Absolute and Incremental Values

Most toolpaths provide Clearance, Retract, Feed plane, Top of stock, and Depth parameters that can be
entered in either absolute or incremental values.

Absolute: Absolute values are always measured from the origin 0,0,0.
Incremental: Incremental values are relative to other parameters or chained geometry. Depth and Top of
stock parameters are relative to the location of the chained geometry. Clearance, Retract, and Feed plane
are relative to the top of stock.
NOTE
In a Multiaxis toolpath, the Clearance, Retract, and Feed plane are automatically set to Incremental.

Related topics
←Mill Toolpaths
←Router Toolpaths
←Lathe Toolpaths

Adjusting Speeds and Feeds for Machine Limits

When you enter a spindle speed for an operation, Mastercam automatically checks it against the maximum and
minimum limits set in the machine definition. If the spindle speed that you enter falls outside these ranges,
Mastercam automatically changes it to conform with the machine limits, and also adjusts the feed rate so that the
originally programmed chip load is maintained. Mastercam also does this when an operation is moved from one
machine group to another, or when you select a different machine for a machine group.

When this happens, Mastercam displays a message to alert you, and changes the display in the Toolpath
Parameters tab or, the Tool page as shown below:

Zero spindle speeds are a special case. Mastercam always allows you to enter a zero spindle speed to support
applications where you need to drive a non-rotating spindle, regardless of the machine definition limits.
However, any non-zero value that falls below the machine limit is automatically adjusted.

NOTE

When you see the Tool settings modified message, you can choose to suppress it for the remainder of your
Mastercam session. In this case, Mastercam automatically adjusts settings as necessary without further
warning to you.

Related topics

← Component Parameters: Tool Spindle

← Toolpath Parameters: Mill/Router
← Tool

Axis Combination
Use this page to select an axis combination for the current operation. Mastercam uses axis combinations to
identify which machine components correspond to each axis in the current coordinate system. Axis
combinations are typically needed when several machine components use the same axis. For example, on a
multi-spindle lathe, each spindle uses the Z axis. An axis combination would identify the set of spindle and turret
components to be used in a particular operation that together define the axes in the coordinate system.

The machine definition defines and stores axis combinations. Every machine definition includes at least one
Default axis combination. Typically, only multi-axis/multi-turret lathes require you to set up additional axis
combinations. For most mills and routers, the default axis combination works.

If your machine definition defines multiple axis combinations, they will be listed on the Axis Combination page.
Each line lists the name of the axis combination, the components it includes, and the axes that the components
control. Click an axis combination to select it.

If this page only displays a single axis combination, Mastercam automatically uses it.
Related topics

← Machine Definition Manager

← Creating an Axis Combination

Batch Advanced Settings

Use the Batch Advanced Settings dialog box to set batch processing time limits for surface operations and batch
file editing preferences. You can click Edit now to view or edit any batch file, not just the one displayed in the
Batch Toolpath Operations dialog box.

Parameters

Related topics

←Batch Processing Toolpath Operations

Batch Toolpath Operations
Use the Batch Toolpath Options dialog box to create lists of operations for batch processing and to run batch
jobs. Batch jobs let you post operations from many files at one time without having to open every file
individually. You can also repeatedly post the same set of files without having to select them every time by
saving the operations list to a batch file.

To run a job saved in a batch file, use Open an existing batch file to open the batch file, and then choose OK to
run it. Use the other dialog box controls to build an operations list, create new batch files, or set job options for
processing batch files.

Click a topic below to learn more about each stage of batch processing.

Building the operation list

Processing the source files

Posting the selected operations

Working with batch files

Click OK when the operation list is complete to run the batch job.

Click Advanced to set batch processing time limits on surface operations and batch file editing preferences. You
can also open an editing session to view or edit any batch file, without interfering with the one that is currently
displayed.

Parameters

Related topics

←Toolpaths Manager
←Selecting Files for Batch Processing
←Batch Processing Toolpath Operations
Canned Text
Insert canned text commands in your NC program. Canned text commands selected here will be inserted at the
tool change block for the operation. You can choose to insert the commands either immediately before or after
the tool change block, or as part of it. (For wirepaths, this is the post block that gets called at the beginning of
each operation.)

The canned text commands that are available to you depend on the current control definition. They are listed
in the left window.

Inserting commands in your programs

Parameters

Related topics
← Canned Text Overview
←

Canned Text Overview

Canned text commands are used to trigger a specific event in the post processor. For example, canned text can
be used to advance and retract a parts catcher. Use the Canned Text dialog box to insert canned text in your
toolpath. Mastercam then outputs the commands in the 1025 line of the NCI file.

Canned text commands and codes are control-specific. Use the Text page of the control definition to create the
canned text commands for a particular control. The canned text you create is stored in the post file under a
header which assigns it to a particular control definition. Then, when you select the proper machine and control
definition, the Canned Text dialog box populates with the canned text options that you created.

Canned text can have 99 possible values. Up to ten canned text commands can be output on a single NCI line.
Canned text

can be inserted in your toolpath in either of two ways:

1. Associate the canned text with specific points in the toolpath. Choose whether the commands are
placed before, with, or after the point. Some functions that let you do this include the Change at point
function and Lathe cutoff toolpaths.
2. Place canned text commands at the beginning of a toolpath in the tool change block of the NCI file. To do
this, select Canned text on the Toolpath parameters tab for any Mill, Router or Lathe toolpath, or the
Canned Text page for any wirepath. For Lathe toolpaths, use canned text to customize part handling
operations such as chuck clamp/unclamp/reposition operations or using a bar feeder to advance the stock.
Where the canned text command appears within the tool change block depends on the post processor.

Related topics
← Working with Post Text
← Manual Entry Operations

Chain Options
Use the Chain Options dialog box to establish how the selected chains are used for a Dynamic Mill, Dynamic
Contour, or Area Mill toolpath. Select or deselect chains for the various types. You can also preview your selected
chains to ensure you have selected the correct geometry. For Dynamic Contour toolpaths, only machining regions
are available, and you cannot preview your chains.

The Chain Options dialog box is modeless, allowing you to manipulate the graphics window while selecting your
chains.

Parameters

Related topics

← 2D High Speed Mill Toolpaths

← Preview Chains Colors
Change at Point
Use the Change at Point dialog box to make point-specific changes to a toolpath. The values displayed in the
fields are the values currently in effect. Select the check mark before a field to activate it, and then enter a new
value.

Use the Manual entry window to insert text in your toolpath. If the other options on the dialog box do not let you
change the toolpath in the way you want to, you can use this option to enter G-codes or M-codes right in this
window; choose As code to tell Mastercam to insert the text as NC code directly in the part program. Otherwise,
Mastercam will format the text as comments.

Parameters

Related topics

← Manual Entry Operations

Check Holder
Use Check Holder to check an operation's tool holder for interference with the part. It calculates areas where
there is interference between the holder and the part, and tells you the minimum tool length required to avoid
it. Before starting Check Holder, you should select the desired operation in the Toolpaths Manager .

How do I configure the test?

How do I apply the results?

NOTE

← Check Holder only tests against surfaces and solids.

← Check Holder works with views other than Top. However it does not handle work offsets.
← 4- and 5-axis operations are not supported.
← High speed surfaces toolpaths are supported. However we recommend that you use the functions on the
Holder page instead.
← Click Reset to restore all the settings to default values.

Related topics

← Holder
.

Common Toolpath Parameter Controls

Listed below are common toolpath dialog box controls. Not all controls are available for all toolpaths.

Icon Name Description

Analyzes the solid model and detects features based on the FBM operation's current
parameters. View the results of all detected features and their machining information in the
Detect (FBM Drill)
Features page. For more information, please refer to Detection States and Modes in FBM.
Reselection is Hole Wizard features for a Wizard Holes operation can only be selected in
not available Mastercam for SOLIDWORKS. Contact your Reseller for more information.
Preview toolpath
Opens the Toolpath Operations Preview dialog box where you can view the
operations (FBM
list of operations FBM will generate using the current Features page list.
Drill/Wizard Holes)
Makes the current toolpath settings the default parameters for future toolpaths of
Save parameters
this type. Saves the current values in the toolpath properties pages to the .mcam-
to defaults file
defaults file specified in the active machine group properties.
Overwrites the current values in the toolpath properties pages with the
Reload parameters
toolpath's default parameters. These parameters are reloaded from
from defaults file
the .mcam-defaults file specified in the active machine group properties.
Minimizes the dialog box so that you can use other Mastercam options, like
Hide dialog changing your shading settings or the graphics window view. When finished,
press [Esc] to maximize the dialog box.
Click this button to open the Tool Manager. Use the Tool Manager to create
Tool Manager and edit tool definitions and to work with tool libraries. When you close the
Tool Manager, the toolpath dialog box will reappear just as you left it.
 Opens the Feed & Speed
Calculator dialog box where
you can modify the
calculated feed
 Feed speed calculator

Preview toolpath

None. Page window

None. Quick View Settings rate or spindle speed by adjusting the material and tool parameters.

Select this button to preview the toolpath in the graphics window before closing and generating or regenerating
the toolpath. You must have a tool assigned to the toolpath or else the preview will not display.
This window displays all of the pages that are available to you, depending on the selected toolpath type. A green
check mark indicates pages where data has changed in the current session.
This window summarizes key toolpath information from the Tool page, Coolant page, and Planes page. It
updates automatically as you make changes to the different pages and is always visible.
Coolant/Flushing
Use this page to turn coolant on or off. For machine types other than Wire, the active machine definition
defines the coolant options. In the case of Wire, the term "flushing" is used in place of "coolant," and those
options are defined in Flushing commands tab of the General Machine Parameters dialog box.

For each type of coolant, you can set a maximum of two states:

←Whether to turn the coolant on, off, or maintain the current state (as set by a previous operation or point)
←Whether to apply the change at the current location/block, before it, or after it

Your machine definition might not allow all possible states. For example, you might be limited to an On/Off
toggle. You can turn on several different coolant options at the same time, if your machine definition allows it.

Generally, you can turn coolant options off individually—however, for some machines, the first coolant-off code
turns off all coolant. The coolant section of the machine definition contains this setting.

Each tool definition can include a default coolant selection; operations use this selection if the Use tool's
step, peck, coolant option is turned on in the Tool Settings tab of the Machine Group Properties dialog box.

Related topics
← Machine Definition Manager
← Flushing Commands: Wire
Creating a New Toolpath Defaults File
Follow these steps to create a new toolpath defaults file. This is a file with a .mcam-defaults extension that
provides the initial values for new toolpath operations.

Begin creating new defaults files from a machine definition already loaded in the Toolpaths Manager.

← In the Toolpaths Manager, click Files for the machine group to open the Files tab of the Machine Group
Properties dialog box.

← Select the exclamation point icon in the Operation Defaults section to open the Edit Operation Defaults dialog box.
 ← To create the new file, click Browse at the top of the Edit Operation Defaults dialog box to open
the Select Operation Defaults File dialog box.

← Right-click the defaults file on which you want to base your new file, and choose Copy.
← Right-click in the window (not on a file name), and choose Paste.
← Right-click the new copy of the defaults file, choose Rename, enter the new file name, and press

[Enter]. When renaming your file, make sure not to change the file extension.

← Re-click the new file name. Make sure the new defaults file name appears in the File name field. If the
correct file name does not display, click anywhere in the white area of the list of files, and re-select the
correct file.
← Click OK.
← If prompted to save changes to your original defaults library, click No.
← Edit the new defaults library as necessary.

You can also empty the new file and start with a blank file by choosing Delete all operations from the
toolbar.

← When finished, click OK twice to save your changes and return to the Toolpaths Manager.

NOTE

Alternatively, you can create new toolpath default files through the Control Definition Manager. Choose
Control Definition Manager from the Machine tab, and make your edits. Click Save current selection to
create the new file.
Related topics

←Editing a Toolpath Defaults File

←Saving Default Values While Creating a Toolpath
←Working with Toolpath Defaults

Cutter Compensation
Tool compensation adjusts the toolpath to allow for the cutting tool’s radius. The tool can be offset to the
right or left of the geometry, with respect to the chaining direction used when selecting the geometry.

Types of cutter compensation

When Compensation type is Off, Mastercam does not take any tool dimensions into account when computing the toolpath.
This may lead to the tool gouging the part.

When you select the tool, Mastercam analyzes the tool and chooses which compensation direction is most likely to be
correct, and sets this as the default. You can change this when you set the other operation parameters.

To use the Control, Wear, or Reverse wear options correctly, make sure that your toolpath includes a move at the
beginning and end of the toolpath to turn compensation on and off correctly. You can accomplish this in several ways:

Related topics

← Optimizing Compensated Toolpaths: Example

← Simulating Cutter Compensation in Control
← Cutter Compensation: Control Definition Manager

Deleting a Toolpath Section

To delete a non-drilling toolpath section:

← In the Toolpaths Manager, select the toolpath operation to edit, right-click on the operation
title, and choose Toolpath editor from the Toolpaths Manager right-click menu.
← In the Edit Toolpath dialog box, use the Point Position field to select the first toolpath point position
of the section to delete. Then click Delete section.
← In the Section dialog box, set the section endpoint by:
← Clicking the up and down scroll arrows, or clicking in the field and using the mouse wheel
or arrow keys to scroll.
← Entering a number directly in the field.
← Clicking a position in the graphics window. When you choose an endpoint, the defined
section is highlighted in the graphics window.
← To delete the defined section and return to the Edit Toolpath dialog box, click OK.
← Continue editing the toolpath, or click OK to accept all changes made to the toolpath in this
session of the Toolpath Editor.

Related topics

← Using the Toolpath Editor

Duplicate Tool Check

Use the Duplicate Tool Check dialog box to select the tool parameters you wish to check for duplication. The radio
buttons across the top indicate the selected tool attributes. Choose Custom to individually select parameters.
For nesting operations, Mastercam performs the tool check when the nesting operation is processed. However, if there are
several operations being nested and the original operation use different tools that have some of the same attributes (such
as the tool diameter or corner radius) when the nesting operation is created, it will use the first tool found that has those
matching attributes for all the nested operations, even if the original operations use different tools.

Related topics

← About Toolpath Nesting

Edit Common Parameters: Mill/Router

Use the Edit Common Parameters, Mill/Router dialog box to set values for one or more toolpath parameters for several
operations at the same time. You can also use it to copy selected values from one operation to another.
All the operations must be in the same machine group.

The information in this topic is divided into several sections. Click on each one to read more.

Select the operations to edit

Select the settings to change

Apply the changes

Copying values from one operation to another

NOTE

← You can only edit toolpath and operation parameters. You cannot edit machine group properties or settings.
← When you return to the Toolpaths Manager you typically need to regenerate operations whose
parameters have been changed.

Parameters

Right-click menu options (Tool selection window)

Related topics

← Edit Common Parameters: Lathe

← Toolpaths Manager
← Working with Toolpath Defaults

Edit Point Parameters

Use the Edit Point Parameters dialog box to change the toolpath motion at a selected point. You can also modify
other toolpath actions at that point, such as turning coolant on or off, and changing cutter compensation.

NOTE

← Rapid move is unavailable for arcs.

← Feed rate is disabled for rapid moves.

Parameters

Related topics

← Using the Toolpath Editor

← Editing a Toolpath Pointdit Toolpath
Use the Edit Toolpath dialog box to modify an existing toolpath.

NOTE

← Cut and Pass fields in the Position section are unavailable for Lathe toolpaths. For other toolpath types, Cut is
available only if the toolpath uses depth cuts, and Pass is available only if multiple passes are used.
← If you are editing an Advanced Multiaxis toolpath, you can edit or delete only selected points.
← To undo all of the changes you made to the toolpath and exit the function, click Cancel. This
restores the toolpath to its original state before editing. Any points, passes and cuts that were
deleted in the current editing session are also restored.

Parameters

Related topics

← Using the Toolpath Editor

Editing a Toolpath Defaults File
Follow these steps to edit a toolpath defaults file. This is a file with a .mcam-defaults extension that
provides the initial values for new toolpath operations.

Typically, you edit your toolpath defaults from the machine group properties, by following these steps. You
can also save values to a defaults file while working on a toolpath or from the Control Definition Manager.

← In the Toolpaths Manager, click Files to open the Files tab of the Machine Group Properties dialog box.

← Click the exclamation point in the Operation Defaults section to open the Edit Operation Defaults dialog box:

← If necessary, use the Browse at the top of the dialog box to select a defaults file from a different folder.
← Edit default values for each type of operation by clicking Parameters.

← To add a new operation, right-click in the window and choose to create a new toolpath or
choose Import to import an operation from another defaults file. New operations will be
created at the insertion point, just like in the Toolpaths Manager.
← To delete an operation, click on it, and press [Delete].

You can work on the operations list much like you can in the Toolpaths Manager. This means
that you can access many different display options from the right-click menu; select multiple
operations; and drag-and-drop operations within the list.

← The last defaults file that you worked on is set as the active defaults file for the machine group.

