scallop tool path

[tm311]

I use scallop alot on surfaces that are closed,(like a bowl for instance).The problem i have alot

is if the bottom has a pocket through it,the cutter wants to jump around alot instead of

staying down and moving in 1 direction(cw or ccw).I do realize,and sometimes will fill in the pocket w/a surface,tool path it,then delete the part i dont need.Any advice would be appreciated.

[bb]

Hello Tony

I use containment boundaries at least two to avoid the pocket in the middle of the surfaces.Hope this helps.

[cadcam]

In 8.1 MC boundrys only work on the inside of the boundrys.

Were as in ver9 you can do inside or outside the boundry.

[tm311]

I do use (and understand boundries) at times,but the tool still wants to jump around,i also do have all patches downloaded.I do alot of surface

tool paths and would like to make scallop work

better in theese situations.

[Gary Stephenson]

Hi Tony,

With referance to Surface Finish Scallop, try setting Gap Settings to Distance 2.5mm - 3.6mm

(0.098" - 0.142"), gives a better toolpath keeping tool down. Oh set Motion to follow surf / smooth. These settings may prove useful, depends on surfaces / profile.

Good luck.

Gaz

Steelnorth, UK.

[rsbeadle]

I don,t use scallop, but I had the same problem with contour. If I changed the (?) stepover (not sure of MC8 wording) setting on the surface parameters page from a percentage to a higher number such as .5 depending on the size of the area you are cutting the jumping sround would stop. The setting is at the bottom near the cut depths button. I think it is edge settings or gap settings, one of the two. Hope this helps.