So I was a little misinformed, we do have a ball mill--1/8inch. The tools we have are 1/4" and 1/2" end mill--both HSS, and a 1/8" ball mill--Carbide. Take a look at my file and see if i did this all right. Also, check the feed rates, i based them off the school.mc9 file so i hope they're correct. The material for the stock is 6061 Aluminum. The file name is School_rim_B.zip I've included the STL file for the underside as well. Thanks, Ryan

Wow thanks for the quick response!!! What type of tool woudl you recommend for standard aluminum work. Carbide, HSS, etc. Thanks, Ryan

Doing a small project for school. We just got a new cnc machine and have some spare aluminum lying around (5in x 5in x 7/8in). Decided to make a miniature car rim, at least the face of it. Anyways, I've been messing aroudn with toolpaths and have had some luck with it but not much, its too choppy. We only have access to a 1/4inch Bullnose and a 1/4 and 1/2 inch Flat Endmills. If you can, take a look at my file and see if I did good or if I should change the toolpaths. The file is on the ftp , "school_rim.zip", inside is the MC9 file and STL file. I've tried using a Flowline tool path but it won't let me create it, says that the toolpath intersects. Any help is appreciated. Thanks!!! Ryan

the link you sent me in the e-mail is good, however im looking for solid machining as well. i.e. toolpaths, etc thanks, ryan

I'm a student learning mastercam and have Finished the Mill v9 training book however it doesn't explain how to machine solid's, only surfaces. I've tried to figure it out for myself with no luck. Can anyone head me towards the right direction into what I should do...books, tutorials, etc. Thanks, Ryan