Saving default values while creating an operation

Related topics

← Creating a New Toolpath Defaults File

← Editing Toolpath Defaults with the Control Definition Manager
← Saving Default Values While Creating a Toolpath
← Working with Toolpath Defaults

Editing a Toolpath Point

To edit a non-drilling toolpath point position:

← In the Toolpaths Manager, select the toolpath operation you want to edit, right-click on the
operation title, and choose Toolpath editor from the Toolpaths Manager right-click menu.
← In the Edit Toolpath dialog box, use the Point position field to select the first toolpath point position
of the section to delete. Then click Edit point.
← Use the Edit Point Parameters dialog box to change the toolpath motion at the selected point and modify other
toolpath actions at that point, such as turning coolant on or off, and changing cutter compensation.
← When you finish entering changes for the selected point position, click OK to return to the Edit Toolpath dialog box.
← If you changed the feed rate in step 3 and chose Section as the change type, the Section dialog box
displays next. Use it to enter the endpoint for the new feed rate. As you choose the end point, the
defined section is highlighted in the graphics window. To accept it and exit the dialog box, click OK.
← Continue editing the toolpath, or click OK to accept all changes made to the toolpath in this
session of the Toolpath Editor.

Related topics
← Adding a Point to a Toolpath
← Moving a Point in a Toolpath

Enabling Reference Positions

In cases where Mastercam does not output a tool change between operations, the Reference Positions
option is not available for the first operation's retract or the second operation's start. If necessary, you
can enable reference positions by selecting Force tool change in the operation's toolpath parameters.

NOTE
Mastercam does not output a tool change between consecutive operations that have the same tool and
tool orientation (if the operations are in the same stream). In the case of a reposition where the B-axis
angle changes or the active spindle changes, Mastercam does generate a retract option.

To enable reference positions:

← Switch to the main Mastercam application.

← In Toolpaths Manager, find the operation for which to enable reference positions.
← Click the operation's Parameters. The operation's properties dialog box appears.

← Select Toolpath Parameters.

← Select Force tool change.

Related topics

←Reference Positions
←Creating Custom Reference Positions
←Sync Manager Toolpath Options

Enter New NC Name

Use the Enter New NC Name dialog box to change the name of the resulting NC file from the default file name set in
the Machine Group Properties dialog box. To change the file name, edit the current file name and click OK.

NOTE

← You cannot enter a path, only a file name.

← You do not need to enter the file extension (.nc); it is automatically entered. If you do type .nc at
the end of the file name, Mastercam ignores it.
← To change the toolpath file name on multiple toolpaths, select the operations, right click on any
operation, and change the file name. If you have set the toolpath names to display in the Display
Options dialog box, the Toolpaths Manager display reflects your changes.
← If you change the default toolpath file name in the Machine Group Properties dialog box,
Mastercam changes all operation NC file names in your part file to that new default file name. This
overwrites any changes to toolpath file names that you made in the Toolpath Name dialog box.
← The combined length of the NC file name plus its path (for example, c:\Mastercam
2020 \Mastercam\nc_files\program.nc) cannot be more than 120 characters.

Related topics

← Machine Groups
← Files: Machine Group Properties

Feed/Speed Calculator
Mastercam calculates default feed rates with data from both the material definition and the tool
definition, modified by the type of toolpath that you select. Use the Feed/Speed Calculator dialog box to
modify the calculated feed rate or spindle speed by adjusting the material and tool parameters. The data
you see displayed in the dialog box is read directly from the tool and material definitions.

Parameters
Related topics
← Working with Materials
← Tool Definitions
Highfeed
The Highfeed dialog box displays G-code, XYZ coordinate positions, and feed rate information for a
toolpath optimized with highfeed machining. These values only display for viewing purposes and cannot
be edited. Use Step to step through the toolpath segments and view the field values for each segment.
Use Run to calculate the toolpath without displaying the segment feedback.

When you move through the optimized toolpath using Step, segments of the toolpath using the maximum feed rate
display in red. Also, the arrow indicating your position in the toolpath changes in size to represent changes in feed
rate: a larger arrow shows a higher feed rate value and a smaller arrow shows a lower feed rate value.

Related topics
← Highfeed Machining
← Optimizing Toolpaths with Highfeed Machining

Holder
Use this page to select the tool holder to be used in the operation. Select a holder for this operation by selecting it in
the list in the left window. You can also create a new holder, load a holder from a library, and edit a holder.

To load a holder from a library, click Open library and select a library of holders. Mastercam replaces
the entire list with the contents of the library. To edit a holder, right-click a holder in the list and select
Edit Holder. To create a new holder, click New holder in any toolpaths Holder page.

When you create a new holder, it will display in the holders list with an asterisk (*) indicating that the holder
has not yet been saved to a library. When you select a holder, Mastercam displays a preview of its geometry.

Parameters

Right-click menu options

Related topics

← Holder Definitions: Mill/Router

←Check Holder
Home Position/Library Origin
The home position is a location on the machine tool where the tool returns for tool changes and at the end of the NC
program. The source of the default home position is specified in the control definition. It can come from the machine
definition, the toolpath defaults file, or, for Mastercam Lathe, from the tool definition. Use the Home Position/Library

Origin dialog box to override the default for an operation. Specify the new home position in one of the following ways:

← Enter coordinate positions directly in the fields. Enter coordinate values relative to the current
Tplane and Tplane origin.
← Choose From machine to read the home position from the machine definition.
← Choose Select to return to the graphics window and select a point. Mastercam will
automatically enter its coordinates in this dialog box.

In addition to a home position, Mastercam also lets you set reference points, which are intermediate
points the tool will move to between the home position and the start or end of a toolpath.

If you are accessing this dialog box from a Lathe machine definition, this dialog box will be titled Library
Origin. In that case, use the dialog box to define a toolpath origin point for a library operation in a .mcam-
operations file. This point is mapped to the tool origin for the operation when it is read into a machine group
from the .mcam-operations file accessed from the Files tab of the Machine Group Properties dialog box.

Related topics

← Files: Machine Group Properties

← Home Positions and Reference Points
← Reference Points
Home Positions and Reference Points
The Home position is where the spindle typically travels for tool changes. Reference points are points
that the tool moves to between the home position and the start or end of the toolpath.

Home Positions

Reference Points

Related topics

← Machine Axis Combinations: Machine Definition Manager

← Reference Points
← Home Position/Library Origin

Home / Reference Points

Use this page to define reference points, a home position, or both.

← A reference point is a location that the tool moves to between the home position and the start or end of the toolpath.
← The home position is typically where the tool moves for tool changes and at the end of the NC program.

You can create separate reference points for approach and retract moves.

The next move between the reference position and your part is typically the clearance plane,
defined on the Linking parameters page.

Defining a home position

Defining reference positions

Parameters

Related topics

←Home Positions and Reference Points

Miscellaneous Values
Use the Miscellaneous Values dialog box or the Misc Values page to enter values for custom parameters
that have been defined for the current post processor. For each post processor, you can define up to ten
variables with floating point values and ten variables with integer values. The values are stored with the
operation unless set automatically to post values when posting. You can set the values in any of four ways:

← Enter values directly in each field.

← Choose Set to post values to read the default values stored in the post processor file. You can
override the default values by entering new values here.
← Choose Set to Op Defaults to read the default values stored in the .mcam-defaults file. You can
override the default values by entering new values here.
← Choose Automatically set to post values when posting to disable the other fields and controls on
this dialog box. Mastercam then disregards information from this dialog and reads the values from
the post processor when you post. This option lets you use updated values whenever your post
processor changes, without needing to edit each operation. No values are saved with the operation.

Use the Misc Int/Real Values page in the Control Definition Manager to manage the default values and behavior.
The exact appearance of this dialog and the fields that it displays will vary depending on the selected machine.

NOTE

← Lathes with mill/turn capability can have two sets of miscellaneous variables, one for milling operations
and one for turning operations. The appropriate set will appear depending on the current operation.
← You can also tell Mastercam to run an add-in when Misc values is pressed or the Misc values
page is selected. Use the Files page in the Control Definition Manager to specify the add-in.

Related topics

←Misc Int/Real Values: Control Definition Manager

←Files: Control Definition Manager

Moving a Point in a Toolpath

To edit a non-drilling toolpath by moving one of its points to a new position.

← In the Toolpaths Manager list, select the toolpath operation you want to edit, right-click on the
operation title, and choose Toolpath editor from the Toolpaths Manager right-click menu.
← In the Edit Toolpath dialog box, use one of the following methods to select the toolpath point position to move:
← Click the up and down scroll arrows, or click in the field and use the mouse wheel or arrow keys to scroll.

← Enter a number directly in the field.

← Click a position in the graphics window.
← Click Move point and, when prompted, select a new position in the graphics window. Mastercam edits
the toolpath to reflect the new point position, and this position is highlighted in the graphics window.
← Continue editing the toolpath, or click OK to accept all changes made to the toolpath in this
session of the Toolpath Editor.

Related topics
 ← Adding a Point to a Toolpath
← Using the Toolpath Editor

NCI Files
Every toolpath or wirepath operation has an NCI file associated with it. An NCI file is Mastercam's intermediate
NC format. It contains all the machining instructions and information for the NC file, but in a generic format
that is common to all machines. The NCI file is the primary input for a Mastercam post processor. The post
processor uses the NCI file to create the final NC program for a specific machine or control. In Mastercam X
and beyond, the NCI file typically contains the toolpaths for an entire machine group.

There are two types of NCI files: binary and text. When you create an operation in a Mastercam file, Mastercam
automatically creates a binary NCI file. Mastercam works with these NCI files in the background, and you typically do
not need to work with them directly unless you are writing a post processor or doing other advanced work.

When you post an operation, you have the option to create and save a text NCI file. This contains the information
from the binary NCI file in a text format so you can read it. Use the control definition to tell Mastercam how you want
to work with NCI files. Consult your Mastercam reseller if you need more documentation.

NCI data format example

For detailed reference information about NCI codes and formats, contact your local Mastercam Reseller.

Related topics

←About Post Processing

←Post Processing a Toolpath Operation
←Files: Control Definition Manager
Planes
Use this page to set the planes in which your toolpath will be created. The tool plane is the plane normal
to the tool axis, while the construction plane is the plane in which the tool movements are created. For
most applications, these will be the same.

Origins are displayed in view coordinates (the default) or world coordinates as chosen in the Display options
drop-down of the Planes Manager. If you have chosen the Display plane info relative to WCS option in the
Planes Manager, the Tool plane and Compensation/construction plane sections are disabled and the origins
display in the Working coordinate system section. This is indicated with an asterisk (*) next to the plane name.

Parameters

Related topics

← Work Offset Numbers

← Views, Planes, and Coordinate Systems

Probe Configuration
Use the Probe Configuration dialog box to configure your Probe operations. Select the correct .RenMF
and .RenPD files to ensure the probe operation's compatibility with your machine. These files are similar
in behavior to the machine / control definition files and tool libraries in other Mastercam operations.
 Parameters

Related topics

← Probe Process Overview

Probe Process Overview

Probe operation output is a multi-stage process. In order to successfully create probing output
you must have a post processor with probing enabled and a Renishaw Machine File (.RenMF).

The first stage is to generate a probe operation within Mastercam. Within the probe operation itself you have the ability to
select a .RenMF file as well as a Renishaw Probe Database file (.RenPD). The Probing Dialog allows you to generate:

← Inspection cycles for measuring different aspects of your part

← Machine update cycles to adjust to the taken measurements
← Probe calibration
← Tool settings
← Reports
← Logic statements to vary the response based on measurements

The probe operation is stored in Mastercam's Toolpaths Manager like every other operation. You may
edit the operation to make adjustments as needed. The operation is a snapshot of your model at the time
the operation was created. Updating your part model will not mark a probe operation dirty.

The last stage of creating probing output is in post processing. Select operations that include probing,
click to post, and the Probing Post Tool dialog box launches. Set the correct .RenMF and NC files, and
click Process to create a modified NC file that contains probe data.

Associativity
Probe toolpaths are associative to part geometry. If a part geometry is moved or changed, probe toolpaths will update
accordingly. Editing part geometry may result in dirty toolpaths. Regenerate the dirty operations to update the toolpaths.

Related topics

← Probe Configuration
← Probing
Probing
Use the Probing dialog box to set the parameters of your Probe operation. Your selections determine what is
probed, how the tool is setup, how to process logic statements, and what happens with the results.

Use the toolbars along the top of the dialog box to make your selections. Enter values in the fields on
the right side of the dialog box as needed. Click OK to process your inputs, resulting in an operation in
the Toolpaths Manager. Click Import/Attach to import and export probing operations and cycles.

Associativity
Probe toolpaths are associative to part geometry. If a part geometry is moved or changed, probe toolpaths will update
accordingly. Editing part geometry may result in dirty toolpaths. Regenerate the dirty operations to update the toolpaths.

Parameters

Related topics

← Probe Process Overview

Reference Points
A reference point is a location that the tool moves to between the home position and the start or end of
the toolpath. You can create separate reference points for both approach and retract moves. Use the
Reference Points dialog box to set reference points for the current operation, or to set default
reference points for an axis combination within a machine definition.

First, select the type of reference point to set. Select Approach or Retract to enable the reference point feature for that
move. If you are setting lathe defaults, you can also define separate sets of reference points for ID and OD work. When
you turn on reference points for a Lathe toolpath, Mastercam automatically selects the right set of points.

Second, set the coordinates of each point. Use any of the following techniques.

← Type the coordinate positions directly in the dialog box fields. Use the X-Y-Z checkboxes to activate each
axis. For example, if X and Y are cleared and only Z is selected, the tool will rapid straight up to the specified
← If you are setting reference points for an operation, choose Select to return to the graphic window and select a point.
← If you are setting reference points for an operation, you can also choose From machine to read the
default value from the machine definition.

NOTE

Mastercam Mill-Turn uses home positions and reference positions differently than other Mastercam products. This topic
does not apply to Mill-Turn. See Machine Reference Position Manager to learn more about Mill-Turn reference positions.

Inch and metric values

World coordinates vs. part coordinates

Parameters

Related topics

← Home Positions and Reference Points

← Toolpath Parameters: Mill/Router
← Toolpath Parameters: Lathe
←Machine Axis Combinations: Machine Definition Manager

Reversing a Toolpath
Use this function to reverse the machining direction and compensation direction at the same time. To reverse a toolpath,
select one or more operations in the Toolpaths Manager. Right-click and choose Edit selected operations, Reverse toolpath.

After reversing a toolpath, Mastercam locks the NCI file, preventing you from regenerating the toolpath. The
Toolpath parameters page for this reversed operation still displays the original compensation direction. If
you unlock the toolpath, the original machining and compensation direction will be restored.
NOTE

Mastercam cannot reverse Manual Entry toolpaths.

Related topics

←Cutter Compensation
←Manual Entry
Saving Default Values While Creating a Toolpath
Mastercam lets you save values to the active defaults file while you are working on a toolpath. This
lets you try out and test values while working on a toolpath, and then save the current toolpath
settings as defaults as soon as you get them right.

If you are working in a tabbed toolpath dialog box:

If you are working in a tree-style dialog box:

Save values while creating an operation, or editing an existing operation to save data from all tabs or
pages, not just the Toolpath parameters tab or Tool page.

Related topics

← Creating a New Toolpath Defaults File

← Editing a Toolpath Defaults File
← Editing Toolpath Defaults with the Control Definition Manager
← Working with Toolpath Defaults

Section
Use Select endpoint for section to define the endpoint of a toolpath or wirepath section.The section begins with the point
position value you defined in the Edit Toolpath dialog box, and ends with the point position you enter here.

Use one of the following methods to set the section endpoint:

← Click the up and down scroll arrows, or click in the field and use the mouse wheel or arrow keys to scroll.
← Enter a number directly in the field.
← Click a position in the graphics window.

As you choose the end point, the defined section is highlighted in the graphics window. To accept it
and exit the dialog box, click OK.
To undo a deletion or feed rate change, click Cancel in the Edit Toolpath dialog box.

Related topics
←Using the Toolpath Editor

Setting a Default Tool Numbering Method

Follow these steps to number tools sequentially by default for all your machine groups.

NOTE

Mastercam saves this preference in your operation defaults file (.mcam-defaults), not the control definition.

1. In the Toolpaths Manager, click Files in your Machine Group Properties.

← Click Edit in the Operation Defaults section.

← Scroll up to the top of the window and click Tool settings in the Properties section.
 ← Select Assign tool numbers sequentially and click OK.
← If you work with other defaults files, click Browse, select a new file and repeat Step 4. In particular,
if you program in both inch and metric units, you should edit both inch and metric defaults files.
← Click OK to close the Edit Operation Defaults dialog box.
← Click OK to close the Machine Group Properties dialog box.

Related topics

← Edit Operation Defaults/Library

← Tool Definitions
←Working with Tool Numbers and Offsets
←

Simulating Cutter Compensation in Control

Mastercam includes several features that let you simulate cutter compensation in control. Mastercam intelligently
simulates the compensated toolpath next to the calculated toolpath so you can preview and compare both versions.

Select Control as the compensation type and generate the toolpath.

Mastercam displays the calculated toolpath in its normal toolpath color and simulates the
compensated toolpath in magenta.

The simulation is based on the diameter of the selected cutting tool and the compensation direction. It only
appears temporarily until the screen is redrawn. To display the simulation again, regenerate the toolpath.

The simulation does not show the compensation at the first point in the entry move, but you can see the compensation at
the end of the entry move. Similarly, the compensation is displayed at beginning of the exit move, but not at the end point.
However, the entry and exit moves are gouge checked.

Use the Cutter Compensation page in the Control Definition Manager dialog box to tell Mastercam how your control
implements cutter compensation.

