2D MILL

USER'S GUIDE

www.teksoft.com
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Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1 GETTING STARTED 1-1
How to Use This Manual................................................................................. 1-2
Steps to Generate an NC Program................................................................... 1-3
Step 1: Draw the CAD part or Open Part File .......................................... 1-3
Step 2: Start 2D Mill ................................................................................. 1-3
Understanding the Mill Window .......................................................... 1-4
Step 3: Set the Setup Information ............................................................. 1-8
Setup Information Dialog Box ............................................................. 1-8
Changing Setup Information ................................................................ 1-9
Step 4: Insert a Boundary.......................................................................... 1-9
Step 5: Define the Operations ................................................................. 1-10
Step 6: Generate Tool Paths..................................................................... 1-13
Step 7: Post Process the Part ................................................................... 1-14
Modifiers ............................................................................................ 1-14
Post Files ............................................................................................ 1-14
Post Processing................................................................................... 1-15
More About Tools ......................................................................................... 1-17
Selecting a Tool for an Operation ............................................................ 1-17
Changing a Tool Definition ..................................................................... 1-17
Using Tool Files....................................................................................... 1-17
For More Practice .......................................................................................... 1-18
Skill-Builder Exercise BASICS1 ............................................................. 1-18
Points to Remember ................................................................................. 1-19
CHAPTER 2 BOUNDARIES 2-1
Inserting a Boundary........................................................................................ 2-2
Modifiers.................................................................................................... 2-2
What You Need to Know........................................................................... 2-2
Single Boundary ................................................................................... 2-2
Closed Boundary .................................................................................. 2-4
Open Boundary..................................................................................... 2-4
What You'll Learn...................................................................................... 2-6
Inserting a Closed Boundary ................................................................ 2-6
Inserting an Open Boundary................................................................. 2-7
Inserting a Boundary with Rounded Corners ....................................... 2-9

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Table of Contents

CHAPTER 3 UNDERSTANDING OPERATIONS 3-1

Creating an Operation...................................................................................... 3-2
Selecting the Operation Type..................................................................... 3-2
Using the Operation Button.................................................................. 3-3
Using the Mill Toolbar ......................................................................... 3-3
Defining a Profile Operation...................................................................... 3-4
Z Values................................................................................................ 3-4
Clearance .............................................................................................. 3-6
Feed/Speed ........................................................................................... 3-7
Profile Parameters ................................................................................ 3-8
Start and End Types.............................................................................. 3-9
Post Process ........................................................................................ 3-12
Set Operation - Post Parameters ......................................................... 3-12
Defining a Drilling Operation .................................................................. 3-13
Z Values.............................................................................................. 3-13
Clearance ............................................................................................ 3-14
Defining a Pocket Operation.................................................................... 3-15
Defining a Lace Pocket Operation ........................................................... 3-16
Lace Parameters.................................................................................. 3-16
Modifying an Operation ................................................................................ 3-17
Creating a New Operation........................................................................ 3-17
Editing an Operation ................................................................................ 3-17
Deleting an Operation .............................................................................. 3-18
Changing the Machining Order................................................................ 3-18
Copying an Operation .............................................................................. 3-18
Updating Tool Path Information .............................................................. 3-18
Adding Comments to the NC Code ......................................................... 3-19
Listing an Operation................................................................................. 3-19
CHAPTER 4 POCKET TOOL PATHS 4-1
Inserting a Pocket Tool Path............................................................................ 4-2
Modifiers.................................................................................................... 4-2
What You Need to Know........................................................................... 4-2
Pocket Operation Summary.................................................................. 4-2
What You'll Learn...................................................................................... 4-3
Using the Direction Modifiers to Insert a Pocket Tool Path ................ 4-3
Profile Pocketing with Islands.............................................................. 4-5
Inserting a Lace Pocket Tool Path................................................................... 4-6
Modifiers.................................................................................................... 4-6
What You'll Learn...................................................................................... 4-8
Inserting a Lace Pocket Tool Path........................................................ 4-8
Changing the Angle.............................................................................. 4-9
Inserting a Lace Pocket with Islands .................................................. 4-10

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CHAPTER 5 PROFILE TOOL PATHS 5-1

Inserting a Profile Tool Path............................................................................ 5-2
Modifiers.................................................................................................... 5-2
What You Need to Know........................................................................... 5-4
Inserting a Profile Tool Path ................................................................ 5-4
Direction Modifiers .............................................................................. 5-4
Leadin/Leadout Modifiers .................................................................... 5-5
Interference Checking Modifiers.......................................................... 5-9
Corner Type Modifiers ......................................................................... 5-9
System Compensation Modifiers........................................................ 5-11
Machine Compensation Modifiers ..................................................... 5-12
What You'll Learn.................................................................................... 5-13
Profiling with Interference Checking ................................................. 5-13
Rerunning the Operation with No Lookahead.................................... 5-14
Specifying the Number of Entities to Look Ahead ............................ 5-15
Using the Corner Type Modifiers....................................................... 5-16
Using Compensation Modifiers.......................................................... 5-17
Inserting Multiple Tool Paths............................................................. 5-19
For More Practice..................................................................................... 5-22
Skill-Builder Exercise MILL1............................................................ 5-22
CHAPTER 6 SINGLE POINT AND PATTERN TOOL PATHS 6-1
Inserting a Single Point Tool Path................................................................... 6-2
What You'll Learn...................................................................................... 6-2
Using Multiple Tools to Profile and Drill ............................................ 6-2
For More Practice....................................................................................... 6-5
Skill-Builder Exercise MILL3.............................................................. 6-5
Toolfitting........................................................................................................ 6-7
Modifiers.................................................................................................... 6-7
What You'll Learn...................................................................................... 6-7
Inserting a Drill Tool Path on Holes..................................................... 6-7
Inserting a Drill Tool Path on a Pattern.............................................. 6-10
Engraving ........................................................................................... 6-11
Inserting Pattern Tool Paths .......................................................................... 6-15
Modifiers.................................................................................................. 6-15
What You Need to Know......................................................................... 6-15
Linear Pattern Modifiers .................................................................... 6-15
Grid Pattern Modifiers........................................................................ 6-15
Circular Pattern Modifiers.................................................................. 6-16
Arc Pattern Modifiers ......................................................................... 6-16

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Table of Contents

What You'll Learn.................................................................................... 6-16

Inserting a Linear Pattern Tool Path................................................... 6-17
Inserting a Grid Pattern Tool Path...................................................... 6-20
Inserting a Circular Pattern Tool Path ................................................ 6-22
Inserting an Arc Pattern Tool Path ..................................................... 6-24
CHAPTER 7 WORKING WITH TOOL PATHS 7-1
Breaking and Exploding Entities..................................................................... 7-2
What You'll Learn...................................................................................... 7-2
Breaking an Entity................................................................................ 7-2
Rotating ........................................................................................................... 7-4
What You'll Learn...................................................................................... 7-4
Using the Rotate Utility........................................................................ 7-4
Editing ............................................................................................................. 7-6
What You'll Learn...................................................................................... 7-6
Changing the Direction of Patterns ...................................................... 7-6
Moving............................................................................................................. 7-7
What You'll Learn...................................................................................... 7-7
Moving and Copying CAM Entities..................................................... 7-7
Mirroring ......................................................................................................... 7-9
Running the Cut Simulation .......................................................................... 7-10
3D View Modifiers .................................................................................. 7-10
Cut Simulation Modifiers......................................................................... 7-10
What You'll Learn.................................................................................... 7-11
Using Cut Simulation ......................................................................... 7-11
Changing the Simulation Speed ......................................................... 7-12
Running the Simulation in Step Mode ............................................... 7-12
Turning the Tool Display On and Off ................................................ 7-13
Changing Simulation Views............................................................... 7-13
Using Preset Views............................................................................. 7-14
Using the Order Utility .................................................................................. 7-16
Modifiers.................................................................................................. 7-16
Optimizing Tool Paths................................................................................... 7-17
Modifiers.................................................................................................. 7-17
What You Need to Know......................................................................... 7-17
Optimizing Tool Paths in an Operation.............................................. 7-17
Single Part and Grid Optimization Modifiers .................................... 7-17
Additional Grid Optimization Modifiers............................................ 7-19
Remove Double Modifiers ................................................................. 7-19
What You'll Learn.................................................................................... 7-19
Optimizing a Profile Operation .......................................................... 7-19
Optimizing a Drilling Operation ........................................................ 7-20

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For More Practice .......................................................................................... 7-21

Skill-Builder Exercise MILL6............................................................ 7-21
Skill-Builder Exercise MILL7............................................................ 7-24
Skill-Builder Exercise MILL8............................................................ 7-26
Skill-Builder Exercise MILL9............................................................ 7-29
Skill-Builder Exercise MILL10.......................................................... 7-30
Skill-Builder Exercise MILL11.......................................................... 7-32
CHAPTER 8 Z CYCLE TYPES 8-1
Z Step and Repeat............................................................................................ 8-2
What You Need to Know........................................................................... 8-2
Set Operation Parameters ..................................................................... 8-2
What You'll Learn...................................................................................... 8-4
Using Z Step and Repeat ...................................................................... 8-4
Z Wall Definition............................................................................................. 8-5
What You Need to Know........................................................................... 8-5
Setting Up Tools................................................................................... 8-5
Defining Perimeter and Island Walls ................................................... 8-5
Set Operation Parameters ..................................................................... 8-6
What You'll Learn...................................................................................... 8-8
Using Z Wall Definition....................................................................... 8-8
Cutting a Part with Multiple Wall Shapes and Islands....................... 8-11
Cutting a Part with Multiple Wall Shapes: Defining a Fake Island ... 8-13
Cutting a Part with Different Height Islands...................................... 8-20
CHAPTER 9 ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS 9-1
Miscellaneous Operations................................................................................ 9-2
What You Need to Know........................................................................... 9-2
Single Entity Tool Paths ....................................................................... 9-2
Tool Compensation .............................................................................. 9-3
Inserting an Arc Tool Path ................................................................... 9-4
Inserting a Circular Tool Path .............................................................. 9-4
Inserting a Linear Tool Path ................................................................. 9-5
Inserting a Rapid Move ........................................................................ 9-5
Inserting Attributes .......................................................................................... 9-6
Modifiers.................................................................................................... 9-6
What You Need to Know........................................................................... 9-6
Select Attributes Dialog Box................................................................ 9-6
Attaching Attributes ............................................................................. 9-7
Removing Attributes ............................................................................ 9-7
Checking Entities for Attributes........................................................... 9-8
Using Macros................................................................................................. 9-10
Modifiers.................................................................................................. 9-10
Multiple Macros Modifiers ................................................................ 9-10

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Table of Contents

What You Need to Know......................................................................... 9-10

Understanding Macros........................................................................ 9-10
Requirements for Using Macros......................................................... 9-11
What You'll Learn.................................................................................... 9-11
Defining and Calling a Macro ............................................................ 9-11
Creating Multiple Macros (Macro Grid) ............................................ 9-14
Undefining a Macro............................................................................ 9-18
Editing a Macro .................................................................................. 9-19
APPENDIX A FEEDS AND SPEEDS A-1

INDEX

vi
Chapter 1 Getting Started

This manual is designed to introduce you to the features of the ProCAM 2D Mill system.
The information and exercises in this manual help you understand the process to generate
tool paths and NC code.
This chapter explains the steps to generate an NC program and shows you how to do a
simple cut around the outside of a part.

Getting Started 1-1

How to Use This Manual

How to Use This Manual

This manual is a combination tutorial and reference guide. It is designed to guide you
through the steps to generate an NC program and introduce you to the more advanced
features of 2D Mill. We recommend you read the chapters and do the exercises in the order
they are presented.
The information is organized in sections:
• Modifiers
For some commands, there is more than one way for ProCAM to execute the command.
This section lists and briefly explains the options, called modifiers.
• What You Need to Know
This is a reference section and includes concepts, definitions and operational information
for a specific function. This section is included only for those functions that require
further explanation. You should read these sections before attempting the exercises.
• What You'll Learn
This section contains exercises to help you learn ProCAM functions.

Did You Know ...

The Manuals folder on the ProCAM CD contains a complete set of ProCAM manuals.
When you install ProCAM from the ProCAM CD, the manuals are copied into the
Procad\Manuals\ProCAM folder on your PC. These files are in Adobe Portable
Document Format (PDF) and can be viewed, searched and printed using the Acrobat
Reader. If you do not have the Reader, you can install it from the ProCAM CD or
download it from the Adobe web site.

Installing Learning Files

Sample parts are provided for the exercises in this manual. When you installed ProCAM, the
Setup program automatically created a \procad\parts\learn folder containing the learning
part files (.prt). For more information on installing ProCAM, see the ProCAM & ProCAM II
Installation and Quick-Start Guide.

1-2 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

Steps to Generate an NC Program

The following steps are used to generate NC programs:
1. Draw or open the part in the CAD system.
2. Start 2D Mill and select the controller.
3. Specify the Setup Information.
4. Put boundaries on what will be cut.
5. Define the operations.
6. Generate tool paths.
7. Post process the part.

The next series of exercises show you how to follow these steps to do a simple cut around
the outside of a part (CAD1.PRT) using a .5" diameter end mill. Some of these steps are
explained in more detail in subsequent chapters. In order to give you a feel for how the CAM
system works, you are asked to accept a number of defaults while you are defining the tool
paths. This is done to show you the basics of generating a tool path. Operations are explained
in Chapter 3.

Step 1: Draw the CAD part or Open Part File

Parts can be drawn in ProCAM or imported from other design systems in a number of
different formats.
1. Start the 2D ProCAM system.
2. Click Open on the File menu.
3. In the Open File dialog box, change the folder to \procad\parts\learn.
4. Select SKCAD1.PRT in the file list, then press ENTER or click Open.

Step 2: Start 2D Mill

The CAM button on the CAD toolbar starts a CAM system, in this case
2D Mill. To return to CAD, click the CAD button on the Mill toolbar.

1. Click the CAM button on the CAD toolbar.

− The Controller Type dialog box displays a list of processors.
This figure shows a sample list.
− The list that displays for your system depends on the processors
that are installed. If only one processor is installed, ProCAM
automatically exits to that controller type.
− When you select a combination machine, an additional dialog
box displays the applicable choices for the machine. For
example, for a combination mill/lathe, you can select mill face,
mill OD, lathe or CAD.

Getting Started 1-3

Steps to Generate an NC Program

2. Select FANTUTM and click OK.

In the exercises in this manual, when you are asked to start the Mill system, select
FANTUTM. When you use ProCAM, select your own machine post processor.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue. This dialog box is explained on page 1-8.
Understanding the Mill Window
When you start 2D Mill, the Utility and Snap toolbars remain the same as in the CAD
system. The menu bar remains the same; however, ProCAM enables menu commands that
were not applicable in the CAD system.
Mill Toolbar
The Mill toolbar displays the Mill system command buttons:

Point Tool Path Linear Tool Path

Arc Tool Path Circular Tool Path

Rapid Pattern Tool Path

Verify Toolfit

Boundary Profile Tool Path

Lace Pocket Tool Path Pocket Tool Path

Optimize Macro

Post Process Attribute

Return to CAD 3D View

Modifier Toolbars
Most of the Mill commands have modifiers. There are three types of modifiers in the Mill
system:
• Single-choice modifiers
These modifiers are selected by clicking the button once. ProCAM highlights the button
to indicate it is selected.
• Multiple-choice modifiers
These modifier buttons are toggles. Click the button a number of times to toggle though
the selections until the modifier you are looking for is shown on the button.
• Additional-choice modifiers
These modifiers display additional modifiers when selected.

1-4 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

ToolTips
A ToolTip is a label that identifies the function of a toolbar button. To
display the ToolTip, position the mouse pointer on a button and let the
pointer rest there for a second. A ToolTip ending in two greater than
symbols (>>) indicates the button is a toggle that has additional options.
Click the button again to view the next modifier. When you click a toggle
modifier button, move the pointer off the button, then back on to display
the ToolTip.
Title, Menu and System Bars
Title bar
Menu bar
System bar

Item Description
Title bar The horizontal bar at the top of the window displays the name of the part
file when you open or save a part. This bar also contains the Control-menu
box and the Minimize, Maximize and Restore buttons.
Menu bar This bar contains the names of the ProCAM menus.
System bar The system bar contains the ProCAM information and options explained
below.
Tool button The Tool button is used to define or select tools. Next to the Tool button is
and the Tool Selection box. This box indicates the current tool and allows you
Selection box to change a tool quickly. The diameter of the current tool is shown to the
right of the box. Defining tools is explained on page 1-17.
Operation The Operation button is used to define a new operation, edit a previously
button defined operation, and change the operation that is currently selected. This
button also indicates the operation type when a previously defined
operation is selected.
Tool Two options on the right side control tool compensation for arc, linear and
Compensation circular tool paths. Tool compensation is explained in Chapter 9.
options
Color box Indicates the current color ProCAM is using to display the entities you are
drawing. To change the color, click the down arrow and select a color
from the list. Any new entities you insert are displayed in the new color.
Existing entities are not affected when you change the color. You can use
the Edit utility to change the color of existing entities.
Layer box Indicates the current layer. To change the layer, click the down arrow and
select a number. You can also display the Layers dialog box to define
layers, turn layers on and off, and change the current layer. To display this
dialog box, position the cursor in the Layer box and click the right mouse
button, press Ctrl + L, or select Set Layers on the View menu.

Getting Started 1-5

Steps to Generate an NC Program

Item Description
Pick Mask This button is a toggle that turns the Pick Mask function on and off. When
button the button is highlighted, the Pick Mask is turned on. Right-clicking this
button displays the Pick Mask dialog box. Double-clicking the button
displays the Pick Mask dialog box and if the Pick Mask is off, turns it on
or vice versa.
CAM Display Options
The CAM Display command on the Setup menu is
activated in the Mill system. The options that are
applicable in the Mill system are explained below.

Option Description
Rapids When this option is selected, rapids display between CAM entities. You
may want to turn off this display to speed up part display and to make it
easier to view the part.
Boundary When this option is selected, arrows display on CAM entities indicating
Arrows the direction of machining. You may want to turn off this display to speed
up part display and to make it easier to view the part.
Attribute When you use the Measure, Edit Attribute and Order Check Utilities,
Display During select this option to display the attributes that have been attached to a
123/Measure CAM entity.
Symbol / When the Symbol option is checked, a symbol displays on the tool path
Symbol Color where an attribute is attached. The color of the symbol can be selected
from the pulldown list.
Macro You can use this option to reduce the time to display and redraw a macro
grid. Show 1 Part displays only the first macro in the grid in the lower left
corner of the grid. Show 4 Parts displays four parts in the lower left corner
of the grid. All Parts shows all parts in the grid macro. Corner Parts
displays a part at each of the four grid corners. For more information on
using macros, see Chapter 9.

1-6 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

Option Description
Cut Simulation The Cut Simulation provides a simulation of the mill cutter paths in the
On order they will be machined and post processed. This option must be
selected in order to run the cut simulation. For more information on
running the simulation, see Chapter 7.
Simulation You can adjust the viewing speed of the tool during cut simulation by
Distance changing this setting.
CAM Menu
The CAM menu is enabled in the Mill system. Commands that
are dimmed are not applicable. The commands for the Mill
system are explained briefly below.

Command Description
Select Displays the Controller Type dialog box, which allows you to change the
Controller controller for post processing a part. You can create a part and define the tool
paths once, then post process the part for several controllers. This means you
can cut the part on different machines. The dialog box is shown on page 1-3.
A control.sys file is required to be able to change controllers. For more
information, see the online help.
Display Displays the Control Display dialog box, which contains information about
Controller the controller. For example, Machine Name, Controller Type, Z Home value
and Traverse Rate.
Setup Displays the Setup Information dialog box, which allows you to change
Information various parameters including the Program Number and Material. This dialog
box is explained on page 1-8.
Tool Files Displays a cascading menu with options to Open, Save and Delete tool files.
Tool files are discussed on page 1-17.
Default You can change operation defaults and save the changes in a file for future
Files recall. You can create a library of default files for different machines and
different material conditions. Default files are explained in Chapter 3.

Getting Started 1-7

Steps to Generate an NC Program

Command Description
Speed/Feed If you are using the optional Feed and Speed Library, the cascading menu
Tables displays the Set command, which starts the Feed and Speed Editor. For more
information on the Library and the Editor, see the Mill online help.
If you are not using the Feed and Speed Library, the menu displays options to
Set, Open, Save and Delete the ProCAM internal feed/speed tables. The
internal feeds and speeds are explained in Appendix A.
Step 3: Set the Setup Information
The Setup Information command on the CAM menu is used to provide information required
to generate the NC program. The Setup options vary depending on the machine. This dialog
box also provides information for the Setup Sheet, a file that is created when the NC
program file is generated. The Setup Sheet is explained on page 1-15.
Setup Information Dialog Box
The Setup Information dialog box displays
when you select a post processor in the
Controller Type dialog box (if you have
the Feed and Speed Library installed) or
when you select Setup Information on the
CAM menu.
The parameters shown in this figure are
required for most NC programs. Additional
parameters, such as Part Name and Part
Number, may display if they are required
by the controller.
Option Description
Program This option is the program number that is used by the machine controller to
Number register the program into memory. In a Fanuc controller, this is a four-digit
number. You do not need to enter the leading zeroes. For example, for program
number 10, you would type 10 not 0010.
If your machine needs something in front of the number, this is typically done
automatically by the post processor. For the Fanuc post that is being used here,
a letter O will be output in front of the program number by the post processor,
so it does not need to be entered in the Setup Information.
Material 2D Mill has a library of part materials with associated speeds and feeds. This
information is very important to the program. Speeds and feeds are determined
by the part material you select.
Part This information is for the Setup Sheet and has no effect on the NC program.
Thickness The Setup Sheet is explained on page 1-15.

1-8 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

Option Description
Mach% The Machine Percent option allows you to pick a percent to vary the speeds and
feeds by. For example, if the part you are cutting cannot be held securely, you
could pick Light and the speeds and feeds would not be as fast.
Changing Setup Information
1. Click CAM on the menu bar.
2. Choose Setup Information on the CAM menu.
The Setup Information dialog box displays.
3. Type 100 for the Program Number and press TAB.
4. Press TAB to accept the Material.
5. Type .500 for the Part Thickness and click OK.
Do not change the Machine Percentage. Heavy is the default.

Step 4: Insert a Boundary

The next step is to identify the entities to be machined and the path the cutter will take. This
is done using the Boundary command. Any entities that are to be machined, except drilled
holes, must have a boundary put on them. The exercise below shows how to put a single
boundary on a part. Inserting multiple boundaries is explained in a subsequent exercise. The
Boundary command is explained in detail in Chapter 2.

1. Click the Boundary button on the Mill toolbar.

− The prompt line reads: PICK end point for start of boundary.

− The Endpoint button is

highlighted automatically on the Snap
toolbar.
2. Pick the left side of the top line as shown in
the figure.
This part will be machined around the
outside starting at the top left.
The prompt line changes to: PICK entity for
CAM boundary. This means to pick the first
entity in the boundary to give the boundary
direction.
3. Pick anywhere on the top line.
The top line highlights and an arrow showing the direction of the boundary displays at its
midpoint.
The prompt line continues to read: PICK entity for CAM boundary.
4. Pick the .25 radius arc at the top left of the part for the last entity in the tool path.

Getting Started 1-9

Steps to Generate an NC Program

You do not have to pick each entity in

order because ProCAM automatically
chains the boundary to the arc.
5. Click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: PICK endpoint for
end of boundary.
6. Pick the endpoint of the arc nearest to
the top line.
ProCAM inserts a boundary only on
entities that are displayed in the work
area. All the entities you want to insert a
boundary on must be displayed for
chaining. If any part of the path is not displayed, ProCAM beeps, tells you there is a
break in the path, and asks if you want to connect it. If you get this message, answer No,
press Ctrl + A (the Zoom All shortcut keys), then continue with the boundary.

Step 5: Define the Operations

ProCAM uses operations to define each cutting cycle. If you had a part that had a pocket to
be cut, a profile to be cut, and some holes to be drilled, you would have three operations.
In this example, you have one operation, a profile. The operation contains all the information
to cut the profile of the part. You will do parts with multiple operations in subsequent
exercises.
In the following exercise, you use the Profile Tool Path command to insert a profile tool path
on the boundary. You use the default modifiers for this part. The Profile Tool Path command
and modifiers are explained in Chapter 5. During the definition of this operation, the defaults
are used for some of parameters. All of these parameters are explained in Chapter 3.

1. Click the Profile Tool Path button on the Mill toolbar.

The Set Operation - Profile dialog box and modifier toolbar display.
ProCAM uses operations to define each cycle. Each operation contains the cut
information for that cycle. As you work with different cycles, the parameters in the Set
Operation dialog box change to reflect the operation you are defining.
2. Click the Tool button in the Set Operation dialog box.

1-10 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

The Mill Tools dialog box

displays. This dialog box lists
the information for the tools
that are currently defined.
Initially, the tools are all
defined as end mills. In this
exercise, you define a .5"
diameter end mill.
Note that you can also define
tools by clicking the Tool
button on the system bar.
3. Click the first tool in the list to
highlight it. This is the tool you
are defining.
4. Click the Edit button.
The Set Tool dialog box
displays.

Option Description
Tool This identifies the number of the tool you selected in the Mill Tools dialog
Name box. This number is listed in the Mill Tools dialog box, in the Tool selection
box on the system bar, and in the Set Operations dialog box when you define
an operation.
Tool There are three types of tools you can define: end
Type mill, ball nose and drill. The ball nose is used only
for operations that use Z Wall Definition for the
Cut Cycle Type.
Tool ProCAM uses this parameter to calculate feeds and speeds during cutting
Material operations. The number of tool material types and their names are fixed within
ProCAM.
For ball nose and flat end mills, ProCAM provides three tool material options:
• HSS (High-speed steel tools)
• CB (Carbon steel tools)
• USR (User-defined)
Use the USR option if you want to set feeds and speeds for a tool type that
does not fit into the HSS or CB categories (for example, a specialized high-
speed steel tool, a titanium-coated tool, a diamond tool, or a cobalt drill).
ProCAM provides two additional tool material types for drills: SPD (Spades)
and OIL (Hollow center drills for oil flow).
Diameter You must specify a diameter for all tools.

Getting Started 1-11

Steps to Generate an NC Program

Option Description
Length Refers to the cut length of the tool. In this manual, length is referred to as LOC
(length of cut).
# of Teeth Indicates the number of teeth or flutes in the cutter.
Comment Comment is a 25-character optional field you can use for information about the
tool. The comment is for clarification only and is output in the .TXT file (NC
program) and the .SET file (Setup Sheet).
5. Define the tool using the following information:
Tool Type = use the default end mill
Tool Material = use the default HSS
# Teeth = 4
Length = .875
Diameter = .5
Comment = Hogging Mill
6. Click OK. The Mill Tools dialog box lists the information for Tool 01 as you have
defined it.
7. Click OK to close the Mill Tools dialog box.
The Tool selection box in the Set Operation dialog box and on the system bar show 01 as
the current tool. To the right of the tool selection box on the system bar, .5 indicates the
tool diameter.
8. Make sure Z Single Depth is selected for the Cycle Type.
− The Z Single Depth selection is used when you want the cutter to go to the Z depth
defined in one pass.
− In this operation, you are taking only one pass with the .5" end mill, so this is the
selection you want. This is also the default selection.
− The cutting parameters used for this operation are displayed in black. Parameters that
are dimmed are not applicable to this cycle type.
9. For the Z Depth, type -.500. This is the depth of cut the Z axis feeds down into the work.
10. For Z Clearance, type .100.
Z Clearance is the height above the Z Face the Z axis rapids to before feeding down in
the Z axis. It is also the height the Z axis positions to during rapid moves to get from one
cut to another with the same tool.
11. For Z Rapid Plane, type 2.000.
The Z Rapid Plane is the distance above Z 0.000 that the Z axis rapids to in the Tool
Length Offset line in the program. Specifying a value of 2.000 causes the tool length
offset line in this generic post to read: G00 G43 Z2.000 M08. This parameter is also the
height the Z axis returns to when the operation is complete.

1-12 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

For clarity, all of the values show decimal points and following zeros. However, they do
not have to be typed that way. For example, the 2.000 for Z Rapid plane can be entered
as 2 without the decimal point and following zeros.

12. For the Post Process parameter, make sure the check box is selected.
This parameter determines whether or not this operation will be part of the NC program.
13. Click OK.
The Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box displays. These parameters are specific to
your post, not to ProCAM.
14. For Work Coordinate, type 54.
The Work Coordinate is machine dependent. The selections are G54 through G59 for the
FANTUTM post processor, which is set up for Fanuc. Other machines use different
codes for work offsets.
15. Click OK to accept the input and close the dialog box.

Step 6: Generate Tool Paths

When you click OK to close the Set Operation Post Parameters dialog box, the prompt line
reads: PICK boundary for tool path. You are ready to generate the tool paths.
1. Pick the boundary anywhere on the part.
Since boundaries are actually one entity, you can pick the boundary anywhere along the
path. The boundary is highlighted.
2. Click BUTTON 2 to tell ProCAM you are done picking.

− The first line in the boundary remains highlighted.

− The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE compensation side of boundary.
− ProCAM is asking you which side of the highlighted line you want the tool path to be
on.
3. Position the pointer above the
highlighted line and click BUTTON 1.
The profile tool path is generated.
The prompt line again asks you to
pick the boundary for the tool path. If
you had multiple tool paths, you
would pick the next one and all the
Operation information would remain
the same.
4. Choose Save on the File menu to save
the part as BASICS.PRT.

Getting Started 1-13

Steps to Generate an NC Program

Step 7: Post Process the Part

The Post Process command on the Mill toolbar translates tool path and operation
information into NC code that can be interpreted by a controller. ProCAM creates NC code
for each tool path in the part, in the order the tool path appears in the part.
Modifiers
Highlight Cut Highlights the current tool path that is being processed and output by
the post processor. This option facilitates your tracking of the post
processing to determine the time to completion.
View Code Displays the NC code in the Post dialog box. You can reposition or
close this dialog box. The NC code in the dialog box can be viewed;
however, the code cannot be edited.
Step Mode Allows you to step through each cut move during the post
processing. ProCAM stops after each line of code. Click the Step
button or BUTTON 2 in the work area to advance from the current cut
to the next cut.
Run Post processes the part without stopping. You can change to step
mode by clicking BUTTON 2. If you click Run again, ProCAM
resumes uninterrupted processing.

Post Files
When post processing a part, ProCAM creates two files: the NC program and the Setup
Sheet. These are text files that you can read, edit, and print using any word processor or text
editor. For example, you can use a DNC text editor or a text editor that is installed with
Microsoft Windows (e.g., Notepad or WordPad).
NC Program File
The NC program file contains the NC code for specific machine tool controllers to activate
the tool functions and cutting tool movements for the part. The NC program file is typically
in the \txt folder and has a default file extension of .txt. A sample NC program is shown on
page 1-16.
Transferring the Program to the Machine Tool
ProCAM generates a G-code level NC program that can be transferred to the machine tool.
The transfer method you use depends on your machine control unit. For example, you may
be using DNC software to download the program via an RS-232 cable connection from your
PC to the control unit. You may be transferring the program to punched tape if you are using
tape mode to activate programs. A third transfer method is to print the program and manually
type the program into control unit memory. The DNC and tape methods require installing
and setting up additional hardware and/or software. For more information, refer to the
control unit manufacturer's documentation and other applicable product manuals.

