So I have been tasked with making some fishing derby trophies for a family event. So I picked fish-shaped trays. So in Estelcam, do I set up 2 tool paths, or is it one path with a finishing pass.
If two paths, I expect to enter a finishing step over?
I am planning on using a 1/2 bowl bit.
I will be engraving the bottom as well , but I assume I can rehome z and cut each different one
It’s not clear what you want exactly.
Cut out the fish? Make a bowl out of it? Do you need different tools?
No just wondering if the pocket I am cutting needs 2 tool paths one roughing and a finishing or just one path to full depth just defining 1mm as a finish pass
When doing the finishing pass you set the “size” of the finishing pass and the tool. Select the same tool for the pass and you are good to go. If you don’t select a tool, it’s going to make the pocket 1mm smaller on all sides.
One with a finishing pass. That pass is typically around 10% the endmill diameter, I go a little more in wood and a little less in plastic and metal.
That is a huge bit. Try like a 0.8mm step over, plunge angle like 40 (20 takes too long), might need to plunge a touch slower.
I do not have much experience with a 1/2" endmill so you are going to need to experiment. There are lots of videos using those bits though, most of those settings will transfer over from any hobby grade CNC (non-cast iron).
Yes, that is a big bit. It was slow and dusty, and to be honest, the 1/8 roundover is not that noticeable, so I think a test with just a standard bit is in order.
