Re: Tool diameter compensation

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@y..., Ethan Vos <ethan@f...> wrote:

> If I'm asking too many questions, someone kick me in the ankle.
>
> Is there any way of making the tool diameter compensation work in

the XZ

> plane?
>

In the machine, at a hobby price? No.

Short answer with a lot behind it. G41/42 tool compensation is
strictly a radial function. It cannot account for a varying tool
nose geometry as found in a V-tipped, flat, or Bull nosed cutter. It
is restricted to a planar application, with no variation in the Z
height accounted for in the compensation. Many/most controllers will
exit comp if there is a change in the Z, for safety sake if nothing
else.

There are some highend controllers that can compensate for tool
geometry on the fly, under certain conditions. Fidia, Boston Digital,
high end Fanuc and Seimens. Most machines that can do this cost over
$100,000.00USD

However you can do it in software for a very reasonable cost.
StlWork is a good example of a program that compensates for the tool
geometry as the part changes in all directions. It automatically
avoids gouging the opposite side of a "canyon", and can correctly
develop a toolpath for a bull, ball, V or straight(square) cutter.

http://www.stlwork.com

This is the usual way that CNC machines are programmed to create a to-
size model from varying selection of tools. A large tool to rough
will take fewer coarser passes and leave a finish stock for the
finishing tool to remove with much finer and more precise passes.

StlWork automatically calculates all the required tool paths and
creates the necessary G-code to make the desired cuts.

Best Regards,

Fred Smith - IMService - We are THE source for low cost Cad-Cam

Specials and discounts can be found at
http://www.vectorcam.com/cced.html