1-14 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

Setup Sheet
The Setup Sheet is not used by the machine tool controller. It is a text file that contains
information the machine tool operator can use to set up the part and tools required to make a
part on the machine tool. The Setup Sheet information displays at the end of the NC program
when you view the code during posting. The information is saved in a file with a .set
extension in the \txt folder. A sample Setup Sheet is shown on page 1-16.
Post Processing
Post processing is the final step in generating the NC program. This step takes all the
information you have input and creates an NC program for your machine.

1. Click the Post Process button on the Mill toolbar.

The Save Post File dialog box
displays.
2. If BASIC1.TXT is not in the File
Name text box, type
BASICS.TXT.
Naming the Post file the same as
the Part file is the most common
way of saving parts and NC
programs. Both files can have the
same name because they have
different extensions. Part files
have a .PRT extension. Post files
have a .TXT extension.
3. Click Save.
The Post dialog box and modifier toolbar display.

4. Make sure the Highlight Cut button is highlighted.

5. Make sure the View Code button is highlighted.

6. Click the Run button.

As ProCAM generates the NC program, the program displays in the dialog box. This is a
short program so it goes very quickly.
ProCAM creates two programs: BASICS.TXT (the NC program for the machine) and
BASICS.SET (the Setup Sheet). The files should look similar to the listing on the next
page.

Getting Started 1-15

Steps to Generate an NC Program

NC Program
BASICS.TXT
O0100
N1 G20
N2 G91 G28 X0 Y0 Z0
N3 T01 M06
N4 S3000 M03
N5 G90 G54 G00 X.25 Y.25
N6 G43 Z.1 H01 M08
N7 G01 Z-.5 F5.
N8 G41 D01 X1.9375 F10.
N9 G02 X2.1143 Y.1768 I0 J-.25
N10 G01 X2.4268 Y-.1357
N11 G02 X2.5 Y-.3125 I-.1768 J-.1768
N12 G01 Y-1.125
N13 X3.9375
N14 G02 X4.1143 Y-1.1982 I0 J-.25
N15 G01 X4.4268 Y-1.5107
N16 G02 X4.5 Y-1.6875 I-.1768 J-.1768
N17 G01 Y-3.
N18 G02 X4.25 Y-3.25 I-.25 J0
N19 G01 X.25
N20 G02 X-.25 Y-2.75 I0 J.5
N21 G01 Y-.25
N22 G02 X.25 Y.25 I.5 J0
N23 G00 Z5. M09
N24 G91 G28 Z0
N25 G28 X0 Y0
N26 M30
Setup Sheet
BASICS.SET
PART NAME=BASICS )
PROGRAM NUMBER=0100 )
( MACHINE=MORI SEIKI )
( MATERIAL=6061-T6 ALUMINUM )
( THICKNESS=.5 )
( ESTIMATED MACHINE TIME=0 HRS. 1 MIN. 51 SEC. )
( STATION TOOL TYPE X SIZE Y SIZE RADIUS ANGLE DESCRIPTION )
(------------- --------------- --------- --------- ----------- --------- ------------------------)
( 001 END_MILL 00.500 HOGGING MILL)

1-16 Getting Started

 More About Tools

More About Tools

Tools in the Mill system are defined using the Mill Tools and Set Tool dialog boxes as
explained in the previous exercise. This section explains how to select tools and change a
tool definition. After you have set up tools, you can save them in a tool file for later recall in
other parts.

Selecting a Tool for an Operation

After tools have been defined, there are several ways you can select a tool for an operation:
• Click the Tool button on the system bar to display the Mill Tools dialog box and select a
tool.
• If you are defining an operation:
− click the Tool button in the Set Operation dialog box and select a tool
or
− double-click the current tool number in the Set Operation dialog box and type a
different number.
Changing a Tool Definition
You can easily change a tool definition as required for a specific operation. To change a tool
definition, display the Mill Tools dialog box and click the Edit button.

Using Tool Files

When you save a part, the tool list you have set up for that part is saved in the .PRT part file.
You can also use the Tool Files command on the CAM menu to save this tool list in a
separate file that can be retrieved later and used with other parts.
If you save the tools in a file with the same name as the controller, this tool file loads
automatically when you start 2D Mill and select the controller in the Controller Types dialog
box. This eliminates having to define a tool list each time. For example, if you are using a
FANUC6M controller, you can set up a tool list for a part, then save the tool list with the file
name FANUC6M. This tool file is opened automatically each time you select FANUC6M in
the Controller Type dialog box.
The tool file options are accessed using the Tool Files command on the CAM menu. When
you select the Tool Files command, a cascading menu displays. You can open a tool file and
load it so that the tools can be used. You can save the tools in the current part to a file and
store the tools for use in another part. Tool file names have an .MTF extension and are stored
in the \procad\tool folder. You can delete a tool file from the disk.

Getting Started 1-17

For More Practice

For More Practice

Skill-Builder Exercise BASICS1
If you need help with this exercise, refer back to the previous exercise (SKCAD1.PRT).

Remember to read the prompt line.

Draw the part or open the part file

1. Open SKCAD5.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

Start 2D Mill

1. Click the CAM button on the CAD toolbar.

The Controller Type dialog box displays.
2. Select FANTUTM and click OK.
Specify the setup information
1. Click CAM on the menu bar.
2. Choose Setup Information on the CAM menu.
3. Enter the setup information, then click OK.

Put a boundary on the part

1. Click the color box on the system
bar and select a different color.

2. Click the Boundary button on

the Mill toolbar.
3. Start the boundary at the right side
of the bottom line.
4. Pick the bottom line to give the
boundary direction.
5. Pick the 2.625 radius arc for the last
entity in the boundary.
6. Click BUTTON 2 to tell ProCAM
you are finished.
7. Pick the end of the arc for the endpoint of the boundary.
Define the operation
1. Click the color box on the system bar and select a different color.

2. Click the Profile Tool Path button.

1-18 Getting Started

 For More Practice

The Set Operation - Profile dialog box and modifier toolbar display. You can use the
default modifiers for this exercise.
3. Click the Tool button in the dialog box.
The Mill Tools dialog box displays.
4. Select a tool and click the Edit button.
5. In the Set Tool dialog box, define the tool as an end mill with a .75 diameter. You can use
the defaults for the other parameters.
6. Click OK.
7. Click OK to close the Mill Tools dialog box.
8. In the Set Operation – Profile dialog box, make sure Z Single Depth is selected for the Z
Cycle Type and click OK.
9. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
Generate tool paths:
1. Pick the boundary for the tool path.
2. At the prompt, digitize to the outside of the tool path.
The part should look like the figure on the previous page.
3. Choose Save on the File menu to save the part as BASICS1.TXT.
Post process the part:

1. Click the Post Process button on the Mill toolbar.

The Save Post File dialog box displays.
2. Use BASICS1.TXT for the Post File Name and click OK.

3. Click the Run modifier button.

Points to Remember
• Use separate layers for boundaries and CAM entities. See the CAD online help for more
information on using layers.
• Change colors for boundaries and tool paths.
• If ProCAM is not responding as you anticipated, check the prompt line or click BUTTON
2.
• You can change a tool definition quickly when you are defining or editing an operation
by clicking the Tool button in the Set Operation dialog box.

Getting Started 1-19

For More Practice

1-20 Getting Started

Chapter 2 Boundaries

ProCAM 2D Mill uses boundaries to identify the entities to be machined and determine the
path and direction of the cutter. Any entities that are to be machined, except drill holes, must
have a boundary.
The basic steps for inserting a boundary are:
1. Pick the start point for the boundary.
2. Pick the first entity for direction.
3. Pick the last entity in the boundary.
4. Click BUTTON 2.
5. Pick the endpoint for the end of the boundary.
When you inserted a single boundary in the exercise in Chapter 1, you determined the start
point, end point, and direction of the boundary. The Boundary command provides modifiers
that allow ProCAM to do this automatically.
This chapter explains how to insert multiple boundaries that can be open or closed, and how
to use the modifiers to automate the process.

Boundaries 2-1
Inserting a Boundary

Inserting a Boundary
The Boundary command is used to define the entities to be machined and the path and
direction of the cutter. Any entities that are to be machined, except drill holes, must have a
boundary on them. ProCAM uses boundaries to compensate the cutters and to check for
interference between cut paths.
A boundary is a complex entity, which means it is made up of more than one entity. A
boundary has continuity (no breaks between connecting entities) and a direction (a start and
end).
The Boundary command provides a choice of three methods that allow inserting single or
multiple boundaries for simple or complex parts.

Modifiers
Boundary
Type Toggle
Single This is the default setting. Select this modifier if you are inserting one
boundary by selecting each entity or each group to be chained.
Open The start and end points of the boundary are not the same.

Closed The start and end points of the boundary are the same.

What You Need to Know

ProCAM displays a boundary on the screen as an entity that resembles an arrow with tail
feathers at the midpoint of each boundary entity. When creating tool paths, ProCAM uses
boundaries to determine direction and order.
There are three types of boundaries: single, open and closed. The open and closed modifiers
are used to insert several boundaries by window picking the entities and using additional
modifiers to define how the boundary is to be inserted. The open and closed boundary types
are useful when many boundaries must be inserted in a part.
Single Boundary
A single boundary inserts one boundary by selecting each entity in the boundary or by
chaining each entity in the boundary. You can chain-select entities by skipping several
entities and picking an entity further along the boundary. The skipped entities are picked
automatically.
Lookahead Modifier

No Lookahead
ProCAM does not look ahead during chaining to detect multiple paths to chain. This
modifier assumes that you know there are no multiple paths along the entities being chained.
Choosing this option can speed up boundary creation of large parts significantly.

2-2 Boundaries
 Inserting a Boundary

For example, a gear or CAM may have hundreds of entities connected end to end to define
the gear. There are no multiple paths. This is a good place to use this modifier. No
Lookahead is the default setting.

Infinite Lookahead
ProCAM looks ahead along the possible boundary entities during chaining to detect multiple
paths to chain. When an entity is found that is connected to the end of the last entity selected,
ProCAM checks every entity displayed to detect if more than one path is possible. If more
than one possible path is found, ProCAM prompts you to choose the correct path. This
procedure can be very time consuming if the part is large. As an entity is added to the
boundary, every entity in the part is checked to see if it could also be added.
The part shown in the figure on the right has two pockets
with different depths.
If you started the boundary at the midpoint of the left
vertical line and went counterclockwise (as shown in the
figure below), when ProCAM reached the vertical line that
separates the two pockets, it would not know which way to
go.
• With the default No Lookahead modifier, ProCAM
would just blindly run the cutter around one of the
pockets.
• With the Lookahead modifier selected, ProCAM would
beep when it reached the branch point and the prompt
line would read: ERROR: Multiple paths found. Pick correct path. When this happens,
ProCAM highlights the different paths in dark red. You would pick the path you want the
boundary on and ProCAM would
continue along that path. Whenever
you have boundaries with branch
points, use the Lookahead modifier.

Boundaries 2-3
Inserting a Boundary

Closed Boundary
A closed boundary means the start and end points of the boundary are the same. This
modifier is used to insert several boundaries by window picking many entities and using
additional modifiers to define how the boundary is to be inserted.
Boundary Direction Modifier

The boundary direction modifier defines the direction in which ProCAM inserts
a closed boundary (clockwise or counterclockwise). If a direction is not selected, ProCAM
uses the original direction of the first entity in the boundary (from the start of the entity to the
end of the entity).
Break Modifier

The Break modifier is used to determine whether the boundary starts at the end of an
entity or at its midpoint. If this modifier is selected, ProCAM looks to see if any entities were
broken with the Break Utility.
• If ProCAM finds a previous break, it starts the boundary at that point. In areas where you
want to start the boundary at a specific place, but still want to be able to window pick the
entities, break the entity before you insert the boundary.
• If ProCAM does not find any previous break, it automatically breaks the longest line in
the path at its midpoint. The boundary starts and ends at this point.
Step Modifier

This modifier is used to step through each boundary as it is created to allow selecting
the start entity and the start location. ProCAM displays each boundary and the starting point
that ProCAM automatically selects. You can either accept the starting point by clicking
BUTTON 2 or override the starting point by snapping another entity within the boundary.

Open Boundary
An open boundary is a boundary where the start and end points are not the same.
Direction Modifiers: Up, Down, Left, Right

When direction modifiers are selected, ProCAM builds a boundary

in the direction specified on the button.

2-4 Boundaries
 Inserting a Boundary

This means that ProCAM builds

a boundary on the entities
selected that generally conforms
to the direction of the selected
directions.

Only Direction Modifier

When this modifier is selected, only

entities that conform to the selected
Direction modifiers are used in building
the boundary. All other entities are
ignored. If this modifier is not selected, the
entities used in building the boundaries
generally conform to the selected Direction
modifiers.

Horizontal/Vertical Modifiers

The Horizontal and Vertical modifiers are used to define which axis is
considered to be the primary solution, if ProCAM cannot determine the direction of a
boundary based upon the direction modifiers. This typically happens when an equal case is
encountered.

Boundaries 2-5
Inserting a Boundary

What You'll Learn

• Inserting a Closed Boundary
• Inserting an Open Boundary
• Inserting a Boundary with Rounded Corners
Inserting a Closed Boundary
Putting boundaries on all the cutouts in this part would take a considerable amount of time if
you had to select the start, direction and end for each cutout. In this exercise, you use
modifiers to pick all the cutouts at the same time.
1. Open the part file EXMILL18.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Start 2D Mill (FANTUTM).

3. Click the Boundary button.

4. Click the Boundary Type button twice

to display the Closed modifier.
The first click displays the Open modifier.

5. Make sure the Break button is

highlighted.

6. Make sure the Counterclockwise

modifier button is highlighted.
7. Window pick all the inside cutouts.
− Make sure you do not window pick all the entities on the outside path. With the
Closed modifier selected, leaving any entities outside the window prevents ProCAM
from putting a boundary on them.
− If you miss any of the entities for the cutouts in the window, you can either window
pick the ones you missed or pick them individually with BUTTON 1. You can continue
to select entities until you click BUTTON 2.
8. Click BUTTON 2.
ProCAM processes all the information and inserts a boundary on all the cutouts.
If any of the entities around the outside were picked, these entities remain highlighted
after ProCAM finishes putting boundaries on the cutouts. A message at the bottom of the
screen reads: Note: Boundaries are not inserted on highlighted entities. Because you are
inserting a Closed boundary, ProCAM cannot recognize entities that do not form a closed
path. This message also displays if any of the cutouts were not completely closed. The
entities would remain highlighted and they would not have a boundary on them.

2-6 Boundaries
 Inserting a Boundary

The figure on the right shows

part of the example. Notice the
start points of the boundaries are
the midpoints of the longest line.

This figure shows what the cutouts would be like

with the Break modifier off. ProCAM would start
the boundary at the endpoint of the longest entity,
not the longest line.

Inserting an Open Boundary

The Open modifier is used to insert boundaries on multiple entities where the start and end
points are not the same. In the part EXMILL19 shown below on the left, instead of
contouring the slots using a smaller cutter, you could use a cutter the same size as the slot
and make one cut. All you would need is a single line running up the middle of the slot (as
shown in the figure on the right). This is explained in the exercise below.

Boundaries 2-7
Inserting a Boundary

1. Open the part file EXMILL19.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Start 2D Mill (FANTUTM).

3. Click the Boundary button on the Mill toolbar.

4. Click the Boundary Type modifier until the Open Boundary modifier displays.

5. Click the Any Direction

modifier button.

6. Click the Up Direction

modifier button.
7. Turn off all other modifier buttons.
8. Window pick all the lines.
9. Click BUTTON 2.
ProCAM inserts boundaries pointing
up on all the lines.
Your part should look like the figure.
If you wanted to machine the slots alternating up and down, instead of window picking the
lines, you can selectively pick them with the mouse as shown below.
1. Oops off the boundaries.
If you have clicked another button and cannot Oops the boundaries, you can open the part
file again (do not save the changes).

2. Click the Redraw button to refresh the screen.

3. With the Any Direction and Up modifiers selected, pick every other line as
shown in the figure.
4. Click BUTTON 2.

5. Click the Down modifier

button.
6. Pick the rest of the slots.
7. Click BUTTON 2.
ProCAM inserts the down
boundaries. When this part is
machined, the cutter will go up one
slot and down the next.

2-8 Boundaries
 Inserting a Boundary

Inserting a Boundary with Rounded Corners

When you use the Boundary command with either the Open or Closed modifier, you can
have ProCAM round off all the outside corners automatically. With a part like the one shown
in the figure below, you could save time by using the automatic rounding function instead of
inserting a fillet on each corner.
1. Open the part file EXMILL40.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Start 2D Mill (FANTUTM).

3. Click the Boundary button.

4. Click the Boundary Type modifier button

until the Closed modifier displays.
5. Double-click the Radius text box in the InfoBar.
The prompt line reads: ENTER fillet radius.
6. Type .75, then click BUTTON 2.
7. Window pick the entire part.
ProCAM inserts the boundary on the part and
puts a .75 radius on all the sharp corners.

Boundaries 2-9
Inserting a Boundary

2-10 Boundaries
Chapter 3 Understanding Operations

In the exercises in Chapter 1, you created a Profile operation by simply following the
directions and using most of the defaults. This chapter provides an explanation of Mill
operations and the parameters you can define when you create an operation.

This is a "What You Need to Know" chapter. The information is important to your
understanding of how 2D Mill functions. We recommend you read the chapter before
continuing. In subsequent chapters, the exercises provide only the values that need to be set
for a particular operation. You can refer back to this chapter if you need more information
on a parameter.

Understanding Operations 3-1

Creating an Operation

Creating an Operation
An operation contains information on how a part is machined and how the NC code is
output. The CAM cycles that generate operations include profiling, drilling, profile
pocketing, and lace pocketing. When these cutting cycles are run, the operation contains the
machining information required to create CAM tool paths and generate the finished code.
An operation is associated (attached) to entities. Associating an operation to a part is called
associative machining. Once an operation has been associated to entities, updating the CAM
tool path and the NC code becomes relatively simple if either the geometry or machining
information is changed.
An operation is created:
• the first time a cycle button is selected on the Mill toolbar.
• if the CAM cycle selected is different from the last operation. If the CAM cycle is the
same as the last operation (for example, running two profiles in succession), the same
operation may be used.
• by clicking the Operation button on the system bar. This button is labeled Operation if no
operations have been created for a part. When you select an operation in the Operation
List dialog box, the button label changes to identify the operation (for example, Profile).

To create the operation, you set values for parameters in the Set Operation dialog box and
select the applicable modifier buttons. ProCAM then prompts for the boundary to be cut and
the cycle is run.
Once an operation has been created, ProCAM provides options to edit, comment, rerun and
list the cutter paths in the operation.

Selecting the Operation Type

ProCAM provides two methods for selecting the operation type:
• Click the Operation button on the system bar, then click New in the Operation List dialog
box.
• Click the command button for a specific operation on the Mill toolbar.

3-2 Understanding Operations

 Creating an Operation

Using the Operation Button

When you click the Operation button on the system bar, the
Operation List dialog box displays. This dialog box is shown on
page 2-17. Click the New button to display the Mill Operations
dialog box.
When you select one of the operation types and click OK, the
Set Operation dialog box displays the parameters that apply to
that operation. Some of the parameters are used for all types of
operations. Others are unique for each operation. These
parameters are explained in the following sections.

Miscellaneous operations include linear, arc and circular tool paths. These operations are
explained in Chapter 9.

Using the Mill Toolbar

For Drill, Profile, Lace, Pocket, and Macro operations, you can click the applicable
command button on the Mill toolbar. You can use this method to bypass the Mill Operations
dialog box. When you click a toolbar button, the Set Operation dialog box displays the
parameters for that operation.

If you want to define more than one operation of the same type in succession, you must
click the Operation button and the New button in the Operation List dialog box. If you
select the Mill toolbar button, the new operation is appended to the existing operation of the
same type.

Understanding Operations 3-3

Creating an Operation

Defining a Profile Operation

The Set Operation dialog
box for a Profile operation
is shown below. This
dialog box displays when
you select Profile in the
Mill Operations dialog
box. You worked with this
dialog box in the exercise
in Chapter 1.

Z Values
Tool
The Tool selection box identifies the tool that is currently selected. You can change the
current tool number by typing a new number in the text box. You can click the Tool button
to display the list of tools or edit the selected tool. For more information on defining tools,
see Chapter 1.
Operation Name
This parameter in the Set Operation dialog box allows you to name an operation using up to
24 characters. This name is in addition to the general operation (cycle) name.
Z Cycle Type
When you define a Profile, Pocket or Lace Pocket operation, you must select one of the Z
Cycle Types. Z Single Depth is the default.

3-4 Understanding Operations

 Creating an Operation

Z Single Depth
ProCAM makes a single cut to the Z depth you specify. You used this option for the
exercises in Chapter 1.
Z Step and Repeat
ProCAM makes multiple cuts in the X,Y plane stepping down in the Z axis.
Z Wall Definition
ProCAM cuts the wall of the part according to the side view that you define.

For more information on using Z Step and Repeat and Z Wall Definition, see Chapter 8.

Z Cut Method
This parameter is used with Z Wall Definition. The Vertical Cuts option allows you to
calculate Z cuts by measuring vertically along the Z axis. When you select Vertical Cuts, you
can specify values for Z First Cut and Z Sub. Cut. Distance Along allows you calculate Z
cuts by measuring along the part wall (along the perimeter and island boundaries). When you
select this option, you can specify a value for the Distance Along.
Z Face
The absolute Z location of the face
of the material. This parameter
tells ProCAM where the face of
the part is for the operation you
are defining. If you specify zero
(0), all the Z axis moves are
negative.
If you normally program with
"Z0" being the bottom of the part,
this value would be where the top
of the part is in relation to the
bottom. In this case, the Z Face
would be a positive value and all Z
depths would be positive.
In the exercises in this manual, all operations use Z0 as the top of the part.
Z Depth
The absolute Z location of the final cut. This is the depth of cut the Z axis feeds down into
the work. This parameter is used with Z Single Depth and Z Step and Repeat cycles.
Z First Cut / Z Sub. Cut
Z First Cut
This parameter is the Z axis depth you want your cutter to go in the first time through.

Understanding Operations 3-5

Creating an Operation

Z Sub. Cut
This parameter is the amount of Z depth for the remaining or subsequent cuts.
These parameters are used with Z Step and Repeat and Z Wall Definition cycles when
Vertical Cuts is selected as the Z Cut Method.
Z Allowance
Allows you to enter a value for the amount that the Z axis stays away from the finished
shape. This parameter is used with Z Wall Definition.
XY Allowance
The amount of material to leave
on the part if you were going to
take a rough and finish pass.
This value is the actual distance
the cutter stays away from the
finished part (as shown in the
figure below). The amount is
defined per side. For example, if
you entered a value of .010, and
you were going around the
outside of a 4" square, the part
would measure 4.020 after the
cut.
Distance Along
This parameter allows you to calculate Z cuts by measuring along the part wall (along the
perimeter and island boundaries). The Distance Along option allows input of Z depths to be
parallel to the part being cut. This parameter is used with Z Step and Repeat and Z Wall
Definition cycles when Distance Along is selected for the Z Cut Method.
Clearance
Clearance Type
This parameter allows you to choose Single or Multiple. Single specifies that all cut levels
have the same rapid clearance plane. If you select Multiple, ProCAM calculates a new
clearance plane for each subsequent cut level. This parameter is used with Z Step and Repeat
and Z Wall Definition cycles.
Z Clearance
The height above the Z Face the Z axis rapids to before feeding down in the Z axis. It is also
the height the Z axis positions to during rapid moves to get from one cut to another with the
same tool.

3-6 Understanding Operations

 Creating an Operation

Z Rapid Plane
The absolute Z location at which all XY rapid moves are executed. This is the distance above
Z0.000 that the Z axis rapids to in the Tool Length Offset line in the program. For example,
if you specify 2.000, the tool length offset line would read: G00 G43 Z2.000 M8.
This parameter is also the height the Z axis returns to when the operation is complete. The
amount you specify here should take into consideration any clamps on the part. If there is
nothing higher than Z 0.000 on the part, this could be set the same as Z Clearance.
Feed/Speed
The following information assumes you are using the optional Feed and Speed Library. If
you are using the internal ProCAM feeds and speeds tables, see Appendix A.
Feeds and speeds are defined for each operation individually when using the Feed and Speed
Library. In the Set Operation dialog box for Mill operations, you can choose either the Fixed
or Linked method.
Fixed
With this method, the feed and speed values for an operation remain constant or fixed
throughout the entire tool path. You can either enter the values for feed and speed or use the
Suggest button to extract values from the library. If you change the library values and post
process the part again, the feed and speed values will not be updated automatically.
Linked
With this method, the feed/speed values are extracted from the Feed and Speed Library when
the part is post processed. The feed and speed values may vary throughout the tool path
depending on the type of operation. Unlike the fixed method, if you change the library values
and post process the part again, the G-code values for feeds and speeds will change to reflect
the library changes.
Feed/Speed Button
When you reach the step of defining an operation, you have already defined the part
material, class (machine duty percent), tool and cut type. You can click the Feed/Speed
button in the Set Operation dialog box to start the Feed/Speed Editor, which displays the
specific section of the feed/speed database that matches these conditions. This is the table
ProCAM will use for this operation.
Spindle Direction
The Spindle direction can be counterclockwise or clockwise.
Z Feed
The feedrate for the Z axis to feed into the work to the Z Depth. In these exercises, feedrates
are defined as inches per minute. If you are working in metric, feedrates would be defined as
millimeters per minute.

Understanding Operations 3-7

Creating an Operation

XY Feed
The feedrate for the X and Y axes. Feedrates are given in inches per minute or millimeters
per minute.
Cut Amount
The cut amount is how deeply the
cutter is buried in the work. It is
given as a radial amount, meaning
the actual per side amount. This
value is used to determine the feed
and speed for the operation.

Spindle Speed
The Spindle Speed is typically given in revolutions per minute.
Profile Parameters
Corner Clear.
For a Profile operation with either the Sharp or Square Corner Type modifier, this parameter
defines the distance beyond the corner before creating the sharp or square corner transition.
The maximum amount is determined by the distance to create a sharp corner extension.
Corner Ext/Rad.
For a Profile operation with either the Triangular or Loop Corner Type modifier, this
parameter defines the distance beyond the corner before creating the triangular extension or
the radius of the loop arc.
Lookahead
This parameter is enabled when you select Specified Lookahead for the Interference
Checking modifier. Use this parameter if you want to change the number of entities to look
ahead for gouging. The default is six. For more information on the Interference Checking
modifiers, see Chapter 5.
Max Loop Angle
For a Profile operation with the Loop Corner Type modifier, this parameter allows you to
determine whether to insert a loop transition based on the included angle of the sharp corner.
This modifier is used to eliminate loops on nearly colinear or tangent entities.

3-8 Understanding Operations

 Creating an Operation

Start and End Types

ProCAM allows you to determine how the end mill moves into and out of the part.
Start Type
Plunge at Leadin Start
Plunge at Leadin Start causes the end mill to feed down
at the beginning of the Leadin Line. With this selection
picked, the following steps would be output in the NC
Program:
Rapid the X and Y axis to Pos. #1.
Rapid the Z axis to the Clearance Plane.
Feed the Z axis down to depth.
Move X and/or Y to the start position of the Profile cut
(Pos. #2).
Cut the Profile.

Plunge at Leadin Start

Ramp on Leadin Line
This option allows you to ramp the X,Y, and Z axis at the same time. With this selection
picked, the following steps would be output in the NC Program:
Rapid the X and Y axis to Pos #1.
Rapid the Z axis to the Clearance Plane.
Feed the Z axis down to depth while it is moving the X and/or Y axis to Pos #2.
Cut the Profile.
Plunge at Start Hole and Ramp from Start Hole
Typically, these two options would be used during a pocketing routine. They allow you to
determine where the end mill will feed into the part by selecting a start hole.
After ProCAM asks you to pick the boundary for the pocket
and any islands, you are prompted to pick the start hole
location.
This start hole can be an actual start hole that you pre-drilled,
or it could just be some place you digitized to have the end
mill feed in from.
Typically, if you are using Plunge at Start Hole, you would
have pre-drilled the hole.
If you are using Ramp From Start Hole, you could digitize a
location where the X, Y, and Z axis could feed from to start
the pocket.

Understanding Operations 3-9

Creating an Operation

Plunge From Start Hole would give you the

following movements in the NC Program:
Rapid the X and Y axis to Pos. #1.
Rapid the Z axis to the Clearance Plane.
Feed the Z axis to Depth.
Move the X and/or Y axis to the start of the pocket
(Pos. #2).
Then continue cutting the pocket.
Ramp from Start Hole would give you the following
movements in the NC Program:
Rapid the X and Y axis to Pos. #1.
Rapid the Z axis to the Clearance Plane.
Feed the Z axis to Depth while moving the X and/or
Plunge From Start Hole
Y axis to the start of the pocket (Pos. #2).
Then continue cutting the pocket.
IMPORTANT!
ProCAM DOES NOT CHECK FOR
INTERFERENCE when it is feeding or ramping from
the Start Hole to where the pocket starts.
For example, in the figure on the right, if the start hole
was at Pos. #1, ProCAM would feed the cutter from
there to Pos. #2. This would cut through the walls of
the pocket.
After the pocket cycle has been run, if you find out
that it cuts through walls or islands, Oops out the tool
path and run the pocket cycle again. When ProCAM
asks you to pick a start hole location, pick something
closer to the start point. Cutting Through Walls or Islands

3-10 Understanding Operations

 Creating an Operation

Another consideration is using the Profile modifier

to cut a Profile Before or After.
In the figure on the right, Profile After was picked.
In this case, the position of the start hole was
correct for the pocketing. ProCAM would rapid to
the start hole location, feed or ramp in, then cut the
pocket.
After the pocketing was complete, ProCAM would
rapid back to the start hole location (shown as a
dashed line), feed or ramp in and cut right through
the walls to get to the start of the profile.
Remember, the profile cut starts where the
boundary starts. The simple solution to this Profile After
problem is to use the No Profile modifier in
pocketing and do a separate Profile cut around the perimeter and/or islands. This would also
allow you to use Plunge or Ramp on Leadin lines.
Spiral at Start Hole
This option allows you to ramp into the part in a helical motion at a definable radius with a
definable depth per revolution. This option is available only for machine/controllers that
support helical interpolation. Depth per revolution is the distance the tool will feed in the Z
axis per each helical revolution. Spiral radius is the XY distance from the center of the start
hole to the center of the tool on the spiral.
End Type
Retract at Leadout End
This selection is used on a profile cut and causes the end mill to rapid up the clearance plane
at the end of the leadout move.
Retract at End Hole
Using Retract at End Hole causes the cutter to
feed to an End Hole location before it rapids the Z
axis up to the clearance plane.
The End Hole location does not have to be the
same as the Start Hole location.
After ProCAM prompts you to pick the Start
Hole, it prompts you to pick the End Hole
location.
ProCAM does not check for interference when it
is feeding back the end hole before it rapids the Z
axis up. If there is anything in the way, it cuts
right through it. Retract at End Hole

Understanding Operations 3-11

Creating an Operation

Post Process
This parameter is a check box. A check mark in the box specifies that this operation will be
post processed as part of the NC program. When the check mark is removed, the operation is
not post processed as part of the NC program.
After you have created an operation, you can
quickly change this parameter using the Post
buttons in the Operation List dialog box.
For example, the figure on the right shows a pair
of parts with a left and right hand configuration.
The left hand part has an additional cut on it. If
you did the additional cut in a separate
operation, you could do the left hand part
completely. Then, you could mirror image the
part and change the remove the check mark
from the Post Process parameter. When you
process the right hand part, only the outside
profile would be in the NC program. Left and Right Hand Configuration

Set Operation - Post Parameters

When you click OK in the Set Operation
dialog box, the Set Operation -Post
Parameters dialog box displays for new
operations. You can edit these
parameters after an operation is defined
by clicking the More button in the first
Set Operation dialog box. The
parameters that display in this dialog box
depend on the post processor. The
parameters for the FANTUTM post
processor are explained below.
Compensation
This selection has no effect on the tool path you are defining on the screen. It determines if G
codes for cutter radius compensation are output in the NC program and allows you to choose
which code. For example, you can force a G42 instead of a G41. Typically, this is done for
controllers that do not accept negative numbers.
On/Off: These commands are used in conjunction with the Profile Compensation modifiers.
Selecting On or Off determines if the compensation commands are output in the NC
program.
Left: Picking Left outputs the compensation command for left cutter radius compensation. In
this post processor, this appears as a G41 command.
Right: The Code output in this post processor would be G42 for right compensation.