Related topics

←Optimizing Compensated Toolpaths: Example

←Cutter Compensation

Subprograms
A subprogram is a block of NC code designed to be called several times from the main NC program, to reuse blocks
of code (typically, XYZ rapid and cutting moves) that are repeated within an operation. For example, you might
create a subprogram which cuts a contour, including lead in/out moves. Then, you could call this subprogram at
different depths to cut the part with depth cuts. Subprograms reduce the size of the NC file in this case because all
of the individual tool movements are not repeated at each depth, just the code to call the subprogram.

Subprograms are not supported for Auto Drill or Drill 5-axis toolpaths. Mastercam has two kinds of subprograms:

← Transform subprograms
← Non-transform subprograms

Both types support absolute or incremental positioning in the subprogram.

Transform subprograms
Transform subprograms are created by Mastercam's toolpath transform functions. Each transformation of
the selected toolpaths results in a subprogram. If you select Subprogram on the Transform toolpath
parameters tab, each of the instances of the translated toolpath would be a subprogram.

Non-transform subprograms
Non-transform subprograms are created when you use depth cuts. The cutting pass at each depth is a
repeating pattern that can be made into a subprogram.

You can also create nested subprograms, where a toolpath that includes non-transform subprograms is transformed with
subprograms. For example, a contour toolpath with depth cuts that are subprograms could be translated with subprograms.

Non-transform subprograms are not supported in Mastercam Lathe.

Drill toolpath subprograms

Drill toolpaths can also create non-transform subprograms in two ways:

← Create a subprogram for the entire drill cycle by selecting Subprogram on the Linking parameters page.
← Create a subprogram that stores just the drill hole locations. This happens when you are creating a
drill toolpath and choose to use the points from an earlier operation. Choose Subprograms in the
Toolpath Hole Definition function panel.

NOTE

Subprograms must be enabled in the active control definition before you can use them. Use the
Subprograms page in the control definition to tell Mastercam how your control supports subprograms.

Related topics
← Mill Toolpaths
← Router Toolpaths
← Absolute and Incremental Values

Tool
Use this page to select a tool, edit its properties, and enter feeds and speeds. This page is used for several different types
of toolpaths, and not all features will be available for all toolpath types. Click on a sub-topic below to learn more.

CAUTION

The default values for many cutting and linking parameters are determined by the dimensions of the
selected tool. When you select a new tool, Mastercam updates the values of these fields with new values.
If you have manually edited these fields, your edited values will be replaced with the new defaults. You
can also set Mastercam to lock in your manual values when you create an operation by using Lock
Feedrates on the Toolpaths property page of the System Configuration dialog box.

Cl
Selecting a tool

Cl
Feeds and speeds

Cl
Configuring automatic tool inspection

Cl
Parameters

Cl
Right-click menu options
Related topics
← Working with Toolpath Defaults
← Working with Tool Numbers and Offsets
← Working with Cutting Speeds and Feed per Tooth

Tool Display
Use the options on this dialog box to tell Mastercam how to display the toolpath when you return to the
graphics window after creating it. You can choose a static display which shows the entire toolpath at
once or animated displays that simulate tool motion.

These options do not affect how the toolpath appears during backplot. Also, these options are not
available for drill toolpaths.

Once a toolpath has been created, use the Toolpaths Manager to toggle toolpath display on and off for
individual toolpaths or groups of toolpaths.

Parameters

Related topics

← Toolpath Parameters: Mill/Router

← Toolpath Parameters: Lathe

Tool List Filter

Use the Tool list Filter dialog box to specify which tools will display in the tool list area when you need to
select a tool. Filtering is useful when you are editing a tool library or searching for a specific tool within a
tool library. For example, if there were 200 tools in a specified library and you wanted to see just flat end
mills, you could set the appropriate filter options and reduce the number of tools in the tool list.

Filtering is automatic when you are in a toolpath dialog box. For example, if you are creating a
drilling toolpath, only drilling tools display in the tool parameters tool list.

Mastercam gives you several different techniques for filtering the tool list. You can combine methods as
needed to further narrow the list.

← Select tool type pictures to display those tool types in the list. Hold the mouse over a picture to
see what tool type it is for.
← Use the drop-down lists to filter tools based on whether they have already been selected for an
operation or whether they are inch/metric.
← Use the Tool Diameter drop-down list to filter based on the tool diameter. Select an option from
the list to begin creating the criteria.
← Select checkboxes to display tools of certain materials or radius types.

Parameters

Related topics

←Tool Manager: Classic

←Tool Libraries

Tool Selection
Use the Tool Selection dialog box to select tools from a tool library and add them to the current
machine group. This means that they can be selected and used in a toolpath. Double-click on a tool to
select it, use it in the current operation, and close this dialog box.

You can also filter the tool list by a number of different criteria to make it easier to find the right tool.
Select Filter active to apply a tool filter, or click Filter to edit the selection criteria.

While working in the tool display window, click and drag columns to rearrange them, or sort the tools
by clicking on a column header. Use the right-click menu to access more display options.

NOTE
Mill and Router users can each select tools from both libraries.
 Parameters

Right-click menu options

Related topics

← Tool Manager: Classic

← Tool Libraries
←Tool
←

Toolpath Coordinate System

Use the Toolpath Coordinate System dialog box to set the planes in which your toolpath will be created.
The tool plane is typically the plane normal to the tool axis, while the construction plane is the plane in
which the tool movements are created. For most applications, these will be the same.

← You can use this dialog to select the Working Coordinate System (WCS), tool plane,
construction plane, or any combination.
← Use the left/right arrow buttons to copy plane selections and origins to other sections.
← Click Plane Selection to select a new plane for the Tplane, Cplane, or WCS:

Typically, you will use either of the following approaches:

← Use the individual fields in the Tool Plane and Compensation/Construction Plane sections to set the
planes individually. Optionally, enter a work offset that will be output with the operation when you
post it. You can display the work offset value with the operation in the Toolpaths Manager.
← Use the Working Coordinate System section to select a plane as the new work coordinate
system and have Mastercam set the Tplane and Cplane relative to it. In this case, Mastercam will
use the work offset that is stored with the work coordinate system.

You can also use this dialog box to enter a new origin point for either plane. Type the coordinates of the new
origin directly in the dialog box, or click Select, and click the desired location in the graphics window:

Origins are displayed in view coordinates (the default) or world coordinates as chosen in the Display
Options drop-down of the Planes Manager. If you have chosen Display plane info relative to WCS in the
Planes Manager, the following text displays in this dialog box:

Parameters

Related topics

← Work Offset Numbers

←Views, Planes, and Coordinate Systems

←Planes Manager

Toolpath Hole Definition

Use the Toolpath Hole Definition function panel to select holes for a hole-making toolpath. Mastercam
provides many techniques for selecting entities; use any that are appropriate for your application. Entity
types that can be selected include the following:

← Points
← Arcs
← Lines
← AutoCursor positions
← Solid features (lines, arcs, and/or points)
The Features list displays more information about the selected points, by displaying the type of
selection you have made and the diameter of the selected point (if applicable).

Quick Mask and AutoCursor are available for geometry selection, and you can press [D] to toggle the
direction of the holes. Click OK once you have selected all of the points.

The arrow that displays when you select a solid feature or a line is normal to the entity, with the hole being cut in
the opposite direction of this normal. The initial direction of the normal depends on which end of the solid feature
or line you click when you select it. You can change the arrow's direction by clicking the arrow head.

NOTE

← Drill patterns created without creating points in previous Mastercam versions become points
created by reference in Mastercam 2020. If you remove one of these points, you need to recreate it
manually before you can reselect that location.
← C-axis Drill, Face Drill, and Cross Drill toolpaths only support the selection of point and arc geometry.

How do I reuse points from a previous operation?

How do I use Mask on Arc?
How do I change parameters on a specific point?
What does the Sort option do?

Related topics

←Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router

←Subprograms
←Selection Bar

Using the Tool's Step, Peck, and Coolant Values

The default values for most toolpath parameters are stored in an operations default file, as listed in the Files
tab of the Machine Group Properties dialog box. However, if you wish, you can choose to use values stored in
the tool definition to replace some of these parameters. Choose the Use tool's step, peck, and coolant option
on the Tool Settings tab to replace the operation defaults with the tool definition defaults. Refer to the tables
below to see exactly which operation defaults are replaced by tool defaults for each toolpath type.

NOTE

The default values for the tool are stored in the Parameters tab for each tool definition.

Contour toolpaths

Drill toolpaths

Pocket toolpaths

Facing toolpaths

Related topics
 ← Working with Toolpath Defaults
← Machine Group Properties

Using the Toolpath Editor

The Toolpath Editor gives you a fine level of control over toolpath motion. You can make modifications to the tool motion
created by Mastercam and change the way areas of the toolpath are machined. Use the Toolpath Editor to modify, add,
move, or delete points. For toolpaths that include them, you can also delete selected sections, cuts, or passes.

You access the Toolpath Editor by selecting a single toolpath in the Toolpaths Manager, right-clicking
on the operation title, and then choosing Toolpath Editor from the right-click menu.

Make all other necessary changes to the toolpath (such as tool or parameter changes) before using the Toolpath Editor. The
Toolpath Editor locks the toolpath after you edit it. Locked toolpaths are not updated by Mastercam. To further modify the
toolpath, you must unlock it. If the toolpath is regenerated after editing, any custom modifications will be overwritten.

NOTE

Use the Toolpath Hole Definition function panel when you need to edit a hole-making toolpath.

Toolpath editor tips

Related topics

← Edit Toolpath

Work Offset Numbers

There are many places in Mastercam where you can enter a work offset number so that a particular
work offset is applied when a toolpath is created or modified. For example, you can associate a work
offset with a plane so that it is used whenever the plane is selected, or you can enter a work offset as
part of the operation parameters for an individual toolpath.

Many users associate work offsets with specific G-codes, most commonly G54, G55, etc. However,
because different machine tools and controls use many different offset numbering schemes, Mastercam
requires that you specify work offsets in a generic format. Offsets are identified starting with the number
zero and increment by one for each successive offset. For example, in Fanuc controls, 0=G54, 1=G55,
2=G56, etc., while in Fadal controls 0=E1, 1=E2, and 2=E3. Your post processor should be configured to
output the proper codes when you post the operation. The NCI file will contain the generic codes.

The Automatic setting enables automatic work offset incrementing. This feature increments the work offset
value by one, every time there is a tool plane rotation. This feature is typically used with a Milling machine that
has a rotary axis. For example, if you use 3-axis Fanuc VMC and you create four tool planes that rotate around
the X-axis, all with a work offset setting of Automatic, you would get G54, G55, G56, and G57, respectively. You
can set a work offset value in the toolpath parameters, or by assigning a work offset value to every tool plane.

When you enter a work offset as part of the operation parameters, it overrides an offset that has been
set elsewhere. For example, if a work offset has been set because it is associated with a plane that has
been selected, you can override it by selecting a new work offset in the toolpath parameters.

Use the Work System page in Control Definition to tell Mastercam more about your work offset scheme.

Related topics

← Mill Toolpaths
← Router Toolpaths
← Views, Planes, and Coordinate Systems
← Lathe Toolpaths
Working with Cutting Speeds and Feed per Tooth
Mastercam gives you several different ways to work with cutting speeds and feed per tooth.

← First, you can configure tool and material definitions so that when you select a tool for a new
toolpath, the default feeds and speeds match your preferences as closely as possible.
← Second, you can directly enter a cutting speed or feed per tooth when creating a toolpath. This
dynamically updates your other feeds and speeds. (This feature is only available for toolpaths that
use the tree-style toolpath dialogs, such as surface high speed toolpaths.)

The starting point for configuring cutting speeds is the material definition. In the material definition, you set the
base cutting speed and feed per tooth and customize them for the operation type, tool type, and tool material. These
settings are automatically activated when you select a material in the machine group properties.

The tool definition lets you customize these base values for each specific tool. In addition, the tool
definition stores the tool diameter and number of flutes.

When you select a tool for an operation, Mastercam combines the information from both the tool and
material definitions to calculate the default feed rate, spindle speed, cutting speed, and feed per tooth.

The fields are linked so that you can directly enter the most important values for your application and
the other fields will automatically update. Use the following table as a guide.

Change this value… …and these fields update

Tool diameter Cutting speed

Feed rate Feed per tooth

Spindle speed Cutting speed Feed per tooth

Cutting speed Spindle speed Feed per tooth Feed

rate
Feed per tooth Feed rate
NOTE

← For increased sophistication, after creating the operation, you can use Mastercam's highfeed feature
to adjust the feed rate for optimized chip loads.
← To prevent automatic updating of feeds and speeds for complete toolpaths, select Lock
feedrates in the Toolpaths page of the System Configuration dialog box.

Related topics

← Calculating Feeds and Speeds from a Material: Mill/Router

← Calculating Feeds and Speeds from a Material: Lathe
←

Working with Materials

Mastercam uses material definitions to help calculate feed rates and spindle speeds as accurately as possible.

Material definitions are stored in libraries, just like tool definitions. Material definition libraries have a .mcam-
materials extension and are stored in ..\<Shared Data Folder>\MATERIALS. When you select a material,
Mastercam copies the definition to your part file. Material definitions consist of base feed rates and tables of
adjustments for different operation types and tool types. If you have selected a material, when you then
select a tool for an operation, Mastercam can use the information in the material definition to help calculate
proper default feed rates and spindle speeds for the selected operation and tool.
You can use the same library for both Lathe and Mill/Router applications, but you need to configure the material definition
individually, since Lathe has completely different operation types than Mill or Router. You can also store inch and metric
material definitions in the same library. The default material library is specified as part of the machine definition.

Creating machine-specific material libraries lets you optimize the default feeds and speeds for different
machine characteristics; for example, you might edit a material definition to produce lower feed rates on
an older machine with less horsepower. Then, if you load the different machine definition in a machine
group in a part file, you can easily update the feeds and speeds. However, no matter what machine you
are using, you can select materials from any library, not just the default.

Related topics

← Selecting a Material
← Editing a Material Definition

Working with Tool Numbers and Offsets

The tool number and tool offsets (length, diameter, and-for lathe-back offsets) that are output to your NC
file come from the Toolpath Parameters tab or Tool page for each operation. Whenever you select a tool
for an operation, Mastercam generates a default tool number and default tool offsets. Mastercam gives
you several different ways to configure how the default tool numbers and offsets are selected.

Tool numbering

Tool offsets

NOTE

← If you choose Add to tool, Mastercam only calculates this when you first choose the tool. If you
manually edit the tool number, the offset number will not Tool Definitionsautomatically update.
← No matter how your tool numbers or offsets are chosen, you can always override them in the
toolpath parameters. The values that appear on the Toolpath Parameters tab or Tool page, will
always be the values output to your NC program.
← For Lathe tools, enter default tool length and diameter offsets in the Parameters tab of the Define
Tool dialog box. You can also enter a back offset.

Related topics

← Setting a Default Tool Numbering Method

← Mastercam's Tool Managers
← Tool Definitions
Working with Toolpath Defaults
When you create a new toolpath or other operation, Mastercam populates the fields on each tab or properties page
with default values. These values are stored in a file with a .mcam-defaults extension. These defaults are specific
for each type of operation; for example, a contour toolpath, a facing toolpath, or a feature based drill operation.

← The first time you create an operation of a specific type in a Mastercam session, the default values are read from the
defaults file.
← Then, each time you create another operation of the same type, Mastercam uses the values
from the previous operation.

For each type of toolpath, the defaults file stores a complete set of default values for all the tabs or
properties pages where you need to enter information.

For example, even though the Toolpath parameters tab or Tool page are used for almost every operation, the defaults file
stores different sets of values for each type of operation. The set of default values for each operation also includes values
which you set from other dialog boxes, for example, lead in/out moves, tolerances, or gap settings.

You can quickly re-populate the toolpath parameters with values from the defaults file by right-clicking
in the Toolpath parameters tab and choosing Reload parameters from defaults file or selecting Reload
parameters from defaults file in the tree-style dialog box toolbar.

While many of the default toolpath settings are read from the defaults file, some—such as feeds and
speeds, tool numbers and tool offsets— can be read from other places. Read the Notes at the end of
this topic to learn more about how default values for specific types of parameters are created and used.

Selecting a .mcam-defaults file

Organizing defaults files

Certain types of default values are handled specially or have advanced, specialized configuration
options. Click on them below to learn more.

Multiaxis toolpaths

High speed surface toolpaths

Feeds and speeds

Coolant

Miscellaneous values

Clearance height, retract height, feed plane

Step, peck, coolant values

Home and reference positions

Tool numbers and tool offsets

Default tool and material libraries

Canned text, Planes

Related topics

← Editing a Toolpath Defaults File

 ← Editing Toolpath Defaults with the Control Definition Manager
← Saving Default Values While Creating a Toolpath
← Control Definition Manager

Lathe Stock Preview

Use the Lathe Stock Preview dialog box to display the machined stock, chuck, tailstock, and steady rest boundaries as solids
or surfaces. To use this function, these boundaries need to have been previously defined in the Stock Setup tab.

Use the buttons in the dialog to scroll through each operation in the machine group to view the in-
process stock and the location of each peripheral at each stage of machining.

If you want to save the geometry, consider using the Levels Manager to activate a different level
before entering this function. Then, when you exit this dialog, the geometry will be saved to the new
level. You can save the stock model at each different stage in its own level.

