Constant Z flat floor machining
Select the check box to activate this option. SolidCAM recognizes planar areas on 3D models. For flat planar areas of the model, working areas will be automatically created that can be machined using a hatch or contour style pocket.
Flat floor machining greatly reduces programming time of 3D models with 2.5D features like pockets and profiles on different Z-levels.
Scallop
Enter the scallop (cusp height) of the finished surface you want to achieve. SolidCAM will automatically calculate the side step of the tool.
Max. step over
If you use a flat tool or a bull nose tool, the step over will be as large as the flat area of the tool, e.g. for a tool diameter 6 with a corner radius of 1, the step over on flat areas would be 4. To limit the cutting width of the tool, enter the maximum step over value.
Min. cut area
This parameter defines the size of the minimum area that will be machined.
Machining style
SolidCAM enables you to choose two styles of the floor machining during Constant Z finishing:
Select this option if you want to machine the flat floor areas on your model as a contour style pocket. The pocket tool path will travel at parallel offsets to the outside contour of the flat area.
- Choose the Contour strategy.
Click Data to define the Contour parameters.
The Contour parameters dialog box will be displayed.
The tool mills the flat area in a linear pattern.
- Choose the Hatch strategy.
Click Data to define the Hatch parameters.
The Hatch parameters dialog box will be displayed.
With the Mode button, SolidCAM locates open pocket areas and enables you to machine them with a specific strategy. This strategy enables you to combine pocket and profile tool paths in order to provide the best productivity in open pocket machining.
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Arc approximation
SolidCAM enables you to use arc approximation for Constant Z floor machining.
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