3-12 Understanding Operations

 Creating an Operation

Absolute / Incremental
This selection allows you to determine whether the NC code output is absolute or
incremental for this operation.
Work Coordinate
This parameter is machine dependent. For FANTUTM, which is set up for Fanuc, the
selections are G54 through G59. Other machines use different codes for work offsets.
Coolant
If your machine has programmable coolant, this parameter outputs the selected function in
the NC code. For example, if you select Off, the M function is output in the code to turn off
the coolant. Choices for the FANTUTM post processor are: Off, Flood, Mist and Through
Hole.

Defining a Drilling Operation

The parameters for a Drill
operation are basically the
same as the Profile operation
parameters with the
exception of Cycle Type,
Retract Type, First Peck and
Sub. Peck. Only the
parameters that are different
are explained below. For
information on the other
parameters, see the previous
section on Defining a Profile
Operation.

Z Values
Cycle Type
This parameter lists the drilling cycles you can select. Cycles include drilling, spot drilling,
pecking, tapping, boring, high-speed pecking, variable pecking, reverse tapping, reaming,
reaming with dwell, bore with dwell, back boring, and fine boring.

Understanding Operations 3-13

Creating an Operation

Clearance
Retract Type
This parameter outputs G98 or G99 in the FANTUTM post processor.
Clearance Plane
When you select this option, the drill
retracts to the clearance plane in
between each hole.
Rapid Plane
When you select this option, the drill
retracts to the Rapid plane, positions to
the next hole, then rapids down to the
clearance plane and starts drilling.
If you make the Z Rapid Plane and Z
Clearance the same value, it does not
matter which one of these options you
select.
First Peck / Sub. Peck
Two additional parameters are activated for the peck drilling cycles: First Peck and
Subsequent Peck. If your machine supports only one peck value in the drilling cycle, the
subsequent peck value will be ignored. In the FANTUTM post processor used for these
exercises, Sub. Peck is ignored.

3-14 Understanding Operations

 Creating an Operation

Defining a Pocket Operation

The parameters for a
Pocket operation are the
same as the Profile
operation parameters.
The dialog box is shown
below. For an
explanation of the
parameters, see the
section on Defining a
Profile Operation.

Understanding Operations 3-15

Creating an Operation

Defining a Lace Pocket Operation

The parameters for a
Lace Pocket operation
are the same as for
profiling with the
exception of the lace
Cut Amount and Cut
Angle. These two
parameters are
explained below. For
information on the other
parameters, see the
section on Defining a
Profile Operation.

Lace Parameters
Cut Amount
This parameter specifies the amount to cut between lace tool paths. This is also called the
step-over amount.
In Lace Pocketing, the cut amount can be up to 100% of the diameter of the end mill.
ProCAM defaults to one-half the diameter to insure full stock removal in parts with acute
angles.
Cut Angle
This is the angle of the pocket relative to the part. Selecting different angles can shorten the
machining cycle time by eliminating wasted moves. Whenever possible, use an angle that is
parallel to the longest cut. The exercises in Chapter 4 provide examples of using different
angles for lace pocketing.

3-16 Understanding Operations

 Modifying an Operation

Modifying an Operation
When any
information for an
operation needs to
be changed, you can
edit the operation.
You can change
parameters in the
Set Operation dialog
box, change
modifiers, add
comments to the NC
code, change the
machining order and
change the post process status for an operation.
To edit an operation, click the Operation button on the system bar at the top of the window.
The Operation List dialog box displays the list of operations that have been defined for the
part.
Creating a New Operation
The New button allows you to create a new operation after the operation that is currently
selected. ProCAM automatically creates a new operation when a different operation button is
selected on the Mill toolbar; however, there are times when a new operation is needed even
though the operation type has not changed. When two or more operations with the same
cycle type are used, you need to create a new operation manually using the New button. An
example would be a Lace Pocketing cycle with a large end mill, followed by another Lace
Pocketing cycle with a smaller end mill.
When you select an operation and click the New button, the Mill Operations dialog box
displays. You can then create a new operation for this part.

Editing an Operation
When you select an operation and click the Edit button, the Set Operation dialog box and the
modifier toolbar for that operation display. The Z Cycle Type parameter is dimmed. You
cannot change the cycle type after an operation has been defined. You can change any of the
parameters that are black. If you edit an operation, you need to rerun the operation to update
the operation information. This is done using the Rerun command.
You can use the Post Y/N button to change whether an operation will be part of the NC
program. If you are changing just the Post Process parameter, using the Post button
eliminates having to click the Edit button and change the parameter in the Set Operation
dialog box. You can use the Post All Yes/Post All No buttons to simplify selecting
operations to be post processed.

Understanding Operations 3-17

Modifying an Operation

Deleting an Operation
The Delete command button deletes the selected operation and all tool paths associated with
the operation.

Changing the Machining Order

Use the Move command button to move the selected operation to another location in the
order list. The order the operations display in the dialog box is the order the part will be
machined. Moving an operation in this dialog box changes the machining order.
To move an operation:
1. Select the operation to move and click the Move button. The Move modifier toolbar
displays.
2. Select the applicable modifier to move the operation before or after another operation.
The prompt line reads: SELECT operation that order change will be after (or before).
3. Select the operation in the list.

Copying an Operation
The Copy button allows you to copy operation parameter information to another operation.
This makes it very easy to build similar operations to be used on different tool paths without
having to re-input tool and operation information.
Only the operation information is copied, not any tool paths that may be associated to the
original operation.
The Before and After modifiers function the same as for the Move operation feature.

Updating Tool Path Information

Use the Rerun command button to have ProCAM automatically
replace the old tool path with a new tool path using updated
operation information. You should rerun the operation if you edit an
operation, change the tool within an operation, change modifiers, or
change the cutting parameters. The Rerun dialog box displays three
choices for rerunning the operation.
Option Description
Current Reruns the operation that is currently highlighted in the Set Operation
Operation dialog box. This is the default setting.
All Reruns all the operations whether or not the information has been
Operations changed.
From Current Reruns the operations from the current operation to the last operation,
including the current.

3-18 Understanding Operations

 Modifying an Operation

Adding Comments to the NC Code

Use the Comment command button in
the Operation List dialog box to insert
comments with an operation. When the
part is post processed, comments are
output in the NC code before the
operation.
When you select an operation and click
the Comment button, the Operation
Comment dialog box displays.
Type the comments to be output with the
NC code, then click OK. To start a new line, press CTRL + ENTER.

Listing an Operation
The List command button allows you to
view and print a text-style listing of an
operation. This dialog box also has
configuration options.
When you select an operation and click
the List button, the Cutter Path List
dialog box displays.
You can print the listing and you can
change the configuration options at the
bottom. The configuration options allow
you to specify absolute or incremental
output for the XY Coordinates, IJ
Center and Z Depth.

Understanding Operations 3-19

Modifying an Operation

3-20 Understanding Operations

Chapter 4 Pocket Tool Paths

Pocketing is a mill roughing cycle. There are two types of pocketing in ProCAM:
• Profile pocketing removes material from a part by following the shape of the profile.
• Lace pocketing removes material by making a series of parallel cuts across the stock.
Both types have the ability to avoid islands.
This chapter explains pocketing and shows you how to use the Pocket Tool Path and Lace
Pocket Tool Path commands.

Z Single Depth is used for the Z cycle type in the exercises in this chapter. With this cycle
type, ProCAM makes a single cut to the Z depth you specify. For Pocket and Lace Pocket
operations, you can also select Z Step and Repeat to makes multiple cuts in the X axis or Z
Wall Definition to cut the wall of the part according to the side view that you define. These
cycle types are explained in Chapter 8.

Pocket Tool Paths 4-1

Inserting a Pocket Tool Path

Inserting a Pocket Tool Path

The Pocket Tool Path command inserts tool paths into a part starting from the inside and
working outward to remove all of the material inside the pocket, excluding any islands
selected. The Pocket Tool Path command creates compensated tool paths based upon
perimeter and island boundaries. A boundary must be inserted before a Pocket tool path can
be generated.

Modifiers
Direction
Toggle
Any Direction The direction of the Pocket tool path is the same direction as the
boundary.
Counterclockwise Forces the Pocket tool path in a counterclockwise direction.

Clockwise Forces the Pocket tool path in a clockwise direction.

What You Need to Know

Pocket Operation Summary
A Pocket operation removes the material from
a pocket following the shape of the profile.
ProCAM begins pocketing at what it believes
to be the innermost pocket and pockets
outward until it reaches a path that has a
subpocket. ProCAM then retracts and pierces
the new pocket (the subpocket). It continues
pocketing outward in this manner. If the
Pocket routine finds that it has completed an
area and can go no further, it retracts and
pierces what it believes to be the next
innermost pocket.
When moving from one path to another,
ProCAM makes a linear cut from the last cut
position to the closest position on the next path. The closest position may be in the middle of
an entity, in which case the entity would be broken into two entities at the cut position.
The direction of the part perimeter boundary determines the direction of the pocket, unless
modified by the Direction modifier. All cuts are in the same direction as the perimeter
boundary direction or as modified.
Tool-to-part clearance is maintained between the part perimeter and all islands. Tool
interference checking is Infinite Lookahead to ensure that the tool never cuts the part. For
more information on Infinite Lookahead, see Chapter 5.

4-2 Pocket Tool Paths

 Inserting a Pocket Tool Path

What You'll Learn

• Using the Direction Modifiers to Insert a Pocket Tool Path
• Profile Pocketing with Islands
Using the Direction Modifiers to Insert a Pocket Tool Path
In this exercise, you are going to cut the pocket using different modifiers to see their effect
on the pocket.
1. Open the part file EXMILL3.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Start 2D Mill.
ProCAM starts Mill automatically because the part
was saved as a Mill part.
The boundary is already inserted on this part.

3. Click the Pocket Tool Path button.

The Set Operation - Pocket dialog box and modifier
toolbar display.

4. Leave the Any Direction modifier showing.

5. Click the Tool button and set up a tool as a .375"
diameter end mill.
6. Pick Z Single Depth in the Set Operation dialog box.
7. Select Linked for the Feed/Speed type.
− For both profile pocketing and lace pocketing, if you pick Linked, the feed rates
ProCAM selects reduce the cut time of the pocket.
− With the feed rate based on the radial depth of the cut, ProCAM changes the feedrate
in the program depending on how much of the end mill is cutting.
In this type of pocketing, inputting more than half the end mill causes a warning to
display. WARNING Cut Amount >> Radius. May Leave Material. If you use an amount that
is bigger than half the end mill, all the material may not be removed in some pocket
shapes.
8. Click OK to accept the rest of the defaults.
9. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
The prompt line reads: PICK boundary for profile pocket perimeter.
10. Pick the boundary.
The prompt line changes to read: PICK boundary for profile pocket island. There are no
islands to avoid in this exercise.

Pocket Tool Paths 4-3

Inserting a Pocket Tool Path

11. Click BUTTON 2.

The NC Program below shows how ProCAM changed the
feedrates in the program as the end mill became less buried.
12. Click the Operation button on the system bar.
13. Click the Edit button in the Operation List dialog box.

14. Click the Any Direction Modifier until the Clockwise

Direction modifier displays.
15. Click OK to close the Set Operation - Pocket dialog box.
16. Click the Rerun button in the Operation List dialog box.
The Rerun Operation dialog box displays.
17. Click OK to run the Current Operation.
When ProCAM cuts the pocket this time, the cut is going in the opposite direction of the
boundary.
ProCAM does not do a finish cut automatically. If you want a finish cut, either do a
second pocket with 0.0000 for clearance, or do a profile cut using the Profile Tool Path
command.

N5 G1 Z-.5 F2.036 Z Feedrate is 1/3 the Roughing

N6 X1.8585 Y1.8557 F6.108 Feedrate
N7 X2.1063 Feedrate for 100% buried
N8 Y2.3176
N9 G2 X1.824 Y2.4067 I.8937
J1.6824
N10 X1.71 Y2.3347 I-.824
J1.5933
N11 G1 X1.8585 Y1.9794
N12 X1.6727 Feedrate change as end mill is only
N13 Y1.6701 F21.378 50% buried
N14 X2.2922
N15 Y2.4336
N16 G2 X1.824 Y2.6328
I.7078 J1.5664
N17 X1.539 Y2.4515 I-.824 Feedrate change for 100% buried
J1.3672 Feedrate for 50% buried
N18 G1 X1.6727 Y1.9794
N19 X1.4868 F6.108
N20 Y1.4846 F21.378
N21 X2.478

4-4 Pocket Tool Paths

 Inserting a Pocket Tool Path

Profile Pocketing with Islands

1. Open the part file EXMILL4.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn
folder.
Do not save the changes to EXMILL3.PRT.

2. Start 2D Mill.

3. Click the Pocket Tool Path button.

The Set Operation - Pocket dialog box and modifier toolbar
display.
4. Click the Tool button and set up a .375" diameter end mill.
5. Define the Operation parameters using the following
information:
− Z Cycle Type = Z Single Depth
− XY Allowance = 0.0000
− Cut Amount = .1875
6. Click OK.
7. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
The prompt line reads: PICK boundary for profile pocket
perimeter.
8. Pick the perimeter of the pocket.
− The prompt line reads: PICK boundary for profile pocket
island.
− The islands can be picked in any order.
9. Pick one of the islands.
The prompt line continues to ask you to pick an island.
10. Pick the second island, then click BUTTON 2.
The pocket should look like the figure. Note that the islands
in this figure have been cross-hatched for display only. The
part you see on your screen will not show the islands this
way.
If you had more than two islands, you would continue to pick
them in any order, then click BUTTON 2 when done.

Pocket Tool Paths 4-5

Inserting a Lace Pocket Tool Path

Inserting a Lace Pocket Tool Path

The Lace Pocket Tool Path command is a roughing cycle for removing stock by making a
series of parallel cuts across the stock. Depending on the lace cycle type selected, the tool
path retracts and pierces between cuts or it follows the boundary with continuous cutting to
the next lacing move. Lace pocketing must use an end mill tool.

Modifiers
Cycle Type
Toggle
Zigzag Creates a tool path of alternating
Without parallel lines. When ProCAM
Retract encounters a boundary, it follows
along the boundary path the cut
amount distance and then moves
parallel to the last cut. This is the
default modifier and is the most
commonly used.

Zigzag With Creates parallel lace cuts by alternately cutting in opposite directions
Retract creating a zigzag pattern across the part. Between each tool pass the
tool retracts, moves to the next cut, and pierces again.
Straight Lace Creates parallel lace cuts with all cuts
in the same direction. Between each
pass the tool retracts, moves to the next
cut, and pierces again. When this
modifier is selected, ProCAM
generates a tool path that moves along
the angle specified to the end of the
cut, rapids the Z axis up, rapids back
and over the cut amount, then feeds the
Z back down and cuts again. Typically,
this modifier is used if you have to
machine the pocket using only climb or
conventional cutting.
Direction Any Direction The direction of the pocket tool path is the same as the boundary.
Toggle

Counter- Forces the pocket tool path in a counterclockwise direction.

clockwise
Clockwise Forces the pocket in a clockwise direction.

4-6 Pocket Tool Paths

 Inserting a Lace Pocket Tool Path

Leadin No Leadin The part is pierced at the tool path start with no leadin entity.
Toggle

Arc Leadin The part is pierced, a linear move is made to an arc, and an arc
move leads into the part an overlap amount before the profile tool
path start.
Parallel Leadin The part is pierced and a linear move is made into the part an
overlap amount before the tool path start. The default is for the
leadin move to be parallel to the first move in the tool path;
however, the angle of leadin can be modified.
Perpendicular The part is pierced and a linear move is made into the part an
Leadin overlap amount before the tool path start. The default is for the
leadin move to be perpendicular to the first move in the tool path;
however, the angle of leadin can be modified.
Leadout No Leadout The retract is at the tool path end with no leadout entity.
Toggle

Arc Leadout A linear move is made the overlap amount to an arc, an arc move
leads away from the part, and a linear move is made away from the
arc before retracting out of the part.
Parallel A linear move is made away from the part the overlap amount and
Leadout then the tool retracts. The default is for the leadout move to be
parallel to the last move in the tool path; however, the angle of
leadin can be modified.
Perpendicular A linear move is made away from the part the overlap amount and
Leadout then the tool retracts. The default is for the leadout move to be
perpendicular to the last move in the tool path; however, the angle
of leadin can be modified.
Cut Type Conventional Typically, this option is used with ferrous materials. With the
Toggle
Milling Straight Lace modifier, this modifier forces conventional milling.
With the Zigzag Lace modifier, this modifier determines the
direction of the first cut.
Climb Cutting This modifier is used mainly for non-ferrous materials, such as
aluminum or for light finishing passes. With the Straight Lace
modifier, this modifier forces climb milling. With the Zigzag
modifier, this modifier determines the direction of the first cut.
Profile No Profile No profiling is done as part of lace pocketing. ProCAM inserts only
Toggle
lace pocket tool paths.
Profile Before A profile pass is inserted before the lace pocket tool paths are
inserted.
Profile After Inserts a profile pass across the surface after the lace profile paths
are inserted. Typically, this option is used as a clean-up cycle.

Pocket Tool Paths 4-7

Inserting a Lace Pocket Tool Path

What You'll Learn

• Inserting a Lace Pocket Tool Path
• Changing the Angle
• Inserting a Lace Pocket Tool Path with Islands
Inserting a Lace Pocket Tool Path
1. Open the part file EXMILL3.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Start 2D Mill.

3. Click the Lace Pocket Tool Path button.

The Set Operation - Lace dialog box and modifier toolbar display.

4. Click the Profile modifier to show After Profile.

5. Click the Tool button and set up a .375" diameter end mill.
6. Define the Operation parameters using the following information:
− Z Cycle Type = Z Single Depth
− XY Allowance = 0.000
− Cut Amount = .250
This is the cut between lace tool paths. In lace pocketing,
the cut amount can be greater than half the end mill
diameter.
− Cut Angle = 0.000
7. Click OK to close the Set Operation dialog box.
8. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post
Parameters dialog box.
9. Pick the pocket perimeter.
10. Click BUTTON 2.
The pocket should look like the figure on the right.
The dotted line on the left side of the part is the rapid move to
the start of the profile after-cut. ProCAM automatically
rapids the Z axis up, rapids to the start of the profile cut, then feeds the Z axis back down.
11. Click the Operation button on the system bar (labeled Lace).
12. In the Operation List dialog box, highlight the Lace operation and click the Edit button.
13. In the Set Operation – Lace dialog box, change the Cut Angle to 90 degrees and click
OK.
14. Click the Rerun button in the Operation List dialog box.

4-8 Pocket Tool Paths

 Inserting a Lace Pocket Tool Path

15. Click OK to rerun the operation.

The part should look like the figure on the right.

Changing the Angle

Selecting a different angle can shorten the
machining cycle time by eliminating wasted
moves. For example, the pocket in this part is at
a 45 degree angle to the part.
If you were to cut the part at zero degrees
(shown in the figure on the left below, there
would be many short moves in the corners.
Selecting 45 degrees would cut the part along its
path (shown in the figure on the right below).
Whenever possible, use an angle that is parallel
to the longest cut.

Cutting the Part at a 0 Degree Angle Cutting the Part at a 45 Degree Angle

Pocket Tool Paths 4-9

Inserting a Lace Pocket Tool Path

In this exercise, you edit the previous lace pocket operation and select a different angle.
1. Click the Edit button in the Operation List dialog box.

2. Click the Cycle Type modifier until the Straight Lace Pocket modifier displays.
3. Set up a .500" diameter end mill.
4. Define the Operation parameters using the following
information:
− XY Allowance = 0.000
− Cut Amount = .400
− Cut Angle = 90
5. Click OK to close the Set Operation dialog box.
6. Click Rerun in the Operation List dialog box.
7. Click OK to rerun the operation. The part should look like the
figure on the right.
Edit the operation and try the other modifiers. Cut some pockets
using different Leadin and Leadout types.
When using Leadin and Leadout modifiers, be careful to check
for interference. ProCAM does not do interference checking for
the leadin and leadout.
Inserting a Lace Pocket with Islands
1. Open the part file EXMILL4.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Start 2D Mill.

3. Click the Lace Pocket Tool Path button.

The Set Operation - Lace dialog box and modifier toolbar display.

4. Click the Profile modifier button until After Profile displays.

5. Click the Tool button and set up a .375" diameter tool.
6. Define the Operation parameters using the following information, then click OK.
− Z Cycle Type = Z Single Depth
− XY Allowance = 0.000
− Cut Amount = .250
− Cut Angle = 90

4-10 Pocket Tool Paths

 Inserting a Lace Pocket Tool Path

7. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post

Parameters dialog box.
The prompt line reads: PICK boundary for lace pocket
perimeter.
8. Pick the perimeter of the pocket.
The prompt line asks you to pick the islands. The islands can
be picked in any order.
9. Pick one of the islands.
10. Pick the second island.
11. Click BUTTON 2.
The pocket tool path should look like the figure.

Pocket Tool Paths 4-11

Inserting a Lace Pocket Tool Path

4-12 Pocket Tool Paths

Chapter 5 Profile Tool Paths

The Profile Tool Path command is used to generate a tool path that removes material from a
part by following the shape of the profile. Profile tool paths can be inserted using modifiers
for corner type, leadin and leadout, interference checking, and compensation. You can also
specify climb or conventional milling, and a finish cycle after a roughing cycle.
This chapter explains Profile operations and provides exercises using the Profile Tool Path
command and modifiers.

Z Single Depth is used for the Z cycle type in the exercises in this chapter. With this cycle
type, ProCAM makes a single cut to the Z depth you specify. For Profile operations, you
can also select Z Step and Repeat to makes multiple cuts in the X axis or Z Wall Definition
to cut the wall of the part according to the side view that you define. These cycle types are
explained in Chapter 8.

Profile Tool Paths 5-1

Inserting a Profile Tool Path

Inserting a Profile Tool Path

The Profile Tool Path command is used to insert a profile tool path offset a distance from a
boundary. The profile tool path can be inserted using the modifiers listed below.

Modifiers
Boundary Type
Toggle
Open ProCAM assumes there are no islands and performs no check for
islands.
Closed ProCAM automatically finds any intersections of the island and
the perimeter. ProCAM then automatically goes around the
island, never cutting into either the perimeter or the island. The
start of the first entity is the end of the last entity.
Direction
Toggle
Any Direction The direction of the profile tool path is the same direction as the
boundary.
Counter- Forces the profile tool path in a counterclockwise direction.
clockwise
Clockwise Forces the profile in a clockwise direction.
Leadin Toggle
No Leadin To start the tool path, the part is pierced at the tool path start with
no leadin entity.
Arc Leadin The part is pierced, a linear move is made to an arc, and an arc
move leads into the part an overlap amount before the profile
tool path start.
Parallel Leadin The part is pierced and a linear move is made into the part an
overlap amount before the tool path start. The default is for the
leadin move to be parallel to the first move in the tool path;
however, the angle of leadin can be modified.
Perpendicular The part is pierced and a linear move is made into the part an
Leadin overlap amount before the tool path start. The default is for the
leadin move to be perpendicular to the first move in the tool
path; however, the angle of leadin can be modified.
Leadout
Toggle
No Leadout To end the tool path, the retract is at the tool path end with no
leadout entity.
Arc Leadout After the tool path, a linear move is made the overlap amount to
an arc, an arc move leads away from the part, and a linear move
is made away from the arc before retracting out of the part.
Parallel Leadout To end the tool path, a linear move is made away from the part
the overlap amount and then the tool retracts. The default is for
the leadout move to be parallel to the last move in the tool path;
however, the angle of leadin can be modified.

5-2 Profile Tool Paths

 Inserting a Profile Tool Path

Perpendicular To end the tool path, a linear move is made away from the part
Leadout the overlap amount and then the tool retracts. The default is for
the leadout move to be perpendicular to the last move in the tool
path; however, the angle of leadin can be modified.
Interference
Checking
Infinite Inserts a profile tool path and then checks to see if the tool is
Toggle Lookahead cutting into the part. This modifier checks the entire part. If any
interference is found, the profile path is broken into two or more
segments and modified to avoid gouging. Infinite Lookahead is
slower than No Lookahead.
No Lookahead Inserts a profile tool path, ignoring any tool gouging. Choose No
Lookahead only if you are sure there is no gouging.
Specified Allows you to define the number of entities to look ahead for
Lookahead gouging. Use this option if interference is local to one area or to
emulate controller interference checking. The Lookahead
parameter in the Set Operation - Profile dialog box allows you to
specify the number of entities. The default is six.
Corner Type
Toggle
Round Inserts an arc tangent to the two entities leading up to the corner
during the insert profile tool path.
Sharp Extends the outside corner entities to their intersection. If the
corner is extended beyond the corner clearance distance, the
sharp corner is squared off.
Fanuc Extends the tool paths by the radius plus the clearance. If they
intersect, a sharp corner is used; otherwise, a square corner is
used. This corner is the same type of corner a Fanuc controller
inserts when compensation is done by the controller.
Square Extends the corner entities by the corner extension amount and
then squares off the corner.
Triangular Inserts a triangular corner by extending the corner entities. If the
extended corner tool path travels beyond the corner extension
amount, the corner is squared off.
Loop Creates a loop corner transition at sharp corners. The Corner
Ext/Rad amount defines the radius of the loop arc. The Max
Loop Angle parameter determines whether to insert a loop
transition based on the included angle of the sharp corner. This
modifier is used to eliminate loops on nearly colinear or tangent
entities.
Compensation
Toggle
System A compensated tool path is inserted to the right or left by
Either Offset prompting to digitize the correct side of the boundary. Only tool
wear compensation is performed at the controller.
System A compensated tool path is inserted to the right of the boundary.
Right Offset Only tool wear compensation is performed at the controller.

Profile Tool Paths 5-3

Inserting a Profile Tool Path

System A compensated tool path is inserted to the left of the boundary.

Left Offset Only tool wear compensation is performed at the controller.
Machine A compensated tool path is inserted to the right or left by
Either Offset prompting to digitize to the correct side of the boundary at the
controller. No compensation is performed by ProCAM.
Machine A compensated tool path is inserted to the right of the boundary
Right Offset at the controller. No compensation is performed by ProCAM.
Machine A compensated tool path is inserted to the left of the boundary at
Left Offset the controller. No compensation is performed by ProCAM.

What You Need to Know

Inserting a Profile Tool Path
The Profile Tool Path command is used to insert a profile tool path offset a distance from a
boundary. A Profile tool path is a complex entity (a complex entity has more than one entity)
composed of lines, arcs, points and spline tool paths. The Profile tool path can be inserted
using modifiers for corner types, leadin and leadout type, Lookahead type and compensation
type. You can also specify climb or conventional milling and a finish cycle after a roughing
cycle. A boundary must be inserted before a profile tool path can be inserted.
In order to view the Profile modifiers as you are reading this information, follow the steps
below:
1. Open the part file SKCAD2.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Start 2D Mill (FANTUTM).

3. Click the Boundary button.

4. Put a boundary clockwise on the part
starting at the top left corner.

5. Click the Profile Tool Path button.

The Set Operation - Profile dialog box
and the modifier toolbar display.
6. Set up Tool 1 as a .500 diameter end mill.
Direction Modifiers

Any Direction is the default modifier. This modifier follows the direction of the
original boundary.

5-4 Profile Tool Paths

 Inserting a Profile Tool Path

If the boundary is not going in the direction you want to cut, you do not have to
change the boundary. You can select either Clockwise or Counterclockwise, then do your
profile tool path.
In the figure below, the example on the left could have been done with either the Any
Direction or the Clockwise modifier picked.
The example on the right was done by changing the modifier to Counterclockwise, which is
the opposite direction of the boundary.

Leadin/Leadout Modifiers
The Leadin and Leadout modifiers control how the profile tool path is started and ended.
There are four different types of Leadin and Leadout. You can use a different Leadin and
Leadout on the same profile.
The parameters are the same for both Leadin and Leadout. The following explanation for
Leadin also applies to Leadout.

No Leadin/Leadout
This is the default modifier and the one that was used in the previous exercises. This
modifier is not the one you will typically use. The Leadin modifier causes the Z axis to feed
down right on the part line. In the figure on the previous page, the tool is positioned to the
end of the line in a rapid move, then the Z Axis will feed down.
Use this modifier if you are feeding the Z axis down into a part that is the same width as the
end mill or if you are cutting a pocket. Otherwise, you should use a different type of leadin
and leadout.

You cannot use the No Leadin modifier if you are going to use Machine Cutter
Compensation. With this modifier, there is no X or Y move to turn on compensation.

Profile Tool Paths 5-5

Inserting a Profile Tool Path

Arc Leadin / Leadout

When you click the No Leadin button once,
it changes to the Arc Leadin modifier and
the dialog box for defining the Arc Leadin
displays.
When you change a value in any of the
Leadin and Leadout dialog boxes and press
the TAB key, the figure in the dialog box is
updated to reflect the new value.
Leadin
This parameter is the distance ProCAM uses to lead in to the cut. Since most machines do
not allow you to turn on compensation during an arc move, if you are using your machine's
compensation, this value would have to be at least the radius of the tool size.
The line the Leadin parameter generates is where ProCAM will turn on compensation. For
example, in a Fanuc type controller this line would read:
G01 G41 D21 Xxxxxx Yxxxxx F45.
Leadin Angle
The figure in the dialog box changes to
show the Leadin Angle value you
specify. In the figure on the right, the
angle is 45 degrees. ProCAM
automatically rotates the angle to match
where the Leadin is used. In the figure
on the right, the Leadin angle value is
45 degrees. The Leadin angle that
ProCAM will actually use is 135
degrees.
Arc Angle
You can input any part of an arc that
you want to use during the Leadin or
Leadout. You do not have to use a
complete 90 degree arc.

5-6 Profile Tool Paths

 Inserting a Profile Tool Path

Arc Radius
Any arc radius can be defined for the
Leadin or Leadout.
Leadin Overlap
The Leadin Overlap is an amount
ProCAM uses to start the cut before the
actual start point.
When used during Leadout, the Overlap
is the amount ProCAM will cut along
the original path again.
In the figure on the right, a .375 overlap
distance was used.
ProCAM will cut around the profile, then feed along the line that was cut first a distance of
.375.
After the Leadout arc is cut, ProCAM will turn compensation off during the Leadout of .250
at 0 degrees. Since most machines do not allow you to turn compensation on or off during an
arc move, it is important to generate a leadin and leadout amount that will be the line feed
move.
When you are cutting a circle, the Overlap amount can be used to make sure you get a nice
blend where the circle starts and ends.