Parameters

Related topics

← Defining a Lathe Stock Model

← Stock Setup: Machine Group Properties - Lathe
← Levels Manager

Source Operations: Stock Model

Use this page to select the source operations to process against the defined stock in the stock model
operation. A selection tree of all machine groups and toolpath operations in the current part file displays
in the large window. The selection tree excludes stock model operations in the part file.

Use [Ctrl+click]and [Shift+click] methods to select any combination of operations in the tree,
including those from different machine groups.

You can also create a stock model with no source operations if necessary by selecting Properties in
the files list, which deselects the listed machine groups.

Parameters

Related topics
 ← Working with Stock Model Operations
← Stock Model Compares

Stock Compare: Stock Model

Use this page to activate a stock model comparison and define its parameters.

Follow these general guidelines:

← Select Stock compare.

← Use Select to return to the graphics window and select the part model entities to use in the
comparison against the stock model.
← Define the tolerance for the stock model compare.
← Enter a value for stock to leave on the part model.
← Set the minimum/maximum offset values and colors for the compare results.

Click the drop-downs below to see additional information on configuring the stock compare.

Setting offset values and colors

Creating and viewing the stock model compare

Parameters

Related topics

← Stock Model Viewer

← Working with Stock Model Operations
← Stock Model Compares

Stock Definition: Stock Model

Use this page to define the stock to use in the stock model operation. Mastercam computes the stock model
by processing toolpath operations selected in the Source Operations page against the stock you define here.
Click on the following drop-downs to learn more about defining stock for the stock model operation.

Setting the stock plane

Setting the stock origin

Parameters

Related topics

← Working with Stock Model Operations

← Materials and Shading with Surfaces, Solids, and Meshes
← Stock Model Compares
← Source Operations: Stock Model
Stock Display and Shading
Mastercam offers two functions to toggle your stock display and stock shading on and off. You access
these functions on the Toolpaths tab.

Use Stock Display to toggle the stock display on and off. Use Stock Shading to toggle the stock shading
(stock fill in Lathe stock setups) on and off.

In Lathe applications, both left and right spindles are affected simultaneously, as well as the:

← Left and right chuck jaws

← Steady rest
← Tailstock

NOTE

Stock shading does not shade stock unless you have already defined your stock on the Stock Setup tab
of the Machine Group Properties dialog box. It also does not shade unless the stock is set to display.

Related topics

← Customizing Ribbon Tabs and Menus

← Customizing Key Mapping
← Machine Group Properties

Stock Model Compares

When you create a stock model operation, you can also choose to generate a stock view/compare.

To do this, follow these general guidelines:

← After selecting a machine from the Machine tab, choose Stock model from the selected machine's
Toolpaths tab. The Stock Model dialog box displays.
← Create a stock model operation by defining the stock and selecting the source operations to run against the stock.
← Activate the Stock Model Viewer.
← Then select the part model to use in the comparison and configure the comparison display.

Mastercam uses stock model operation settings to compute the stock view/compare. The results
display as color-mapped polygon mesh entities. Use standard Mastercam shading options to view the
compare results as shaded or wireframe entities in the graphics window.

The following pictures show shaded and wireframe views of comparison results colors, each
representing incremental offsets (distances) between "ideal" and "actual" surfaces.
Once created, the stock model compare data is saved in the stock model operation.

NOTE

Stock model operations are associative to the source toolpath operations and parameters on which
they are based. If you change the source operation parameters, Mastercam marks the operation and the
stock model operation as "dirty," requiring regeneration. Stock model operations must be in a "clean"
state for Mastercam to display stock model compare results in the graphics window.
To view only selected stock model compare components in the graphics window:

← Click Stock model viewer from the Stock Model dialog box.
← Or, right-click in the Toolpaths Manager and choose Mill/Router toolpaths, View stock model.

Then use options in the Stock Model Viewer dialog box to limit the compare display to only selected components.

Related topics
← Working with Stock Model Operations
← Stock Model Viewer

Stock Model Viewer

Use the Stock Model Viewer dialog box to add or remove the display of selected stock model compare
components in the graphics window. For example, you can choose to remove all components from the
display except for the mesh entities that are within a range of specified minimum/maximum values.

In-Process Icon Complete Icon

Toggle View Buttons

NOTE

← The Offsets and colors fields are for reference only, they cannot be edited here. You define their
values in the stock model operation Stock Compare page.
← When setting up a Stock Model Compare function, note that the process may take some time.
You must wait until the Toolpaths Manager icon for that operation changes from the In-Process
state to the Complete state (as shown below).

Parameters

Related topics

← Stock Model Compares

← Working with Stock Model Operations

Working with Stock Model Operations

You create and manage stock models in the Toolpaths Manager in the same manner as other types of toolpath operations.
This includes using the toolpath display option to turn the display on and off.
After choosing Stock model from the selected machine's Toolpaths tab, use property pages in the Stock
Model dialog box to define it.

Creating a stock model operation consists of the following basic steps:

← Defining the stock to use for the operation.

← Choosing source operations in the existing part to process on the defined stock.
← Activating the stock compare (optional), which includes selecting the part model to use in the
comparison and configuring its display.

Stock model operations are associative to the source toolpath operations and parameters on which
they are based. If you change the source operation parameters, Mastercam marks the operation and
the stock model operation as "dirty", requiring regeneration.

Once created, you can use stock model operations to:

← Verify stock
← Define stock for rest machining
← Visualize stock
← Generate stock model compares

NOTE

If you have activated multi-threaded processing for your configuration, Mastercam generates stock
model operations as multi-threaded processes.
Related topics

← Stock Model Compares

About Part Clusters

When you add parts as a cluster, Mastercam nests them as a single unit. You can cluster part geometry as well as
toolpath operations. Clusters can include operations in the current file or operations retrieved from other saved
files or folders. To add a cluster to a nesting session, right-click in the Parts list and choose an option.

Mastercam keeps the parts in the cluster together and nests them as a unit. When nesting operation
clusters, however, the sort method that you select can affect the cluster. Sorting by tool number or minimum
tool change will output clusters as individual parts when the parts within the cluster use different tools.

Related topics

← Parts: Toolpath Nesting

← Parts: Geometry Nesting

About Toolpath Nesting

The Nesting option in Mastercam fits parts onto a sheet of material for best yield. Nesting operates on
geometry or toolpaths. Mastercam can place a single nesting operation in the Toolpaths Manager, or break the
nesting operation into separate operations for each sheet of material. You can even nest operations for a part
that are on opposite sides of a single sheet (For details, see Nesting Toolpaths on Both Sides of a Sheet.)

To nest geometry associated with toolpaths, select Automatically attach geometry in the Nesting configuration dialog box.

The Nesting library matches parts to sheets by material. If there is only one sheet, material specification is disabled and all
parts are nested on that sheet. If you do not specify a sheet material, Mastercam can nest any part of any material on that
sheet. If you do not specify a part material, Mastercam can nest the part on any sheet of any material.

You can save common sheet sizes to sheet libraries or in individual part files, and common parts to operation libraries or in
part files. To read a detailed report about the nesting results, choose Details in the Nesting Results dialog box.

Follow these general guidelines and procedures when creating a nesting operation.

Add sheets

Add operations

Set operation parameters

Fine tune to increase yield

How do I nest block drilling operations?

Opening and saving INI files from the Nesting dialog box
Related topics

← Nesting with MCLink

← Groups
← Onion Skin Contour Operations
← Nesting Block Drill Operations within Machine Limits

Adjusting the Stock Model for a 3D High Speed Toolpath

The Stock page for 3D high speed toolpaths includes a series of options that you can use to adjust the
apparent size of the stock model and the amount of stock to be machined. The two Adjust options
approximate the effect of increasing or decreasing the size of the tool used to cut the part.

Choose Ignore small cusps to simulate the effect of a stock model created from a larger tool. Because the tool is larger, Mastercam
thinks that there is less stock remaining than there actually is. So the finishing or area roughing operation is created only in areas
where the tool encounters a relatively large amount of stock. This decreases the area that is machined.

Click here to see an example.

Choose Mill small cusps to simulate the effect of a stock model created from a smaller tool. This is a more
specialized strategy than the previous type of stock adjustment. In this case, because the tool is smaller, Mastercam
thinks that there is more stock remaining than there actually is. Mastercam creates cuts in areas that have already
been machined. Although this may result in increased air cutting, it can be a useful strategy for certain applications:

← If you are machining a small area, you can use this strategy to create more room for an entry or exit move.
← If you are machining a small area, you can use this strategy to create more room for an entry or exit move.
← The Adjustments to remaining stock options are not available when you are using a CAD file as the stock model.

Related topics

← Area Roughing Toolpaths

← Stock: 3D High Speed Toolpaths

Align to Z
Use this function to align off-axis work pieces, specifically for turning operations. When the Align to Z function panel
appears, Mastercam prompts you to define the part's center of rotation, after which the part rotates to an isometric view
based on your selection. You can then use the dynamic gnomon to adjust the origin and align the part
to the machine's X axis. Use the function panel's options to further define the alignment.

Related topics

← Dynamic Gnomon
← Lathe Toolpaths
← Creating Milling Operations in Mastercam Lathe

Comparing Toolpath Transform Methods: Example

This example shows the difference between the Tplane and Coordinate toolpath transform methods for the
simple slot toolpath shown here. The original toolpath was flat in the top plane and parallel to the X axis. The
transform rotates it 30 degrees in the right view as shown below. The tool axis is not transformed.

This picture shows the transformed toolpath using the Tplane transformation. You can see that because
the entire Tplane has been rotated 30 degrees, the tool axis has transformed along with the toolpath. The
second picture below is the same toolpath transformed with the Coordinate method. All of the tool
positions are the same, but the tool axis is transformed; it remains normal to the top plane.

Related topics

← Transforming Toolpaths
← Organizing Transform Operations

CView
Use the CView dialog box to set Tplanes and Cplanes when you are creating Mill Contour and Drill
toolpaths for Mastercam Lathe applications. Standard Lathe C-axis toolpaths, such as C-axis Drill,
automatically set the Tplane and Cplane for you. However, the Mill versions of those toolpaths do
not. Use this dialog box as a utility to orient a Mill Contour or Mill Drill toolpath to your part.
First, in the C-axis milling type section, choose the general orientation of the toolpath. This selection
determines the Tplane. Next, choose how the Cplane will be oriented relative to the Tplane.

Finally, choose an Initial angle adjustment to rotate the part so that a particular section or face is aligned
to the Tplane/Cplane that you selected. Click Select to return to the graphics window and select an entity.

← Select a point to rotate the part so that the tool plane is normal to an imaginary line
drawn from the point perpendicular to the X-axis.
← Select a line to rotate the part so that the Tplane is parallel to the line.
← Select an arc to set the initial angle normal to the arc's plane.
← At any time, choose Display to see a graphic representation of your settings. The tool displays
as oriented in the Tplane; the white rectangle shows the Cplane.

Parameters

Related topics

← Lathe Toolpaths
← Contour Toolpaths
← Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router

Nesting Toolpaths Using Common Edge Optimization

Mastercam’s common edge optimization adjusts the part-to-part distance so adjacent parts can be
cut at the same time (cutting both pieces with one pass of the cutting tool). Common edge
optimization is applied to outside profiles only. Dados and all other inside profiles will be ignored.

To activate this feature, follow these steps:

Related topics

← Parts: Toolpath Nesting

← Nesting Configuration
Mirror: Transform Operation Parameters
Use the options in this tab to create a mirror image of a toolpath by reflecting it symmetrically with
respect to a defined axis or point, including:

← Horizontal axis of the specified Mirror plane or the source operation's tool plane
← Vertical axis of the specified Mirror plane or the source operation's tool plane
← Specified angle
← Selected line
← Theoretical line defined between two points

NOTE

The Mirror transform tab is unavailable for Wirepath transform operations.

Define a mirror axis by selecting a point, or entering a value.

You can choose to mirror the toolpath in a different plane.

Cutting direction settings control whether Mastercam applies the same cut direction, cutter compensation,
start point, and selection order defined in the source operation to the mirror transformed operation.

You can also swap lead in/out parameters (including Adjust start/end of contour) to make the Lead in
parameters for the original toolpath become the Lead out parameters for the resulting toolpath, and the
Lead out parameters for the original toolpath become the Lead in parameters for the resulting toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

← Transforming Toolpaths
← Organizing Transform Operations

Nesting Toolpaths on Both Sides of a Sheet

Mastercam Nesting allows you to nest parts that have both front and backside toolpath operations. Toolpath
operations such as dados and blind holes can be performed on one side of the sheet, and then the entire sheet can
be flipped over to finish the parts prior to cutting them out. This flexibility can reduce expensive secondary
operations without requiring changes in product design and construction methods. You can even nest parts that
have only a single operation on the back side of a sheet (front-side operations are not required).

To use this feature, you must add the toolpaths to a nesting operation as a single cluster. If one or more of the
toolpaths in a nested cluster have opposing tool plane views (such as TOP and BOTTOM) relative to the same
WCS, Mastercam automatically creates separate nesting operations for each sheet. One nesting operation
contains all of the front-side toolpaths (TOP), and the other contains all of the back-side (BOTTOM) toolpaths.

A pair of nesting operations for the same sheet display in the Toolpaths Manager directly below their parent
nesting operation. This is illustrated in the following picture. Mastercam adds "[BACK]" and "[FRONT]" to the
Sheet number label. A similar suffix is added to the NC filename; "-B" for back-side, and "-F" for front-side.
To nest parts that have operations on only the back side, add a single operation with a WCS=TOP
and TPLANE / CPLANE=BACK to produce one nesting operation ([BACK] only).

Based on the Stop Condition settings in the Toolpath Nesting Parameters tab, you can post the nesting results to separate NC
files (Stop Condition is None), or to a single NC file (Stop Condition is Stop or Optional Stop). When posting to a single NC file,
Mastercam inserts a stop code between the front- and back-side operations so that you can flip the sheet.

Use the following guidelines to set up double-sided nesting operations:

← Add toolpath operations with opposing tool planes as an operation cluster to enable double-sided nesting operations.
← Mastercam assumes that you will flip the sheet along the X-axis and against the Y-axis. If this is
not true for your application, you must modify the post accordingly.
← When working with 3D parts, the Tplane origin is used to represent sheet thickness. Listed below
is more information on how to use the Toolpath Coordinate System dialog box to correctly set up
planes for your back-side operations

If Z0 in the Working Coordinate System = the top of the spoil board (table):

← Then for operations nested on the back of the sheet (Side 2), set Z in the Tplane / Cplane equal
to the negative value of the sheet thickness.
← For example, if you are using inch sheets, you would enter -0.25.

If Z0 in the Working Coordinate System = the top of the part:

← Then for operations nested on the back of the sheet (Side 2), set Z in the Tplane / Cplane
equal to the positive value of the sheet thickness.
← For example, if you are using inch sheets, you would enter 0.25.

Related topics

← Parameters: Toolpath Nesting

← Toolpath Coordinate System

Order of Operations
Use the Order of Operations dialog box to change the order of operations within a nested cluster. You
can also assign a Machining Index to each operation, which is applied after sorting the operations.

After Mastercam has sorted the operations, it will move any operations assigned a non-zero machining
index. The lower the machining index, the earlier the operation is machined. The higher the machining index,
the later the operation is machined. For example, operations that are assigned a negative machining index
(such as -5 and -1) are machined before operations not assigned to an index (0) and operations assigned to a
positive machining index (such as 10 and 25) are machined after operations not assigned to an index. In that
case, the machining order for six operations would be the following: -5, -1, 0, 10, 25.
Related topics

← About Toolpath Nesting

← Parts: Toolpath Nesting

Organizing Transform Operations

Mastercam gives you a great deal of flexibility in how to organize the operations that are created when
you transform toolpaths. Use the following table as a guide to the effects produced by different
combinations of settings in the Transform Operation Parameters dialog box.

These settings... ...produce these operations Associativity?

The transform operation is associative
to changes in the source operations.
A single transform operation, even if
you select multiple source operations. If the source operation changes,
the transform is marked dirty
and can be regenerated.
New operations are not associative to
Multiple new toolpath operations - not
the source operations or to each other.
transform operations - depending on
how many source operations you select
They are associative with the
and how many "steps" you are creating.
copied geometry.
The transform operation is associative
with the source operation, the new
toolpath operations are not.
Creates new toolpath operations and
NOTE
geometry, and also saves the transform
operation in the Toolpaths Manager.
If you regenerate the transform operation,
Mastercam creates additional sets of the
new operations and geometry, it does not
replace the existing ones.

Creates a single transform operation, which

embeds the original source operation. To cut The transform operation is associative
the original part plus the transformed ones, to changes in the source operations.
you post only the single transform operation.

Since the transform operation includes the source operation, if you

post both, your machine will cut the original part twice.

Select Disable posting in selected source operations to ensure that this does not happen.

Instructs the post to create absolute or incremental subprograms for

the transformed operations.

Subprogram only works if you create transform operations instead of

new toolpath operations.

Related topics
← Transforming Toolpaths

Parameters: Toolpath Nesting

Use this tab to provide more information about how you want operations nested.

Creating and nesting marking operations

Parameters
 Common Toolpath Nesting Controls

Right-click menu options

Related topics

← Advanced Sorting
← Advanced Offsets

Parts: Toolpath Nesting

Use this tab to set up part parameters for toolpath nesting.

Follow these general steps for parts parameters.

