single cut toolpath w/zigzag on z

[Santa Fe]

For example when roughing a slot I like to draw a line at center of slot then select it for a 2d single cut with compensation off. The problem is if I want to machine the slot with depth cuts at the end of each cut the tool retracts and rapids to the starting point again at every depth cut.

 

Is there a way to force the tool to reach the end of the line and feed on z to the next depth then cut same line on opposite direction then feed on z repeating this proces untinl final depth without retracting?

 

I always edit the code manually so it does what I want it to do but I think there is got to be a way in mastercam.

 

Please let me know.

[John13]

Depending on your depth, I think ramp will do what you want. Even if you need to do a couple operations at different depths.

[MLS]

Yes.

 

Use Contour Ramp and use the plunge option in the ramp settings. The ramp depth will control each step and it will zig zag down.

[Thee Starry™]

Yes. On lead in/out check "enter on first depth cut only" and "Exit on last depth cut only" and under multi passes check "keep tool down"

[Zoober]

How about contour ramp?

Set ramp angle, and it will zigzag down to the depth.

 

Boy was I late to the dance....

[Thee Starry™]

Oops. yep Keeb and MLS are right.

 

I had about 17 thoughts in my head at once and goofed on that one....

[Santa Fe]

shame on me. is been there all this time and I didn't see it

[Thad]

Or just contour ramp the slot geometry. No need to create extra centerline of slot geometry.

 

Thad