Perpendicular Leadin/Leadout
When you click the Arc Leadin modifier button
once, it changes to the Perpendicular Leadin
modifier and the Perpendicular Leadin dialog
box displays. The parameters are the same as
for Arc Leadin and are explained in the Arc
Leadin/Leadout section.
The perpendicular modifier allows you to
specify a Leadin or Leadout that is
perpendicular to the first cut.

Profile Tool Paths 5-7

Inserting a Profile Tool Path

In the figure on the right, a Perpendicular

Leadin and Leadout allows you to start away
from the work surface, then feed to the part,
turning compensation on during this feed
move.
At the end of the cut, the end mill is then
moved away from the part, turning
compensation off before moving the Z axis up.
All of the Z axis moves are handled
automatically by ProCAM.
.
In the figure on the right, the same part was cut
with a Leadin and Leadout of 45 degrees.

Parallel Leadin / Leadout

Click the Perpendicular Leadin modifier
button once. The Parallel Leadin modifier
and the Parallel Leadin dialog box display.
The parameters are the same as for Arc
Leadin and are explained in the Arc
Leadin/Leadout section.
The Parallel option allows you to specify a
Leadin or Leadout that is parallel to the first
or last cut on the part.
With Parallel Leadin, the part is pierced and
a linear move is made into the part before
the tool path start location. The default is
for the leadin move to be parallel to the first move in the tool path; however, the angle of
leadin/out can be modified.
With Parallel Leadout, to end the tool path, a linear move is made away from the part the
overlap amount and then the tool retracts. The default is for the leadout move to be parallel
to the last move in the tool path; however, the angle of leadin can be modified.

5-8 Profile Tool Paths

 Inserting a Profile Tool Path

Interference Checking Modifiers

These modifiers are used to check the part for tool gouging. The modifiers turn the
Interference Checking on or off, or set the amount of entities that ProCAM will look ahead.
When a profile tool path is inserted, there are cases where a tool cannot fit within the
geometry defined. If the profile tool path is not checked for this type of interference, gouging
of the part by the tool occurs.

Infinite Lookahead
The Infinite Lookahead modifier is used whenever there might be interference with either
islands or another part of the tool path. This is the default setting.
Infinite Lookahead is the best method for interference checking. This means that every part
of the tool path is checked against every other part of the tool path no matter how big the part
is. This is the only way to guarantee that the part will not be gouged. If the part is very large,
this can also be very time consuming.

No Lookahead
This modifier inserts a Profile tool path, ignoring any tool gouging. Choose No Lookahead
only if you are sure there is no gouging.

Specified Lookahead
When you use the Specified Lookahead modifier, the Lookahead parameter is enabled in the
Set Operation - Profile dialog box. Use this parameter if you want to change the number of
entities to look ahead for gouging. The default is six.
Using Controller Compensation for Gouge Avoidance: If the part geometry is output to the
controller and the controller compensation is used, most controllers look only one or two
entities ahead for gouge avoidance. Any gouging caused by an entity more than one or two
entities ahead will not be detected and fixed. Generally, this is due to memory and speed
restrictions on the controller.

Corner Type Modifiers

The Corner Type modifiers are used to change the type of corner ProCAM inserts on
external sharp corners when generating a Profile tool path. A sharp corner is defined as any
corner where the entities meet to create a point.

Profile Tool Paths 5-9

Inserting a Profile Tool Path

Round Corners
This is the default modifier and is the most commonly used.
This modifier inserts an arc with a radius the same size as the
radius of the end mill hat is tangent to the two entities forming
an external sharp corner. In effect, this gives you a sharp
corner on the workpiece. This is the way most machines
typically compensate around corners.

Sharp Corners
This modifier creates a sharp corner on entities forming
outside sharp corners by extending the cuts to the intersection
of the entities. If the corner extends beyond the Corner Clear.
amount, the sharp corner is squared off.

Square Corners
This modifier is used to make a square corner transition on
outside sharp corners. The Corner Clear. amount, defines the
distance that ProCAM will extend the tool path beyond the
corner before creating the square corner transition. The
maximum amount is determined by the distance to create a
sharp corner extension.
The figure on the right shows a 1/4" end mill extended out
.375.

Triangular Corners
This modifier creates a sharp corner by extending cuts on
external sharp corners, then connecting the cuts forming a
triangle. If the corner tool path travels beyond the Corner Ext.
amount, the corner is squared off (i.e., a triangular corner is
not needed). The Max Loop Angle parameter determines
whether to insert a triangular transition based on the included
angle of the sharp corner.

5-10 Profile Tool Paths

 Inserting a Profile Tool Path

Fanuc Corners
This modifier extends the tool paths by the radius plus the
clearance. If they intersect, a sharp corner is used; otherwise, a
square corner is used. This corner is the same type of corner a
Fanuc controller inserts when compensation is done by the
controller.

Loop Corners
This modifier creates a sharp corner by extending cuts on
external sharp corners, then connecting the cuts forming a
loop. The Corner Ext. amount defines the radius of the loop
arc. The Max loop angle parameter determines whether to
insert a loop transition based on the included angle of the
sharp corner. This parameter is used to eliminate loops on
nearly collinear or tangent entities.

System Compensation Modifiers

The System Compensation options allow you to insert a Profile tool path that is offset from
the cross section boundary by the radius of the cutter. These options output the G41/G42
code for Dxx compensation. Compensation at the machine should be tool wear only, NOT
the tool radius. For example, if you have an XY Allowance of .2 and a 1" tool (.5R),
ProCAM outputs the G-code with the tool at .7" from the cross section boundary. Dxx
compensation would be only to correct the tool size at the machine.

Either Offset
This is the modifier you will use in most of the exercises in this section. When you pick a
boundary to insert a profile on, the prompt line reads: DIGITIZE compensation side of
boundary. ProCAM is asking which side of the part line you want the profile inserted on.

Using either the System Compensation Left or Right modifier eliminates the need to select
the compensation side after you pick the boundary.

Profile Tool Paths 5-11

Inserting a Profile Tool Path

Left
With this modifier, ProCAM
automatically inserts the profile to
the left of the boundary.

Right
With this modifier, ProCAM
automatically inserts the profile to
the right of the boundary.

Machine Compensation Modifiers

When you select one of the Machine Compensation modifiers, ProCAM inserts the tool path
directly on the boundary centerline (not offset by the radius of the cutter) and outputs the G
code compensation markers for machine compensation. These modifiers ignore the XY
Allowance and tool radius. To offset the end mill, you must input the tool radius and tool
wear at the machine.
The Compensation parameter in the Post Parameters dialog box determines if G codes for
cutter radius compensation are output in the NC program and allows you to choose which
code (for example, to correct for a controller that will not accept a negative number). This
parameter is used in conjunction with the Compensation Type option.

Either Offset
This modifier prompts you to
digitize the side for
compensation when you pick
the boundary. Which side you
select determines the direction
of compensation to be output
in the program. It also
determines which side the
Leadin and Leadout start from.

5-12 Profile Tool Paths

 Inserting a Profile Tool Path

Left / Right
These modifiers allow you to specify the compensation direction and which side of the
boundary to start the Leadin and Leadout. When you select either of these modifiers,
ProCAM inserts the tool path automatically on the specified side.

IMPORTANT! In order for ProCAM to output the correct compensation command for
the direction selected with these modifiers, a Leadin and Leadout must be specified.

What You'll Learn

• Profiling with Interference Checking
• Rerunning the Operation with No Lookahead
• Specifying the Number of Entities to Lookahead
• Using the Corners Modifiers
• Using the Compensation Modifiers
• Inserting Multiple Tool Paths
Profiling with Interference Checking
To see the difference between Interference Checking On and Off, in this exercise you will do
a profile using a .625 diameter end mill around the inside:
1. Open the part file EXMILL1.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Start 2D Mill (FANTUTM).

ProCAM automatically exits to
Mill because this part was saved
after exiting to the FANTUTM
controller.
This part already has a boundary
on it starting at the bottom of the
left arc.
You do not need to set the Setup
Information for this exercise.

3. Click the Profile Tool Path button.

The Set Operation - Profile dialog box and modifier toolbar display.
4. Select the following Profile modifier buttons:

Infinite Lookahead

No Leadin and No Leadout

Profile Tool Paths 5-13

Inserting a Profile Tool Path

5. Set up Tool 1 as a .625 diameter 2 flute end mill with 1.000 LOC (Length of Cut).
6. Make sure Z Single Depth is selected for the Z Cycle Type, then click OK.
7. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
8. Pick the boundary for the profile and click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE compensation side of boundary.
9. Digitize to the inside.
ProCAM automatically breaks
the profile into two paths.
With Infinite Lookahead on,
ProCAM puts the end mill only
where it can fit.
In the NC program, ProCAM
rapids to the start of the first cut, feeds down into the part, rapids the Z axis up to the
clearance plane, rapids to the start point of the second cut, feeds down, cuts the second
path, and then rapids up to the clearance plane.
Rerunning the Operation with No Lookahead
Whenever any information for an operation needs to be changed, you can edit the operation.
In the following exercise, you edit the Profile operation and change the modifiers to profile
the same part with No Lookahead instead of Infinite Lookahead.
1. Click the Operation button on the system bar at the top of the window (labeled Profile).
The Operation List dialog box displays the operations that have been defined for this part.
2. If the Profile operation is not highlighted, click it with BUTTON 1.
3. Click the Edit button.
The Set Operation - Profile dialog box and modifier toolbar display.

4. Click the Interference Checking modifier button until the No Lookahead modifier
displays.
5. Click OK to exit the Set Operation dialog box.
6. Click the Rerun button in the
Operation List dialog box.
7. Click OK in the Rerun dialog
box to accept the default Current
Operation.
The operation is rerun. The end
mill cuts through the sides of the
part as shown in the figure. With
No Lookahead on, ProCAM "blindly" runs the cutter around the profile, not checking for
any interference.

5-14 Profile Tool Paths

 Inserting a Profile Tool Path

Infinite Lookahead can take time to process. Using No Lookahead can sometimes save a
considerable amount of time if you have a part with many entities and you are sure there
will be no interference.
8. When the operation is completed, the Operation List dialog box displays.
9. Click OK.
Specifying the Number of Entities to Look Ahead
The Specified Lookahead modifier is used to tell ProCAM how many entities to look ahead.
This modifier can be used to determine what your machine might do if you plan to use the
machine's compensation. Typically, most machines that have compensation will look ahead
three entities.
In the case of an involute gear profile, the gear tooth is made up of many lines. In the
following exercise, you see what a machine that looks ahead three entities will do cutting the
teeth using a .250 diameter end mill.
1. Open the part file EXMILL2.PRT \procad\parts\learn folder.
This part has a boundary on it
starting at the left side. The
arrows on the boundary have
been turned off for viewing
purposes.

2. Start 2D Mill
(FANTUTM).

3. Click the Profile Tool

Path button.
The Set Operation - Profile dialog box and modifier toolbar display.
4. Click the Tool button in the Set Operation dialog box.
5. Set up a tool to be a .250 diameter end mill.
6. Make sure Z Single Depth is selected for the Z Cycle Type in the Set Operation dialog
box.

7. Click the Interference Checking modifier until Specified Lookahead displays.

8. Type 3 for the Lookahead parameter in the dialog box.
9. Click the OK button.
10. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
The prompt line reads: PICK boundary for profile.
11. Pick the gear, then click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE compensation side of boundary.

Profile Tool Paths 5-15

Inserting a Profile Tool Path

12. Digitize to the outside.

Make sure you stay close to the entity when you digitize the side of the boundary to put
the tool path on. This is very important when you are starting on an arc. If you digitize a
distance away from the side, ProCAM thinks you want to be outside the circle radius,
not inside as in this case.
Notice that the end mill cuts into
the tooth to the right as shown in
the figure. ProCAM is looking
ahead only three entities.
Therefore, it does not see these
entities and cannot compensate
for them. If you wanted to cut
the part this way, you would
have to use ProCAM's
compensation (Interference Checking / Infinite Lookahead), not your machine's.
This exercise shows you the difference in the time it takes to run a profile around this gear
with Interference Checking On, Interference Checking Off, and three entities to look ahead.
1. Click the Operation button on the system bar (labeled Profile).
2. In the Operation List dialog box, highlight the Profile operation and click the Edit button.
The Set Operation - Profile dialog box and modifier toolbar display.
3. Click the Tool button and set up a 1/8" diameter end mill.

4. Click the Interference Checking modifier button until the Infinite Lookahead
modifier displays.
5. Click the Rerun button.
6. Click OK in the Rerun dialog box to rerun the Current Operation.
7. Note the time it takes to run the operation.
8. Edit the operation again and select No Lookahead.
9. Rerun the operation and note the time.
10. Repeat the edit and rerun steps for the Specified Lookahead modifier to look ahead 3
entities.
Using the Corner Type Modifiers
The following exercise shows the effect of different types of corners.
1. Open the part file SKCAD8.PRT \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Start 2D Mill.

3. Click the Boundary button.

5-16 Profile Tool Paths

 Inserting a Profile Tool Path

4. Put a boundary on the part as shown

in the figure.

5. Click the Profile Tool Path

button.
The Set Operation - Profile dialog
box and modifier toolbar display.

The Round Corner modifier

displays as the default. Use this
modifier.
6. Click the Tool button in the dialog box.
7. Set up a 3/8" diameter end mill.
8. Click OK to accept the parameters in the dialog box.
9. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
10. Insert a Profile tool path on the part.
The round corners are noticeable at
the top right side of the part
11. Edit the operation and select a
different Corner Type modifier.
12. Rerun the operation.
13. Repeat steps 11 and 12 several times
selecting different corner type
modifiers.
Using Compensation Modifiers
1. Open the part file EXMILL20.PRT \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Start 2D Mill.

3. Click the Profile Tool Path button.

The Set Operation - Profile dialog box and modifier toolbar display.
4. Click the Tool button in the dialog box.
5. Set up Tool 1 as a .25" end mill.
6. Make sure the Cycle Type is Z Single Depth.

7. Make sure the Open modifier is showing.

8. Click the Compensation modifier button to show Machine Comp Left.

Profile Tool Paths 5-17

Inserting a Profile Tool Path

9. Click OK in the Set Operation dialog box.

The Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box displays.
10. Set the Compensation parameter to Off and click OK.
Since this part will have the end mill
running down the centerline of the part,
you do not need to have the NC Program
output a command to turn Compensation
On.
11. Window pick all the boundaries.
Since only the slots have boundaries on
them, you can put a window around the
whole part. ProCAM inserts profile tool
paths only on boundaries.
12. Click BUTTON 2.
ProCAM inserts the Profile tool paths.

1. Open the part file EXMILL21.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Start 2D Mill.

3. Click the Profile Tool Path button.

The Set Operation - Profile dialog box and modifier toolbar display.
4. Click the Tool button in the dialog box and set up Tool 1 as a 1/8” end mill.
5. Make sure the Z Cycle Type is Z Single Depth.

6. Make sure the Open Modifier is showing.

7. Click the Compensation modifier button to show System Comp Left.

8. Click the Leadin button to show Arc Leadin.

9. Double-click the Leadin Overlap text box.
10. Type .125 and press TAB.
11. Type .062 for the Arc Radius and press TAB.
12. Click OK.

13. Click the Leadout modifier button to show Arc Leadout.

14. Double-click the Leadout Overlap text box.
15. Type .125 and press TAB.

5-18 Profile Tool Paths

 Inserting a Profile Tool Path

16. Type .062 for the Arc Radius and press TAB.
17. Click OK.
18. Click OK to accept the defaults in the
Set Operation dialog box.
19. Click OK to accept the defaults in the
Set Operation - Post Parameters
dialog box.
20. Window pick all the cutouts.
21. Click BUTTON 2.
The Profile tool paths are inserted on
the inside of the cutouts because the
boundaries were put on
counterclockwise and Left
Compensation was picked.

Inserting Multiple Tool Paths

In this exercise, you cut around the outside of the part. Then, using the same end mill, you
cut the inside of the two circles.
1. Open the part file SKCAD7.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Put a boundary around the outside starting

at the bottom of the left line (indicated by the
arrow in the figure).
If you saved this part in a previous exercise, the
outside boundary may be on the part.
3. Click BUTTON 2 until the prompt line reads:
PICK endpoint for start of boundary.
Put a boundary on each of the circles.
4. Pick a circle somewhere above the center.
Picking above the center cuts the inside of the
circle counterclockwise (climb milling).
ProCAM indicates the start point at the three
o'clock position on the circle.

Profile Tool Paths 5-19

Inserting a Profile Tool Path

If you wanted to cut clockwise (conventional

milling), you would pick the circle somewhere
below the center as shown in the figure.
The prompt line reads: PICK entity for CAM
boundary.
5. Click BUTTON 2.
ProCAM shows the boundary around the full circle
indicating that this is the only entity in the
boundary.
The prompt line reads: PICK endpoint for end of
boundary.
6. Pick the end of the circle at the three o'clock
position.
7. Pick above the center of the other circle for the start point of the boundary.
8. Click BUTTON 2 twice.
After you have picked the last entity in the boundary and ProCAM has finished putting
the boundary around the path, you can click BUTTON 2 twice (instead of clicking BUTTON
2 and picking the endpoint). This tells ProCAM you are done picking entities for the
boundary and it accepts the current endpoint as the endpoint for the boundary.
9. Optionally, select Setup Information on the CAM menu and change parameters.

10. Click the Profile Tool Path button.

11. Click the Tool button in the Set Operation - Profile dialog box.

12. Use a Parallel Leadin of .750.

13. Use a Perpendicular Leadout of .1875.

14. Click the Tool button in the dialog box and set up Tool 1 as a .25" diameter end mill.
15. Make sure the Z Cycle Type is Z Single Depth.
16. Click OK to accept the Set Operation parameters.
17. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation – Post Parameters dialog box.
18. Pick the perimeter boundary for the profile.

5-20 Profile Tool Paths

 Inserting a Profile Tool Path

19.Digitize outside for the profile.

After the tool path is inserted, the prompt line
asks you to pick a boundary to insert a profile
on. If you picked the circles now, a profile
tool path with the same Leadin and Leadout
would be inserted. This would cut through the
circles as shown in the figure.
In order to use a different Leadin and
Leadout, you need to define a new operation.
Since you are using the Profile Tool Path
command, ProCAM assumes you want to put
the same profile in multiple places.
To insert a profile with a different leadin and
leadout, you can either click the Operation button
on the system bar and copy the Profile operation,
then change the modifiers or you can define a new operation as explained below:
1. Click the Operation button on the system bar.
2. The Operation List dialog box displays.
3. Click the New button.
4. In the Mill Operations dialog box, select Profile and click OK.
The Set Operation - Profile dialog box and modifier toolbar display.

5. Change the Leadin modifier to Arc Leadin.

6. Change the Leadout modifier to Arc

Leadout.
7. Use a value of .125 for both Leadin and
Leadout.
8. Click OK to accept the Set Operation
parameters.
9. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set
Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
10. Pick a circle for the profile boundary.
11. Pick the inside for the compensation.
12. Pick the second circle.
13. Pick the inside for the compensation.
The part should look like the figure.
14. Save the part as MILL2.PRT and post process the part.

Profile Tool Paths 5-21

Inserting a Profile Tool Path

For More Practice

Skill-Builder Exercise MILL1
In this exercise, you insert a profile tool path to machine around the outside with a 3/8"
diameter end mill.
• Open the part file SKCAD6.PRT.
• Start 2D Mill.
• Start the boundary at the bottom of the
left line and go clockwise around the
part.
• Set up a Tool as a 3/8" diameter end
mill.
• Use a Parallel Leadin of 1.0000 and a
Perpendicular Leadout of .250.
• When you finish the profile, the part
should look like the figure.
• Save the part.
• Post process the part.

5-22 Profile Tool Paths

Chapter 6 Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths

This chapter explains the commands for inserting tool paths for drilling cycles. The Point
Tool Path command inserts a single point tool path. With the Toolfit command, ProCAM
automatically inserts a drill tool path on a point or pattern entity and a circle the size of the
drill. The Pattern Tool Path command allows you to insert bolt circles and points on an arc, a
grid, or a line for drilling.
You can define patterns in 2D Mill while you are defining your drilling cycle or you can use
the Shape command in the CAD system.

Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths 6-1

Inserting a Single Point Tool Path

Inserting a Single Point Tool Path

The Point Tool Path command is used to insert single point tool paths. This command is
used to select drill locations. With single point tool paths, ProCAM drills vertically from a
clearance amount off the face of the part to an absolute Z end coordinate. The tool path that
ProCAM generates for removing the material depends on the Cycle Type, First Peck and
Sub. Peck amounts, and the Retract Type selected.

What You'll Learn

Using Multiple Tools to Profile and Drill
In this exercise, the part is going to be cut around the outside with a .50" diameter end mill,
the slot will be cut with a .25" diameter end mill, and the holes will be spot drilled and then
drilled with a .50" drill.
1. Open the part file SKCAD3.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Start 2D Mill.
3. Click the Tool button on the system bar and set up the following tools:
− Tool 1 = .500 diameter 2 flute HSS end mill with a .750 LOC
− Tool 2 = .250 diameter 2 flute carbide end mill with a .437 LOC
− Tool 3 = .250 diameter drill (for spot drilling)
− Tool 4 = .500 diameter drill
4. Put a boundary on the outside perimeter starting at the
top and on the slot starting at the arc as shown in the
figure.
THE HOLES DO NOT NEED A BOUNDARY.
1st Operation (profile the outside perimeter)

5. Click the Profile Tool Path button.

The Set Operation - Profile dialog box and modifier
toolbar display.
6. Type 1 for the Tool.

7. Click the Leadin modifier button until Parallel Leadin displays.

6-2 Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths

 Inserting a Single Point Tool Path

8. Make sure the Leadin is big enough to start off the part (see the leadin on the figure).

9. Click the Leadout modifier button until

Parallel Leadout displays.
10. Click OK in the dialog box.
11. Click OK to close the Set Operation dialog box.
12. Click OK to close the Set Operation - Post
Parameters dialog box.
13. Pick the boundary for the tool path.
14. Pick the outside for compensation.
ProCAM generates the Profile tool path.
2nd Operation (profile the slot)
1. Click the Operation button on the system bar.
2. Click the New button in the Operation List dialog box.
3. Select Profile.
The Set Operation - Profile dialog box and modifier toolbar display.
4. Select the modifiers:

− Use Perpendicular Leadin and Leadout.

− Set the amount small enough so it does not cut into the back side of the slot (for
example, .032).
5. Define the parameters using the following information:
− Tool = 2
− Z Cycle Type = Z Single Depth
− Z Depth = -.250
6. Click OK in the Set Operation – Profile dialog box.
7. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
8. Insert the profile tool path.
3rd Operation (spot drill holes)
1. Click the Operation button on the system bar.
2. Click the New button in the Operation List dialog box.
The Mill Operations dialog box displays.

You could have clicked the Point Tool Path button instead of the Operation button.
3. Select Drilling.
The Set Operation - Drill dialog box displays.

Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths 6-3

Inserting a Single Point Tool Path

4. Define the parameters using the following information:

− Tool = 3
− Cycle Type = Spot Drilling
(this is a G81 drill cycle in the FANTUTM post processor)
− Z Depth = -.125
5. Click OK.
6. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.

The Point Tool Path button is highlighted. This command is used to select the drill
locations.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for point tool path.

7. Click the Entity Origin Snap button.

− This Snap command is used to snap to the center of a circle or arc. With the Entity
Origin Snap command, you pick the circle itself, not the center. ProCAM then snaps
to the center of the circle.
− The prompt line reads: PICK entity origin for point tool path. This means to pick the circle
you want to drill.
8. Pick the holes in the order you want to drill them.
The order you pick the holes determines the order the holes are drilled in the NC
program.
4th Operation (drill holes)
1. Click the Operation button on the system bar.
2. Click the New button in the Operation List dialog box.
The Mill Operations dialog box displays.
3. Select Drilling.
4. In the Set Operation - Drill dialog box, define the parameters using the following
information:
− Tool = 4
− Cycle Type = Pecking
− Z Depth = -.600
− First Peck = .100
The First Peck and Sub. Peck parameters display for peck drilling. If your machine
supports only one peck value in the drilling cycle, the subsequent peck value will be
ignored.
5. Click OK.
6. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.

6-4 Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths

 Inserting a Single Point Tool Path

7. Click the Entity Origin Snap button.

− The prompt line reads: PICK entity origin for point tool path. This means to pick the circle
you want to drill.
− Remember, with the Entity Origin Snap command, you pick the circle itself, not the
center. ProCAM then snaps to the center of the circle.
8. Pick the holes in the opposite order.
This keeps the machine's rapid movements to a minimum.
9. Save the part.
10. Post process the part.

For More Practice

Skill-Builder Exercise MILL3
As a review of the functions covered so far, do the part MILL3 from the drawing through
post processing.

MILL3.PRT

Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths 6-5

Inserting a Single Point Tool Path

• Tools
− Tool 1 = .375 diameter drill
− Tool 2 = .375 diameter end mill
− Tool 3 = .625 diameter end mill
• Operations
− Drill the four holes
− Mill the four slots
− Mill around the outside
• Time-Saver Tips
− When you draw the part, you can use the Rotate Utility with the Rotate/Copy
modifier. Draw one of the arms with the slot in it, then rotate and copy it.
− After you insert the profile on the first slot, ProCAM prompts you to pick the
boundary for the profile. All you have to do is pick the next slot you want to cut. All
the Operation information stays current and is applied to the next slot.
− Start the tool path for the outside on one of the arms. Use a Parallel Leadin large
enough to start off the part. Then use an Arc Leadout.
− Use a small Arc Leadin and Leadout for the slots. Be sure to check that it does not cut
through the wall.

6-6 Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths

 Toolfitting

Toolfitting
The Toolfit command is used to automatically insert tools onto identified shapes or to insert
tools (CAM entities) onto CAD entities. This command fits entities with the current tool
only.

Modifiers
Drilling ProCAM automatically inserts a drill tool CAM path on a point or pattern
entity and a circle the size of the drill.
CAM Insert tool paths on existing CAD entities (lines, arcs, circles, boundaries,
Entities splines and text).

What You'll Learn

• Inserting a Drill Tool Path on Holes
• Inserting a Drill Tool Path on a Pattern
• Engraving
Inserting a Drill Tool Path on Holes
1. Open the part file EXMILL28.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
This part has four hole sizes: 250, .373, .375,
and .500.
2. Start 2D Mill.
3. Set up the following tools:
− Tool 1 = .250 diameter drill
− Tool 2 = .500 diameter drill
− Tool 3 = .375 diameter drill

4. Click the Toolfit button.

5. Click the Drilling modifier button.

The Set Operation - Drill dialog box and modifier toolbar display.

For the first drilling cycle, you can click either the Toolfit button or the Operation button
on the system bar, then click the New button and select Drill.
6. Define the parameters using the following information:
− Tool = 1
− Cycle Type = Drilling
7. Click OK.

Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths 6-7

Toolfitting

8. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
The prompt line reads: SELECT entity to tool fit.
9. Window pick the entire part.
10. Click BUTTON 2.
− ProCAM toolfits all the .250 diameter holes.
− All the other circles are highlighted.
− The prompt line reads: NOTE: Highlighted entities could not be tool fit. This shows you
which holes were not toolfit.
11. With the crosshair in the work area, click any mouse button to clear this message.

12. Click the Redraw Utility button.

Drill the .500 diameter holes with Tool 2:

1. Click the Operation button on the system bar.
2. Click the New button.
3. Select Drill in the Mill Operations dialog box.
The Set Operation - Drill dialog box displays.
4. Define the parameters using the following information:

− Tool = 2
− Cycle Type = Drilling
5. Click OK.
6. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.

7. Click the Toolfit button.

8. Click the Drilling modifier button.

The prompt line reads: SELECT entity to tool fit.
9. Window pick the entire part again.
− ProCAM toolfits all the .500 diameter holes.
− All the other circles are highlighted.
− The prompt line reads: NOTE: Highlighted entities could not be tool fit. This shows you
which holes were not toolfit.
10. With the pointer in the work area, click any mouse button to clear this message.

11. Click the Redraw Utility button.

6-8 Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths

 Toolfitting

Another capability of the Toolfit command is the ability to tell ProCAM to drill a hole size
within a given tolerance. In this part there are .373 and .375 diameter holes. If the part has
+/- .005, you can use the Toolfit command with tolerance to drill both size holes with a .375
drill as shown in the exercise below:
1. Click the Operation button on the system bar.
2. Click the New button.
3. Select Drill in the Mill Operations dialog box.
4. Define the parameters using the following information:

− Tool = 3
− Cycle Type = Drilling
5. Click OK.
6. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.

7. Click the Toolfit button.

8. Click the Drilling modifier button.

− The prompt line reads: SELECT entity to tool fit.
− Plus tolerance (+ Tol) and minus tolerance (- Tol) parameters display in the InfoBar.
These tolerances are for the TOOL SIZE.
9. Double-click in the + Tol text box and type .005.
To drill the .373 and .375 diameter holes with a .375 diameter drill, you would need to
use a plus tolerance of at least .002. Using plus .005 means that any hole can be drilled if
the size is between .370 and .375.
10. Press ENTER.
11. Press ENTER to select the default for the minus tolerance.
12. Click BUTTON 2.
13. Window pick the entire part.
− ProCAM toolfits the .373 and the .375 diameter holes. All the other circles are
highlighted. The prompt line reads: NOTE: Highlighted entities could not be tool fit. This
shows you which holes were not toolfit.
− When you finish drilling the holes, notice the rapid lines going all around the part.
ProCAM provides an optimization function that you can use to optimize the drilling
for the shortest distance between holes. You will optimize this drilling operation in an
exercise in Chapter 8.
14. With the pointer in the work area, click any mouse button to clear this message.

15. Click the Redraw Utility button.

16. Save the part.

Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths 6-9

Toolfitting

Inserting a Drill Tool Path on a Pattern

The Shape function in CAD allows you to insert standard or special shapes into a part. This
function can be used to insert round shapes when defining patterns that can be Toolfit in 2D
Mill, as explained in the following exercise. You can also define the pattern in the CAM
system using the Pattern Tool Path command, which is explained in the next section.
1. Click New on the File menu. If you have a part open, do not save the changes.
2. Click the Shape button on the system bar.
The Shapes dialog box displays.
3. Click the New button.
4. In the Set Shape dialog box, select Round for the Shape Type.
In 2D Mill, only the Round shape is used for drilling. The other shapes are used primarily
for fabrication.
5. Type DRILL for the Shape Name.
6. Type .5 for the Size , then click OK.
The word On displays on the right side of the system bar. This indicates that the Shape
function is on. This means that if you insert a pattern or a point, ProCAM inserts the
current shape that is displayed in the Shape text box.
7. Click OK to close the Shapes dialog box.

8. Click the Pattern button on the CAD toolbar.

9. Click the Circular Pattern modifier button.

10. Click the Diameter modifier button.

11. Type 6.000 for the Diameter and press ENTER..
12. Type 12 for Points and press ENTER.
13. Type 0 for Start A and press ENTER..
14. Double click the X on 1 text box and type 0.
15. Double click the Y on 1 text box and type 0.
16. Click BUTTON 2.
17. Start 2D Mill.
18. Set up a .500 diameter drill.

