I run multiple sessions all the time also to compare files. quote: You can also select geometry from one MCX file copy it and then paste it directly into another MCX file. That's awesome! I never thought to try that! Thanks!!!!!!

it is slowing down in the corners so if your feed rates aren't changed your run time will be longer. The idea is, since it's slowing down in the corners to keep a constant pressure on the tool you can bump your feed rates up quite a bit and not put too much pressure on the cutter in the corners when the tool engages the material more heavily. unfortunately my machines do not have this feature unlocked so I can't really give you any feedback on where to start.

Not an easy question you have there..... enroll for some MasterCAM training would be the best bet. I'm not sure what to tell you besides just get in there and start experimenting. There are MANY ways to make the same part and many great toolpaths to choose from. Some are more intuitive than others. If you want to send me the file, I will take a look when I get a chance and maybe send you some sample paths. I'm not usually in the educational forum I just happened to see this passing by. My e-mail address is in my profile. good luck! -Mike

Nice tip Joel

for full screen image: click on the print screen button on top of your keyboard (next to scroll lock) open Paint and paste.....save as whatever. to copy active window: click alt + print screen

ok, so here's the deal. If I move the file from the current location to let's say the desktop(or anywhere else), It posts fine. X3 Mu1 also behaves the same way. What I found out is the file path is the key. We use a data management server and check out/in files as we edit them. Because of our project structure we have very long file paths. Windows XP 32 can only handle 255 characters in the file path including spaces.(64 bit can handle more) For some reason Mastercam can only handle 228. as soon as I pass that it will no longer post. So....as long as I remove some characters from my filepath and restructure the server it works fine. I have no idea how many versions it's been like this. anyone from CNC want to confirm and/or elaborate? [ 07-30-2009, 02:33 PM: Message edited by: Michael Sullivan @ Blackhawk Mgmt ]

what does that mean? How do I change it if it needs to be changed?

I have 4 files like this. they originated in X4. My Setup sheet fails to post also. everything else still posts fine. HELP!

I've posted many programs with no problems in X4 but now I keep getting this: Here is the post log: any ideas? it's the same post I have been using.

yup, same here.

I haven't machined brass in years and it is tough to say with machine and workholding factors but.......... I did some calculations and I think you should start around. 2667 rpm and 21 IPM you could always speed it up/slow it down judging by how it sounds. [ 07-22-2009, 11:09 AM: Message edited by: Michael Sullivan @ Blackhawk Mgmt ]

Yup, what Ken said. However, it would be easier and more accurate to use WCS, then your stock will already be in the correct position no matter how many setups you have. JM2C

It works fine here. Whenever possible, I would recommend using WCS instead of moving STL files around though. It's sooooooooooo much easier. JM2C

If you can share the file, I can see if it will open on my system. e-mail addy in profile.

I've only gotten this error when trying to open X4 files in X3 or X3 files in X2 etc. What changed? maybe reload config files and try again?

That's exactly what I was looking for Dave. I need training! Dynamic Mill is the bomb!

35K, I was thinking the same thing about stacking and a sacrificial top plate. I've looked into peel mill which is a possibility. Dave C from CNC has configured dynamic mill correctly for me and that looks really promising. I'm not sure what settings I missed the first time around but....looks great! Thanks for all the help and ideas guys. always a school day!

You've got mail David.

David, do you think dynamic mill would be beneficial for this part: http://www.emastercam.com/cgi-bin/ultimate...ic;f=1;t=034506 I tried to configure it,(as well as other paths) but couldn't get the path I wanted. I wanted to use trochoidal techniques because it is 304 stainless. I could send you the file if you want to take a look. Thanks, -Mike

Glad you got it! That's the only way to fly IMO.

quote: Neurosis, you've done some really good comparative test here. If you can, bundle the files up and send them to Mastercam QC along with your findings. +10000

I have John, In fact it worked Awesome on my last program. It just doesn't seem to offer much benefit on this part. It ramps in ok but then cuts a majority of the pocket full diameter tool burial not allowing me to bump up the speed at all. After it takes most of the meat out then it starts the trochoidal movement which is not where I need it. I thought it would try to minimize the tool burial

Alrighty, I got that to work. the only problem I see is there seems to be no option for helical and/or ramp entry options because of this, the beginning of the toolpath will be a full diameter cut and I will be unable to take advantage of a higher feed rate. Did I just miss it or would I have to manually edit the NC to slow it down in the beginning?

I suggested laser cut already but it's not an option. The boss wants to do it in house so I have no choice but to mill it. Hey G, I'm trying to configure peel mill and no matter what settings I choose it keeps cutting the outside of my contour instead of the inside of the pocket How do I force it to cut the inside? I can't find a sample file for peel mill Thanks! [ 06-30-2009, 03:53 PM: Message edited by: Michael Sullivan @ Blackhawk Mgmt ]

Thanks for the reply Ocean Lacky. In that case, do you think I should drill the pocket start points instead of ramping to save the end mill from all the end cutting? The reason I was thinking trochoidal.........The HAAS dealer here did a demo using Trocoidal cutting a 304 SS block and they were flying through it with a 1/2" endmill, no coolant and about 3/8 depth cuts. when the machine stopped you could immediately touch the part. It hardly built up any heat at all. Not sure what feed he was running at but it was pretty fast for stainless. The part he was milling was 1" thk though not like my dinky sheet metal anyone else see this?