Shaped Tools

[patycoop]

Try to get a shaped tool in the shape of an indexable boring bar, mainly the shape of the lower end of the bar.
Any ideas how to create the shape.
thanks

[pixburghenat]

I've seen many outlined in the manufacturer's catalogs.
Check mscdirect.com, kennametal, etc.
They may have the specifications online.

SCott

[patycoop]

I dont know how to ad a drawn tool to the solidcam tool library.
I was hoping some one could give me and idea on actually creating the shape in solidcam. I'v tried to modify other shaped tools, but dont get a very acurate shape.

Any help is appreciated.
Thanks.
Patrick

[Brakeman Bob]

Adding a shaped tool is easy. Click the 'Add Shaped Tool' option and right click the left hand list of the dialog box to add a new tool. Then SolidCAM jumps into a new assembly called (IIRC) System_SolidWorks.SLDASM which depending on you settings, is residing in the directory holding you tool library. Also, a smaller dialog jumps up asking you to define a chain. Ignore this dialog and go to the SolidWorks feature tree, add a new sketch and draw the half-section of you tool in the usual way. When you have finished the sketch to your satisfaction, finish the sketch and then use the "Define Chain" button to select the sketch you have just created.

Violá, the tool is created.

I am working from memory here, so please forgive any minor inaccuracies.