19. Click the Toolfit button.

20. Click the Drilling modifier button.

21. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Drill dialog box.
22. Change the color so you can see when the toolfit occurs.

6-10 Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths

 Toolfitting

23. Pick anywhere on the pattern. Notice that ProCAM highlights all locations. ProCAM
views this as a single entity, not 12 separate drilling operations.
24. Click BUTTON 2.
Engraving
The Toolfit command is also used to generate tool paths for text. Any text in the work area
can be cut. TrueType fonts work well because of their closed outline design.
1. Choose New on the File menu to clear the work area.

2. Click the Text button on the CAD toolbar.

3. Type your first name.
4. In the InfoBar, type 1.000 for the Height and Width.

5. Click the Keyboard Snap button.

6. Put the text at X0,Y0.

7. Start 2D Mill (FANTUTM).

8. Set up Tool 1 as a .010 diameter end mill. The size is not important because ProCAM
inserts the tool path on the centerline of the text.

9. Click the Toolfit button.

10. Click the CAM Entities modifier button.

11. In the Set Operation dialog box, use a small Z Depth such as -.005.
12. Click OK.
13. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
The prompt line reads: SELECT entity to tool fit.
14. Pick the text, then click BUTTON 2.
Remember to pick text at the lower left corner or window pick the whole word.
After you pick the text, ProCAM automatically inserts the tool path on it.
15. Save the part.

16. Post process the part.

If you select a TrueType font, ProCAM will generate smooth arc and line tool paths.
TrueType fonts are outline fonts and always produce block style characters. When exploded,
these fonts produce a closed area defined by lines and arcs. Within TekSoft, TrueType fonts
are defined by the character height only - not as a point size. The height of the character is
also affected by bolding and italics.

Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths 6-11

Toolfitting

If you select a TekSoft font, one of the problems with the built-in text
fonts is they are made up entirely of straight lines. There are no arcs
in any of the fonts. In the figure on the right, you can see that the
round part of the letter P is all straight lines.
Since engraving is normally small, this is usually not a problem.
However, if you are going to be doing large text, the letters would not
look right.
The following exercise shows how to explode the text using the Break
Utility with the Explode modifier. This turns the text into line entities.
Then, you can use the Arc command to generate arcs in place of the
lines.
1. Choose New on the File menu.

2. Click the Text button.

3. Type the letter P.
4. In the InfoBar, set the Width and Height for 2.0000.

5. Click the Break Utility button.

6. Click the Explode modifier button.

7. Pick the letter P in the work area to explode.
8. Click BUTTON 2.
9. Press Ctrl + A to zoom all.

10. Click the Arc button.

11. Click the Center Unknown modifier button.

12. Click the Endpoint Snap button.

13. Start the arc at endpoint #1. End the arc at #2. The third point is
#3.
14. Do the top arc from 4 to 5 to 6.

6-12 Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths

 Toolfitting

15. Erase the lines from the original.

Your P should look like the figure on the right.

16. Start 2D Mill.

17. Click the Boundary button.

18. Put a boundary on the letter P.
You cannot use the Toolfit command now because the "P" is no
longer text. It is just lines and arcs.
19. Set up a small tool in the Set Tool dialog box.

20. Click the Profile Tool Path button.

The Set Operation - Profile dialog box and modifier toolbar displays.

21. Click the Compensation modifier until Machine Comp - Either Offset displays.
It does not matter if it is left or right because you will not be using any compensation to
cut the letter.
22. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation dialog box.
23. Click OK in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
24. Pick the boundary to cut.

You can also use the Break Utility with the Explode modifier to have the text machined
above a surface instead of engraved in.
1. Open the part file EXMILL29.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
2. Start 2D Mill (FANTUTM).

3. Click the Break Utility button.

4. Click the Explode modifier

button.
5. Pick the text ABC Inc.
Remember to pick in the lower left corner.
6. Click BUTTON 2.

7. Click the Boundary button.

8. Click the Boundary Type modifier button to show Closed.

Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths 6-13

Toolfitting

9. Window pick all the entities in the work area to insert a closed boundary on.
This may take you a few minutes because of the large number of entities.
10. Set up a tool for a .156 diameter end mill.

11. Insert a Lace Pocket Tool Path, picking the letters as islands.
12. Use the defaults in the Set Operation - Lace dialog box.
13. Use the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.

6-14 Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths

 Inserting Pattern Tool Paths

Inserting Pattern Tool Paths

The Pattern Tool Path command is used to insert linear, arc, bolt hole, and grid pattern tool
paths.
When you create a pattern tool path, the individual points in the pattern cannot be picked.
ProCAM treats the pattern as a single entity. If you want to pick the individual points, you
can use the Break Utility with the Explode modifier to "explode" the pattern into individual
points.

Modifiers
Linear Pattern Allows you to define a group of points on a line at any angle.

Grid Pattern Allows you to define a group of points in a grid pattern at any angle.

Circular Pattern Allows you to define a group of points equally spaced on a circle.

Arc Pattern Allows you to define a group of points on an arc. This differs from
the Circular Pattern in that the points do not have to go completely
around the diameter or radius.
What You Need to Know
Linear Pattern Modifiers
The Linear Pattern modifiers are the same as the Line modifiers in the CAD system with the
exception of Distance Between Points.
Distance Inserts a Linear Pattern tool path that is parallel to and a specified
Between Points distance away from (off of) an existing entity.

Grid Pattern Modifiers

Known Inserts a grid of points with known distances between points.
Distances
Between Points
Known Height, Inserts a grid of points with a specified height, and width, and a
Width, # Points known number of points. ProCAM calculates the distance between
points.

Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths 6-15

Inserting Pattern Tool Paths

Horizontal The first line in the grid pattern is horizontal. In the figure below,
Horizontal First Move was not selected in #1. This causes the first
line in the grid to be Vertical. Horizontal First Move was selected in
#2.

Circular Pattern Modifiers

The Circular Pattern modifiers are similar to the Circle modifiers in CAD.
Arc Pattern Modifiers
The Arc Pattern modifiers are similar to the Arc modifiers in CAD with the exception of the
Incremental Angle modifier.
Incremental Allows you to input the angle between points on an arc.
Angle

What You'll Learn

• Inserting a Linear Pattern Tool Path
• Inserting a Grid Pattern Tool Path
• Inserting a Circular Pattern Tool Path
• Inserting an Arc Pattern Tool Path

6-16 Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths

 Inserting Pattern Tool Paths

Inserting a Linear Pattern Tool Path

1. Open the part file EXMILL7.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
2. Start 2D Mill
(FANTUTM).
This linear pattern has a
known angle, known
length, and known number
of points.
3. Click the Tool button on
the system bar and set up
Tool 1 as a .250 diameter
drill.

4. Click the Pattern

Tool Path button.
5. Click OK to accept the operation defaults in the Set Operation - Drill dialog box.
6. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.

7. Click the Linear Pattern modifier button.

The prompt line reads: ENTER line pattern tool path number of points.
8. Type 8 and press ENTER.

9. Click the Angle modifier button.

10. Press ENTER to accept the default 0.

11. Click the Length modifier button.

12. Type 7 and press ENTER.

13. Click the Keyboard Snap button.

14. Type .5 for X and press ENTER.
15. Type -3.75 for Y and press ENTER.
The linear pattern tool path displays.

Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths 6-17

Inserting Pattern Tool Paths

1. Open the part file EXMILL8.PRT in

the \procad\parts\learn folder.
2. Start 2D Mill (FANTUTM).
This Linear Pattern has a known
angle, known distance between
points, and known number of points.
3. Click the Tool button on the system
bar and set up Tool 1 as a .250
diameter Drill.

4. Click the Pattern Tool Path

button.
5. Click OK to accept the defaults in the
Set Operation - Drill dialog box.
6. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.

7. Click the Linear Pattern modifier button.

The prompt line reads: ENTER line pattern tool path number of points.
8. Type 3 and press ENTER.

9. Click the Angle modifier button.

10. Type -90 and press ENTER.
The angle is -90 because the pattern starts at the top and goes down.

11. Click the Distance Between Points modifier button.

The prompt line reads: ENTER line pattern tool path distance between points.
12. Type 1 and press ENTER.

13. Click the Keyboard Snap button.

14. Type .952 for X start and press ENTER.
15. Type -.923 for Y start and press ENTER.
The linear pattern tool path is inserted on the left.

16. Click the Entity Origin Snap button.

17. Pick the top circle on the right.
The linear pattern tool path should display on the right.

6-18 Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths

 Inserting Pattern Tool Paths

1. Open the part file EXMILL9.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Start 2D Mill
(FANTUTM).
3. Click the Tool button on
the system bar and set up
Tool 1 as a .250 diameter
drill.

4. Click the Pattern

Tool Path button.
5. Click OK to accept the
defaults in the Set
Operation - Drill dialog
box.
6. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.

7. Click the Linear Pattern modifier button.

The prompt line reads: ENTER line pattern tool path number of points.
8. Type 4 and press ENTER.

9. Click the Angle modifier button.

10. Type 30 and press ENTER.

11. Click the Distance Between Points modifier button.

12. Type .75 and press ENTER.

13. Click the Keyboard Snap button.

14. Type .651 for X and press ENTER.
15. Type -1.403 for Y and press ENTER.
Use the Mirror Utility to insert the other pattern:

16. Click the Mirror Utility button.

17. Pick the pattern to mirror.
18. Click BUTTON 2.

19. Click the Midpoint Snap button.

20. Pick the top line of the part and then the bottom line.
This mirrors the pattern around the middle of the part.

Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths 6-19

Inserting Pattern Tool Paths

Inserting a Grid Pattern Tool Path

The Grid Pattern allows you to define a group of points in a grid pattern at any angle.
1. Open the part file EXMILL10.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
The grid pattern has a known
number of points in X and Y,
known distance between
points, and a known start
location.
2. Start 2D Mill (FANTUTM).
3. Click the Tool button on the
system bar and set up Tool 1
as a .250 diameter drill.

4. Click the Pattern Tool

Path button.
5. Click OK to accept the
default values in the Set
Operation - Drill dialog box.
6. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.

7. Click the Grid Pattern modifier button.

The prompt line reads: ENTER X number of grid tool path points.
8. Type 3 and press ENTER.
The prompt line reads: ENTER Y number of grid tool path points.
9. Type 7 and press ENTER.
The prompt line reads: ENTER X distance between grid tool path points.
10. Type 1 and press ENTER.
The prompt line reads: ENTER Y distance between grid tool path points.
11. Type .375 and press ENTER.
The prompt line reads: ENTER grid tool path angle.
12. Type 0 and press ENTER.

13. Click the Keyboard Snap button.

14. Type 1.25 for X start and press ENTER.
15. Type 1.25 for Y start and press ENTER.
The Grid Pattern tool path displays.

6-20 Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths

 Inserting Pattern Tool Paths

The second Grid Pattern is the same pattern as the first, except it is rotated 90 degrees:

16. Click the Pattern Tool Path button.

17. Click the Grid Pattern modifier button.

18. Click the Horizontal First Move modifier button.

The prompt line reads: ENTER X number of grid tool path points.
19. Press ENTER to accept the default of 3.
The prompt line reads: ENTER Y number of grid tool path points.
20. Press ENTER to accept the default of 3.
The prompt line reads: ENTER X distance between grid tool path points.
21. Press ENTER to accept the default of 1.0.
The prompt line reads: ENTER Y distance between grid points.
22. Press ENTER to accept the default of .375.
The prompt line reads: ENTER grid tool path angle.
23. Type 90 and press ENTER.

24. Click the Keyboard Snap button.

25. Type 7.875 for X and press ENTER.
26. Type 3.625 for Y and press ENTER.

1. Open the part file EXMILL11.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

This pattern is the same as the
previous example except it is
rotated 15 degrees.
2. Start 2D Mill.
3. Set up Tool 1 as a .250
diameter drill.

4. Click the Pattern Tool

Path button.
5. Click OK to accept the default
values in the Set Operation -
Drill dialog box.
6. Click OK to accept the
defaults in the Set Operation -
Post Parameters dialog box.

Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths 6-21

Inserting Pattern Tool Paths

7. Click the Grid Pattern modifier button.

The prompt line reads: ENTER X number of grid tool path points.
8. Type 3 and press ENTER.
The prompt line reads: ENTER Y number of grid tool path points.
9. Type 7 and press ENTER.
The prompt line reads: ENTER X distance between grid tool path points.
10. Type 1.0 and press ENTER.
The prompt line reads: ENTER Y distance between grid tool path points.
11. Type .375 and press ENTER.
The prompt line reads: ENTER grid tool path angle.
12. Type -15 and press ENTER.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for grid tool path start.

13. Click the Entity Origin button on the Snap toolbar.

14. Pick the circle with the center at X1.250, Y1.250.
ProCAM displays the Grid Pattern tool path.
Inserting a Circular Pattern Tool Path
The Circular Pattern allows you to define a group of points equally spaced on a circle.
1. Open the part file EXMILL12.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
The bolt hole pattern in this figure
has a known number of points,
known diameter, and a known
center location.
2. Start 2D Mill.
3. Set up Tool 1 as a .625" diameter
drill.

4. Click the Pattern Tool Path

button.
5. Click OK to accept the defaults in
the Set Operation – Drill dialog
box.
6. Click OK to accept the defaults in
the Set Operation - Post Parameters
dialog box.

6-22 Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths

 Inserting Pattern Tool Paths

7. Click the Circular Pattern modifier button.

The prompt line reads: ENTER bolt hole path number of points.
8. Type 16 and press ENTER.
The prompt line reads: ENTER start angle of bolt hole path.
9. Type 0 and press ENTER.

10. Click the Diameter modifier button.

The prompt line reads: ENTER bolt hole path diameter.
11. Type 18 and press ENTER.

12. Click the Keyboard Snap button.

13. Type 0 for X and press ENTER.
14. Type 0 for Y and press ENTER.
The circular pattern tool path displays.

1. Open the part file EXMILL13.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

In this bolt circle, the starting
hole is given as 45 degrees.
Try this exercise on your own.
The steps are listed below if
you need help.
2. Start 2D Mill.
3. Set up Tool 1 as a .500
diameter drill.

4. Click the Pattern Tool

Path button.
5. Click OK to accept the default
values in the Set Operation -
Drill dialog box.
6. Click OK to accept the
defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.

7. Click the Circular Pattern modifier button.

The prompt line reads: ENTER bolt hole path number of points.
8. Type 4 and press ENTER.
The prompt line reads: ENTER start angle of bolt hole path.
9. Type 45 and press ENTER.

Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths 6-23

Inserting Pattern Tool Paths

10. Click the Diameter modifier button.

The prompt line reads: ENTER bolt hole path diameter.
11. Type 6 and press ENTER.

12. Click the Keyboard Snap button.

13. Type 0 for X and press ENTER.
14. Type 0 for Y and press ENTER.

If you were going to cut this part, all you would have to do to drill and counterbore is set
up two operations and accept the information when you are defining the second bolt
circle.

Inserting an Arc Pattern Tool Path

The Arc Pattern modifier allows you define a group of points on an arc. This modifier differs
from the Circular Pattern modifier in that the points do not have to go completely around the
diameter or radius.
1. Open the part file EXMILL14.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
This arc pattern has a known number of
points, known radius, known start angle,
known angle between points, and a
location of X0, Y0.
2. Start 2D Mill.

3. Click the Pattern Tool Path button.

4. Set up Tool 1 as a .375 diameter drill.
5. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set
Operation - Drill dialog box.
6. Click OK in the Set Operation - Post
Parameters dialog box.

7. Click the Arc Pattern modifier

button.

6-24 Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths

 Inserting Pattern Tool Paths

8. Click the following modifier buttons to select them:

− Angle

− Incremental Angle

− Radius
− The prompt line reads: ENTER arc pattern radius.
9. Type 2.5 and press ENTER.
The prompt line reads: ENTER arc pattern number of points.
10. Type 6 and press ENTER.

11. Click the Keyboard Snap button.

12. Type 0 for X center and press ENTER.
13. Type 0 for Y center and press ENTER.
The prompt line reads: ENTER arc start angle.
14. Type -30 and press ENTER.
The prompt line reads: ENTER arc pattern incremental angle.
15. Type 12 and press ENTER.
16. Press ENTER to accept the radius.
To insert the other three patterns on the part, you can either change the start angle or use the
Rotate Utility with the Rotate/Copy modifier.

Open the part file EXMILL14.PRT again.

• Use the same steps as above except do not click the Incremental Angle modifier button.
• ProCAM prompts for End Angle instead of Incremental Angle.
• Type 30 for the Ending Angle.

Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths 6-25

Inserting Pattern Tool Paths

6-26 Single Point and Pattern Tool Paths

Chapter 7 Working with Tool Paths

Most of the commands on the Utility toolbar can be used to manipulate tool paths (CAM
entities).
This chapter explains how to use the following utilities:
• Break
The Break utility cannot be used with CAM entities. However, it can be used to break
CAD entities or to explode patterns to text into multiple entities in order to generate the
required tool paths.
• Rotate
• Move
• Mirror
• Edit
• Order
This chapter also explains the following functions that you can use to view the cutter paths in
the order they will be processes and optimize tool paths in an operation:
• 3D View Cut Simulation
• Optimize Tool Paths

Working with Tool Paths 7-1

Breaking and Exploding Entities

Breaking and Exploding Entities

The Break Utility allows you to break a CAD entity into multiple entities or to explode
patterns or text into multiple entities.
The figure on the right shows
two lace pocket routines using
Arc Leadin and Leadout. The
boundary on the left pocket
starts at the end of the line.
Notice that the Leadin and
Leadout go outside the
perimeter of the pocket. If you
wanted to cut this pocket
using Arc Leadin and
Leadout, breaking the left line
at its midpoint would allow you to start and end the boundary there. Then, when you use a
leadin and leadout, ProCAM would start in the middle and the tool path would look like the
example on the right.

What You'll Learn

Breaking an Entity
In this exercise, you break line #5 in the figure at its midpoint.
1. Open the part file EXMILL5.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the Break Utility button.

The prompt line reads: PICK entity to break.
3. Pick line #5.
ProCAM highlights the line.

4. Click the Midpoint Snap

button.
5. Pick the line again.
A small cross displays at the
break point.
6. Click BUTTON 2.
Breaking an entity does not leave
a gap, although one is shown on the entity until you click the Redraw button to refresh
the screen. This is to show you that the command was performed.

7-2 Working with Tool Paths

 Breaking and Exploding Entities

Break the circle at the intersection of line #1:

7. At the prompt, PICK entity to break, pick the circle.
ProCAM highlights the circle.

8. Pick the Single Intersection Snap button.

The prompt line reads: PICK intersection location for break point.
9. Pick line #1.
10. Break the circle at the other three lines by picking each line.
Remember to follow the prompt line.
11. Click BUTTON 2 when done.

Make sure you pick the end of the line nearest the break location. Otherwise, ProCAM
breaks the circle at the opposite side.
ProCAM breaks the circle in four places.
If you were to measure the entities now, they would be arcs, not a circle.

1. Open the part file EXMILL6.PRT in the procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Break the lines at midpoint.
3. Do a lace pocket cycle with a .750"
diameter end mill.
4. Use Arc Leadin and Leadout.
5. After the pocket is finished, make sure
the Leadins and Leadouts do not cut
through the sides of the pocket.
6. Edit the operation, change the lace angle,
then rerun the operation.
7. Try different lace angles to see which
angle gives you the least amount of
wasted moves.

Working with Tool Paths 7-3

Rotating

Rotating
The Rotate Utility can be used to rotate CAM entities.
The part in this figure has five pockets and five linear patterns.
As a time-saver, only one of the pockets and
one of the linear patterns needs to be defined.
Then, they can be rotated and copied to the
other locations.

What You'll Learn

Using the Rotate Utility
1. Open the part file EXMILL15.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
The part already has a pocket and linear pattern tool path defined.

2. Start 2D Mill.
ProCAM automatically starts Mill because the part was saved after starting the Mill
system.

3. Click the Rotate Utility button.

4. Click the Rotate/Copy/Repeat modifier button.

5. At the prompt, PICK entities to rotate, pick the pocket tool path.
Remember to pick one of the gray lines in the pocket tool path. When you pick the pocket
tool path, the complete tool path is highlighted in white.
6. Click BUTTON 2 to tell ProCAM you are done picking.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate to rotate around.

7. Click the Keyboard Snap button.

8. Type 0 for X center and press ENTER.
9. Type 0 for Y center and press ENTER.

7-4 Working with Tool Paths

 Rotating

10. Type 360/5 for the Rotation angle and press

ENTER.
Instead of calculating the angle yourself, the
system calculates the angle for you.
11. Type 4 for the number of times to repeat the
rotation and press ENTER.
Remember, this is a repeat command.
12. Rotate the linear pattern the same way.

The part should look like the

figure on the right when you are
done.
Note that in this exercise, you
could have rotated the pocket and
linear pattern at the same time
because they are both rotated
around X0, Y0 with the same
number of copies.

Working with Tool Paths 7-5

Editing

Editing
The Edit Utility allows you to modify various CAD and CAM entities after they have been
inserted into a part.

The Direction modifier is explained in this section. The Edit Macro modifier is
explained in Chapter 9. For an explanation of the other modifiers, see the CAD online help.

What You'll Learn

Changing the Direction of Patterns
In the part used in the exercises for rotating CAM entities, after the drill patterns were
rotated, the rapid moves would be longer than they need to be. Instead of rapid traversing to
the next nearest hole, the rapid move is to the original start point of each pattern.
With the Edit Direction modifier, the direction of the patterns can be changed to have the
drill go in alternating directions to keep rapid moves to a minimum.
1. Open the part file EXMILL17.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Click the Edit Utility button.

3. Click the Direction modifier

button.
The prompt line reads: PICK entity to
change direction.
4. Pick the patterns identified in the figure.
After you pick a pattern to edit, notice the
rapid lines change to reflect the new
starting point of the pattern.

7-6 Working with Tool Paths

 Moving

Moving
You can use the Move Utility to move CAM entities.

What You'll Learn

Moving and Copying CAM Entities
In this exercise, instead of defining a tool path on each of the slots separately, only one slot
needs to be defined, then moved and copied.
1. Open the part file EXMILL16.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
This part already has a Profile tool path defined.

2. Click the Move Utility button.

3. Click the Move/Copy modifier button.

The prompt line reads: PICK entities to move.
4. Pick the Profile tool path.
− To pick the tool path, pick the gray line that is at the center of the tool diameter. You
can pick it easily if you zoom up.
− The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate to move from.

5. Click the Entity Origin

Snap button.
6. Pick the arc at the bottom of
the lower slot to move from.
7. Pick the bottom arc of the top
slot to move to.
8. Click BUTTON 2 twice to tell
ProCAM you are finished.
This moves the tool path up, so
that you can move and copy it
multiple times to the right.

9. Click the Move Utility

button.

10. Click the Move/Copy/Repeat modifier button.

Working with Tool Paths 7-7

Moving

11. Pick both tool paths to move.

Remember to pick the gray lines in the center of the tool paths.
12. Click BUTTON 2.

13. Make sure Entity Origin Snap button is still picked.

The prompt line reads: PICK entity origin to move from.
14. Pick the lower arc again.
The prompt line reads: PICK entity origin to move to.
15. Click the lower arc on the next slot to the right.
16. Press ENTER twice to accept the values for the X and Y increments in the InfoBar.
ProCAM knows these values because of the distance between where you picked to move
from and where you picked to move to.
17. Type 8 for the number of repeats and press ENTER.
ProCAM inserts tool paths on all the slots.

7-8 Working with Tool Paths

 Mirroring

Mirroring
The Mirror Utility works the same in 2D Mill as it does in CAD. The one problem with
using the Mirror Utility for CAM entities is the tool paths get reversed.
In the figure on the right, the
bottom tool path was defined
cutting counterclockwise around
the inside, then mirrored. The top
tool path is cutting clockwise. In
this example, the bottom path is
climb milling and the top path is
conventional milling. You may find
it better to mirror the CAD entities
first. Then you can put boundaries
on both parts going in the direction
you want.

Working with Tool Paths 7-9

Running the Cut Simulation

Running the Cut Simulation

The 3D View command on the Mill toolbar provides a Cut Simulation Order Check
modifier that allows you to view the cutter paths in the order they will be machined and post
processed.

3D View Modifiers
Extrusion Gives the part a flat depth, in effect extruding it. This is the
default setting.
Surface of Allows you to view a round part in 3D.
Revolution
Project 3D View Allows you to save a view by converting the 3D view entities to
into 2D Part 2D CAD entities. Any view can be saved.
Cut Simulation Shows the top and bottom heights that have been attached to an
Order Check entity. This modifier is used in combination with either the
Extrusion or Surface of Revolution modifier.
Top View The preset 3D View modifiers allow you to run Cut Simulation
or just view the part in the selected view.
Right Side View

Front View

Isometric View

Cut Simulation Modifiers

Tool Turns the display of the cutter on and off.

Step Allows you to view the cut simulation one cut at a time.

First Runs the simulation from the first location in the tool path.

Last In Step mode the Last modifier displays the cutter at the last
location in the tool path that is currently being displayed. With
Step mode off, it displays the last position of the last tool.
Next Moves the cutter to the next location. You can continue to click
Next all the way through the part.
Previous Reverses the cutter direction to back up through the tool path.
You can continue to click Previous to back up through the part.

7-10 Working with Tool Paths

 Running the Cut Simulation

What You'll Learn

• Using Cut Simulation
• Changing the Simulation Speed
• Running the Simulation in Single Step Mode
• Turning the Tool Display On and Off
• Changing Simulation Views
• Using Preset Views
Using Cut Simulation
1. Open the part file EXMILL35.PRT in the procad\parts\learn folder.
2. Start 2D Mill.
3. Choose CAM Display on the Setup menu.
4. Check the Cut Simulation On option in the CAM Display dialog box and click OK.

5. Click the 3D View button.

6. Click the Cut Simulation Order

Check modifier button.
The part displays in 3D.

7. Click the First modifier button to

run the Cut Simulation.
The different cut paths display.
8. Choose CAM Display on the Setup menu.
9. Remove the check marks from the Boundary Arrows and Rapids options in the CAM
Display dialog box, then click OK.
When you turn off the display of these
entities, the simulation and the part are
easier to view.

10. Click the Redraw Utility button.

11. Click the First modifier button again

to run the simulation.

Working with Tool Paths 7-11

Running the Cut Simulation

Changing the Simulation Speed

Depending on the size of part you are working on, the simulation may be too fast or too
slow. To correct this, you can set the simulation distance. The simulation distance is the
distance between cutter displays. What ProCAM is actually doing when it is running the cut
simulation is showing you the cutter every time it moves a certain distance. This in effect
looks like the cutter is actually moving.
1. Choose CAM Display on the Setup menu.

− The CAM Display dialog box displays.

− The current distance is shown in the Simulation Distance text box.
2. Double click the Simulation Distance text box.
3. Type .050 and press ENTER.

4. Click the First modifier to run the Cut Simulation again.

The simulation is much slower this time because the cutters display more frequently.
5. Set the simulation distance to 1.000 and run the simulation.
6. Set the simulation distance back to .050 for the next exercise.
Running the Simulation in Step Mode
The Cut Simulation can also be done in Step mode where you can see each cut one at a time.
At any time during the simulation, you can select Step mode by either clicking BUTTON 2 or
pressing ESC.

1. Click the Step modifier button.

2. Click the First modifier button.

The cutter displays at the first cut location.

3. Click the Next modifier button.

The cutter moves to the second location.
4. Click Next several times.
You could continue to click Next all the way through the part.

5. Click the Previous modifier button a couple of times.

This modifier works the same as Next except it backs up through the tool path.
6. Start the Cut Simulation with the Step mode turned off.
7. When ProCAM is showing the cut on the right lace pocket, click BUTTON 2.
ProCAM automatically goes into Step mode.
8. Click any of the other modifier buttons: First, Last, Next, or Previous.

7-12 Working with Tool Paths

 Running the Cut Simulation

9. To return to continuous simulation, click the Step button to turn it off.

10. Click the Next modifier.

The simulation continues from where you left off.
Turning the Tool Display On and Off
The Tool modifier button is used to turn the display of the cutter on and off.

1. Make sure the Tool modifier is not highlighted.

2. Click the First modifier button.

The simulation runs without displaying the cutter.
Changing Simulation Views
Cut Simulation can be run in different
views. These can either be preset views or
you can change the view of the part with
BUTTON 1.
At the bottom of the work area, the X,Y,Z
axis displays.
The prompt line reads: Press button 1 to
change 3D view.
1. Position the pointer anywhere in the
work area.
2. Hold down BUTTON 1 (the left button)
and move the pointer around.
As you move the mouse, the axis lines
rotate to show you the view perspective.
3. Release BUTTON 1.
The part is redrawn in that view.

4. Click the First modifier button to run the simulation.

You can change the 3D view any time during the simulation by clicking BUTTON 2 or
pressing ESC. This puts ProCAM in Step mode as shown below:
1. Start the simulation again.
2. Click BUTTON 2 while it is running.
3. Move the pointer into the work area.
4. Hold down BUTTON 1 and move the pointer to the view you want.

Working with Tool Paths 7-13

Running the Cut Simulation

5. Release BUTTON 1.

6. Click the Step modifier button to turn it off.

7. Click the Next modifier to turn it on.

The Cut Simulation continues in the new view.
To return to the original 3D view:

8. Click the 3D View button.

9. Click the Cut Simulation Order Check modifier.

The view returns to the original 3D view.

Isometric is the default view and is automatically selected.

Using Preset Views
The four preset 3D View modifiers allow you to run the Cut Simulation or just view the part
in the selected view.

1. Click the 3D View button.

2. Click the Top View modifier

button.
This modifier shows you the part as if you
were looking straight down into it as
shown in the figure.

3. Click the Cut Simulation Order

Check modifier button.

4. Click the First modifier button to

run the Cut Simulation.

5. Click the 3D View button.

6. Click the Right Side View modifier button.

This modifier shows you a view of the part as if you were standing at the end of the
machine looking down the X axis (as shown in the figure on the next page). The Y axis
shown in the figure is for clarity only.

7-14 Working with Tool Paths

 Running the Cut Simulation

7. Click the Cut Simulation Order Check modifier button.

8. Click the First modifier button to run the Cut Simulation.

9. Click the 3D View button.

10. Click the Front View modifier button.

This modifier shows you a view of the part as if you were standing in front of the
machine looking along the Y axis (as shown in the figure below).

11. Click the Cut Simulation Order Check modifier button.

12. Click the First modifier button to run the Cut Simulation.
You can change the view any time during Cut Simulation by clicking BUTTON 2. Then
hold down BUTTON 1 (left button) and rotate the part to the view you want.

When you return to 2D mode, the cutter is still displayed in simulation mode. Select
CAM Display on the Setup menu, remove the check mark from the Cut Simulation On
check box and click OK. Then, click the Redraw button to refresh the screen.

Working with Tool Paths 7-15

Using the Order Utility

Using the Order Utility

The Order Utility allows you to review and change the order of the tool path.

Modifiers
Move Moves several entities from one location in the tool path order to
another. You choose the first and last entities to be moved and where
to move them. The physical location of the entities is not changed.
Re-order Reorders entities from one location in the tool path order to another.
The reordering is done by selecting the first entity to be reordered and
then each subsequent entity that is to follow that entity. The physical
location of the entities is not changed.
Check Steps through the entity order one entity at a time. Each entity in order
is highlighted and its geometric values display in the InfoBar.
Step The steps of a cycle are highlighted one step at a time. If this modifier
is not selected, the complete cycle is highlighted.

