Zig-Zag motion in dynamic toolpaths

[Bob W.]

It is my understanding that the new dynamic toolpaths have a zig-zag option to reduce time out of the cut. I am curious which tools/ materials would work great with this approach (aluminum?) and which wouldn't be such a good idea (steel?). I really have no idea where I should embrace this and where it should be avoided and I'd love some input from the experts.

[Matthew Hajicek - Singularity]

It can do a "micro lift", default .010" so as not to drag the tool, and then fast travel to the start of the next cut at a user defined feed rate.  It doesn't rapid because then you'd have to worry about doglegs.  I use it in Copper and in H13 anywhere from soft to RC50 on a regular basis, and lots of people love it in Aluminum.

 

Check this:

 

https://spreadsheets.google.com/pub?key=0AlMGCRpJJ9GIdG40T2NIZ1F4aS0xOHNGTGd3OTItanc&hl=en&single=true&gid=1&output=html

 

I use HSM Advisor to get good feed and speed numbers for it.

[K2csq7]

I think he means zig zag for the "cutting method". 

 

I would not climb + conventional mill with the same feeds & speeds.... but in some materials under certain conditions.... maybe...

[scooke4073]

Use it.  I've used it in aluminum with great results. Be careful with cutting tool geometry

[neurosis]

I've seen video's of the strategy used in mild steel.

 

I personally would only feel comfortable using it in aluminum with insertable tools. 

[Bob W.]

I think he means zig zag for the "cutting method".

Yes, I have used all of the HST toolpaths extensively and I know exactly what I can get away with when climb milling. I have no idea what to look out for with these when conventional milling though.

[Bob W.]

Use it.  I've used it in aluminum with great results. Be careful with cutting tool geometry

Wants to suck the tool out of the holder axially when conventional milling? Does high helix become an issue?

[The Cathedral]

I've used it a few times only on aluminum and plastic. I don't like it, and personally only feel comfortable using it with shallow DOC, which defeats the purpose of using a dynamic path.

[scooke4073]

Wants to suck the tool out of the holder axially when conventional milling? Does high helix become an issue?

Chip clearance is the only real issue.  Select an endmill with a good primary radial relief angle and secondary clearance angle...otherwise you will end up with pretty severe built up edge.

 

I also agree with everyone else, ONLY USE IN ALUMINUM (or other free cutting materials).  I wouldn't mind testing it in ferrous material but I can't imagine it adding any great benefit.

[zero_divide]

With With HSM speeds and feeds and DOC deep enough it is unusable even in aluminum.

Chatter will be so loud, you will not want to use it.

 

I only tried it on aluminum with Low DOC of 1 xDia and 30% radial. With conventional Speeds and Feeds.

There it worked OK, but still noisy on conventional pass.