Gouge Checking

Gouging can occur when a tangent surface contains a smaller radius than the tool radius. When this feature is selected, the gouging action is prevented. However, with this feature active, verifying and post processing take significantly longer.

Non-tangent surfaces always have gouge checking at the non-tangency point/intersection. The exception to this rule is the case of a concave corner that is machined parallel to the non-tangent patch boundary.

For nearly all cases, the Facet type for projected tool paths can machine tangent and non-tangent surfaces in either direction without gouging. The Gouge Check option is not needed and is not available for projected tool paths.

Notes on Gouge Checking for Constant Z Cycle

Particularly for Constant Z Cycle Roughing operations (Pocketing / Zig Zag), Gouge Checking option should be activated for cavity machining of a 3D solid model. The system automatically detects the cavity, thus all the part surfaces can be added to the Work Step Surfaces list.

Click here for graphical example
When using flat bottom tools in a Constant Z Cycle Contouring Operation the system computes a 2D offset rather than 3D. So, if the Gouge Checking option is active a 2D gouge check is applied. This provide great reliability and allow continuous contour cuts around sharp corners for this case.