Hi Just wondering if anyone had a simple formula for finding out which drill size to use with a given tap size ( metric and standard). Thanks John

Hi Thanks. I guess it's time for me to brush up (learn...) my G & M codes.

Hi Is there a simple workaraound to have the program stop in a certain spot, without using the optional stop button and having it stop at EVERY tool change?? I'm using a Haas VF-2. Thanks

Hi Thanks, after digging through a mountain of papers on my desk, I was able to find my Cad Cam folder and my original update code and get running again. Cad Cam also left a message and faxed over my code this morning. I now have my update code stashed in 3 differnet spots, Just In Case....Thanks Everyone!!!

Help, How can I get mastercam going again. A solids demo that just expired will no longer let me in to mastercam!!!! How do i get my old serial number back into the system?? I don't have it handy, of course, is it stored in any backup files??? Help

Hi While you guys are on the this subject, is there any way to assign Tool numbers to certain tools that do not change when you bring them into a new operation??? Thanks John

Hi I have been trying to figure out a way to put a tool list at the beginning of the post without having to do it manually. The Mpmaster does this? SInce you are using a Haas, what else did you have to change? I am using a Haas VF-2, and the tool list would make things a lot easier since I'm not the only one that runs the machine. Thanks John Hotshot Performance, Inc.

Hi That's what I thought... How does MC's High Speed machining compare to these programs. I tried to DL the Metacut but the free demo didn't work. Would High Speed Machining help in my specific application, since it's the only thing I currently use the machine for?? Thanks John Hotshot Performance, Inc.

Hi thanks for all the tips. One more question though, when you mention adjusting the feedrateon the arcs, is there a way MC does this automatically without adding too much time to the cycle, or is it something you do manually when you post? Thanks Again John Hotshot Performance, Inc.

Good. One of the reasons I picked the Haas (I had NO CNC experience, and very little manual machining experience) was that the control seemed well layed out compared to the others I looked at. Also the price/options werre better than anything else I could afford. Thanks John Hotshot Performance, Inc.

Hi I'm using a Haas VF-2, and was wondering if there are any other Haas users here?

Hi Any preferences as to which brands and grades of inserts for different steels? Thanks John Hotshot Performance, Inc.

Hi That's what i've been doing so far for speeds and feeds, but depending on the depth of cut (obviously never more than .375) on an apkt insert, the machine sounds like it's about to fall apart. This is with a really secure fixture, short holder, etc. I'm using the constant overlap pocket method from the center out, with 40% overlap. I'd like to be able to do it in one pass.... Is there a way to make the cutter know that in a 1.5 dia. pocket, and that i've drilled a 1" starting hole, that the .75 end mill will start cutting right away and not spin in the center a bunch before cutting??? Thanks John

Oh Yeah, I am using a Haas VF-2, the shortest tool holders I can find, and running coolant. I think that's it. Thanks John Hotshot Performance, Inc.

Hi I am new to MC and CNC machining and have been doing OK, but am wondering if i can't speed things up a little here. First question= What tools, speeds and feeds, and depths of cut do you recommend when pocketing .375 thick 1018. I am making header flanges so most of the pockets are no bigger than 1.75 x 1.75. I've been using Iscar insertable 1" end mills and the 328 inserts, so far. Everything is held down tight. Second question, is it possible to dril the heck out of the pocket to eliminate as much material first then run a clean up with the mill on the outer boundary, or will the loose material beat up the tool too much? Thanks John Hotshot Performance, Inc.