← Enter information about each part

← Enter the number of parts
← Increase the part yield

Parameters

Common Toolpath Nesting Controls

Right-click menu - Dialog box

Related topics

← About Part Clusters

← Nesting Toolpaths Using Common Edge Optimization
← Labels on Nested Parts
← Nesting Configuration
← Selection: Nesting

Planar Rotate
Use this tab to rotate your source operations within the plane of the source operation. Set the number
of instances and the angle between instances. Additionally, you can change the origin of rotation within
the rotation plane. The picture below shows a simple Y-axis drill operation using planar rotation.

Parameters

Related topics

← Type and Methods

Planar Translate
Use this tab to translate your source operations within the plane of the source operation. Set the number of instances
and the distance between instances. A simple Y-axis cross operation is shown below using planar translation.
 Parameters

Related topics

← Type and Methods

Rotary Rotate
Use this tab to rotate your source operations around the Z-axis of your part. Set the number of instances
and the angle between instances. A simple Y-axis cross operation is shown below using rotary rotation.

Parameters

Related topics

← Type and Methods

Rotate: Transform Operation Parameters

Use this tab to set the rotation options for a toolpath transformation. This tab is available when you
select Rotate on the Types and Methods tab.

Follow these guidelines:

← Instances: Enter the number of copies to create, and set the angular spacing between them. Select
the center of rotation for the transformation. You can choose the construction origin, enter the
coordinates of a point, or use Select to choose a point in the graphics window. Then type in the
angle between one or all copies, and the angle of the first copy relative to the original operation.
← Rotation plane: Select Rotation plane to choose a different rotation plane. If you do not select a different plane,
Mastercam creates the copies in the same plane as the original operation. The axis of rotation remains normal to the
tool plane. If you choose a different rotation plane, the axis of rotation is normal to the selected plane.

Parameters

Related topics

← Transforming Toolpaths
← Organizing Transform Operations
Sheets
Use this tab to set up the sheet material for nested parts. Mastercam can create geometry to represent the sheets, or you
can create your own geometry for the sheet. Mastercam uses the sheets in the order in which they appear in the list.

Parameters

Common Geometry Nesting Controls

Common Toolpath Nesting Controls

Customize Controls

Right-click menu options - Dialog box

Related topics

← Setting Up a Default Sheet: Nesting

← About Sheet Geometry
← Selection: Nesting

Select Operations: Nesting

The Select Operations, Nesting dialog box opens when you add toolpaths from the current file to a nesting session.

← Click, [Shift+click], or [Ctrl+click] to select one or more operations. When more than one
operation is selected, Mastercam does not show the preview.
← Select Preview to see a selected toolpath.
← Select Display profile to show only the outside boundary of the toolpath. Deselect Display profile to show any tool
motion within the outer boundary such as in a pocket toolpath. The profile includes the XY extents of the operation.
← Enter a tolerance amount. A larger profile tolerance makes a less accurate toolpath boundary. A
smaller tolerance can smooth a toolpath boundary. A smaller profile tolerance takes longer to
process. Start with a profile tolerance of 0.01 inch (.25mm) to see if it produces satisfactory results,
then adjust it up or down depending on the need for precision in the nested parts.
← Select Tool to have Mastercam take the area of material swept out by the tool motion into
account when nesting operations.
← Select Holes to include inner boundaries in the nesting profile.
← Click Clear Selection to remove the selected operations. The operations remain in the list to
choose from but are no longer selected.

Related topics
← Parts: Toolpath Nesting

Selection: Nesting
Use the Selection dialog box to manually select and sort nested operations in to a specific machining order.

Hover over an operation in the graphics window to display its attributes in the Selection dialog box.

Parameters

Related topics

← Nesting Results
← Placement
← Parts: Toolpath Nesting
← Sheets

Tips for Trimming Toolpaths

When creating a trimmed toolpath or wirepath, keep the following tips in mind:
 ← Arcs perpendicular to the trimming plane (construction plane) are not trimmed. To adjust for this
condition, the trimming plane should be rotated 90 degrees to a plane parallel to the arc's plane.
← You should backplot the toolpath to be trimmed to check the placement of the trimming boundaries.
Fit the trimming boundaries to the screen before backplotting to see an overlaying image.
← Trimming in the 3D Cplane calculates only actual 3D intersections of the trimming boundaries and the toolpath.
← A maximum of 50 trimming boundaries may be defined.
← Avoid using splines as trimming boundaries. If splines must be used as trimming boundaries, they should be broken
into a number of smaller splines or preferably lines or arcs using one of the Break functions (on the Wireframe tab).
← Trimming does not incorporate cutter compensation. Trimming entities should be created to reflect
the center line of the cutter.

Related topics

← Trimming Toolpaths

Transforming Toolpaths
The Toolpath Transform function creates copies of operations in different orientations. You can use this function to
translate operations into multiple copies arranged in a matrix, or a vertical, horizontal, or diagonal row. The arrangement of
the copies is determined by the method you use to translate the operations. Transform also supports a Rotate option, which
allows you to select a point of rotation, the angle, and the number of copies to create for the operation.

Consider using transform toolpaths when you need to:

← Cut multiple copies of a part on several fixtures. You can then assign different work offsets
to each separate operation created by the transform.
← Cut the same feature at several locations in a part. You can choose to run each operation created by the
transform at a specific coordinate distance from the original, or rotate the copies around a center point.
← Cut the same feature on different faces of a part, or a tombstone application. You can also rotate a toolpath through a
plane other than the original tool plane. In addition to changing the orientation of the
toolpath, you can add a coordinate translation.
← Cut a mirror image of a part, in either the same plane or a different one.

When you transform a toolpath, you can choose to maintain an associative link between the original
operation and the source operation, or you can create new operations that are independent. You can
also choose to create copies of the original geometry at the new locations.

When you click Parameters in the Toolpaths Manager for a transform operation, the Transform Operation
Parameters dialog box displays, not the parameters for an individual toolpath. You can edit the transformation
settings, select source operations to transform, or change to an entirely different type of transformation operation.
A single transform operation can include multiple source operations from a single machine group.

Creating a Transform toolpath

NOTE

The transformed operations are created in the current machine group; the current machine group
is activated by the position of the red arrow in the Toolpaths Manager.

Related topics

← Organizing Transform Operations

← Type and Methods: Transform Operation Parameters
← Translate: Transform Operation Parameters
← Rotate: Transform Operation Parameters
← Trimming Toolpaths
Translate: Transform Operation Parameters
Use this tab to tell Mastercam how to run an operation at one or more new locations. The options that are
available depend on the translate method you choose.

NOTE

← The Pattern origin shift parameters (or Coordinates are world coordinates parameters if you are using the between-
points method) offset the first copy relative to the source operation. You can select an origin and destination point.
← Use the Sort point to point option to set the linking between each transform instance.
← To translate the operation to a different plane, select To plane. Then click Select plane to pick a
plane from the Plane Selection dialog box.

Parameters

Related topics
←Transforming Toolpaths
←Organizing Transform Operations

Trimmed
Use the Trimmed dialog box to create a Trim operation, which trims an existing toolpath to one or more
closed boundaries that you select.

First, select the source operations to be trimmed from the large window. Then, choose the trimming plane. To set the
trimming plane, click T/C plane, and select the desired construction plane in the Toolpath Coordinate System dialog box.
(You do not need to dothis if the trimming geometry and toolpath are already in the same construction plane.)

The Trimming geometry section lets you change or re-select the bias point you were prompted to select
before this dialog box appeared. Use the bias point to tell Mastercam which portions of the toolpath you
want to keep relative to the boundaries.

Use the Tool Up/Down option to tell Mastercam whether or not to retract the tool when it reaches a boundary.

← If you select Keep tool up, the tool rapids to the retract or clearance height and then rapids to the
next intersection point, where it approaches the part again.
← If you select Keep tool down, the tool does not retract, but it might violate the trimming boundary.

Parameters

Related topics

← Trimming Toolpaths
← Tips for Trimming Toolpaths
Trimming Toolpaths: Example
Consider the mold shown in the following picture, which consists of a single solid model. Most of the part
consists of relatively simple smooth surfaces, but the deepest part has a lot of complicated detail:

You need to create a toolpath to finish the large smooth areas, but you want to keep the tool out of the
detail area. In this case, the easiest solution is to create a single surface finish toolpath across the
entire part and trim it to keep it out of the detail area.

First, create the boundary geometry, like the red oval shown here:

Notice that the oval is offset from the actual feature boundary by the width of the tool, since Mastercam
trims the toolpath right to the boundary without regard for cutter compensation.

Create a surface finish toolpath over the entire part. In this case, a surface scallop finish toolpath was used.
Finally, create a trim toolpath which trims the toolpath to the red boundary, specifying that the toolpath remain
outside the boundary. The picture below shows the original toolpath before it was trimmed.
Here is the trimmed toolpath.

Related topics

Trimming Toolpaths
A trim operation is a special type of operation which lets you select one or more toolpaths and trim them to one or more closed
chains. Trim operations are similar to containment boundaries or check surfaces, but can be more flexible because:

← They let you select a plane that you can trim relative to.
← You can trim any type of toolpath except multiaxis toolpaths.
← You can trim more than one toolpath with the same trim operation.

When you create a trim operation, Mastercam stores it in the Toolpaths Manager like any other operation.
It also keeps the original source operation, marking it with a special Trim icon.

The trim operation and source operations are associative with each other, which means you can edit the
parameters for each operation separately and update the other operation by regenerating it. When you post, you
only select the source toolpaths (in this case, the pocket toolpath), you do not post the Trimmed operation itself.

Trim operation guidelines

Related topics

← Trimming Toolpaths
← Using Different Trimming Planes: Example
← Transforming Toolpaths

Type and Methods

Use this tab to setup your transform operation for milling toolpaths in Mill-Turn. Select the type of
milling to perform, the axis combination to use, the source operations, and the transform type.

The preferred selection order is:

← Mill type
← Axis combination
← Source operations
← Transform type

Each selection influences the options available for subsequent selections, including which source operations are available.
 Parameters

Related topics

← Planar Rotate
← Planar Translate
← Rotary Rotate

Type and Methods: Transform Operation Parameters

Use the Type and Methods tab in the Transform Operation Parameters dialog box to create or edit a
Transform operation. Here you select the source operations and the type of transform. You also define
how Mastercam creates the transformed operations.

After you select the type of transformation, choose the remaining dialog box tab to complete the operation. For example, if
you choose a rotate transformation type, only the Rotate tab is available, the Translate and Mirror tabs do not display.

Click on a drop-down below to learn more about using this tab.

Selecting the operations to transform

Choosing the type of transformation
Creating transformed operations
Associating work offsets with transformed operations
Parameters

Related topics

← Transforming Toolpaths
← Organizing Transform Operations

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Using Different Trimming Planes: Example
This example shows the effect of selecting different Cplanes when trimming a toolpath. Consider the flat
surface shown in the following picture, to be cut by a simple flowline toolpath.

The red rectangle is set at a 50-degree angle, and a plane has been created aligned with it:

The first picture below shows the flowline surface trimmed to the rectangle in the Top Cplane. The toolpath is
trimmed to the projection of the rectangle normal to the top plane. The second picture shows the same
toolpath trimmed in the Angled Cplane. In this case, the projection is normal to the angled plane.
To trim the toolpath in the different Cplane, follow these steps:

← Choose T/C plane in the Trimmed dialog box. The Toolpath Coordinate System dialog box appears. If
necessary, expand it to see the Tool Plane and Compensation/Construction Plane sections.
← Click Plane Selection.
← Select the plane aligned with the red rectangle.
← Choose OK to return to the Trimmed dialog box.

Related topics

← Trimming Toolpaths
← Trimming Toolpaths: Example

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Application Options: Tool Manager

Use the Application Options, Tool Manager dialog box to customize Tool Manager's appearance and functionality.

General Parameters

Graphics Parameters

Related topics

← Working in the Graphics Window

← Working with Mastercam Tool Manager

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Assembly Has Changed

Use the Assembly Has Changed dialog box to modify a tool/holder assembly that is referenced in more
than one operation in your current part file.

Once a holder is added to a tool, the resulting tool assembly can be used in subsequent operations without
further user interaction beyond normal tool selection. The only interaction change occurs when you need to
modify a holder and the tool assembly is referenced in more than one operation. When this happens, the
Assembly Has Changed dialog box displays, and you must select from the following options:

← Update assembly and all operations that use the assembly: Updates all other operations referencing
this tool. This saves the changes you made to the local copy of the tool definition that is stored in
the machine group, not to the tool library stored on your hard drive. The changes affect all the
operations that use this tool. This might require the operations to be regenerated.
← Create a new tool assembly: Adds the current configuration as a new assembly. Mastercam
creates a new tool definition and leaves the original tool definition unchanged. Mastercam only
does this for the current operation, not for all operations using the tool. If the Assign tool numbers
sequentially checkbox in the Tool Settings tab of the Machine Group properties is checked, this
option uses Mastercam’s default tool numbering to assign a new, sequential tool number.
← Cancel assembly changes: Cancels changes made to current assembly. The red X in the upper right
of this dialog box or using the escape key also cancels any changes.

Related topics

← Tool Definitions
← Working with Tool Numbers and Offsets
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Assembly Names
Use the Assembly Names dialog box to edit the following names for tool assembly components:

← Assembly Name
← Tool Name
← Holder Name

Related topics

← Tool Definitions
← Tool Libraries

Browse For Item

Use the Browse for Item dialog box to browse for an insert or holder from a tool library to create a 3D
tool. After selecting a tool library containing either an insert or a holder, a list of those items will display
in the dialog box window. Select the item, and click OK.

Related topics

← Tool Designer

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Coolant
Use the Coolant dialog box to turn coolant on or off in the stand-alone Tool Manager. The active machine
definition defines the coolant options. This dialog box has both Standard Coolant and Custom Coolant
options. Use the Standard Coolant options to allow the post to work without canned text modifications.
Use the Custom Coolant options to allow coolant customization through the use of canned text.

Setting coolant options

The default setting for each coolant type is Ignore, which sets the operation to ignore any default settings.

For each type of coolant, you can set a maximum of two states:

← Whether to turn the coolant on, off, or maintain the current state (as set by a previous operation or point).
← Whether to apply the change at the current location/block, before it, or after it.

Your machine definition might not allow all possible states. For example, you might be limited to an On/Off toggle.
You can turn on several different coolant options at the same time, if your machine definition allows it.

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Generally, you can turn coolant options off individually. However, for some machines, the first coolant-
off code turns off all coolant. The coolant section of the machine definition contains this setting.

NOTE

Each tool definition can include a default coolant selection; operations use this selection if the Use tool's step, peck,
coolant option is turned on in Mastercam's Tool Settings tab of the Machine Group Properties dialog box.

Related topics

← Coolant/Options
← Coolant/Flushing

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Creating and Editing Assemblies and Multi-

Holder Assemblies
Use the Assembly Tree to open, create, and edit assemblies in the open TOOLDB database. Tool Assemblies
may contain one tool and one or more holder components. Use the Assembly Tree to navigate the individual
assembly items. Any changes you make are automatically and immediately saved to the database.

Creating tooling assemblies must be done in the stand-alone Tool Manager.

Creating and editing assemblies

Creating and editing composite holders (Multi-holder assemblies)

Creating a new tool and adding it to an assembly

NOTE

← Putting multiple tools in an assembly is not allowed and, dragging another tool onto an
assembly will replace the existing tool.
← You cannot place a holder component after a tool component.

Related topics
← Working with Mastercam Tool Manager
← Holder Wizard
← Tool Wizard

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Creating and Editing TOOLDB Files

Tool Manager allows you to create and edit tool libraries without having to open Mastercam. Click on the
following drop-downs to view a procedure on how to create a new tool library or how to edit an existing one.

As you make changes to any TOOLDB, the Tool Manager automatically saves your changes to the database. For this
reason, you do not have the option to save, but you do have the option to choose File, Save as and change the name of
the TOOLDB file. You also have the option to undo and/or redo any changes to a database file while the working session is
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open.

Creating a TOOLDB file

Editing a TOOLDB file

Related topics

← Tool Libraries
← Working in the Database Explorer

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Creating and Using Custom Lathe Tools

Use the Geometry tab of the Define Tool dialog box to define custom lathe tools. These are tools that cannot
be defined using any other tool types. To do so, you must be able to select geometry which represents the
profile of the custom tool. This geometry can be created and saved in one of the following file types:

← A separate file
← A separate level in the current Mastercam file

Once you have the insert and holder geometry saved to a file or to a specified level, you can begin to
create the custom tool using the Define Tools dialog box.

Click the following links to display the procedures:

Steps to Create Custom Tool Geometry

Setting Tool Parameters for the Custom Tool in a Toolpath

Related topics

← Defining and Editing Lathe Tools

← Geometry: Custom Tools
← Lathe Tool Setup
← Defining custom tool geometry for vertical turret lathes
← Saving tool geometry to a level

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Creating Custom Holders from Geometry

Follow these steps to create a custom holder from geometry.

← Create a new Mill or Router toolpath, or for existing toolpaths, click a toolpath's Parameters icon
in the Toolpaths Manager.
← Select the Holder page.
← Click New holder. Mastercam's Holder Wizard appears.
← Select the upper and lower connection types to define the holder geometry, adding segments as
needed for multi-holder assemblies (sometimes referred to as composite holders).
← If you want to import holder geometry from a level, do the following:
← Click Import custom geometry from a level.
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← In the Select Level dialog box, choose the level that contains the holder geometry, and click OK.
← If you want to import a holder from a file, do the
following: a. Click Import custom geometry from a file.

