool at the hole location.

b) Make a continuous feed plunge to the depth of the initial roughing cut (no chip break) with the current tool.

c) Make a peck feed, chip breaking plunge to the depth of the initial roughing cut with the current tool. (Remember, this option includes the option for 1 peck).

d) Create an entry ramp with a hammer and a cold chisel


Don't be afraid to vote. Your thoughtful opinion is as good as the next guy's.... er.....person's (Hi Jennifer)

[HuFlungDung]

Paul G, is there a way to track the guys that vote on option 4?

[steveag]

None of the above . 5.19 has some interesting features in Z level roughing . But I like to ramp down with a 1 to 3 degree angle with the same tool and a forced Z level for the bottem of the pocket and a .005" to.01" for finish then a Z level finish pass .

[E-Stop]

I prefer to do a helical interpolation ramp to depth with the current tool. Especially in aluminum. This works well in most steel applications too, with the right speeds/feeds.

[hardmill]

If your tooled up proper, I like to ramp into a pocket
@ defined depth cuts. Only 1 tool (insert mill),no tool change
and quick material removal.
Otherwise I like option 4

PEACE

[CNCadmin]

Originally posted by HuFlungDung Paul G, is there a way to track the guys that vote on option 4?

Yes their is but it's gonna cost you.

[Jennifer]

I deal primarily with MDF so depending on how deep the pocket I'll either ramp or plunge to the full depth and pocket with the same tool.

[HuFlungDung]

Yes, I can appreciate those other options that you guys are talking about, but please humor me and vote the poll, if you haven't already. I'm polling one basic category of entry, not all categories.

[hardmill]

With the options given I'd say drill to depth.
Option 1

PEACE

[steveag]

Why would you want a poll on this method ?

[HuFlungDung]

Originally posted by steveag Why would you want a poll on this method ?

I just want to see how far out in left field my preference is (#3).

I do a lot of work in stringy plastics, so a slot drill works fine for the plunge, no need for a different tool. But, chip wrap is a problem during the plunge, which is why I'd like to see peck feed plunge, without actually calling up a seperate G83 to do it.

[steveag]

I have found that ramping down at a 1 to 3 degree angle , helix or on a line or ect depends on size and shape , gives me much better tool life . Much of the time I use carbide tooling into up to 60RC A2 or 35 to40 RC 410 stainless so tool life becomes important.