Before/After This modifier replaces the Step modifier when you select the Move
modifier. If selected, the entities picked for moving are moved after a
selected entity. If not selected, the entities picked for moving are
moved before a selected entity.
Begin First With the Step modifier selected, this modifier highlights the first
move in a cycle. Without the Step modifier, the first cycle done is
highlighted.
Begin Last With the Step modifier selected, this modifier highlights the last move
in a cycle. Without the Step modifier, the last cycle done is
highlighted.
Next Allows you to step forward one cycle or one step at a time.

Previous Allows you to step back one cycle or one step at a time.

7-16 Working with Tool Paths

 Optimizing Tool Paths

Optimizing Tool Paths

The Optimize command is used to optimize tool paths in an operation to the shortest
distance from one cut to the next. This function is often used to optimize large toolfit
drilling operations, such as ejector pins in mold bases.

Modifiers
Grid Optimizes a sheet of parts by optimizing CAM entities within
Optimization multiple windows. The windows are placed on the sheet to form
a grid of windows. Using this modifier can significantly reduce
the amount of time required to optimize large parts.
Single Part Optimizes the tool paths within an operation. In 2D Mill, this
Optimization modifier could be called Single Operation Optimization.
Remove Doubles Removes double CAM paths at the same location.

What You Need to Know

Optimizing Tool Paths in an Operation
This function optimizes the tool paths within an operation. Optimization does not change the
tool path in a particular cut. For example, if you had eight pocket cycles, the tool paths in the
pockets would not be changed; only the order of the eight pockets would be changed.
Optimization is important when you use window picking to insert tool paths.
There are two types of optimization: Single Part and Grid. Some parts are small (meaning
there are few CAM entities) and all entities can be optimized using Single Part optimization.
Some larger parts with hundreds of CAM entities could take hours to optimize using the
Single Part modifier. With Grid optimization, large parts can be divided into areas and each
area can be optimized separately.
In addition to using Single Part and Grid optimization, this function provides options for
removing doubles and removing cuts inside of cuts.
Single Part and Grid Optimization Modifiers
The following modifiers are not used in the Mill system: Optimize, Rapid Around Clamps
and Tool Sorting. You are optimizing Mill operations, not the whole part, so tools cannot be
sorted.
Fast Optimization
When this modifier is highlighted, next closest cut optimization is used. When the modifier
is not highlighted, pairing optimization is used.

Working with Tool Paths 7-17

Optimizing Tool Paths

Next Closest Cut

This type starts at one entity and moves to the next closest
entity, then to the next closest, etc., until all entities are
optimized. This type of optimization can be done quickly
and, depending on the part, it can produce very good results.

Pairing
This is a more complex method that can be very time consuming; however, it can produce
better results. The pairing optimization algorithm pairs the closest entities, then pairs the
pairs, etc., until all the entities are optimized. The time needed to optimize using pairs
optimization increases exponentially with the number of entities to be optimized.
Pair Entities Pair All Pairs Pair All Pairs Completed Path

Double Check
When you select this modifier, ProCAM performs some simple checks to look for and
correct common optimization errors after the optimization has completed. Both Next
Closest Cut and Pairing may produce moves within an operation that can be modified to
produce better results.
Without Double Check With Double Check

Reverse Direction
When this modifier is selected, ProCAM may reverse the direction of patterns during
optimization. Typically, this modifier is selected to allow ProCAM to reverse if necessary.

7-18 Working with Tool Paths

 Optimizing Tool Paths

Additional Grid Optimization Modifiers

Zigzag Pattern
This modifier defines a zigzag movement between optimizing windows. If the direction
modifier is set for Vertical, the zigzag movement is from right to left, then left to right. If
the direction modifier is set for Horizontal, the zigzag movement is from up to down, then
down to up. If this modifier is not selected, movement between optimizing windows is in
the same direction across the part each time.
Horizontal / Vertical
This modifier defines the movement between optimizing windows to be up and down or
from left to right.

Remove Double Modifiers

Remove Inside
When this modifier is selected, ProCAM removes an entity if it is located inside another
entity.
Check Order
The modifier is used with the Remove Inside modifier. If the modifier is selected, ProCAM
considers the order when removing an entity inside an entity and does not remove an entity
that actually cuts material.

What You'll Learn

• Optimizing a Profile Operation
• Optimizing a Drilling Operation
Optimizing a Profile Operation
1. Open the part file EXMILL27.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.
2. Start 2D Mill.

3. Insert a Profile tool path with a .125"

diameter end mill, .25 deep on all the
cutouts. Use a small Arc Leadin and
Leadout.
Remember the Compensation Side
modifier (Left).
4. Window pick all the cutouts.
The part should look like the figure.

5. Click the Optimize button.

Working with Tool Paths 7-19

Optimizing Tool Paths

6. Click the Single Part modifier button.

The prompt line reads: PICK entities to optimize.
7. Pick any one of the cutouts on the part. Because ProCAM optimizes an operation, when
you select any tool path in an operation, all the tool paths are selected.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for optimization start. ProCAM is asking you to
determine where you want the first cut.
8. Position the pointer near the middle of the part and click BUTTON 1.
ProCAM optimizes the cuts. The first cutout is one of the cutouts near the middle.
ProCAM then selects the next nearest cutout and works its way around the part.
9. Run the Cut Simulation to see the new order.
10. Optimize the part using one of the corners as the start point.
The corner you pick is where the first cut will be.
11. Run the Cut Simulation to see the different order.
Optimizing a Drilling Operation
In Chapter 6, you learned toolfit drilling using part EXMILL28.PRT. When ProCAM
finished drilling the holes, there were rapid lines going all around the part. When ProCAM
does toolfit drilling, it drills the holes in the order they were drawn. In this part, the holes
were drawn in a random order. The easiest way to see this is to run the Cut Simulation.
The following exercise shows how to use the Optimize function to optimize the drilling for
the shortest distance between holes.
1. Open the part file EXMILL28.PRT in the procad\parts\learn folder.
2. Start 2D Mill.

3. Click the Optimize button.

4. Click the Single Part modifier

button.
The prompt line reads: PICK entities to
optimize.
5. Pick the .25 diameter hole indicated by
the arrow.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE location
for optimization start.
6. Pick the same hole again and this will be the first hole drilled. As soon as you pick the
hole, ProCAM optimizes all the .250 holes.
7. To optimize the rest of the holes, pick any one of the holes in the path, then pick a
location to start.

7-20 Working with Tool Paths

 For More Practice

For More Practice

Skill-Builder Exercise MILL6
Do this part from drawing through post processing.
• Use the following tools (tool materials, flutes and lengths can have any values for these
exercises):
− Tool 1 = .750 diameter end mill
− Tool 2 = .3125 diameter end mill
− Tool 3 = .1875 diameter end mill
− Tool 4 = center drill (define as a .125 diameter drill)
− Tool 5 = .159 diameter drill
− Tool 6 = 10 - 32 tap (define as a .190 diameter drill)
• Time-Saver Tip
− To make it easier to see the different tool paths, change the color for each one.
− You may want to set up layers for CAD, boundaries, and tool paths.

Working with Tool Paths 7-21

For More Practice

• Operation #1: Profile

− To cut the outside, insert boundaries starting on the arc at the lower left up to the arc
at the top left. Then, do the same for the other side starting at the top.
− Use .010 for the XY Allowance amount. This leaves .010 per side for finishing.
− Use Linked for the Feed/Speed tables.
− Use a Perpendicular Leadin and Leadout.
− Use Plunge at Leadin Start and Retract at Leadout End.
− Remember that the Cut Amount parameter determines which feed and speed is used
from the table. For this operation, use a large number like .05 or .100.
• Operation #2: Profile
− Click the New button in the Operation dialog box to define the second Profile cut on
the ends.
− Use Linked for the Feed/Speed tables.
− Type .010 for the Cut Amount. This will select different values in the Feed/Speed
table.
− Use the same Start and End Types as the first operation.
− Use a Perpendicular Leadin and Leadout.
• Operation #3: Lace Pocket
− Break one of the vertical lines at the midpoint on the outside perimeter and the island
before you put the boundary on it. Then, you can use any type of Leadin on the finish
profile and the profile will not cut through a corner.
− Leave some material for finishing.
− Use Linked to get ProCAM to vary the feedrates depending on the Axial Depth of cut.
− Use Ramp from Start Hole and digitize the start hole location. Make sure you watch
the tool path so it does not cut through the island. If it does, Oops out the cut and pick
a different start location.
• Operation #4: Profiling (Finish the Lace Pocket)
− Use a Leadin and Leadout with Plunge at Leadin Start and Retract at Leadout End. Be
careful it does not cut into the island.
− Use .01 for the Cut Amount to get finishing feeds and speeds.
• Operation #5: Pocket (Profile Pocket)
− Use Step and Repeat for the Z Cycle Type.
− Use Linked for the Feed/Speed.
• Operation #6: Profile (Finish the Pocket)
• Operation #7: Drilling (Center Drilling)
When you are picking the holes for the drilling cycles, remember to pick the Entity
Origin Snap for location.

7-22 Working with Tool Paths

 For More Practice

• Operation #8: Drilling (10-32 Tap Drill, Pecking Cycle)

Click the Operation button and select New to define this peck drilling operation.
Remember, when you have more than one drill cycle in a row, you have to pick New to
start a new drill cycle.
• Operation #9: Drilling (Tapping)
Click the Operation button and select New to define this tapping operation.
• When you are finished with your tool paths, your part should look similar to the figure
below.
• The feeds and speeds may not be the same. This depends on the material selected and the
configuration of the Feed/Speed table.
• Save the part.
• Post process the part.

Working with Tool Paths 7-23

For More Practice

Skill-Builder Exercise MILL7

Do this part from drawing through post processing.

• Tools
− Tool 1 = .125 diameter drill (for the Center Drill)
− Tool 2 = .250 diameter drill
− Tool 3 = .500 diameter end mill (for the C'bore)
− Tool 4 = .750 diameter end mill

7-24 Working with Tool Paths

 For More Practice

• Operations
− Center Drill
− Drill
− C'bore
− Mill the six pockets
− Mill the center hole
− Mill OD
• Time-Saver Tips
Use Linear Pattern to define the hole
locations. Define only one pattern, then
rotate and copy it for the others.
To machine the pocket, you need to
extend it out so the end mill can clear the
edge (as shown in the figure). The easiest
way to do this is to draw a 15.000" circle,
then trim the lines out to meet the
15.000" circle. You only need to do this
on one pocket because you can rotate and
copy the tool path for the other pockets.
The steps for this are in the following
exercise.
8. Draw a 15.000" diameter circle.

9. Click the Trim Utility button.

10. Pick the line marked #1.
11. Click BUTTON 2 to tell ProCAM you are done picking.
The prompt line reads: PICK intersection to trim from.
12. Pick the 15.000" circle.
13. Click BUTTON 2 twice.

This type of trimming is called Single Entity Trimming. When you do not select a place
to trim to, ProCAM automatically keeps the longest section of the line.
14. Trim the line marked #2.
15. Trim the circle from line #1 to line #2.
Your part should look like the figure on the next page.
When you do a pocket cycle on this, the end mill will be able to travel beyond the
13.000" OD.
16. Rotate and copy the tool path to the other locations.

Working with Tool Paths 7-25

For More Practice

17. After all the tool paths and patterns are

finished, edit the direction of the patterns to
have the shortest rapid moves.
18. Save the part and post process it.

Skill-Builder Exercise MILL8

Do this part from drawing through post processing.

• Tools
− Tool 1 = 1.125 diameter end mill.
− Tool 2 = .250 diameter end mill
− Tool 3 = .125 diameter drill (center drill)
− Tool 4 = .250 diameter drill

7-26 Working with Tool Paths

 For More Practice

• Operations
− Cut the outside diameter with the 1.125 diameter end mill to the top of the pads.
− Do a rough and finish pass. Leave .010 for finishing on the sides and bottom.
− Cut the outside shape with the .250 diameter end mill. Do a rough and finish pass.
− Cut the inside with the 1/4" end mill. Use a Pocket cycle with No Profile modifier.
Leave .005" on the sides and bottom for finish. Use Z Step and Repeat.
− To finish the inside, do another Pocket cycle with the After Profile modifier.
− Center drill and drill all the holes.
Because you have overlapping boundaries on a part like this, using layers can be helpful
when you are putting on the boundaries.
In order to cut the outside shape, the 2.000 radius has to be broken at the intersections of the
.125 fillets. Otherwise, you will not be able to put a boundary around the profile.
1. Choose Set Layers on the Setup menu.
2. Type a new number.
3. Type Circle Boundary for the description.
4. Type a new number.
5. Type Profile Boundary for the description.
6. Pick the Circle Boundary layer to make it the Current layer.
This is the active layer and anything you insert in the work area will be on this layer.
7. Click OK to close the dialog box.

8. Click the Boundary button.

9. Put a boundary on the 2.000 radius circle.
Remember, it starts and ends at 3 o'clock.
10. Choose Set Layers on the Setup menu.
11. Select the Profile Boundary layer to make it the current layer.
12. Turn off the Circle layer, then click OK.
This turns off the boundary.

13. Click the Redraw Utility button to refresh the work area.

14. Click the Break Utility button.

Working with Tool Paths 7-27

For More Practice

15. Break the circle at the intersections of the .125 radius

fillets.

16. Click the Boundary button.

17. Put a boundary around the profile.
When you put the boundary around the profile, pick each
entity one at a time so the boundary does not go in the
wrong direction.
18. Choose Set Layers on the Setup menu.

19. Turn the Circle layer back on.

If this part were to be made from a
piece of material like the one shown
in this figure, a Leadin and Leadout
long enough to clear the stock would
have to be used. Always remember to
consider the Leadins and Leadouts
when inserting Profile tool paths.

− When you are defining the drill cycles, define one operation for the bolt circle and
center hole. Then click the Operation button on the system bar and click New.
− When you are defining the drilling operations, define a separate operation for the
holes on the tabs.
− For the Z Face parameter in the Set Operation dialog box, type -.500. This is where
the Z face is for this operation. If you use .050 as the XY Allowance amount,
ProCAM outputs a -.450 as the Rapid Plane. This will rapid the Z to .050 above the
tab before it starts feeding down.
− Pick Clearance Plane for the retract type so the drill will retract above the part before
it rapids to the next tab.

7-28 Working with Tool Paths

 For More Practice

Skill-Builder Exercise MILL9

Do this part from drawing through post processing.

• Tools
− Tool 1 = .125 drill (Center Drill)
− Tool 2 = .250 drill
− Tool 3 = .500 end mill
• Operations
− Center Drill and Drill all the holes.
− Cut the pockets with the 1/2" end mill.
− Cut the 1/4" deep slot.
• Time-Saver Tips
− To cut the .500 wide slot with a .500 diameter end
mill, put a boundary only on the left line of the
slot. Then use the Profile Tool Path command with
Parallel Leadin and Leadout (as shown in this
figure).
− Use Arc Pattern for the hole locations.
− You can either rotate or mirror the pocket and
pattern.

Working with Tool Paths 7-29

For More Practice

Skill-Builder Exercise MILL10

Do this part from drawing through post processing.

• Define the following tools:
− Tool 1 = .5 diameter end mill
− Tool 2 = Drill for 10 - 32 Tap (#21 .159 diameter)
− Tool 3 = .190 diameter drill (10 - 32 Tap)
− Tool 4 = 1.0" diameter end mill
• Operations
− Cut the complete inside to the 1" depth with the .5 diameter end mill. Rough and
finish. Leave .005 in Z and .010 in XY for finish.
− Mill the 1.750 diameter hole.
− Cut the second pocket to the 1.75 depth avoiding the islands. Do two operations: one
for rough and one for finish.
− Drill and tap the 10-32 holes.
− Cut the outside with the 1" end mill. Rough and finish.

7-30 Working with Tool Paths

 For More Practice

• Time-Saver Tips
− Before you put the boundaries on
the part for the pockets, break the
top and bottom lines at the
intersection of the .250 radius
fillet.
− When you insert the boundaries,
make sure the Boundary Look-ahead modifier is selected because there are multiple
paths ProCAM can take.
− When multiple paths are detected, ProCAM beeps and displays the message: ERROR:
Multiple paths found. Pick correct path. The two paths ProCAM could take are
highlighted in dark red. Pick which path you want ProCAM to take.
− To rough and finish the 1.000 deep pocket, define two Pocket operations. This way
you can have different speeds and feeds for roughing and finishing.
− To pick the entities for the pocket
with islands, make sure the Closed
modifier is showing. Then,
window pick all the entities that
will be in the pocket.
− Because the Closed modifier is
selected, even though some extra
entities are picked in the window,
they do not make up a closed
boundary, so they will not have a
boundary inserted on them.
− Notice how ProCAM breaks the horizontal line to start the boundary.

Working with Tool Paths 7-31

For More Practice

Skill-Builder Exercise MILL11

Do this part from drawing through post processing.

• Tools
− Tool 1 = .250" end mill
− Tool 2 = .250" end mill
− Tool 3 = .125" end mill
• Operations
− Rough cut the two .500 deep pockets with tool 1 (leave .005 for the finish allowance
in Z and XY).
− Finish cut the two pockets with a separate .250" end mill.
− Cut the three .093 deep pockets with tool 2. Cut them to size in one pass.
− Cut the .125 wide slot with tool 2.
• Time-Saver Tips
− When you insert boundaries, window pick all the entities for all the pockets. Make
sure you leave one of the entities on the outside of the part out of the window. With
the Closed boundary modifier, ProCAM inserts a boundary on all the pockets, but not
on the perimeter.
− Use different colors for the tools to make it easier to see the small pockets.
− Put a boundary on only one side of the .125 wide slot. Use profile with 0.0000
clearance and offset to the correct side.

7-32 Working with Tool Paths

Chapter 8 Z Cycle Types

When you define a Profile, Pocket or Lace Pocket operation, you must select a Z Cycle
Type:
• Z Single Depth
ProCAM makes a single cut to the Z depth you specify. In the exercises so far, you have
been selecting this option.
• Z Step and Repeat
ProCAM makes multiple cuts in the X axis.
• Z Wall Definition
ProCAM cuts the wall of the part according to the side view that you define.
This chapter explains the Z Step and Repeat and Z Wall Definition options.

Z Cycle Types 8-1

Z Step and Repeat

Z Step and Repeat

Z Step and Repeat is used when you want to take multiple cuts in the Z axis rather than one
single cut to depth.

What You Need to Know

Set Operation Parameters
When you select Z Step and
Repeat in the Set Operation dialog
box, three additional parameters
are enabled as explained below.

Z First Cut / Z Sub. Cut

If you are cutting a deep pocket, you may want to go deeper on the first cut and then have
smaller cuts the rest of the way
in (as shown in the figure).
These options allow you to do
this:
Z First Cut is the Z axis depth
you want your cutter to go in the
first time through.
Z Sub. (Subsequent) Cut is the
amount of Z depth for the
remaining cuts.

8-2 Z Cycle Types

 Z Step and Repeat

Clearance Type
With Z Step and Repeat you have the ability to determine the Clearance Type.
Single Clearance
Single clearance means the Z axis rapids out to the clearance plane after each cut, positions
to the start of the next cut and then feeds to the next depth from there.
Multiple Clearance
With Multiple Clearance you can have the Z axis rapid to the clearance plane, position to the
next cut, rapid down to the previous depth minus the Z clearance amount, then feed to the
next depth. This eliminates long
feeds through stock that has
already been removed.
For example, the pocket in this
part has a .875 Z Depth, .250 Z
First Cut, .125 Z Subsequent Cut,
and .100 Z Clearance.
To cut the pocket using Multiple
Clearance to rapid to the
previous depth less the Z
clearance amount:
• The first cut would be at Z-.250.
• Then, the Z axis would:
− rapid up to Z.100 (the clearance plane)
− rapid in X & Y to the start of the next cut
− rapid down to Z-.150 and then feed to Z-.375 (Z-.250 less the .10 clearance amount)
− rapid in X & Y to the start of the next cut
− rapid to Z-.275 (.375 less the .100 clearance amount), then feed to Z-.500
• This would continue until the full Z depth was reached.
To cut the same pocket using Single Clearance to feed the Z axis all the way from the Z
Clearance plane for each cut:
• The first cut would be at Z-.250.
• Then, the Z axis would:
− rapid up to Z.100
− rapid in X & Y to the start of the next cut
− feed to Z-.375 (the pocket would be cut at this depth)
− rapid up to Z.100
− rapid in X & Y to the start of the next cut, then feed to Z-.500
• This would continue until the pocket is finished. The cutter would always be feeding
down from the clearance plane.

Z Cycle Types 8-3

Z Step and Repeat

What You'll Learn

Using Z Step and Repeat
1. Open the part file EXMILL3.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Start 2D Mill.
ProCAM automatically starts Mill because the
part was saved as a Mill part.

3. Click the Lace Pocket Tool Path button.

The Set Operation - Lace dialog box and
modifier toolbar display.
4. Click the Tool button in the dialog box and set
up Tool 1 as .500" diameter end mill.
5. Define the Operation parameters using the
following information:
− Cycle Type = Z Step and Repeat
− Z Depth = -.875
− Z First Cut = .250
− Z Sub. Cut = .125
− Clearance Type = Multiple
− Z Clearance = .100
− Lace Cut Amount = .2500
− Lace Cut Angle = 0
6. Click OK.
7. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
8. Pick the boundary for the lace pocket.
ProCAM generates a Pocket tool path using six depths.

8-4 Z Cycle Types

 Z Wall Definition

Z Wall Definition
Z Wall Definition allows you to perform 3D mill pocketing and profiling. You can define a
side view (the wall shape) of a part and have ProCAM cut it. This is also the function used to
cut a pocket that has islands with different heights.

What You Need to Know

Setting Up Tools
ProCAM has two tool types that can be used for Z Wall Definition: ball nose and end mill.
These tools cut 3D walls differently.
Defining Perimeter and Island Walls
Perimeter and island walls must be defined using boundaries. Follow these rules and prompts
when inserting boundaries on perimeter walls and island walls:
• the first wall picked is always the perimeter wall
• the second wall picked is always the first island wall
• the last wall picked is used for any remaining island boundaries
• all walls must have the same Z bottom for any one cycle
• you must define at least one wall in order for ProCAM to process a perimeter boundary
or a perimeter boundary with islands
You can define a wall for a perimeter boundary as well as a wall for each island. If you pick
more boundaries than walls, ProCAM uses the last wall picked on all remaining island
boundaries.
You can process one perimeter boundary with up to 3,000 islands and 3,000 walls at a time.

Z Cycle Types 8-5

Z Wall Definition

Set Operation Parameters

When you select Z Wall
Definition in the Set Operation
dialog box, three additional
parameters are enabled as
explained below.

Z Cut Method
The Z Cut Method parameter in the Set Operation dialog box is activated when you select Z
Wall Definition. This parameter has two options:
Vertical Cuts
This option allows you to calculate Z cuts by
measuring vertically in the Z plane.
The Vertical Cuts selection is typically used
for roughing or when doing a pocket with
different island heights.
In the figure, the vertical cuts option was
selected. Each cut moves down in the Z axis
whatever value is input in the operation. In
this case .500 was used. Vertical Cuts
Distance Along
This option allows you to calculate Z cuts
by measuring along the part wall (along
the perimeter and island boundaries). The
Distance Along option allows input of Z
depths to be parallel to the part being cut.
Typically, this option is used with a ball
end mill for finishing.
In this figure, the same value was input as
above. Now instead of moving that
distance down in the Z axis, the cutter
moves that far along the wall. Distance Along

8-6 Z Cycle Types

 Z Wall Definition

One case where this can be very important is

when you have a very shallow wall. In this
figure, a .250 Vertical Cut was defined. Notice
the 1.418 step over on the shallow angle. That
is how far the cutter had to move over to get to
depth of .250 to take the next cut.

Vertical Cuts

In this figure, Distance Along was used with a

.250 value. Notice the steps are all the same.

Clearance Type Distance Along

The Clearance Type parameter in the Set Operation dialog box allows you to choose Single
or Multiple.
Single
This option specifies that all cut levels have the same rapid clearance plane. The tool rapids
to the clearance plane (which is specified during post processing), then feeds to the depth of
the cut.
Multiple
This option specifies that ProCAM calculates a new clearance plane for each subsequent cut
level. The first rapid clearance plane is always specified during post processing. Subsequent
clearance planes are calculated by adding an incremental clearance amount to the previous
cut depth. The incremental clearance amount is the distance from the original rapid clearance
to the Z face of the part.

Allowing ProCAM to use multiple clearance planes reduces the machining time by having
the tool rapid through cut levels that have already been removed.

Z Allowance
This parameter allows you to enter a value for the amount that the Z axis stays away from the
finished shape. With Z Single Depth or Z Step and Repeat, you use a Z Depth less than the
finished depth to do this. With Z Wall Definition, since you are not entering the Z Depth,
you need to specify an amount to leave material for finishing in the Z.

Z Cycle Types 8-7

Z Wall Definition

What You'll Learn

• Using Z Wall Definition
• Cutting a Part with Multiple Wall Shapes and Islands
• Cutting a Part with Multiple Wall Shapes: Defining a Fake Island
• Cutting a Part with Different Height Islands
Using Z Wall Definition
The part in this exercise has a 30 degree taper going down the side. To cut this shape, you
use Z Wall Definition. Only the profile will be cut in this exercise.

To cut this part, the top view and the side view must be drawn:
1. Draw the top view of the part so it looks like the figure.
Always draw the top view as it will be at its highest point.
ProCAM puts the tool path on starting at the top and
proceeding down.
For the side view, it makes no difference where you draw it. The
important thing to remember is to make it the correct height. This
is how ProCAM determines the depth of cut.

8-8 Z Cycle Types

 Z Wall Definition

Draw the 30 degree line so it has a height of .750. The easiest way to do this is to draw a
horizontal line on the screen where you want to draw the wall:
2. Use Line Off Of modifier and draw a line .750
off of the horizontal line.
3. Pick the one below.
4. Draw the 30 degree line between the two
horizontal lines.
5. Erase the two horizontal lines after the 30 degree
angle is finished.

Your part should look like the figure on the

right.
6. Start 2D Mill (FANTUTM).

7. Put a boundary on the pocket perimeter.

8. Put a boundary on the side view.
Start at the top and go down. The direction
does not matter because ProCAM only cuts
down the wall. However, it is a good idea to
always draw the boundaries in the direction
you want to cut. This way, if you call up the
part six months from now, you will not
wonder what you were trying to do.

9. Click the Profile Tool Path button.

10. Select Z Wall Definition for the Z Cycle Type.
The Z Depth parameter is dimmed. When you are using Z Wall Definition, ProCAM gets
the depth from the side views.
11. Click the Tool button and set up tool 1 as a .500 diameter ball mill.
12. Specify the following values:
− Z Cut Method = Distance Along
− XY Allowance = 0.0000
− Z Allowance = 0.0000
− Distance Along = .100
− Clearance Type = Multiple

Z Cycle Types 8-9

Z Wall Definition

The Distance Along values used in these exercises are much larger than you would use
normally. Depending on the size of your cutter, values from .0005 to .005 would be
more realistic. The bigger values are used here to save time. You can learn how the
function works without having to wait for your computer to calculate.
13. Click OK.
14. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
The prompt line reads: PICK boundary for perimeter 3D side.
15. Pick the side view.
ProCAM prompts you to pick the island 3D side.
16. Click BUTTON 2 since there are no islands in this part.
− The prompt line reads: PICK boundary for tool path.
− At this point, the prompts are the same as if you were doing a standard profile.
17. Pick the boundary for the perimeter.
18. Digitize for the inside.
When ProCAM starts cutting the path, you
see horizontal lines being drawn at each
depth on the side view. This is how you can
determine where ProCAM is in the cycle.

19. Click the 3D View button.

20. Click the Cut Simulation Order Check

modifier button.
21. Run the Cut Simulation to view the cutting.
For more information on running the Cut Simulation, see Chapter 7.

8-10 Z Cycle Types

 Z Wall Definition

Cutting a Part with Multiple Wall Shapes and Islands

MILL14 has a pocket with an island. The pocket perimeter has a different wall shape than
the island. In this exercise, you are going to rough the pocket using the Lace Pocket Tool
Path command and then finish using the Profile Tool Path command.

Mill14

1. The first step is to draw the top view and the side views to look like the figure above.

When you have a part with multiple wall shapes, all the walls MUST END AT THE
SAME Z BOTTOM. Even though you can draw the walls anywhere on the screen, if
there are multiple walls, they need to be together. If the walls do not end at the same Z
bottom, ProCAM gives you an error and will not cut the part.

2. Start 2D Mill (FANTUTM).

Z Cycle Types 8-11

Z Wall Definition

Notice the 1/4" radiuses at the

bottom of the part are not drawn
in. As long as you use a ball mill
the same size as the radius, it is
not necessary to draw them in the
side views.

3. Put boundaries on the

island, around the perimeters,
Top and Side Views
and the wall shapes.
You can insert the boundaries in any order.

4. Click the Lace Pocket Tool Path button.

The Set Operation - Lace dialog box and modifier toolbar display.

5. Click the After Profile modifier button.

6. Click the Tool button and set up tool 1 as a .500" diameter end mill.
7. Define the Operation parameters using the following information:
− Z Cycle Type = Z Wall Definition
− Vertical Cuts = .25 amount
− Z Allowance = 0.0000
− XY Allowance = 0.0100.
(This way the bottom is to depth and there is material left on the sides.)
− Z First Cut = .250
− Z Sub. Cut = .250
8. Click OK to accept the changes and the defaults for the other parameters.
The Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box displays.
9. Click OK to accept the defaults.
10. At the prompts, pick the Perimeter 3D side, Island 3D side, the perimeter, and then the
island.
As the Lace Pocket is being cut, only the Profile is displayed at each depth. This is the
same as for Z Step and Repeat.

11. When the Lace Pocket is finished, click the Profile Tool Path button.
The Set Operation - Profile dialog box and modifier toolbar displays.

12. Click the Closed Profile modifier button.

You have to pick the Closed Profile, otherwise ProCAM will not ask you to pick the
island.

8-12 Z Cycle Types

 Z Wall Definition

13. Click the Tool button and set up Tool 2 as a .500" diameter ball end mill.
14. Define the Operation parameters using the following information:
− Tool = 2
− Z Cycle Type = Z Wall Definition
− Z Cut Method = Distance Along
− Distance Along = .100
− Z Allowance = 0.0000
− XY Allowance = 0.0000
15. Click OK to accept the changes and the defaults for the other parameters.
16. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
17. At the prompts, pick the Perimeter 3D side, Island 3D side, the perimeter, and then the
island.

18. Click the 3D View button.

19. Click the Cut Simulation Order Check modifier button

20. Run the Cut Simulation to view the cutting.
For more information on running the Cut Simulation, see Chapter 7.
Cutting a Part with Multiple Wall Shapes: Defining a Fake Island
The part in this exercise has one
wall that is different from the
rest. Because ProCAM defines
everything as a profile and
islands, to cut a part like this
you need to define the odd wall
as a fake island.

1. Open the part file EXMILL30.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Start 2D Mill (FANTUTM).

Z Cycle Types 8-13

Z Wall Definition

The fake island is drawn on the right side of the part, (shown in a different color on the
screen). This was done by drawing lines starting at the end point of the perimeter, then
digitizing the rest. Endpoint was used to finish. Because the island is drawn this way, the
left wall of the island shares the right wall of the perimeter.
3. Break the left line of the perimeter.
This step is not needed to run this
cycle; however, it is a good habit to
get into when doing fake islands. In
some cases unless you break a
perimeter line, ProCAM may not be
able to find a start point.

