More effective pocketing toolpath in Alphacam
7/13/19
Hello, I have recently had a run of thin stacked sheets to pocket out . I have been using a standard pocket routine, but I am not happy with the way the bit just plunges straight to the bottom and then runs the pocket. Can anyone recommend a better way to do this? Alphacam ultimate router 2020
7/14/19 #2: More effective pocketing toolpath i ...
I think all you need is a manual lead in with a slope. Pocket machining will not allow an automatic lead in/out due to cutter compensations errors than can occur, depending on the control. This forces users to apply a manual lead in/out. From your post, that sounds like all you need.
7/14/19 #3: More effective pocketing toolpath i ...
one thing I would like to see in future releases is a cutter compensation for pocketing if geometry allows for it, kind of like a helical G41/42. Im using a plunge pcd, but it's still a smokeshow when it goes to depth
7/14/19 #4: More effective pocketing toolpath i ...
If you use AutoZ for your pocketing it gives you the option of an automatic ramp.
7/15/19 #5: More effective pocketing toolpath i ...
Cutter compensation is in there for pocketing, you just click the box for include additional rough/finish pass. You still have to add the lead in to prevent a plunge. If you have trouble with the lead in dropping when you move geometries and tool paths when editing, just lock them in the project manager.
View higher quality, full size image (551 X 554)
7/16/19 #6: More effective pocketing toolpath i ...
try going to your rough/finish lead in/out.
on the lead-in do a line, sloping I use line length tool rad x 4 approach angle 0. with your lead out choose none. works perfect.
View higher quality, full size image (560 X 617)
7/16/19 #7: More effective pocketing toolpath i ...
sorry about my last response. thought you were talking about a pocket screw.
when in your contour pocket under LEVELS AND CUTS change your slope angle for lead-in to 1. you may not need to go all the way down to 1 but it works for me with my 50mm fly cutter.
View higher quality, full size image (560 X 560)
7/23/19 #8: More effective pocketing toolpath i ...
Thanks for the tip, I don't know why that's not a standard function without auto z.