← Use the Open dialog box to select the Mastercam part file, DXF file, or STEP file that
contains the holder profile.
← If you want to save the holder profile to a level, do the following:
← Click Save profile geometry to a level .

← In the Select Level dialog box, choose the level to which you want to save the holder profile and click OK.

← In the Export To New Sketch dialog box, enter the new sketch name to which you want to save
the holder profile and click OK.
← Click Next.
← Finalize the holder's miscellaneous properties.
← Click Finish to complete creating the holder, close the Holder Wizard, and return to the toolpath dialog box.

Related topics
← Custom Tool Profiles and Tool Profile Geometry (Mill/Router)
← Exporting Custom Holder Profiles to a Level

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Creating, Editing, and Applying Cut Parameters

Cut parameters are part of Mastercam Tool Manager's TOOLDB database files. They display in the Cut
Parameters document in Tool Manager, where you can edit them as needed. These parameters are primarily
used in Mastercam when you would like to import cutting speed and feed per tooth data into an operation.

Creating cut parameters

Editing cut parameters

Applying and using cut parameters in Mastercam

Related topics

← Working in the Properties Grid

← Working in the Search Window

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Creating Tools with the Tool Wizard

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The Tool Wizard appears when you right-click in the tools list window in either the Mill Tool
Manager or any Mill toolpath Tools page, and choose Create new tool.

← Follow the wizard to create tools. If necessary, click Help to view more about the Tool Wizard.
← After you have set all tooling geometry parameters, click Next to forward to the Finalize Properties page.
← Enter or edit miscellaneous property values as necessary, and click Finish. The tool is added to the
library if you right-clicked and selected Create new in the lower tool list of the Mill Tool Manager. All
other tool lists will create a tool in the part file.

Related topics

← Tool Definitions
← Tool Wizard

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Custom Tool Profiles and Tool Profile

Geometry (Mill/Router)
A tool profile is geometry that defines the shape of a tool. Mastercam uses the tool profile to simulate a
tool in Backplot and Verify.

You can customize tool profiles in either of two ways:

← You can edit (or replace) the standard profiles, by opening them in Mastercam, modifying the
geometry, and then saving.
← You can create entirely new profiles with the Custom Tool type. Use this technique when you need
to use a tool that does not match any of the standard tool types.

Mastercam provides a tool profile for each tool type shown in the Mastercam Tool Manager.

When you backplot or verify an operation using an undefined tool with a diameter that differs from the
custom tool profile, the geometry in the custom profile does not match the cutter compensation, so the
tool will appear to be offset from the part.

Mastercam saves your tools to TOOLDB databases located in your local configured Mastercam shared
directory structure, such as ..\Users\Public\Documents\Shared Mastercam 2020\common\ToolData.You can
also save the custom tool profile geometry in a separate Mastercam file (like the standard tool profiles).

An advantage of saving a custom profile in this manner as part of the part file is that the tool geometry can travel
with the part file if it gets moved to a different computer. When saved as a separate Mastercam file, that file will need
to be moved along with the part file and placed in the same location on the new computer as the old computer.

Mastercam provides a variety of tool types, each with a corresponding default tool profile. When you
define a tool using one of Mastercam’s built-in tool types, Mastercam automatically scales the default
profile based on the tool diameter and other dimension that you enter in the tool definition. This
ensures that cutter compensation is displayed correctly in Backplot and Verify.

Related topics

← Tool Definitions

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← Requirements for Tool Profile Geometry

← Tool Wizard

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Customizing Tool Lists

You can customize Mastercam's tool lists by rearranging and hiding/showing your preferred columns.
This can be done in most tool lists contained in Mill toolpath dialogs.

To rearrange the columns in a tool list, click the column heading and drag and drop it to your preferred location in the list.

In tool lists that allow the customization of displayed column headings, right-click anywhere in the tool
column headings and choose what information you want to display. This allows you to display only
necessary columns of information regarding tools.

Related topics
← Tool Manager: Classic
← Tool Selection
← Tool

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Defining and Editing Lathe Tools

Use the Lathe Tools dialog box to create new tool definitions and edit existing ones.

Double-click on a tool in the Toolpath parameters tab for any toolpath to edit it.

← If you are creating a new tool, choose the type of tool from the Type tab of the Lathe Tools dialog
box. The tool type you choose here determines which options display on the other tabs.
← Use the Insert and Holder tabs to tell Mastercam about the geometry and settings for those tool
elements. The exact names of the tabs might be different depending on the tool type.
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← For standard tool types, select inserts and holders from manufacturers' catalogs. When
you do this, the different tool parameters are set for you.
← For custom tool types, see Creating and Using Custom Lathe Tools.
← Use the Parameters tab to select default feeds, speeds, coolant options, and other cutting parameters.
← Choose Draw Tool to preview the tool in the graphics window.
← Choose Setup Tool to tell Mastercam how the tool is mounted in the lathe, including turret and
spindle selection and tool orientation.
← Choose Save to Library to write the tool definition to a tool library where it can be accessed by any Mastercam
file. If you do not save to the library the tool definition is saved in the current part file only, as part of the
active machine group. If you edit a tool, the changes will not affect the tool definition in the tool library unless
you save them to a library; only the local copy which is loaded in the part file will be changed.

NOTE

When creating the profile geometry for a custom round shank turning tool, make sure you create it in two
separate sections; a closed rectangle for the shank and the profile for the head of the tool. The closed
rectangle is necessary because Mastercam requires a dividing line between the shank and the head of the
tool in order to revolve the rectangle into a round solid for the shank.

Related topics

← Toolpath Parameters: Lathe

← Creating and Using Custom Lathe Tools
← Defining Custom Tool Geometry for Vertical Turret Lathes
← Tool Libraries
← Tool Definitions
← Tool Manager: Classic

Do you have a specific question?

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Defining Custom Tool Geometry for Vertical

Turret Lathes
When programming for a vertical turret lathe (VTL), draw the tool geometry in the Top view, while the turret orientation is
shown with respect to the VTL Top view. Whenever a VTL is the active machine definition, Mastercam automatically creates
a VTL version of all common views. The Lathe VTL machine definition sets the Top plane as the default.

When creating a tool to be used in a VTL, Mastercam uses special versions of the tool definition and
tool setup dialog boxes that let you select spindles and turrets oriented for a VTL. These display
automatically whenever a VTL machine definition is active. The way a VTL custom tool is displayed and
used is based on the following settings in the Geometry tab of the Lathe Tools dialog box:

← Orientation of the tool geometry in the system Top view.

← Orientation tool in the turret in the VTL view.

In the Lathe Tool Setup dialog box, choose the following options:

← The Reverse Tool setting.

← The tool angle value.

Related topics

← Geometry: Custom Tools

← Lathe Tool Setup
← Defining and Editing Lathe Tools

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← Creating and Using Custom Lathe Tools

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Determining the Tool's Clearance Angles

Two of the parameters that define lathe tools are the end clearance angle and the side clearance angle. These parameters
are set in the Lathe Tool Clearance dialog box. You can visualize these angles by drawing imaginary lines between the tool
definition arcs. For a tool in orientation one, the side clearance angle is the angle between the X-axis and the imaginary line
between the tool nose radius definition arc and the tool side angle definition arc. The end clearance angle is the angle
between the Z-axis and the imaginary line between the tool nose radius definition arc and the tool end angle definition arc.

The side clearance and end clearance angles are relative to the tool orientation. Therefore, a tool with an end
clearance angle of 45 degrees will have an end clearance angle of 45 degrees no matter what the orientation is.

Related topics

← Defining and Editing Lathe Tools

← Determining the Tool's Width and Height
← Lathe Tool Clearance

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Determining the Tool's Width and Height

Width and height are two parameters that define lathe tools. These parameters are set in the Lathe Tool Clearance
dialog box. The width is the distance between the outer side of the tool nose radius definition arc and the outer side
of the tool end clearance angle definition arc. The height is the distance between the top of the tool side clearance
angle definition arc and the bottom of the tool nose radius definition arc. These are shown below.

The width and height are relative to the tool orientation. Therefore, a tool with a width of 0.4 and height of 0.6 will
have a width of 0.4 and height of 0.6 no matter what the orientation is. If they are relative, then they will change with
the orientation, if they are independent of the orientation they will not change with the orientation.

Related topics

← Lathe Tool Clearance

← Defining and Editing Lathe Tools
← Determining the Tool's Clearance Angles

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Documents
Tool Manager uses documents to organize specific types of data such as tools, holders, and
assemblies. The main workspace uses a tab-style interface to present these documents.

In any document datagrid, you can customize the data display by sorting by column or by grouping by
column. You can also right-click any column to choose which columns should be displayed.

Documents can also be docked, undocked, and split. Click on any of the following drop-downs to learn more.
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Undocking documents

Docking documents

Tiling your document/graphics window workspace

Related topics

← Working with Mastercam Tool Manager

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Dragging and Dropping from One Database to Another

In the stand-alone Tool Manager, you can copy items from one database to another by selecting an item
and dragging and dropping it into a different database. To do this, you must have two or more sessions of
the stand-alone Tool Manager open concurrently.

← Open Tool Manager from your Start menu's Mastercam folder.

← Choose File, Open, or click Open on the Quick Access Toolbar.

← Choose the TOOLDB you want to copy database items to.

← The default location for tool database files is ..\<Shared Data Folder>\mill\Tools. However, if you have
customized your default location for tool database files, you might have to navigate to that new location.
← Start another session of Tool Manager through the Windows Start menu and open the database
you want to copy items from.
← Position the two sessions of Tool Manager side-by-side.
← Open a document and/or Assembly Tree in each Tool Manager window.
← To copy database items, select, drag, and drop from one Tool Manager to the other. You can
copy database items under the following drag and drop conditions:
← From one database Assemblies, Holders, Tools, Materials, or CutParams document to
another database's document of the same type.

← From any Assemblies, Holders, or Tools document in one database to the Assembly Tree of
another to build or copy new assemblies.

NOTE

If needed, you can have more than two sessions of Tool Manager open during your drag-and-drop actions.

Related topics

← Working with Mastercam Tool Manager

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Edit Center
Use the Edit Center dialog box to create or edit a Lathe Center tool. The dialog contains two pages of options, Define
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Center Geometry and Finalize Properties.

Define Center Geometry

Use these options to specify the physical properties of the tool.

Parameters

Finalize properties
Use this page to define general center properties, such as name and tool number.

Related topics

← Holder Wizard

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Editing the Assembly Position in the Graphics Window

In addition to editing assemblies by changing settings in the Properties Grid, you can reposition
the assembly (or its extensions) along the center line of the tool in the graphics window.

Changing the projection distance of the tool using the ruler

Changing the projection distance of the tool using the edit box

Changing the distance between holders and extensions

NOTE

← When you are changing the Tool Projection value in the Graphics Window, notice that the Tool
projection field in the Properties Grid reflects those changes. You can also use the Tool
projection field in the Properties Grid to change those values.
← When the dynamic ruler is active, you can change the ruler increments by zooming in or out by
rolling your mouse wheel. This will reduce or increase the number of graduations on the ruler. This
is helpful if you want to be more or less precise in your Tool Projection value. The number of
graduations are appropriate to the selected units specified in the Options dialog box.

Related topics

← Working in the Graphics Window

← Working in the Properties Grid

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Editing Tool/Assembly Projections in the

Mastercam Graphics Window
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Mastercam lets you edit the projection value of tools and multiple holder assemblies, sometimes referred to as
composite holders. This can be done using a graphical representation of the tool assembly in the graphics window.
Editing projection values in this manner lets you view any collision avoidance areas that need attention.

← Open or create a Mill part. You do not need to create a toolpath.

← Open Mastercam's Classic Tool Manager.
← Select and add a tool/assembly from the upper part tool list or the library tool list.
← Right-click the tool and choose Edit projection.

← This displays the part and tool assembly in a Temporary Viewsheet. Notice that the tool tip follows your
mouse movements. If you are in top view when you enter this function, you will be looking down the axis of
the tool. You may need to switch to a different GView (choose isometric or dynamically rotate to a view).
← Move your tool to the area of the part that you want to validate the tool/holder projection value,
and click to place the tool, using AutoCursor points as needed.
← If you find that the current projection values cause collisions, edit the value by clicking the holder
to display a ruler. Click the ruler and slide the holder up or down to reset the project value of the
tool. Alternatively, you can type a value that displays in the text box next to the ruler.

← If you need to edit the projection value between two holder components, hover your mouse over
the topmost holder and make the changes as you did with the tool projection.
← Use the Planes Manager to choose a different tool plane to view your tool in a different orientation.
← Press [Esc] to cancel your changes or [Enter] to accept them. Either of these actions close the
Temporary Viewsheet and brings you back to your current part file.

Related topics

← Editing Tools with Tool Manager

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Editing Tools with Tool Manager

Mastercam's Tool Manager makes it easy to edit tools. The following procedures show how to edit
tools from the stand-alone Tool Manager (outside of Mastercam) or from within Mastercam's interface.

Editing tools from Mastercam’s stand-alone Tool

Manager Editing tools from Mastercam’s interface

Related topics

← Tool Wizard
← Tool Definitions
← Tool Libraries

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Exporting Custom Holder Profiles to a Level

Create a custom holder from geometry, or begin with a part file that uses a custom holder.

1. In the Toolpaths Manager, click Parameters for the toolpath that uses the custom holder.

2. In the Holder page, right-click on the custom holder in the list of holders, and choose Edit Holder.
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← In the Define Tool Geometry page of the Holder Wizard, click Save profile geometry to a level
in the graphics window.

← This opens the Select Level dialog box.

← Create a level on which to store the exported holder profile, and click OK.

← After you have set all holder geometry parameters, click Next to enter miscellaneous values, then click Finish.
← Open the Levels Manager from the View ribbon to view the exported holder profile in the list of
levels. You can keep that level visible or hide it.

← Click OK when you are finished in the Levels Manager.

Related topics
← Creating Custom Holders from Geometry
← Tool Wizard

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Exporting Custom Tool Profiles to a Level

Begin with a part file that uses a custom tool.

1. Click the custom tool in Toolpaths Manager.

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← In the Define Tool Geometry page of the Tool Wizard, click Save profile geometry to a level and
link to that level button in the graphics window.

This opens the Select Level dialog box.

← Choose a level on which to store the exported tool profile, and click OK.

← After you have set all tooling geometry parameters, click Next to enter miscellaneous values, then click Finish.
← Open the Levels Manager from the View tab to view the exported tool profile. You can keep that
level visible or hide it.

6. Click OK when you are finished in the Levels Manager.

Related topics

← Tool Wizard

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Exporting Data from the Tool Library

You can export data from a tool library in either of two different report formats.

You can create a document that contains a detailed report about each tool in the tool list area or a summary of the
information found in the tool list area, so you can print or review the tool information outside of Mastercam. This
information includes tool names, material, size, and all other parameters entered when the tool was created.

← Open the Classic Tool Manager.

← Right-click in the tool list area and choose Import/export tools, Detailed report file or Report file.
The report opens in the ActiveReports Viewer.
← Print and/or export the report to any of the supported formats.

Related topics

← Tool Manager: Classic

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← Tool Libraries
← ActiveReports Viewer

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Geometry: Custom Tools

Use this tab to establish the geometry of a custom or non-standard lathe tool which cannot be
properly represented with one of the standard tool types.

← Select a Geometric Tool Orientation to set how Mastercam should interpret the tool profile geometry.
← Choose the location of the tool geometry. You can read the geometry either from another file, or from a level in the
current part file. See Creating and using custom lathe tools to learn more about the geometry requirements.
← Select a Tool Orientation in Turret option to establish how the tool is mounted in the turret.
← Set the corner radius and tool center. Mastercam will use these values to calculate the proper cutter compensation.

NOTE

The geometry used for custom tools is scaled to the current system units (inch or metric). Mastercam
assumes that the file with the tool geometry uses the same units selected on the Parameters tab.

Parameters

Related topics

← Creating and Using Custom Lathe Tools

← Defining Custom Tool Geometry for Vertical Turret Lathes
← Tool Definitions

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Get Inserts/Holders
Use the Get Inserts/Holders dialog box to retrieve an insert, holder, boring bar, or drilling tool from a catalog. When
you select a tool component from the main window and choose OK, the appropriate tab in the Lathe tools dialog
box will be completed with the proper parameter values. Use the Filter insert shape in catalog or Filter holder style
in catalog options in the Lathe tools dialog box to reduce the number of entries which appear in the main window.

NOTE

The title of this dialog box changes depending on which tool component you are retrieving.

Related topics

← Tool Definitions
← Defining and Editing Lathe Tools

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Guidelines for Importing DXF or STEP Tool/Holder

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Profiles
Follow these guidelines when importing a DXF or STEP file into Mastercam to create a tool or holder profile.

Guidelines for importing DXF files

Guidelines for importing STEP files

Related topics

← Levels Manager
← Requirements for Tool Profile Geometry
← Custom Tool Profiles and Tool Profile Geometry (Mill/Router)
← Exporting Custom Tool Profiles to a Level

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Holder Definitions: Mill/Router

Holder definitions for Mill and Router operations let you model tool holder geometry so that they can
be used for gouge checking. The holder can be displayed when you backplot or verify the toolpath.

