Zig Zag on 2d contour?

[neurosis]

Not sure if that was the right question, but what I am trying to do,is machine a profile in aluminum. I have to make multiple passes zig zagging across to clean up a couple of areas. Is there a way to mix climb and conventional cut using one contour?

[Colin Gilchrist]

Nope, I've requested it in the past though.

 

You could create the contour toolpath, backplot and save the toolpath as geometry, create a new contour toolpath (centerline) and use the "keep tool down option, but other than that, Mastercam wants to retract at the end of a contour.

[Kelly Burns]

Use ramp and set it up with plunge and it will go back and forth.

[MLS]

If you switch it to ramp instead of 2d and use the plunge option you can take multiple Z depth cuts, but no way on contour to do multiple radial passes.

 

Or

 

If you translate your geometry up and make a copy, then use them as your two chains you could use Swarf5-axis toolpath because it has the capability to do it.

[neurosis]

Well we just dropped the maintenance on our 5 axis since we dont have a five axis machine so that is out of the question. Maybe I should send a suggestion for this option? Im surprised that it isnt an options already. I use it often when machining aluminum.

[Mcam Nut]

you dont need 5axis to do swarf5axis

 

EDIT: I dont think you do anyway

[Mcam Nut]

I am a bit confused why you would want to do this on a profile, I guess i would have to see a screenshot or somthing. I thought initially you were looking to clean up a pocket. Would you be able to upload a screanshot, or somthing?