4. Click the Boundary button.

5. Put a boundary on the walls starting
at the top of each.
6. Put a boundary on the perimeter.
Do not pick the Lookahead modifier for this
exercise.
7. Pick each entity in the path one at a time.
8. Start the boundary as shown in the figure.
Then pick the entities in order. A1 - A7.
9. Click BUTTON 2 twice to finish.
Islands should always be contained by the
perimeter boundary.
10. Start the boundary on the island at the bottom
of the right line (B1).
11. Pick B2, B3, and B4.
In this exercise, the island boundary went in the opposite direction from the perimeter. It
could have gone in the same direction. ProCAM determines the direction of cut from the
perimeter boundary.

12. Click the Profile Tool Path button.

13. Click the Tool button and set up a .375" diameter ball mill.

8-14 Z Cycle Types

 Z Wall Definition

14. Define the Operation parameters using the following information:

− Z Cycle Type = Z Wall Definition
− Z Cut Method = Distance Along
− Distance Along = .075
− Z Allowance = 0.0000
− XY Allowance = 0.0000

15. Click the Boundary Type modifier button to display Closed.

16. Click OK to accept the changes and defaults in the dialog box.
17. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
18. At the prompts, pick the Perimeter 3D side and the Island 3D side.
When ProCAM prompts you for the perimeter, pick it as far away from the island
boundary as you can. In a case like this, you do not want to pick the wrong boundary.
The same is true for the island. Pick the boundary all the way to the right so you do not
pick the perimeter boundary again.
19. Run the Cut Simulation to view the cutting.
The Cut Simulation is explained in Chapter 7.

This part has 4 different wall

shapes. The part is very
similar to the previous part
except it has additional fake
islands.

1. Open the part file EXMILL31.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

This part already has boundaries on it.

2. Start 2D Mill (FANTUTM).

3. Click the Profile Tool Path button.

Z Cycle Types 8-15

Z Wall Definition

4. Click the Boundary Type

modifier button to display Closed.
5. Click the Tool button and set up a .375"
ball mill.
6. Define the Operation parameters using
the following information:
− Z Cycle Type = Z Wall Definition
− Z Cut Method = Distance Along
− Distance Along = .075
− Z Allowance = 0.0000
− XY Allowance = 0.0000
7. Click OK.
8. Click OK to accept the defaults in the
Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog
box.
9. In response to the prompts, pick the perimeter 3D side, then the island 3D sides.
Pick them in the order shown
in the figure.
It is important to remember
the order you pick multiple
wall shapes because ProCAM
matches the islands and walls
by the order picked.
10. After the walls are finished,
pick the perimeter, then the
islands in order.
The part should look like the
figure.
11. Run the Cut Simulation to
view the cutting.

8-16 Z Cycle Types

 Z Wall Definition

To do a part like MILL15 below from a solid piece of material, you would treat it just like
any other pocket with islands.
To draw this part, the first step is to draw a box that is bigger than the 8.000" box of the part
so the end mill can actually get outside the 8.000" area.
1. Draw a 9.000" square that starts .500 away from XY zero and ends .500 away from
X8.000 and Y8.000. This will be the pocket perimeter.

Mill15

2. For the islands, draw a .002 diameter circle at one location.

3. After you put a boundary on it, move and copy it to the other locations.
This saves you the time of zooming up on a .002 circle at each location.

You may also want use the Point command on the CAD toolbar to put a point at the
same location as the circle. This marks the center of the circle to make it easier to see.
The reason for the .002 diameter circle is that ProCAM only cuts down the wall shape
and in this case the wall shape is the 1.000 radius.

Z Cycle Types 8-17

Z Wall Definition

The figure on the right

shows the island using a
.002 diameter circle.
Notice the first cut is
right near the center.

The figure on the right

shows what the radius
would look like if you
used a 2.000 diameter
circle for the perimeter.
The full radius is there. It
just starts out at a 1.000
radius and then goes
down.
4. Draw the two wall shapes. The perimeter wall is straight and is 1.000 long. The island
wall is a quarter circle.
Remember to have the ends of the
walls end at the same Z bottom.
The figure on the right shows the
part ready for boundaries. The
points are there to mark the
location of the .002 diameter circle
center.
5. Start 2D Mill (FANTUTM).
6. Put boundaries on the walls and the
perimeter.
7. Zoom up on the one .002 diameter
circle and put a boundary on it.
8. Move and copy the circle to the
other locations.
Even though you cannot see the .002 diameter circle, the boundary arrow shows at each
location.
You do not want After Profile in this exercise. There is no need to do a profile on the
outside because it is not going to be there when the Lace Pocket is done and you are
going to do a finish profile on the islands.

8-18 Z Cycle Types

 Z Wall Definition

9. Click the Lace Pocket Tool Path button.

10. Click the Tool button and set up Tool 1 as a .250" diameter end mill.
11. Define the Operation parameters using the following information:
− Z Cycle Type = Z Wall Definition
− Z Cut Method = Vertical Cuts with a .25 amount
− Z Allowance = 0.000
− XY Allowance = 0.005 (This way the bottom is to depth and there is material left on
the sides.)
− Z First Cut = .250
− Z Sub Cut = .250
12. Click OK.
13. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
14. At the prompts, pick the Perimeter 3D side and the Island 3D side.
15. Pick the perimeter.
16. When ProCAM asks you to pick the islands, put the crosshair on the boundary arrow and
pick it there. Because ProCAM is looking only for boundaries, it will not pick incorrect
entities.
ProCAM inserts the lace pocket tool path.

17. Click the Profile Tool Path button.

18. In the Set Operation dialog box, click the Tool button and set up Tool 2 as a .250"
diameter ball end mill.
19. Define the Operation parameters using the following information:
− Tool = 2
− Z Cycle Type = Z Wall Definition
− Z Cut Method = Distance Along
− Distance Along = .100 distance
− Z Allowance = 0.000
− XY Allowance = 0.000
20. Click OK.
21. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
22. At the prompt to pick Perimeter 3D Side, pick the arc wall shape.
All you are doing here is the profile on the island.
23. Pick the islands.
24. Run the Cut Simulation to view the cutting.

Z Cycle Types 8-19

Z Wall Definition

Cutting a Part with Different Height Islands

Z Wall Definition can also be used to cut a part with different height islands.

1. Open the part file EXMILL32.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Start 2D Mill.
This part already has boundaries on it.

3. Click the Lace Pocket Tool Path button.

The Set Operation - Lace dialog box and modifier toolbar display.
4. Click the Tool button and set up a .500 diameter end mill.
5. Define the Operation parameters using the following information:
− Z Cycle Type = Z Wall Definition
− Z Cut Method = Vertical Cuts
− The parameters you use to get the effect of Z Step and Repeat are Z First Cut and Z
Sub. Cut. These determine how much of a Z increment to take.
6. Click OK.
7. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
8. Pick the walls, the perimeter, and the islands.
Remember to pick them in the correct order.
9. Run the Cut Simulation to see how ProCAM cuts to the different island heights.

8-20 Z Cycle Types

 Z Wall Definition

In this example, you can see that the islands do not go all the way to the bottom. However,
all the rules for drawing wall shapes still apply.

Follow the steps below to do this part

1. Draw a 6.000 square.
2. Put 1.500 chamfers in the corners.
3. Draw 1.500 diameter circles at the midpoints of the lines.
It is not necessary to trim the circles. If you trim them, it
makes it more difficult to put boundaries on them because
then the lines will need to be broken.
4. Off to the side draw a Horizontal line.
5. Using Line Off Of, draw a line 3.000 off of and .750 off of.
These are construction lines.
6. Draw a line at an angle of -75 degrees on the left (the
perimeter wall).
7. Draw a vertical line on the right (the island wall).
8. Fillet the 75 degree line and the bottom line 1.500 radius.

Z Cycle Types 8-21

Z Wall Definition

9. Trim all the lines so it looks like the figure on the right.
10. Erase all the horizontal lines so all you have left is the two wall
shapes.
Remember, even though the island walls will not reach the
bottom, they MUST end at the same Z bottom when you define
them.

When you are finished, your

part should look like the figure
on the right.

11. Start 2D Mill (FANTUTM).

12. Click the Boundary button.

13. Put a boundary on the two wall shapes.

14. Click the Boundary Type modifier button to display Closed.

15. Window pick the perimeter and islands for the boundaries.

16. Click the Lace Pocket Tool Path button.

17. Make sure the No Profile modifier is showing.

18. Click the Tool button and set up Tool 1 as a .625 diameter end mill.
19. Define the Operation parameters using the following information:
− Z Cycle Type = Z Wall Definition
− Z Cut Method = Vertical Cuts
− Z Allowance = 0.000
− XY Allowance = 0.005 (This way the bottom is to depth and material is left on the
sides.)
− Z First Cut = .500
− Z Sub. Cut = .250

8-22 Z Cycle Types

 Z Wall Definition

20. Click OK.

21. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
22. Follow the prompts for picking the walls, perimeter, and islands.

23. Click the Profile Tool Path button.

The Set Operation - Profile dialog box and modifier toolbar display.

24. Click the Boundary Type modifier button to display Closed.

25. Click the Tool button and set up Tool 2 as a .500 diameter ball mill.
26. Define the Operation parameters using the following information:
− Tool 2
− Z Cycle Type = Z Wall Definition.
− Z Cut Method = Distance Along
− Distance Along = .150
− Z Allowance = 0.000
− XY Allowance = 0.000
27. Click OK.
28. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box.
29. Follow the prompts for picking the walls, perimeter, and islands.
30. Run the Cut Simulation to see how the part is cut.

Z Cycle Types 8-23

Z Wall Definition

8-24 Z Cycle Types

Chapter 9 Additional Functions

This chapter provides information on the Miscellaneous operations. These operations include
Arc, Circular and Linear tool paths and rapid moves. Inserting attributes and using macros
are also explained.

Additional Functions 9-1

Miscellaneous Operations

Miscellaneous Operations
Several operations are grouped in a miscellaneous category
on the list of operations that displays in the Mill Operations
dialog box. For example, you would create a Miscellaneous
operation to move a fly cutter over a part prior to machining
The Miscellaneous operations are:
• Arc Tool Path
• Circular Tool Path
• Linear Tool Path
• Rapid

What You Need to Know

Single Entity Tool Paths
The tool paths generated by operations such as Profile, Lace and Pocket are complex CAM
entities composed of lines, arcs, points, etc. The Arc, Circular and Linear Tool Path
commands generate a tool path that is a single CAM entity. These tool paths do not require a
boundary.
When you click one of the
miscellaneous buttons on
the Mill toolbar, the Set
Operation -
Miscellaneous dialog box
displays the parameters
that can be set. For more
information on the
parameters, see Chapter 3.

Linear Tool Path is the default operation if you select Miscellaneous in the Mill Operations
dialog box. To select one of the other miscellaneous operations, click the applicable Mill
toolbar button instead of the Operation button.

9-2 Additional Functions

 Miscellaneous Operations

Tool Compensation
The Mill system provides two parameters on the system bar that you can set for
compensating tools on linear, arc and circular tool paths.

Offset
This parameter specifies which side of an entity the tool will be inserted on: Right (Rgt), Left
(Lft), or Center (Ctr). The compensation side is determined by looking in the direction of the
cut, then deciding which side the tool is on. Another way to look at it is to think of yourself
following the cutter as it travels along an entity. Which side of the part are YOU on?
Compensation
The Compensation parameter is used to compensate the start and end points of lines, arcs,
and circles. You can use the same or different compensation settings on the start and end
points. The following examples illustrate the three types.
End Compensation
End Compensation (EndCmp) compensates the tool's
edge to either start or end point.

Reference Compensation
Reference Compensation (RefCmp) compensates the
tool's edge to either the start or end point based on a
reference (or interference) entity. If no interference is
found, RefCmp is identical to EndCmp.

No Compensation
No Compensation (NoCmp) moves the tool center to or
from either the start or the end point.

Additional Functions 9-3

Miscellaneous Operations

Inserting an Arc Tool Path

The Arc Tool Path command on the Mill toolbar allows you to insert an arc tool path with
known or unknown centers. You can also insert arc tool paths with known radii and
diameters.
The modifiers are the same as the Arc modifiers in CAD. For more information, see the
CAD online help.
Modifiers
Center Known Inserts an arc tool path whose center is known.

Center Unknown Inserts an arc tool path whose center in unknown.

Angle Specifies the start or end of an arc tool path by defining the
angle from the arc center to either the start or end.
Diameter Allows you to specify the diameter of the arc tool path.

Radius Allows you to specify the radius of the arc tool path.

Counterclockwise Defines the arc tool path in a counterclockwise direction.

Clockwise Defines the arc tool path in a clockwise direction.

Inserting a Circular Tool Path

The Circular Tool Path command on the Mill toolbar is used to insert a circular tool path.
The Circular Tool Path modifiers are the same as the Circle modifiers in CAD. For more
information, see the CAD online help.
Modifiers
Center Known Inserts a circular tool path whose center is known.

Center Unknown Inserts a circular tool path whose center in unknown.

Radius Allows you to specify the radius of the circular tool path.

Diameter Allows you to specify the diameter of the circular tool path.

9-4 Additional Functions

 Miscellaneous Operations

Inserting a Linear Tool Path

The Linear Tool Path command on the Mill toolbar inserts a linear tool path by defining the
start and end of the line.
The modifiers for this command are the same as the Line modifiers in CAD. For more
information, see the CAD online help.
Modifiers
Horizontal Inserts a horizontal linear tool path.

Vertical Inserts a vertical linear tool path.

Length Inserts a linear tool path of a specified length.

Parallel Inserts a linear tool path parallel to an existing line.

Perpendicular Inserts a linear tool path perpendicular to an existing line.

Distance Off Of Inserts a linear tool path that is parallel to and a specified distance
from (off of) an existing entity.
Orthogonal Inserts a set of two linear tool paths connected at a 90-degree
angle between two locations. In other words, the linear tool paths
developed between the two locations are forced to be horizontal
and vertical forming a right angle.
Angle Insert a linear tool path at a specified angle.

Inserting a Rapid Move

The Rapid command is used to insert a rapid move that can be inserted, deleted, and
picked. Rapid moves display as dashed lines. Unlike other CAM entities, no tool
information is associated with rapid moves. For example, you could use this command to
insert a rapid move around a fixture or indexer.
In addition to user-created rapid moves, ProCAM automatically generates rapid moves
between non-connecting tool path entities and cycles. These rapid moves are used for
display and post processing and you cannot pick or delete them.
To insert a rapid move, click the Rapid button, then snap the beginning and end
coordinates of the desired location.

Additional Functions 9-5

Inserting Attributes

Inserting Attributes
The Attribute command inserts either a single attribute or a sequence of attributes (attribute
lists). Attributes are non-geometric properties, values and identifiers that are attached to
geometric entities.
Inserted attributes can be attached to entities before, during or after the entity is output in
the NC code. Use the modifiers to insert attributes at the locations. These modifiers affect
the NC code output.

Modifiers
Before During After These modifiers allow you to attach attributes to entities before
the entity is output, during entity output (in the case of a
federate) or after the entity is output in the NC code.

What You Need to Know

Select Attributes Dialog Box
When you click the Attribute button on the Mill toolbar, the Select Attribute dialog box
displays. The buttons in this dialog box are explained below.
Add
The Add button adds the highlighted attribute in the Available Attributes list to the Attribute
List.
Remove
The Remove button removes the highlighted attribute from the Attribute List. When you use
the Edit Attribute Utility, this button removes the highlighted attribute from the entity
Attach
When you have selected all the attributes you want to attach to an entity, click the Attach
button, then pick the entity you want the attributes attached to.
Clear
After you have selected and attached attributes to an entity, you can use this button to clear
the list box so you can begin a new list. When you use the Edit Attribute Utility, this button
removes attributes that are attached to an entity.
Settings
This button allows you to change values for selected attributes. When you click this button,
the Set Attribute dialog box displays.

9-6 Additional Functions

 Inserting Attributes

Attaching Attributes
When you select the Attribute command on the Mill toolbar, the Select Attributes dialog box
displays. You can insert either a single attribute or a sequence of attributes (attribute lists).
Basic Procedure
1. Open the part file.
2. Start 2D Mill.
3. Zoom up on the CAM entity you want to attach the attribute to.
This makes it easier to pick the CAM entity.

4. Click the Attribute button on the Mill toolbar.

5. Click either the Before, During or After modifier.
6. In the Select Attribute dialog box Available Attributes list, select the attribute to want to
attach and click the Add button.
The attribute displays in the Attribute List.
7. Click the Attach button.
The prompt line reads: SELECT CAM entity to attach attributes. ProCAM is asking which
CAM entity you want the attribute attached to.
8. Pick the CAM entity.
The selected entity is highlighted briefly, then returns to the original color.
9. If you are attaching additional attributes, continue picking attributes and CAM entities.
10. When you are finished, click Close to exit the dialog box.
Removing Attributes
There are two methods for removing attributes that have been attached to a CAM entity:
• The Edit utility and the Attribute modifier
• The Erase utility and the Attribute modifier
Using the Edit Utility
The Edit utility and the Attribute modifier allow you to remove individual attributes, clear all
the attributes that are attached to a CAM entity or change the settings for attributes that are
attached to CAM entities.
Basic Procedure

1. Click the Edit button on the Utility toolbar.

2. Click the Attribute modifier button

The prompt line reads: PICK entity to edit.

Additional Functions 9-7

Inserting Attributes

3. Pick the desired CAM entity.

The attributes that are attached display in the Select Attribute dialog box. This dialog box
allows you to remove individual attributes, clear all attributes or change the settings for
attributes that are attached to this entity. Note that the Attach button is dimmed when you
are in Edit mode.
− To remove an individual attribute, highlight the attribute in the Attribute List, then
click the Remove button.
− To remove all attached attributes, click the Clear button.
− To change the settings for an attribute, highlight the attribute in the Attribute List,
then click the Settings button. Change the value, then click OK.
4. When you are finished, click the Close button to exit the Select Attribute dialog box.
Using the Erase Utility
The Erase utility and the Attribute modifier allow you to remove all the attributes that are
attached to a CAM entity.
Basic Procedure

1. Click the Erase button on the Utility toolbar.

2. Click the Attribute modifier button.

3. Pick the desired CAM entity that has the attribute(s) attached.
Because you have the Attribute modifier selected, only the attributes are erased.
Checking Entities for Attributes
You can use either the Measure Utility or Order Check to check if a CAM entity has an
attribute attached to it.
Using the Measure Utility
Basic Procedure
1. Open the part file.

If you have the Symbol option checked in the Attribute Display section of the
CAM Display dialog box, an attribute symbol displays on a tool path where an attribute is
attached.
2. In the CAM Display dialog box, select the During 123/Measure check box.
If this option is not selected (i.e., the X is removed), the attributes do not display when
you measure an entity.

3. Click the Measure button on the Utility toolbar.

9-8 Additional Functions

 Inserting Attributes

4. Pick the entity on the tool path.

The prompt line reads: PICK entity to measure.
The Show Attributes information box displays. The attributes that are attached to the
entity are listed. The A), B), and D) indicate after, before and during. In the figure, the B)
before program stop indicates the attribute is attached before the entity output in the NC
code.
This dialog box remains displayed until you pick another entity that has attributes
attached or until you click another toolbar button.
Using the Order Utility
You can also use the Order Utility with the Check modifier to see what attributes are on a
part.
Basic Procedure
1. Open the part file.
2. In the CAM Display dialog box, make sure the During 123/Measure option is selected.

3. Click the Order button on the Utility toolbar.

The Check modifier button should be highlighted.

4. Using the First and Next Modifiers, step through the order of cuts on the
part.
5. When you get to a CAM entity with an attribute on it, the Show Attributes dialog box
displays.

Additional Functions 9-9

Using Macros

Using Macros
The Macro function is used to define tool paths that can be called up in a subprogram.

Modifiers
Define Macro Allows you to define macros that can be called later. All macros
must be defined before they can be called or multiplied. When
ProCAM defines macros, it automatically generates separate
subroutines for each operation.
Undefine Macro Deletes the macro and inserts the macro entities back into the
part at the end of the entity order list as individual entities. Only
macros that are not currently in use can be undefined.
Call Macro Allows a previously defined macro to be called and placed at a
different location.
Multiple Macros Allows a previously defined macro to be called and inserted in a
(macro grid) grid multiple.

Multiple Macros Modifiers

Known Distance Inserts a Macro grid when you know the distance between the
Between Grid grid points.
Points
Known Grid Inserts a macro grid when you know the height and width of the
Height and Width grid and you want ProCAM to calculate the distance between
grid points.
Horizontal First The second macro in the grid is in the horizontal direction.
Move

What You Need to Know

Understanding Macros
Macros allow entities to be defined as "parent" entities, which can then be placed in other
locations as macro children. Macro "child" entities do not actually exist at the location they
are displayed at. They simply call the macro parent to appear at that called location.
If a macro parent entity is modified, all instances where its macro children are located reflect
the modifications. Macro children cannot be picked or modified at any time.

9-10 Additional Functions

 Using Macros

Requirements for Using Macros

If the controller supports macros,
code is output during post
processing using the controller
macro calls, multiples, etc. This
can greatly reduce the code size. In
order to effectively use macros,
your machine must support
subprograms and your post
processor must be configured to
output subprograms. If either your
machine or post processor does not
support subprograms, macros are
output as long code instead of
subprograms. In this case, you
MILL11.PRT
would be just as well off using the
Move Utility with the Move/Copy modifier.
If you had MILL11 set up on a fixture plate to do multiple parts, using Move and Copy
would create a program with a length that might not fit in your machine's memory. If you use
the Macro function, the program would be only a little longer than the program for one part.

What You'll Learn

• Defining and Calling a Macro
• Creating Multiple Macros
• Undefining a Macro
• Editing a Macro
Defining and Calling a Macro
Macro Call is used to call a macro at a specific location when there is no grid pattern.
In the part in the following exercise, the same shape is in different locations on the part.
You can either put tool paths on all the cutouts, or if program length is a problem, you can
use a macro and call it up at each location.

Additional Functions 9-11

Using Macros

In order to use macro call,

the entities that make up the
macro should be defined
around X0, Y0. To do this,
you can move one of the
shapes from its current
location to X0, Y0 as shown
in this exercise. If you were
going to draw this part
yourself, you would not
have to draw the shapes at
each location. You would
only draw one at X0, Y0.

1. Open the part file EXMILL25.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Start 2D Mill.

3. Insert a Boundary on one of the shapes.

4. Insert a Pocket tool path on the same shape with a .2 diameter end mill.
Use the default values in the Set Operation dialog boxes.

5. Click the Move Utility button.

6. Make sure the Move/Original

modifier button is highlighted.
7. Click the tool path pocket to move.

8. Use Entity Origin Snap and move

the shape from the center of the big circle.

9. Click the Keyboard Snap button and

move to X0, Y0.
Your part should look like the figure on the
right.

10. Click the Macro button.

The prompt line reads: PICK entities to define macro.
11. Pick the tool path.

9-12 Additional Functions

 Using Macros

12. Click BUTTON 2.

The Macro Define dialog box displays.
13. Type a name and click OK.

14. Click the Macro Call modifier.

The Set Operation - Macro dialog box displays with the macro name.
15. Click OK.
− For this example, there are several ways to insert the macro at the correct locations.
Since you already have the CAD drawing, you can use the Entity Origin Snap
command to put the macro at the center of each circle.
− If you did not have the CAD drawing, you could use the Keyboard Snap and type in
the locations of the center of the circle.

16. Click the Entity Origin Snap button.

The prompt line reads: PICK entity origin for macro call.
17. Pick each big circle and click BUTTON 2 twice after each call to accept the defaults for the
Z origin and Angle.
As you insert the macro in
different locations, MC displays at
the origin of the macro. The macro
origin is positioned relative to the
system origin. Since the entities in
a macro do not exist in the work
area, you must know where the
origin is if you want to modify the
macro.
When you are finished, the part
should look like the figure.

The order you insert the macros is the order they are called up in the NC program.
18. Save the part, then post process it to see how the subprograms are called up.

Additional Functions 9-13

Using Macros

Creating Multiple Macros (Macro Grid)

1. Open the part file EXMILL24.PRT in the
\procad\parts\learn folder.
2. Start 2D Mill.
This part has been save with CAM data.
3. Click the Operation button on the system bar.
There are three operations listed:
− Pocket (cuts the two big pockets)
− Pocket (cuts the three small pockets)
− Profile (cuts the slot)
4. Click OK to close the dialog box.

5. Click the Macro button.

The Define modifier is the default and is highlighted.

The prompt line reads: PICK entities to define macro (button 2 when done).
6. Window pick the entire part to pick all the tool paths for the macro.

If you were only going to macro one of the tool paths, you would pick only the tool path
you wanted instead of window picking everything.
7. Click BUTTON 2.
The Macro Define dialog box displays.
8. Type ALL OPRS for the Name, then click OK.
− All the tool paths and CAD entities disappear
from the work area. This is how you determine if
you selected the correct entities for the Macro. If
the tool paths do not disappear, they are not in
the Macro.
− The prompt line reads: PICK entities to define
macro (button 2 when done). This is for any other
macros you are going to define.

9. Pick the Multiple Macros Modifier.

The Set Operation - Macro dialog box displays. The
three operations that were defined are no longer in
the Operation List dialog box; however, when the
macro is run, ProCAM post processes all the
operations in the order they were listed.

9-14 Additional Functions

 Using Macros

When you create a macro of operations, they are removed from the Operation List dialog
box. Otherwise, your program would have the operations you defined, then the macro
calls. This would cut the first part twice. Creating a Macro Grid or using the Macro Call
function creates an operation. These operations are the ones that ProCAM post processes.
10. If ALL OPRS does not display in the Macro Name text box, type it in.
11. Select the Post Process option if it is not selected, then click OK.
− The Post Process parameter determines whether or not this operation is part of the NC
program.
− The Multiple Grid modifiers display.

12. Make sure the Known Distance Between Grid Points modifier is highlighted.

13. Make sure the Horizontal First Move button is highlighted.

In the InfoBar, a series of parameters display for defining the grid.

14. Click the Keyboard Snap button.

15. Press ENTER twice to accept the 0 default for X and Y origins.
16. Press ENTER twice to accept the 0 default for X and Y origins.
ProCAM needs to know where the Macro grid is to start in the X,Y axis. Typically this is
X0,Y0. For the fixture plate that these parts are set up on, this is the upper left corner.
17. Press ENTER to accept the 0 default for the Z origin.
18. Press ENTER to accept the 0 default for the Angle.
19. Type 6.500 for X
increment (1.500
between the parts)
and press ENTER.
20. Type -5.000 for Y
increment (1.000
between the parts)
and press ENTER.
The X and Y
increments are the
distances that
separate the parts on
the fixture plate.
21. Type 3 for No. X and
press ENTER.
22. Type 3 for No. Y and
press ENTER.

Additional Functions 9-15

Using Macros

These parameters specify the number of parts in the X and Y.

The macro grid displays. The Macro Display options in the CAM Display dialog box
control how much of the grid is displayed. Instead of displaying the entire grid, you can
reduce the time to display and redraw a macro grid by showing one part, four parts or the
corner parts.
MG displays at the X0, Y0
location. This indicates the
origin of the macro grid.
This is important to
understand. Since macros
really do not exist on the
screen, you must know
where the origin is if you
want to modify the macro
grid.
For example, if you inserted
the macro grid in the wrong
location and you wanted to
move it, when ProCAM
prompted you to pick
entities to move, the only
place you can pick would
be the macro grid origin. The same would be true for erasing, rotating, etc.

23. To see how the origin works, click the Erase Utility button and try to erase any of
the tool paths on the screen.
None of them can be picked.
24. Pick the MG.
The complete macro grid is erased.
25. Click Oops to restore the macro grid.
26. Save the part as EXMAC1.PRT.
27. Post process the part.
The code listing on the next page shows a main program calling up subprograms. The
numbers may not match your code listing; however, you can see that the subprograms are
being called up. Some of the program has been deleted for this exercise; however, you
can see from the sequence numbers how long the program is.
Notice ProCAM automatically increments the program numbers. The main program
number is 1000. Each of the subprogram numbers is incremented by one. ProCAM also
automatically created a third subprogram for the slot.
Each operation has its own subprogram even if it is in the same macro.

9-16 Additional Functions

 Using Macros

Main Program
O1000
N1 G17 G20 G40 G80
N2 T01 M06
N3 S2000 M03
N4 G92 X0 Y0
N5 M98 P1001L2 (Subprogram Call line)
N6 G92 X17.5 Y3.5
N7 M98 P1001L2 (Subprogram Call line)
N8 G92 X17.5 Y3.5
N9 M98 P1001L2 (Subprogram Call line)
N10 G00 G91 G28 Z0
N11 T02 M06
N12 S2000 M03
N13 G90
N14 G92 X17.5 Y-13.
N15 M98 P1002L2 (Subprogram Call line)
N16 G92 X16.625 Y2.6875
N17 M98 P1002L2 (Subprogram Call line)
N18 G92 X16.625 Y2.6875
N19 M98 P1002L2 (Subprogram Call line)
N20 G92 X16.625 Y-13.8125
N21 M98 P1003L2
N22 G92 X15.5625 Y1.4
N23 M98 P1003L2
N24 G92 X15.5625 Y1.4
N25 M98 P1003L2
N26 G92 X15.5625 Y-15.1
N27 G00 G91 G28 Z0
N28 G28 X0 Y0
N29 M30
Subprogram for Pockets Tool 1
O1001
N1 G90 G54 G00 X1.25 Y-2.
N2 G43 Z.1 H01
N3 G01 Z-.25 F20.
N4 G41 D01 X1.25 Y-2.875 F10.
N5 X1.5
N6 Y-1.9719
N7 G02 X1.25 Y-1.8828 I.25 J1.0969
N8 G01 Y-2.
Body of Program
N108 X4.5
N109 G40 Y-2.
N110 G00 Z5.
N111 G92 X-2.
N112 M99

Additional Functions 9-17

Using Macros

Subprogram for Pockets Tool 2

O1002
N1 G90 G43 G00 Z1. H02
N2 G54 X1.0625 Y-2.125
N3 Z.1
N4 G01 Z-.375 F20.
N5 G41 D02 X1.0625 Y-1.8125 F10.
N6 X.9375
N7 Y-2.4375
N8 X1.0625
Body of Program
N149 G40 G01 X3.625
N150 G00 Z5.
N151 G92 X-2.875
N152 M99
Subprogram for Slot Tool 2
O1003
N1 G90 G43 G00 Z1. H02
N2 G54 X1.6875 Y.1
N12 G92 X-3.9375
N13 M99

Undefining a Macro
When you complete a macro definition, the entities that are in the macro disappear from the
work area. There may be times when you picked entities that you do not want in the macro
or entities were not picked that should be in the macro. Undefining a macro deletes the
macro and puts the entities
back into the part as normal
entities. You can then define
the macro again.
To do a finish profile around
the parts shown in this
figure, you could add the
profile to the macro instead
of adding an additional
macro. You cannot undefine
a macro that is currently
being used. Macros must be
erased first as shown in the
following exercise.
1. Open the part file
EXMILL26.PRT in the
\procad\parts\learn
folder.
2. Start 2D Mill.

