plunge roughing

[C Schwarz]

I was wondering if there is a way to use surface rough plunge in v8.0 in combination with check surfaces and or tool center boundries that are above and parallel to the drive surface, and not have the roughing plunge cut broken up into two or more cuts. I have tried setting the max step down to full depth in the plunge para, but, it seems to be ignoring the value.

 

thank you for any suggestions

[Scott Reiner]

Can you post the MC8 file to the server for us to look at?

[C Schwarz]

I have posted two files in the mc8 folder on the ftp site under the names pruffchk (with check surfaces used)and pruffnchk (without check surfaces). I have also found that if check surfaces are used and then turned off. The cutter will still take the rough cut in two plunges. The only way i have found to keep this from happening is never to use check surfaces to begin with. I have been retailoring part geometry to keep the cutter out of certain areas and still be able to rough with one plunge. Manipulation of the g-code also works, but both these methods are timely and a real pain in the wazoo! Thanks in advance to all who check out the files and any suggestions you all have.

[Roger Peterson]

My first suggestion would be to go to V8.1.1 and then give it a try. At one point everyone was sent a 8.1 cd so you should have this then you can apply the 8.1.1 patches. If not I'm sure your reseller can get you one.

 

thanks,

[C Schwarz]

Mr. Peterson,

Thank you for your speedy response. I will contact our dealer and request the upgrade.

[Scott Reiner]

In order to cut your part in one plunge, with or without Check surfaces, set the Cut Depths to Absolute and in your case use 0 in the Min & Max. This will force 1 plunge cut to depth. There are also more options available to you in this toolpath with a V9 update.

 

HTH

 

Scott

[C Schwarz]

Mr. Reiner,

That smacks the nail on it's head . Your solution has saved me programing time. I extend my gratitude to you sir.