New holders are stored in the part file tool assembly, but not automatically saved to a library. Holder definitions
can be saved to libraries just like tool definitions, so that they can be selected for operations. In the Holder page of
the tree-style dialog box, note that if a new holder has not been stored to a library, it has an asterisk next to it.

Use the Holder page to select holder definitions. For High Speed Surface toolpaths, you can select Use holder for gouge
checking to activate the gouge checking feature. When Mastercam is calculating the toolpath while this option is active, it
will check to make sure that the holder as defined in the Holder page does not come into contact with any part geometry.

Whether or not you elect to use the holder for gouge checking, it is still available for backplotting
and verifying the toolpath.

NOTE

If no tool holder is selected, Mastercam Simulator and Machine Simulation use the generic holder
dimensions stored in the tool definition.

Related topics

← Holder

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Holder Designer
Use the Holder Designer to build holders, defining the general attributes, such as the name, units,
and its shank. The Holder Designer also supports custom holders from solid models.
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Holders that you create display in Holders tab of the Lathe Tool Manager.

Where are the parameters from my imported model?

Related topics

← Tool Designer
← Insert Designer
← Data Entry Shortcuts

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Holder Wizard
The Holder Wizard is used to create and edit holders. Click any of the drop-downs below for more information.

Creating a holder

Editing a holder

Adding and editing holder manufacturers

Defining Holder Geometry page graphics window buttons

Defining Holder Geometry page right-click menus

Related topics

← Tool Wizard
← Rendering the Tool Display

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Holders: Turning, Boring, and Drilling Tools

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Use this tab to establish the shape and dimensions of the holder in which the drill or cutting insert is
mounted. You can use the set of buttons in the top half of the tab to select holders from standard
catalogs, or you can enter the information yourself.

← To enter the holder dimensions, first choose the Style from the display window. (This step does
not apply to drills, taps, and reamers.) Enter the proper values for the dimensions and angles.
← To use a pre-defined holder, click Select catalog, and choose one from the standard catalogs
included with Mastercam, such as Sandvik®, Kennametal®, Valenite®, or ISCAR. When you select
the holder, all the parameters will be filled in for you. You can edit them if you wish.

Parameters

Related topics

← Tool Definitions
← Mastercam's Tool Managers
← Defining and Editing Lathe Tools

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Insert Designer
Use the Insert Designer to build inserts, defining the general attributes, such as the name, units, and dimensions.
The Insert Designer supports ANSI and ISO parametric definitions or custom inserts based on solid models.

Inserts that you create display in Inserts tab of the Lathe Tool Manager.

Where are the parameters from my imported model?

How do I enter a catalog code for an insert?

Related topics

← Tool Designer
← Holder Designer
← Data Entry Shortcuts

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Inserts: General Turning and Boring Tools

Use this tab to establish the shape and dimensions of the lathe cutting insert. You can use the set of buttons
in the top half of the tab to select inserts from standard catalogs, or you can enter the information yourself.
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← To enter the insert dimensions, first enter a Name and Tool code, and then choose a Shape and
Cross section. To define the insert, enter the proper values for the dimensions and angles.
← To use a pre-defined insert, click Select catalog, and choose one from the standard catalogs
included with Mastercam, such as Sandvik®, Kennametal®, Valenite®, or ISCAR. When you select
the holder, all the parameters will be filled in for you. You can edit them if you wish.

Parameters

Related topics

← Mastercam's Tool Managers

← Tool Definitions
← Defining and Editing Lathe Tools

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Inserts: Grooving Tools

Use this tab to establish the shape and dimensions of the lathe cutting insert. You can use the set of buttons
in the top half of the tab to select inserts from standard catalogs, or you can enter the information yourself.

← To enter the insert dimensions, first choose the Style from the display windows. Enter the
proper values for the dimensions and angles.
← To use a pre-defined insert, click Select catalog, and choose one from the standard catalogs
included with Mastercam, such as Sandvik®, Kennametal®, Valenite®, or ISCAR. When you select
the insert, all the parameters will be filled in for you. You can edit them as necessary.

Parameters

Related topics

← Mastercam's Tool Managers

← Tool Definitions
← Defining and Editing Lathe Tools

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Inserts: Threading Tools

Use this tab to establish the shape and dimensions of the lathe cutting insert. You can use the set of buttons
in the top half of the tab to select inserts from standard catalogs, or you can enter the information yourself.

← To enter the insert dimensions directly, first choose the Style from the display windows. Enter the
proper values for the dimensions and angles.
← To use a pre-defined insert, click Select catalog, and choose one from the standard catalogs
included with Mastercam, such as Sandvik®, Kennametal®, Valenite®, or ISCAR. When you select
the insert, all the parameters will be filled in for you. You can edit them as necessary.

Parameters

Related topics

← Mastercam's Tool Managers

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← Tool Definitions
← Defining and Editing Lathe Tools

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Lathe Holder Filter

Use the Lathe Holder Filter dialog box to limit the list of displayed holders to only those which match
your criteria. You can filter the list of holders in any of the following ways:

← Type of holder
← Shape and size
← Inch or metric

You can combine criteria from different groups to make the list even more specific.

NOTE

The filter is intended to be used for 3D holders.

Filtering by type
Click on one or more holder type icons to display holders of that type. Tooltips identify each holder
type. Selected icons have a black border.

Filtering by shape and size

Select Rectangular or Cylindrical to display holders of that type. If you wish, you can further restrict the list
by entering Minimum and Maximum dimensions for the Width, Thickness, Diameter, or any combination.

Filtering by units
Holder catalogs can contain holders that have been created with either inch or metric units. You can filter
the list of holders by either unit.

This is independent of the units that Mastercam is using for the current part. For example, if you are
working on an inch part, you can still filter the list to display metric holders.

Parameters

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Related topics

← Tool Definitions
← Holder Designer
← Lathe Tool Filter

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Lathe Insert Filter

Use the Lathe Insert Filter dialog box to limit the list of displayed inserts to only those which match your
criteria. You can filter the list of inserts in any of the following ways:

← Type of insert
← Shape, size, and cutting geometry
← Inch or metric
← Material

You can combine criteria from different groups to make the list even more specific.

NOTE

The filter is intended to be used for 3D inserts.

Filtering by insert type

Begin by selecting one or more of the insert types: general turning, threading, or grooving/parting.

When you select an insert type, Mastercam activates groups of fields that let you refine the filter by
choosing the insert shape or other criteria.

Filtering by units
Insert libraries can contain inserts that have been created with either inch or metric units. You can filter
the list of inserts by either unit.

This is independent of the units that Mastercam is using for the current part. For example, if you are
working on an inch part, you can still filter the list to display metric inserts.

Filtering by material
You can filter the list of inserts by insert material by selecting the desired options.

Select Copy job material to have Mastercam automatically select the insert materials that can cut the stock material. The

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stock material is defined on the Tool Settings tab in the Machine Group Properties dialog box. For this
feature to work, a stock material must be selected.

Parameters

Related topics

← Tool Definitions
← Insert Designer
← Lathe Tool Filter

Do you have a specific question?

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Lathe Tool Clearance

Use the Lathe Tool Clearance dialog box to view and edit the tool's clearance angles as well as its width
and height. Use it when you are creating a new tool definition or editing an existing tool definition.
Choose Scan tool geometry to have Mastercam examine the tool geometry to make sure that the
clearance angles and other geometry are within appropriate settings.

Parameters

Related topics

← Determining the Tool's Clearance Angles

← Determining the Tool's Width and Height
← Scan Tool Geometry

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Lathe Tool Filter

Use the Lathe Tool Filter dialog box to specify which tools will display in the tool list area when you need to select a
tool. Filtering is useful when you edit a tool library or search for a specific tool within a tool library. For example, if
there were 200 tools in a specified library and you wanted to use a right-handed boring bar mounted in the top turret,
you could set the appropriate filter options and reduce the number of tools in the tool list.

Filtering is automatic when you are in a toolpath dialog box. For example, if you are creating a
drilling toolpath, only drilling tools display in the tool parameters tool list.

Parameters

Related topics

← Mastercam's Tool Managers

← Tool Definitions

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Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Lathe Tool Geometry Level

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Use the Lathe Tool Geometry Level dialog box to save tool profile geometry to a level in your part file.
You can save the tool geometry to the current level or you can specify a different level.

Parameters

Related topics

← Saving Tool Geometry to a Level

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Lathe Tool Setup

Use the Lathe Tool Setup dialog box to establish the physical orientation and positioning of a tool.
The settings in this dialog box are part of the tool definition .

Unless you save the tool definition to a tool library by clicking Save to Library before exiting this
dialog box, they will apply to the current part file only.

Make sure that the selections that you make here are supported by the active machine definition. You cannot
assign a tool to a spindle or turret unless that component has been added to the machine definition.

Parameters

Related topics

← Tool Definitions
← Tool Libraries
← Mastercam's Tool Managers

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Mastercam's Tool Managers

Mastercam offers more than one Tool Manager to create, edit, and manage your tools, tooling components, and tool
libraries. Each Tool Manager is accessed and used under unique and dissimilar workflows and circumstances.

Stand-alone Tool Manager

Classic Tool Manager

Lathe Tool Manager

Related topics

← Tool Wizard
← Tool Manager: Classic

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

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Parameters: Drills, Taps, and Reamers

Use this tab to set default drilling parameters for the tool. When you select this tool while creating a toolpath, many
of the values that you enter here automatically transfer to the parameters for the new toolpath. Use Machine Group
Properties to enable or disable this feature. Any time you create a toolpath, you can override the values in this tab.

Parameters

Related topics

← Defining and Editing Lathe Tools

← Tool Definitions

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Parameters: Grooving Tools

Use this tab to set default values for different cutting parameters and to properly calculate cutter compensation and tool
collision boundaries. When you select this tool while creating a toolpath, many of the values that you enter here
automatically transfer to the parameters for the toolpath you are creating. Use Machine Group Properties to enable or
disable this feature. Any time you create a toolpath, you can override the values in this tab.

Parameters

Related topics

← Defining and Editing Lathe Tools

← Tool Definitions

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Parameters: Threading Tools

Use this tab to set default threading parameters for the tool. When you select this tool while creating a toolpath, many of
the values that you enter here will automatically transfer to the parameters for the new toolpath. Use the Machine Group
Properties to enable or disable this feature. Any time you create a toolpath, you can override the values in this tab.

Parameters

Related topics

← Defining and Editing Lathe Tools

← Tool Definitions

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Parameters: Turning and Boring Tools

Use this tab to set default values for different cutting parameters and to properly calculate cutter compensation and tool
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collision boundaries. When you select this tool while creating a toolpath, many of the values that you enter here
automatically transfer to the parameters for the toolpath you are creating. Use the Machine Group Properties to enable or
disable this feature. Any time you create a toolpath, you can override the values that you enter in this tab.

Parameters

Related topics

← Defining and Editing Lathe Tools

← Tool Definitions

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Rendering the Tool Display

On the Tool Wizard's Define Geometry page, the tool you are working with is displayed in a dynamically
updating graphics window. You can define a tool using parametric properties along with a custom profile
that can be imported from a CAD file. The parametric values are used within the toolpath calculations for
improved performance, especially for complex milling operations. The optional custom profile, when
provided, is used for stock model generation and collision checking in simulation.

If you have chosen to create a tool by importing custom geometry from a file (such as a DXF file), the option to
display the file as a Mastercam file or an imported file becomes available through Render Mastercam tool,
located above the graphics view. This provides the option of displaying both profiles for comparison.

This option is available only for parametric tools.

If you choose to display the tool as a Mastercam tool, the tool appears yellow, and the informational text in the bottom left
corner shows that the rendered tool is a Mastercam tool, and that the solid profile outline is the profile of the imported tool.

If you choose to display the tool as an imported tool, the tool appears blue, and the informational text
in the bottom left corner shows that the rendered tool is a Mastercam tool, and that the solid profile
outline is the profile of the Mastercam tool.

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If you choose Reset profile geometry the tool rendering and informational text display in the graphics window
is removed, but the parameters in the Define Tool Geometry page for the parametric tool remain unchanged.

Related topics

← Tool Wizard
← Holder Wizard

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Requirements for Tool Profile Geometry

Geometry used for tool profiles must meet these criteria in order for Mastercam to properly display
the tool on screen. Follow these rules whether you are creating new tool profiles for custom tool
types or editing the standard tool profile files:

← Draw the profile in the Top construction plane.

← Use only line and arc entities.
← Position the lower-left corner at X0, Y0.
← The X dimension must equal 1.0 in either metric or inch units. Mastercam can use the same tool
profile in either metric or inch units. (Mastercam automatically scales the geometry based on the
diameter that you enter in the tool definition.)
← Use an open contour to outline half of the tool.
← No undercuts are allowed.
← Do not include other geometry in the file. If the profile geometry is on a level in the part file,
there should be no other geometry on the level.

This picture shows an example of a valid tool profile.

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Related topics

← Guidelines for Importing DXF or STEP Tool/Holder Profiles

← Tool Definitions
← Custom Tool Profiles and Tool Profile Geometry (Mill/Router)

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Saving Tool Geometry to a Level

Mastercam lets you save geometry representing the tool profile inside the current part file instead of in a
separate file. Typically, the tool geometry would be stored on a separate level from the part geometry.
One reason for saving tool geometry to a level is to modify standard tools in order to create a custom
tool for the current part. Other benefits of saving tool geometry to a level are:

← You do not need to save tools as separate Mastercam files since the tools reside on a level.
← You have only to be concerned with one Mastercam file when sending jobs to other customers.
← You can edit the custom tool much faster when it is located on a level in the existing part file. For example,
you can create the tool, save it to a level, create your part geometry, and test the tool all within the same file.

You can save profile geometry from:

← a newly defined tool

← a tool in the tool list for the active machine group
← a tool in the current tool library.

NOTE

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The tool profile must consist of only lines and arcs.

Use the Tool Manager to save tool geometry to a level. Right-click on a tool and choose Save geometry to level.

Related topics

← Creating and Using Custom Lathe Tools

← Defining and Editing Lathe Tools

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Scan Tool Geometry

The Scan Tool Geometry dialog box displays the results from Mastercam's Scan Tool Geometry examination,
which verifies that the tool geometry for a new tool definition is within the appropriate settings.

If Mastercam determines that any of the tool parameters do not conform to system requirements, it displays
suggestions to correct the possible problem. You can choose to accept, or not accept, these suggestions.

NOTE

Scan Geometry findings may not necessarily be appropriate for your application, especially in the case of the
tool's width and height. In such cases, be cautious if you decide to have Mastercam correct the settings.

Related topics
← Creating and Using Custom Lathe Tools
← Determining the Tool's Clearance Angles
← Determining the Tool's Width and Height
← Saving Tool Geometry to a Level

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Select Level
Use the Select Level dialog box to save tool profile or holder profile geometry to a level. Click on the
drop-down below to view the procedure on how to save profile geometry.

Saving tool or holder profile geometry

Related topics

← Tool Wizard
← Holder Wizard

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Tool Codes
General turning and boring bar inserts found in catalogs such as Sandvik® and Kennametal® have a tool ordering code.
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The Inserts tab of the Lathe Tools dialog box has a text box where you can enter the catalog's ordering
code for the insert you want to use. Mastercam then adjusts all of the parameters to correspond with
the insert that matches that code. You must enter this tool code in a specific format in order for
Mastercam to match the code with the insert's parameters. The tool code format is as follows:

CNMG 4 3 2 (for Inch)

CNMG 10 06 01 (for metric)

NOTE

← All parts of the code must be entered. There must be no spaces between the letters, there must be at least one
space after the last letter, and there must be at least one space between numbers. Decimal values are allowed.
← The tool code is not available for threading, grooving/parting, drill/tap/reamers, or custom tools.

Related topics

← Inserts: General Turning and Boring Tools

← Defining and Editing Lathe Tools
← Tool Definitions

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Tool Definitions
Before you can use a tool in a toolpath, Mastercam needs a tool definition for it. A tool definition
contains the following information:

The shape and dimensions of the tool, including how it is mounted in the turret or spindle
Default values for feeds/speeds/coolant
Default cutting parameters

Mastercam uses this information to properly calculate cutter compensation, display the tool on screen, intelligently
calculate and avoid collisions and gouges, and create meaningful default values for toolpath parameters.

When you first create a tool definition, it resides in the current part file as part of the current machine group and is saved
with the file. To make the tool available to other Mastercam files, save the definition to a tool library. Similarly, when you
make changes to a tool definition, the changes are saved in the current part file until you write the changes to a library.

When you select a tool for an toolpath, Mastercam copies the definition to the machine group. This way, someone
else can open your part file and use it without having access to your tool libraries. You can also use the Tool
Manager to load tool definitions from a tool library into a machine group even if they are not used in a toolpath.

Notes for Lathe users

Notes for Router users

NOTE

Use the Tool section in the control definition to tell Mastercam how to use tool offset registers
and tool/head numbers.
Mastercam uses calculated feeds and speeds as defaults when you create a new toolpath. You can
always override these values in the Toolpath parameters tab for a particular toolpath.
All of Mastercam's feeds and speeds calculations are limited by the thresholds set by the
machine and control definitions.
You can tell Mastercam to calculate default feeds and speeds based on either the tool definition (as described here)

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or the material definition. Use the Tool settings tab of the Machine Group Properties dialog
box to make this selection on a job-by-job basis.