3. Click the Macro button.

9-18 Additional Functions

 Using Macros

4. Click the Undefine Macro modifier.

Even though a macro exists in this part, it does not display in the Macro Undefine dialog
box as a selection because it is currently being used.
5. Click Cancel.

6. Erase the Macro Grid. Remember to pick it at its origin (the MG).
All the pockets displayed on the screen disappear.

7. Click the Macro button.

8. Click the Undefine Macro modifier.

9. Click Tool 1 in the list of defined macros, then click OK.
When you select a Macro to undefine, the original entities that made up the macro are put
back in the work area. The Macro Undefine dialog box displays again to undefine the
next macro if there is one.
10. Click Cancel to close the dialog box.
11. Insert a Profile tool path around the outside of the part.
To add the profile to the Macro:

12. Click the Macro button.

13. Make sure the Define Macro modifier button is highlighted.

14. Pick the two pockets and the profile for the Macro.
15. Click BUTTON 2 when done
16. Type Tool 1 for the Name.
17. Do the Macro Grid as explained in the previous exercise.
Editing a Macro
The Edit Macro Utility allows you to edit entities and operations within a macro without
having to undefine it. When you define a macro, the original operations are removed from
the Operation List dialog box. The only way to edit the information in the operations is to
use the Edit Utility with the Macro modifier.
1. Open part file EXMILL26.PRT again.
Do not save the changes to the part in the work area.
2. Start 2D Mill.
3. Click the Operation button on the system bar.
The only operation that is listed in the Operation List dialog box is the Macro. Notice the
feed and speed information is zero.

Additional Functions 9-19

Using Macros

4. Select Macro in the list, then click Edit.

− The Set Operation - Macro dialog box displays.
− The only item that can be edited in this dialog box is the Macro name that is being
called. Any other information must be edited using the Edit Macro Utility.
5. Click Cancel to close the dialog box.

6. Click the Edit Utility button.

7. Click the Macro modifier.

The Macros Defined dialog box displays.
8. Select Tool 1, then click OK.
The Macro grid disappears and the original entities display.
9. Click the Operation button on the system bar.
The Operation List dialog box shows the original Pocket operation. Macro is not listed.
10. Select Pocket and click the Edit button.
11. Change the Cut Amount to .30, then click OK.
12. Click the Rerun button to update the tool path information.
You can see the change in the tool path.
13. Click OK to rerun the current operation.
14. Click OK to close the Operation List dialog box.
15. Click the Edit Utility button.
16. Click the Macro modifier button.
The macro grid is displayed again.
17. Click Cancel to close the Macros Defined dialog box.
If you were to save and post process this part, the new tool path would be in the program.

9-20 Additional Functions

Appendix A Feeds and Speeds

Feeds and speeds are used during cutting operations. The feeds and speeds are based on
different cut types depending on the operation. When you start Mill and pick a controller, the
feeds and speeds are automatically loaded. You can adjust feeds and speeds to improve cycle
time or lengthen tool life.
If you selected the Feeds and Speeds option when you installed ProCAM from the ProCAM
CD, ProCAM accesses the Feed and Speed Library. This library provides over 1.7 million
feed and speed combinations that represent over 1100 materials. The Feed and Speed Library
can be used to assign feeds and speeds to Mill and Lathe tool paths. For more information on
the Feed and Speed Library, see the Mill online help.
If you are not using the Feed and Speed Library, ProCAM provides internal tables for setting
feeds and speeds for various part materials and cutting conditions. These tables allow feeds
and speeds to be calculated automatically. Cutting operations can look up feeds and speeds
from a table, and based on the type of cut, add feeds and speeds to a part.
This chapter explains the internal ProCAM feeds and speeds and how to use the tables.

A-1
Understanding Feeds and Speeds

Understanding Feeds and Speeds

The Feed/Speed Tables command on the CAM menu is enabled only if you are not using the
optional Feed and Speed Library. This command allows you to modify internal feed/speed
tables and save the tables in a file for later recall in other parts. A feed/speed table contains
feeds and speeds for various part materials and cutting conditions. Cutting operations can
look up feeds and speeds from a table and, based on the type of cut, add feeds and speeds to
a part.
When you start Mill and pick a controller, the feeds and speeds are automatically loaded.
You can have as many different tables as you want. Any number of materials and the
associated surface feet per minute and inch per revolution feedrates can be input. When you
define an operation, ProCAM can look up the speeds and feeds for the particular tool and
cutting operation you are working on.
What You Need to Know
Calculating Feeds and Speeds
The feed/speed tables allow feeds and speeds to be calculated automatically based on the the
tool material, the part material, the operation type, the amount of material being removed by
the tool and the machine duty percent (Mach%).
The feed/speed tables for milling are based on the type of cutting operation. Speeds are set
once during an operation for the worst case cut. Feeds are set for each cut based on the
amount of material being removed during that cut.
For example, in a pocketing operation, the first cutting pass around a pocket always has the
tool buried 100%. Therefore, the feedrate would be set for a radial depth in the radial plane.
If the cut amount was set to 1/2 of the tool diameter, the second cutting pass around the
pocket would have the tool buried 50%, so the feedrate would be set for a radial depth
percent of 50%. The last cutting pass around the pocket would be a finishing pass and might
have the tool buried only 20%, so the feedrate would be set for a radial depth percent of
20%.
Feeds and speeds are based on different cut types depending on the operation. All speeds are
input as surface feet per minute. All milling feeds are input as inches per tooth per
revolution.
For example, if you used a .500 diameter 2 flute end mill for roughing and used the table
shown on the next page:
• The RPM would be:
RPM = (SFPM x 12) / (Tool Diameter x Pi)
RPM = (200 x 12) / (.500 x 3.1416)
RPM = 1528

A-2
 Understanding Feeds and Speeds

• The Feedrate would be calculated as:

IPM = RPM x (inches per tooth per rev x the number of teeth)
IPM = 1528 x (.009 x 2)
IPM = 25.5 inches per minute

Radial Depth %
Axial Depth 1 25 50 75 90 100
.0200 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090
200 200 200 200 200 200
.0400 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090
200 200 200 200 200 200
.0600 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090
200 200 200 200 200 200
.0800 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090
200 200 200 200 200 200
.1000 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090
200 200 200 200 200 200
.2500 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090
200 200 200 200 200 200
.5000 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090
200 200 200 200 200 200

Assigning Feeds and Speeds to an Operation

Feeds and speeds are defined for each operation individually. You can specify whether or not
to use the feed/speed table using the Default Files option on the CAM menu or in the Set
Operation dialog box each time you define an operation. You can specify one of three
methods to use in assigning feeds and speeds to an operation: Fixed, Linked or Copied.
Fixed Method
If you select Fixed, you specify the values for feed and speed in the Set Operation dialog
box. The feed and speed are set at the start of the operation and remain constant for all tool
motions generated during this operation. Fixed does not reference the feed/speed tables.
Linked or Copied Method
If you select either Linked or Copied, ProCAM extracts feed/speed values from the
feed/speed table and depending on the operation (for example, Lace and Pocketing), the feed
rate may vary along the tool paths generated for the cycle.
The feed/speed values are based on the part material, tool material, operation type, the
amount of material being removed, and the machine duty percent.
Linked
With this method, the feeds and speeds are not saved with the operation or part file. Instead,
when the part is post processed, the feed/speed values are extracted from the feed/speed
table. If the feed/speed table is updated and the operations in the part are rerun, ProCAM
uses the updated feeds and speeds.

A-3
Understanding Feeds and Speeds

Copied
With the Copied method, a copy of the feed/speed table is saved with the part file. Any
future changes to the feed/speed table file will not be reflected in operations that use this
method. Typically, Copied would be used only in special conditions where you want to
modify the feed/speed table for a given part, but you do not want to change the table for all
parts. Using the Copied method increases the size of the part file and should be used
sparingly.
Required Information
The values ProCAM uses from the feed/speed table are determined using information that
you supply. In order for the Linked or Copied methods to function correctly, make sure the
settings are correct for the following:
• Part Material and Machine Duty Factor
You must use the Setup Information command on the CAM menu to identify the part
material and the machine duty percent (Mach%) for the machine. Mach% provides the
ability to compensate feed/speed values for machines of varying duty (i.e., H.P., machine
rigidity, etc.). The part material and the Mach% are functions of the feed/speed tables.
• Tool Definition
When defining each tool, you must specify the tool type and size of the tool, the tool
material , and the number of teeth on the tool.
For ball nose and flat end mills, ProCAM provides three tool material options: HSS
(High-speed steel tools), CB (Carbon steel tools) and USR (User-defined). You can use
the USR option if you want to set feeds and speeds for a tool type that does not fit into
the HSS and CB categories (for example, a specialized high-speed steel tool, a titanium-
coated tool, or a diamond tool). ProCAM provides two additional tool material types for
drills: SPD (Spades), and OIL (Hollow center drills for oil flow).
The number of tool material types and their names are fixed within the system. For more
information on defining tools and specifying the tool material, see the section on defining
tools in Chapter 1.
The tool material and number of teeth are functions of the feed/speed tables.
• Operation Type
When you define the operation, you include the additional information ProCAM needs to
select the feeds and speeds, including the amount of material removed. For example, in
operations such as Lace and Profile Pocketing, the Radial Depth percent for the first cut
around the pocket is 100% of the tool diameter. For the subsequent passes around the
pocket, the Radial Depth is determined by the Cut Amount value in the Set Operation
dialog box. The Depth of the cut is also defined within the operation. For Lace and
Pocketing operations, the Cut Amount and Cut Depth are used for calculating the tool
path as well as the proper feed & speed.
In Profile cycles, a Cut Amount can be specified in the Set Operation dialog box.
However, unlike Lace & Pocketing cycles, the Cut Amount value is needed only to
calculate the correct feed/speed values. It is not needed for calculating the profile path.

A-4
 Understanding Feeds and Speeds

Setting Up Feed/Speed Tables

The tables shipped with ProCAM are not usable tables. If you select the Linked or Copied
method, you MUST modify these tables or create new tables setting the feeds and speeds
based on your experience.
The CAM menu provides an option for accessing the feed/speed tables. When you select the
Feed/Speed Tables command, a cascading menu displays the options for managing
speed/feed tables and files: Set, Open, Save and Delete.
The Set option allows you to define
part materials and set up feed/speed
tables associated with each part
material.
While feeds and speeds are generally
set using the Set option, feeds and
speeds can also be modified within an
operation by clicking the Feed/Speed
button in the Set Operation dialog
box. When you reach the step of
defining an operation, you have
already defined the part material, tool
definition and cut type; therefore, you
can modify only the portion of the
feed/speed table that matches these
conditions.
When you select Set on the
Feed/Speed menu, the Feed/Speed
Table dialog box displays. The table
on the right is for a roughing operation.
Part Material
The Part Material list box contains the part materials you
have defined. You can select one of these part materials or
you can define a new part material. You can then set feeds
and speeds based on that part material. To define a new
part material, click the Part Material button. The Part
Material dialog box displays.
To add a new part material, select one of the existing
materials whose feeds and speeds you want to use as the
base for the new material. Type the new part material
name, then click the New button. The new material now
has the same feeds and speeds as the selected material.
You can change these as required for the new part material.

A-5
Understanding Feeds and Speeds

To change the part material name, select the part material to be changed. Type the new
name, then click the Change button. The name is changed in the list. To delete a part
material, select the material in the list, then click the Delete button. The name is removed
from the list.
Tool Material
For ball nose and flat end mills, ProCAM provides three tool material options: HSS, CB and
USR. For drills, there are two additional types: SPD and OIL.
Cut Type
This option allows you to select the cutting operation whose feeds and speeds you want to
set. The tables for each operation are shown on the following pages.
Tool Diameter Range for Roughing Operations
For roughing operations, you can set feeds and speeds for six user-defined tool diameter
ranges.
Click the Tool Diameter Range button if you want to change the
upper value of the tool diameter range for a roughing operation
(i.e., lace and pocketing). The Tool Diameter Range dialog box
displays. Type the new upper value for the range in the Upper
Range text box. When you change the upper value for the range, ProCAM automatically
adjusts the lower value for the next range.
Mach%
Mach% provides the ability to compensate feed/speed values
for machines of varying duty (i.e., H.P., machine rigidity,
etc.). You can use this option to increase or decrease the
feeds and speeds on the part you are working on without
having to change the actual feeds and speeds. To change the
machine percent, click the Mach% button. The Mach%
dialog box displays.
For example, Your shop has two machining centers.
Machine A has a higher H.P. rating and is considered better
"built" than Machine B. Because of these differences,
Machine A can utilize higher feeds and speeds than Machine
B. When the feed/speed tables are created, the values represent what is ideal for Machine A.
Instead of creating a separate table for Machine B, you could define that Machine B is a
medium duty machine. Based on your own experience, you decide that the feeds and speeds
for Machine B are 85% of those for Machine A. Set the Medium feed and speed in the
Mach% dialog box to 85. Then, whenever you are cutting parts on Machine B, choose the
Setup Information command on the CAM menu and define Mach% as Medium. When
cutting parts on Machine A, set Mach% as Heavy.

A-6
 Understanding Feeds and Speeds

Roughing Feeds and Speeds

The feeds and speeds table for roughing operations is shown in the dialog box on page A-5.
This table is used with Lace and Pocket operations.
Roughing feeds and speeds are based on Axial Depth and Radial Depth. In addition to setting
the feed/speed values, you can also change the range values for Radial Depth % and Axial
Depth. The feed/speed values that are used in the post program are based on the range that
cut conditions fall within.
Axial Depth
Axial Depth is the depth of the cut
(i.e., along the axis, which in this case
is the Z axis). In the figure, the cutter
on the left has an axial depth of cut of
.250. The cutter on the right has an
axial depth of cut of .750. Since feeds
and speeds have to be varied
depending on the depth of cut, the
roughing feed/speed table allows you
to set seven different depths of cut in each of the six roughing ranges.
Radial Depth %
Radial Depth % is the percent that the diameter of the tool is buried into the material.
For example, the rectangular pocket in this figure has the following parameters:
• .500 diameter end mill
• Radial Depth of cut .250
• .250 Step over (50% of the end mill diameter)
For the first cut, the end mill is 100% buried, meaning 180
degrees of the end mill is cutting. In this case, ProCAM
would output the feedrate for 100%.

First Cut

In the second cut, the end mill is still buried as it moves up

half the cutter diameter for the step over, so ProCAM does
not change the feedrate.

Second Cut

A-7
Understanding Feeds and Speeds

On the third cut, the end mill is 50% buried. A new

feedrate would be output in the program. As long as the
end mill continues to remove material with half the end
mill buried, the feedrate would remain the same.

Third Cut
If the pocket size is such that the end mill would be only
10% buried as it got near the outside, ProCAM would
output a new feedrate in the program again.
During roughing routines, ProCAM always outputs a
new feedrate whenever the Radial Depth of Cut changes
are greater than the allowed percentage in the tables.
This always gives you the fastest possible metal removal
by increasing the feedrates whenever the end mill is not
as heavily buried. 10% Buried

Finishing Feeds and Speeds

Finishing Feeds and Speeds are based on a Radial Depth of Cut and the Tool Diameter.
These feeds and speeds are used whenever ProCAM is doing a profile operation.
Tool Diameter
Radial Depth .1250 .2500 .3750 .5000 .7500 1.000
.0200 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090
200 200 200 200 200 200
.0400 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090
200 200 200 200 200 200
.0600 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090
200 200 200 200 200 200
.0800 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090
200 200 200 200 200 200

The table parameters are:

• Feed/tooth in either in/tooth or mm/tooth
• Surface speed in either Ft/min or M/min
The diameters are actually ranges of tool diameters. In other words, the column for .250 is
actually for all diameters larger than .125, which is the previous column, and up to .250.
ProCAM determines which Radial Depth to use based on your input in the Set Operation -
Profile dialog box. ProCAM uses the value you specify for the Cut Amount parameter.

A-8
 Understanding Feeds and Speeds

Cut Amount is the amount the end mill

is in the part. In this case with a cut
amount of .050, ProCAM would use
the feed and speed next to the .060
because it is greater than .040.
The Radial Depths in Finishing
feedrates are ranges of radial depth so
the .060 is actually from .041 up to
.060.
All the Radial Depths and Tool
Diameters can be changed by selecting them and entering new values.
Drilling Feeds and Speeds
Drilling feeds and speeds are based on Tool Diameter. You can define different ranges for
the tool diameter.
A separate feed/speed table is used for each of the following drilling operations:
• Drilling, Pecking, High Speed Pecking, and Variable Pecking
• Spot Drilling.
• Boring, Bore w/Dwell, Back Bore, and Fine Bore
• Reaming and Ream w/Dwell
There are different tables for all the drilling types; however, they all use the same format
shown below.
Tool Diameter Feed/Speed
.0620 .0220
70
.1250 .0220
70
.2500 .0220
70
.3750 .0220
70
.5000 .0220
70
1.0000 .0220
70
2.0000 .0220
70
4.0000 .0220
70

The table parameters are:

• Feed/tooth in either in/tooth or mm/tooth
• Surface speed in either Ft/min or M/min

A-9
Understanding Feeds and Speeds

Feed/Speed Files
After you have set up feed/speed tables, you can save them in a file. Each table contains the
information described in the previous sections. When you choose the Feed/Speed Tables
command on the CAM menu, a cascading menu lists the Feed/Speed options. The following
options provide file management functions for feed/speed files:
Open
This option retrieves a feed/speed file from the disk and loads it so that the table(s) can be
used.
Save
This option saves a feed/speed table(s) in the current part to a file on disk and stores the
table(s) in the part for further use. Feed/speed files have an .MFS extension and are stored in
the \Procad\Fstables folder.

If you save the feed/speed tables in a file with the same name as the controller (for example,
FANUC6M), the file is opened automatically when you start Mill and select the controller
in the Controller Type dialog box.
Delete
This option erases a Feed/Speed file from the disk. When you select Open, Save or Delete on
the Feed/Speed Tables menu, a common dialog box displays. The option you selected is
identified in the title bar.

What You'll Learn

Using Linked Feeds and Speeds
In this exercise, the part is machined around the outside. For the operation, the part has .0625
of material that has to be removed.
1. Open the part file SKCAD7.PRT in the \procad\parts\learn folder.

2. Start 2D Mill (FANTUTM).

3. Click the Tool button on the system bar.
4. Set up Tool 1 as a .500 diameter end mill.
5. Choose Setup Information on the CAM menu.
6. Select any material you want.

7. Click the Boundary button.

A-10
 Understanding Feeds and Speeds

8. Put a boundary clockwise on the part.

9. Click the Profile Tool Path button.

10. Define the parameters using the following
information:
− Tool = 1
− Cycle Type = Z Single Depth
− Z Face = 0.000
− Z Depth = -.375
− XY Allowance = 0.0000
− Z Clearance = .1000
− Z Rapid Plane = 2.000
11. Select Linked in the Feed/Speed section.
− If you select either Copied or Linked, ProCAM automatically calculates the feeds and
speeds and displays values for the feeds and speeds parameters. The parameters are
disabled for Linked. If you want to change the value, click the Feed/Speed button and
change the value in the table.
− If you select Fixed, ProCAM enables the feeds and speeds parameters and uses the
values specified. You can type values for these parameters or you can have ProCAM
suggest a value by clicking the text box for a parameter, then clicking the Suggest
button. For example, if you click the XY Feed text box and click the Suggest button,
ProCAM displays a suggested value for XY Feed. You can use this value or change it.
12. Type .0625 for the Cut Amount.
Remember, this is the radial depth of the end mill. Specifying .0625 also tells ProCAM to
use the .0800 Radial Depth range in the Finishing feed/speed table.
ProCAM will use the .0800 range because the Cut Amount is greater than the previous
range of .060 (as shown in the table).
Tool Diameter
Radial .1250 .2500 .3750 .5000 .7500 1.000
Depth
Radial Depth .0200 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090
0 - .020 200 200 200 200 200 200
Radial Depth .0400 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090
.020 - .040 200 200 200 200 200 200
Radial Depth .0600 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090
.040 - .060 200 200 200 200 200 200
Radial Depth .0800 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090 .0090
.060 and up 200 200 200 200 200 200

A-11
Understanding Feeds and Speeds

13. Make sure there is a check mark in the Post Process

parameter check box.
14. Click OK.
15. Click OK to accept the defaults in the Set Operation -
Post Parameters dialog box.
16. Pick the part for the profile and select outside for the
side to put the profile on.
Your part should look like the figure.

17. Click the Post Process button.

18. Set the modifiers as desired.
19. Save the post file.
If SKCAD7.TXT is not in the File Name list box, type SKCAD7.TXT and click OK.

20. Click the Run modifier button.

ProCAM generates the NC Program and the Setup Sheet.

A-12
 Index

Index
.pdf, file extension for manuals 1-2 coolant 3-13
3D mill pocketing and profiling 8-5 corner clear, (Set Operation dialog box) 3-8
3D View, Cut Simulation Order Check 7-10 corner ext/rad (Set Operation dialog box) 3-8
A/B corner type modifiers, Profile tool path 5-9, 5-16
absolute/incremental 3-13 Ctr 9-3
Arc tool path, inserting 9-4 cut amount (Set Operation – Lace dialog box) 3-16
Attribute cut amount (Set Operation dialog box) 3-8
attaching 9-7 cut angle (Set Operation – Lace dialog box) 3-16
changing settings 9-7 Cut Simulation Order Check 1-7, 7-10
checking entities 9-8 Cutter Path List dialog box 3-19
display symbol 9-8 cycle type (Set Operation – Drill dialog box) 3-13
displaying 1-6 D
inserting 9-6 distance along (Set Operation dialog box) 3-6, 8-6
removing 9-7 Drill tool path
Select Attributes dialog box 9-6 generating on holes 6-7
symbol 1-6 operation parameters 3-13
boundary optimizing 7-20
closed 2-4, 2-6, 2-9 Set Operation dialog box 3-13
displaying arrows 1-6 using multiple tools 6-2
inserting 1-9, 2-2 using patterns 6-10
open 2-4, 2-7 E/F
rounding corners 2-9 Edit utility
single 2-2 changing direction of Pattern tool path 7-6
Break utility editing a macro 9-19
breaking an entity 7-2 removing attributes 9-7
exploding text 6-12 end type (Set Operation dialog box) 3-11
C EndCmp 9-3
CAD toolbar engraving 6-11
Exit to CAM 1-3 Erase utility, removing attributes 9-7
Pattern 6-10 exploding CAD entities 6-12, 7-2
CAM Display dialog box 1-6, 9-8, 9-16 FANTUTM, tutorial controller 1-4
CAM menu 1-7, 1-17, 5-20 Feed and Speed Library 1-8
Circular tool path, inserting 9-4 feeds and speeds, in Set Operation dialog box 3-7
clearance type (Set Operation dialog box) 3-6, 8-3, feeds and speeds, command on CAM menu 1-8
8-7 files
compensation installing parts for exercises 1-2
G code output in NC program 3-12 NC program 1-14
tool 1-5, 9-3 opening 1-3
compensation modifiers, Profile tool path 5-11, 5-17 setup sheet 1-15
Control Display dialog box 1-7 tool 1-17
control.sys 1-7 first peck (Set Operation – Drill dialog box) 3-14
Controller Type dialog box 1-3, 1-7 fixed (Set Operation dialog box) 3-7
controller, changing 1-3

i
Index

G/H/I Linear Tool Path 9-5

G41/G42 output in NC program 3-12 Macro 9-10
G98/G99 output in NC program 3-14 Optimize 7-17
Grid Optimization modifiers (Optimize) 7-17 Pocket Tool Path 4-2
HSS 8-12 Point Tool Path 6-2
interference checking, Profile tool path 5-9, 5-13 Post Process 1-14
L Profile Tool Path 5-2
Lace Pocket tool path Rapid 9-5
changing angle 4-9 Toolfit 6-7
generating 4-6 Mill Tools dialog box 1-10, 1-17
inserting with islands 4-10 miscellaneous operations 9-2
operation parameters 3-16 Modifier toolbar 1-4
Set Operation dialog box 3-16 multiple clearance planes (Z wall definition) 8-7
steps to generate 4-8 N
using Step and Repeat 8-4 NC program 1-2
leadin/leadout modifiers compensation G code output 3-12
Profile tool path 5-5 creating 1-14
Lft 9-3 file 1-14
Linear tool path, inserting 9-5 sample 1-16
linked (Set Operation dialog box) 3-7 sample generated for macro 9-17
lookahead (Set Operation dialog box) 3-8 setup information 1-8
M steps to generate 1-3
machine percent (Mach%) 1-9 NoCmp 9-3
macro O
creating grid 9-14 operation
defining and calling 9-11 adding comments 3-19
editing 9-19 button on system bar 1-5
grid display options 9-16 changing machining order 3-18
inserting 9-10 copying 3-18
macro display options 1-6 creating new 3-17
MC symbol 9-13 defining 1-10, 3-2
MG symbol 9-16 deleting 3-18
sample NC program 9-17 editing 3-17
undefining 9-18 generating tool paths 1-13
Macro Define dialog box 9-14 listing 3-19
max loop angle (Set Operation dialog box) 3-8 miscellaneous 9-2
Measure utility, viewing attached attributes 9-8 modifying 3-17
Mill Operations dialog box 3-3, 9-2 optimizing tool paths 7-17
Mill toolbar 1-4 rerunning 3-18, 5-14
3D View 7-10 selecting type 3-2
Arc Tool Path 9-4 Operation Comment dialog box 3-19
Attribute 9-6 Operation List dialog box 3-3, 3-17
Boundary 2-2 operation name (Set Operation dialog box) 3-4
Circular Tool Path 9-4 optimize tool paths 7-17
Exit to CAD 1-3 Order utility 7-16
Lace Pocket Tool Path 4-6 viewing attached attributes 9-9

ii
 Index

P skcad7.prt 5-19
parallel leadin 6-2 skcad8.prt 5-16
part material 1-8 Pattern tool path
part thickness 1-8 arc pattern 6-16, 6-24
parts changing direction 7-6
drawing 1-3 circular pattern 6-16, 6-22
opening file 1-3 generating 6-15
parts used in exercises 4-5 grid pattern 6-15, 6-20
exmill1.prt 5-13 linear pattern 6-15, 6-17
exmill10.prt 6-20 Pick Mask indicator button 1-6
exmill11.prt 6-21 Plunge at leadin start 3-9
exmill12.prt 6-22 Plunge at start hole 3-9
exmill13.prt 6-23 Pocket tool path
exmill14.prt 6-24 generating 4-2
exmill15.prt 7-4 inserting with islands 4-5
exmill16.prt 7-7 operation parameters 3-15
exmill17.prt 7-6 Set Operation dialog box 3-15
exmill2.prt 5-15 using direction modifiers 4-3
exmill20.prt 5-17 Point tool path, generating 6-2
exmill21.prt 5-18 Post dialog box 1-15
exmill24.prt 9-14 post process
exmill25.prt 9-12 command 1-14
exmill26.prt 9-18, 9-19 parameter in Set Operation dialog box 3-12
exmill27.prt 7-19 ProCAM, setup program 1-2
exmill28.prt 6-7, 7-20 Profile tool path
exmill29.prt 6-13 compensation modifiers 5-11, 5-17
exmill3.prt 4-8, 8-4 corner type modifiers 5-9, 5-16
exmill30.prt 8-13 direction modifiers 5-4
exmill31.prt 8-15 generating 1-10, 5-2
exmill32.prt 8-20 gouge avoidance 5-9
exmill35.prt 7-11 inserting multiple 5-19
exmill4.prt 4-10 interference checking modifiers 5-9, 5-13
exmill5.prt 7-2 leadin/leadout modifiers 5-5
exmill6.prt 7-3 operation parameters 3-4
exmill7.prt 6-17 optimizing 7-19
exmill8.prt 6-18 Set Operation – Profile dialog box 1-10
exmill9.prt 6-19 using multiple tools 6-2
mill18.prt 2-6 using Z wall definition 8-8
mill19.prt 2-8 program number 1-8
mill3.prt 4-3 R
mill40.prt 2-9 Ramp from start hole 3-9
skcad1.prt 1-3 Ramp on leadin line 3-9
skcad2.prt 5-4 rapids
skcad3.prt 6-2 displaying 1-6
skcad5.prt 1-18 inserting 9-5
skcad6.prt 5-22 RefCmp 9-3

iii
Index

Rerun dialog box 3-18 system bar

Retract at end hole 3-11 explanation 1-5
Retract at leadout end 3-11 Operation button 1-5
retract type (Set Operation – Drill dialog box) 3-14 Pick Mask button 1-6
Rgt 9-3 Tool button 1-5
Rotate utility 7-4 T
S tool
Save Post File dialog box 1-15 button in Set Operation dialog box 1-10, 3-4
Select Attributes dialog box 9-6 button on system bar 1-5
Set Operation – Pocket dialog box 3-15 changing definition 1-17
Set Operation - Drill dialog box 3-13 compensation 1-5, 9-3
Set Operation – Lace dialog box 3-16 defining 1-10
Set Operation - Macro dialog box 9-14 Mill Tools dialog box 1-10
Set Operation – Misc. dialog box 9-2 offset 9-3
Set Operation - Post Parameters dialog box 1-13, selecting for operation 1-17
3-12 Set Tool dialog box 1-11
Set Operation – Profile dialog box 1-10, 3-4 types supported 1-11
Set Tool dialog box 1-11 using tool files 1-17
Setup Information dialog box 1-4, 1-8 tool material 1-11
setup sheet tool path
file 1-15 copying 7-7
information 1-8 defining macro 9-10
sample 1-16 generating 1-13
tool comment 1-12 generating for single entity 9-2
Shape, using to define a pattern 6-10 mirroring 7-9
Simulation Distance 1-7 optimizing 7-17
single clearance plane (Z wall definition) 8-7 re-ordering entities 7-16
Single Part modifiers (Optimize) 7-17 reviewing order 7-16
skill builder exercises rotating 7-4
basics1 1-18 updating for operation changes 3-18
mill1 5-22 toolbar
mill10 7-30 Mill 1-4, 3-3
mill11 7-32 Modifier 1-4
mill3 6-5 ToolTips 1-5
mill6 7-21 Toolfit 6-7
mill7 7-24 engraving 6-11
mill8 7-26 ToolTips 1-5
mill9 7-29 V/W/X
spindle direction (Set Operation dialog box) 3-7 vertical cuts (Set Operation dialog box) 8-6
spindle speed (Set Operation dialog box) 3-8 work coordinate 3-13
Spiral at start hole 3-11 XY allowance (Set Operation dialog box) 3-6
start type (Set Operation dialog box) 3-9 XY feed (Set Operation dialog box) 3-8
steps to generate an NC program 1-3
sub peck (Set Operation dialog box) 3-14

iv
 Index

Z
Z allowance (Set Operation dialog box) 3-6, 8-7
Z clearance (Set Operation dialog box) 3-6
Z cut method (Set Operation dialog box) 3-5, 8-6
Z cycle type (Set Operation dialog box) 3-4, 8-1
Z depth (Set Operation dialog box) 3-5
Z face (Set Operation dialog box) 3-5
Z feed (Set Operation dialog box) 3-7
Z first cut (Set Operation dialog box) 3-5, 8-2
Z rapid plane (Set Operation dialog box) 3-7
Z single depth 8-1
Z step and repeat
exercise using 8-4
parameters 8-2
Z sub cut (Set Operation dialog box) 3-6, 8-2
Z wall definition
defining a fake island 8-13
different height islands 8-20
exercises using 8-8
multiple wall shapes and islands 8-11
parameters 8-5

v
Index

vi