sheetcam and pilasters

[mike hide]

I am using sheetcam inconjunction with mach3. I am a total novice regarding CNC stuff and most other things I am afraid.

be that as it may i am trying to use sheetcam to produce the G code for some small pilasters as shown in the drawing included. I am assuming the reeds are "pockets" and cannot figure out how to approach them in sheetcam which refers to pocketing using a zigzag or spiral approach .I had just anticipated using an 1/8" radius router cutter dipping in the top and out the bottom with perhaps a couple of passes .The pilaster is 8 7/16" by 1 1/2" the flutes being 7 15/16"long and .23" wide any suggestions appreciated [in the simlist terms please]...regards mike hide

[ger21]

Can't you just draw a single line and have SheetCAM follow the line? Possible make multiple passes? You don't need a pocket, as the tool will cut the desired width, correct?

[mike hide]

I will give it a whirl and let you know if it works .Thanks for the fast responseregards mike hide

[locost_cam]

Yes, a single line is the best answer. In the cut path tab there is an option called 'Reverse open paths'. If this is selected the cutter will zigzag down to depth. If it is off, the cutter will return to the start of the cut for each pass. Reversing open paths will obviously be quicker but the slot will probably come out a bit wider due to cutter flex.