That does help...thanks for the tip Colin.

I work with surfaces almost exclusively...except for the few times when I can do solid conversions. It would be great if the surfaces would show the normal direction while being shaded. I have found that there isn't a quick fix to setting all of the normals..the moldplus add on seems like it might be the way to go.

Yep...use the saved STL in the stock setup....then each time you perform an op to the stock, resave it as a new STL for the next op.

I get the same error when I am doing multiple steps in verify using STLs. My reseller advised changing the tolerance on the tool. They said I wouldn't get the nicest looking verified part from it but I would be able to see any gouge marks that may occur.....and I have plenty of PC power and graphics card (non ATI) capabilities. Kind of frustrating.

Just thought it would be cool to see what everyone is running. What kind of CNC machines are you guys running and what size are they? We are running a 2008 DMS 5 axis router. 8'x12' table with 48" of brdige. It's a medium duty machine with an 11hp HSD spindle and HSK 63F toolholders. We recently made the switch to shrink fit toolholders and they are great thus far. We opted for a continuous C axis when we bought the machine and it is a dream to program and run.

We are machining our first part out of Ren 472...and I am learning quickly how abrasive and hard this material is. Is there anyone out there with any experience using the material that can offer some advice or tips? Thanks. Mike