Contouring (MILL)

This cycle cuts a contour curve (specified in the Path ID list box) in two and a half axis, feeding down to the Z Depth level and cutting the contour in the X and Y axes. Only one curve can be specified for the Contouring cycle; however, multiple shapes can be machined by using a curve which has rapid moves inserted between groups of feed moves. The tool can be offset to either the left or the right of the defined contour curve using Offset Direction. A multiple pass operation can be specified using the Total Stock, and Cut Step parameters. A finish allowance can be left by entering a value in Stock Allowance.

A 3D contour may also be performed by entering a three dimensional curve into the Path ID and then setting the Projection parameter to 3D in the 3D Cycle Data Tab. When machining a 3D path curve, the tool center will be placed directly on the path curve and the Offset Direction parameter will not have any effect. The Z Depth parameter is still in effect.

The parameters for the Contouring cycle are in the Tool Info Tab and Cycle Data Tab. More detailed information is available under each parameter’s help topic.