Related topics

Mastercam's Tool Managers

Tool Wizard
Tool Libraries

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Tool Designer
Use Tool Designer to create custom 3D lathe tools. 3D tools give you more accurate simulation sessions, often finding
collisions that 2D tools do not show. 3D tools also enhance backplotting and verification sessions. The designer comprises
nine pages of settings that cover every aspect of creating your 3D tool, from loading STEP models to mating an insert to its
holder, defining boundaries, setting mounting positions and cutting planes, and more.

To start designing a 3D tool, right-click in the tool selection pane of the operation's Toolpath parameters
page, and choose Create 3D tool from the pop-up menu. You can also access the Tool Designer by right-
clicking in the Lathe Tool Manager, and selecting Create 3D tool.

Tool Designer features a top-down work flow. Pages become available only after you have entered the
required information for the previous pages. For example, you must complete the Tool page before you can
access the Insert page. Likewise, you must finish the Insert page before you can access the Holder page.

To design your tool, start with the Tool page, which is the first set of options, as shown below. When you have
filled in the necessary fields on that page, you move down to the next page, Insert, where you provide
information about the insert for the tool. The following image and list identify each of the nine pages.

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Following is a brief description of each page in Tool Designer:

Tool—This page contains general information about the final tool assembly, including its name, tool
offset number, home position, and more.
Insert—Here you define the general attributes of the tool's insert, including choosing a solid model
for the insert, either as a STEP file or a solid in Mastercam.
Holder—On this page, define the general attributes of the tool's holder, including choosing a solid
model for the holder, either as a STEP file or a solid in Mastercam.
Mating—This page provides the functions that assemble the tool's components. Choose from three
position types: Coincident, Parallel, or Perpendicular.
Setup—Here you specify a plane and offset for the cutting plane and the machine connection.
Boundary—On this page, define the tool's boundary and tolerances.
Machine Orientation—Here you specify the tool's mounting position, turret, tool angle, default active
spindle, and spindle rotation.
Compensation—On this page, you specify compensation values, such as the tool center, the
compensation method, plunge and feed direction, and tool clearance.
Parameters—This page contains basic tool parameters, including feed and plunge rate, spindle and
cutting speed, and coolant settings.

Hover over any field in Tool Designer to see a tooltip describing that field. For detailed information on creating 3D
tools, please see Tool Designer Tutorial, available on the Mastercam website or from your Mastercam Reseller.

Where are the parameters from my imported model?

Related topics

Creating and Using Custom Lathe Tools

Data Entry Shortcuts
Guidelines for Importing DXF or STEP Tool/Holder Profiles

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Do you have a specific question?

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Tool Libraries
Tool libraries (TOOLDB extensions) store tool definitions. Once you save a tool definition to a library,
the tool can be used in any Mastercam file.

Tool libraries are useful for storing common tools or for storing tools for specific jobs. You can create a
separate library for each machine tool in your shop or for sets of machines that use similar tools. You
can use one of several tool libraries that come with Mastercam, or you can create your own tool
libraries. Use the Tool Manager to view and manage libraries and tool definitions.

You can also use the stand-alone Tool Manager application to work with tools, holders, tool
assemblies, cut parameters, and materials. To work in the stand-alone Tool Manager, select the
Windows Start menu, and choose Mastercam 2020, Tool Manager.

The default tool library is set in the active machine definition as part of the General Machine Parameters. You can override
this and specify a new default library for the machine group with the Files tab of the Machine Group Properties.

However, whenever you create an operation, you can select a tool from any library available on your
computer. Right-click in the Toolpath parameters tab (Lathe) or Tool page (Mill/Router) when creating or
editing a toolpath to access tools from different libraries for that operation.

You need to maintain separate tool libraries for Mill/Router and lathe tools, due to the differences
between milling and turning tools. For C-axis or Mill-Turn applications, you will use both tool libraries:
select tools for turning operations from the lathe tool library, and tools for milling operations from the
mill tool library. Also, metric and inch tools are typically stored in separate libraries.

Related topics

Tool Wizard
Tool Definitions

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Tool Manager: Classic

Use the Tool Manager, Classic dialog box to view and manage tool libraries, the tools in your part file, and tool definitions.
Use it to:

Look at the tools stored in a tool library, machine group, or both.

Create new tools and store them in a tool library or machine group.
Edit tools from a tool library or machine group.
Copy tools to/from a library to a machine group, or between different libraries or machine groups.

An extensive right-click menu gives you many options for configuring the tool display and working
with tool geometry and the tool definitions.

Use the drop-down list in the upper-right corner to select which tools to view:

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The tool list window displays information about each tool.

Click on column headings to sort the list by that column. Drag column headers to make them wider or narrower.
Select Filter active to filter the list of tools. Click Filter to change the filter criteria with the Tool List
Filter dialog box. You can filter by tool type, shape/size, or material.

Click any of the following links to display more information:

Working in the Part window

Working in the Library window

Copying tools from one window to another

Importing tools from parts

In addition to this classic Tool Manager, Mastercam offers a stand-alone Tool Manager, which provides
an efficient and comprehensive way to manage tools and tool holding components, and to create tool
assemblies to use in Mastercam. In addition to the tooling component support, Tool Manager also
integrates work material and cut parameter data so that you can accommodate a manufacturer’s cutting
recommendations. You can also create your own cut parameter data and store it in the database.To work
in the stand-alone Tool Manager, select the Windows Start menu, and choose Mastercam, Tool Manager.

Parameters

Related topics

Tool Libraries
Tool Definitions
Mastercam's Tool Managers
Tool Manager Right-click Menu: Classic

Do you have a specific question?

Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Tool Manager Interface Overview

The stand-alone Tool Manager provides an efficient and comprehensive way to manage tools and tool
holding components, and to create tool assemblies to use in Mastercam. Tool Manager also integrates
work material and cut parameter data so that you can accommodate a manufacturer’s cutting
recommendations. You can also create your own cut parameter data and store it in the database.

To work in the stand-alone Tool Manager, select the Windows Start menu, and choose Mastercam, Tool
Manager. Once you access the stand-alone Tool Manager, click Help for more details.

You do not have to have Mastercam open to access and use the stand-alone Tool Manager. However, you
must have run Mastercam at least once after an install before you can access the stand-alone Tool Manager.

Here are brief descriptions of the stand-alone Tool Manager interface.

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Tabs: Contains buttons and menus that let you access all of Tool Manager's features and functions.
Database Explorer: Use the Database Explorer to access content in tool database files (TOOLDB). Right-
click an item to expand or collapse it. To work with items in the database tree view (i.e., Cutting Tools,
Tool Assemblies, Holders, Materials, and Cut Parameters), double-click the item.
Assembly Tree: Use the Assembly Tree to open, create, and edit assemblies in the open TOOLDB
database. Tool Assemblies may contain one tool and one or more holder components. Use the
Assembly Tree to navigate the individual assembly items.
Document Datagrids: Tool Manager uses documents to organize data such as tools, holders, and
assemblies. The main workspace uses a tab-style interface to present these documents.
Graphics window: The graphics window is part of a document, and displays what you have selected in
the document datagrid. For example, if you are working in the Assembly document, the graphics
window displays the assembly you have selected in the datagrid.
Properties Grid: Properties Grid displays properties for cutting tools, assemblies, holders, extensions,
materials, and cutting parameters. The properties displayed depend on which document type you
have open and which item you have selected in the document.

Related topics

Working with Mastercam Tool Manager

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Tool Manager Right-click Menu: Classic

Some options are available only in the Part window or the Library window. Options that work on a single
tool are available only if you right-click directly on a tool definition.

Create new tool

Allows you to create a new tool. For Mill, this option opens the Create Tool wizard in the stand-alone
Tool Manager. Access the Help from the wizard for more information. For Lathe, this option opens the
Type tab of the Lathe Define Tool dialog box.

Edit tool

Allows you to make changes to the tool definition, including tool size and geometry, and default cutting and toolpath
parameters. For Mill, this option opens the Create Tool wizard in the stand-alone Tool Manager. Access the Help
from the wizard for more information. For Lathe, this option opens the Lathe Define Tool dialog box.

Edit holder (Mill only)

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Allows you to edit the holder and holder segments associated with the selected tool. For Mill, this option opens
the Edit Holder wizard in the stand-alone Tool Manager. Access the Help from the wizard for more information.

Edit composite holder

When you right-click an assembly containing a combination of holders (composite holder), this option replaces the Edit
holder option. Edit composite holder has a fly-out menu, allowing you to choose which holder or extension you want to
edit. Choose the option from the fly-out menu to open the Holder Wizard to edit that component.

Edit projection

Lets you edit the projection value of tools and multiple holder assemblies, sometimes referred to as
composite holders using a graphical representation of the tool assembly in the graphics window.

Edit assembly names (Mill only)

Opens the Assembly Names dialog box where you can edit the names for the assembly, holder, and tool
names used in the assembly.

Delete tool(s)

Removes the selected tool definition from either your part file or tool library, depending on which window you were in.
Note: There is no undo or confirmation prompt when you select this.

Delete unused tools

If there are any tool definitions stored in the part file for tools that have not been selected for a
toolpath, they will be removed. They will not be deleted from the tool library.

View

Display the tools as large icons, small icons, or as a details list.

Arrange tools

Sort the tools by tool number or tool name. Use these options if you have the tools displayed as icons
without any column headers.

Popup tool (Lathe only)

A larger picture of the tool will popup if you let the mouse hover over an icon in the preview window.
Select an option to control how long the mouse needs to hover before the larger picture pops up.

Setup tool(s) (Lathe only)

Tell Mastercam how the tool is set in the turret. Select a turret and spindle, set the tool's orientation and
angle, and specify a home position.

Load tool(s) on machine(Lathe only)

Opens the Component To Attach Tools To dialog box where you can select to which component to load the tool.

Draw tool (Lathe only)

Look at a picture of the tool's profile and geometry in the graphics window. Use Mastercam's
standard zoom and pan controls to examine the tool in detail.

Copy tool(s)

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Copies the selected tool(s) definition to Mastercam's clipboard so it can be pasted in another machine group or library.

Paste tool(s)

Pastes a tool definition that has been copied from the clipboard.

Save geometry to a level (Lathe only)

Opens the Lathe Tool Geometry Level dialog box where you can save the profile geometry of the
selected tool as Mastercam geometry on a level in the current part file.

Save geometry to a file (Lathe only)

Lets you save the profile geometry of the selected tool as a separate part file.

Load tool(s) on machine(Mill-Turn only)

Opens the Tool Parameters tab where you can click to the Component Position/Orientation on Machine
tab to load the tool onto a machine component.

Save tool(s) to a library

Lets you save one or more tool definitions to a library. You can select the tools from either the Part or Library window.

Import/export tools

Compress: Packs the tool library to recover space left when you delete tool definitions.
Report: Creates an ActiveReport about the tools in the library, with key information about each tool.
These reports are designed to be easier to read than the Convert a library to text option and can be
exported to a variety of formats. ActiveReports are customizable with the ActiveReports Designer.
Detailed report: Creates a more detailed ActiveReport about the tools in a library.

Related topics
Tool Manager: Classic
Tool Definitions
Tool Libraries

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Tool Type: Custom Tools

Select the category which best describes the custom tool that you are defining. Mastercam uses this
information to decide what information you need to enter on the Parameters tab.

Parameters

Related topics

Defining and Editing Lathe Tools

Creating and Using Custom Lathe Tools
Tool Definitions

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Tool Wizard
The Tool Wizard is used to create and edit tools, including custom tools. Click any of the drop-downs
below to learn more about creating and editing a tool.

Creating a new tool

Adding a tool to an assembly
Editing a tool
Creating a tool from the stand-alone Tool Manager
Creating a tool from the classic Tool Manager
Defining Tool Geometry page toolbar buttons
Adding and editing tool manufacturers
Guidelines when creating tools

Related topics

Holder Wizard
Rendering the Tool Display
Guidelines for Importing DXF or STEP Tool/Holder Profiles

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Tool/Holder STEP Import

Enter a value to set the tessellation tolerance when importing a STEP file. This value controls how
precise the result is. Adjusting the tessellation tolerance allows you to control how much detail of the
solid is captured as it is converted into a Mastercam tool or holder.

A smaller value, or tighter tolerance, generally creates more precise results, but will result in a longer
processing time. A larger value, or looser tolerance, creates a less precise result, but results in a faster
processing time. The tolerance is relative to Mastercam’s current unit configuration setting.

Related topics
STEP Read Parameters

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Tools: Drills, Taps, and Reamers

Use this tab to establish the shape and dimensions of the drilling tool. You can use the set of buttons in the
top half of the tab to select inserts from standard catalogs, or you can enter the information yourself.

To enter the insert dimensions directly, first choose a tool from the Tool type section and enter the
proper values for the dimensions and angles based on the picture Mastercam displays. There are
different icons for left-hand and right-hand taps.
To use a pre-defined tool, choose one from the standard catalogs included with Mastercam, such
as Sandvik®, Kennametal®, Valenite®, or ISCAR. When you select the tool, the parameters will
be filled in, but you can edit them if you wish.

Parameters
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Related topics

Defining and Editing Lathe Tools

Tool Definitions

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Type: Lathe Tools

Use the Type, Lathe Tools dialog box as the starting point for creating a new tool definition.

Choose Custom for tool geometries which cannot be created using one of the standard types
and where the tool geometry is stored in a Mastercam file or level.
Choose one of the five standard tool types to build a tool definition by selecting standard building blocks.

When you select a tool type, the other tabs adjust to display parameters and options specific to that tool type.

When you have entered all the tool parameters, choose Setup Tool to tell Mastercam the physical
orientation of the tool and to which spindle and turret it belongs.

Once you create a new tool, you can choose Save to Library to save it to a tool library on your hard disk
where it can be used in other parts. Otherwise, the tool definition will be saved in the current part file.

Parameters

Related topics

Tool Definitions
Defining and Editing Lathe Tools
Creating and Using Custom Lathe Tools

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Using the CoroPlus® ToolLibrary

NOTE

You must install the CoroPlus ToolLibrary from Sandvik Coromant to use the tool importer in Mastercam.

Use this window to import tools from CoroPlus ToolLibrary into your current part file or tool library.

Importing tools

Editing tools

Icons used in CoroPlus ToolLibrary

Related topics

Using the MachiningCloud Tool Importer

Do you have a specific question?

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Click here to ask the community. © 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Using the MachiningCloud Tool Importer

NOTE

You must install MachiningCloud from MachiningCloud, Inc. to use the tool importer in Mastercam.

Use this window to import tools from the MachiningCloud Tool Importer into your current part file or tool library.

Importing tools with MachiningCloud

Editing tools

Icons used in MachiningCloud Tool Importer

Related topics

Using the CoroPlus® ToolLibrary

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Working in the Assembly tree

Use the Assembly Tree to open, create, and edit assemblies in the open TOOLDB database. Tool Assemblies
may contain one tool and one or more holder components. Use the Assembly Tree to navigate the individual
assembly items. Any changes you make are automatically and immediately saved to the database.

Creating tooling assemblies must be done in the stand-alone Tool Manager. To work in the stand-
alone Tool Manager, select the Windows Start menu, and choose Mastercam, Tool Manager.

You can float, dock, or even move the Assembly Tree to another monitor in a multi-monitor system.

If you select (double-click) Tool Assemblies in the Database Explorer or choose the Assembly button in the Home tab, the
Assembly Tree appears below the Database Explorer and the Assemblies document appears in the documents area.

NOTE

Putting multiple tools in an assembly is not allowed and, dragging another tool onto an assembly
will replace the existing tool.
You cannot place a holder component after a tool component.

Creating and editing assemblies

Creating and editing composite holders (multi-holder assemblies)

Related topics

Working with Mastercam Tool Manager

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Working in the Database Explorer

Use Tool Manager's Database Explorer to navigate to and access content in tool database files
(TOOLDB). Right-click an item in to expand or collapse it. To work with items in the database tree view
(i.e., Cutting Tools, Tool Assemblies, Holders, Materials, and Cut Parameters), double-click the item.

This opens the database item as a document in the Documents area of the Tool Manager, populates that
document with data from the database, displays the selected database item in the Graphics Window (when
applicable), and populates the Properties Grid with the properties of the selected (highlighted) item in the
document. Here is an example of what Tool Manager displays when you select Cutting tools.

If you double-click Tool Assemblies, the Assemblies document opens and the Assembly Tree opens
below the Database Explorer.

Related topics

Creating and Editing TOOLDB Files

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Working in the Graphics Window

The Tool Manager's graphics window is part of a document, and displays what you have selected in the
document datagrid. For example, if you are working in the Assembly document, the graphics window
displays the assembly you have selected in the datagrid.

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Use the right-click menu in the graphics window to open a pop-up menu to change the size and view of
the geometry in the graphics window

Customizing the display of the graphics window

NOTE

Tools, Holders, and Assemblies documents use the graphics window. The Cut Parameters and
Materials documents do not because those types of data cannot be graphically represented.
You cannot undock or pin the graphics window by itself. It will always remain attached to the
document when you dock and undock the document.

Related topics

Documents
Editing the Assembly Position in the Graphics Window
Holder Wizard

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Working in the Properties Grid

The Properties Grid displays properties for cutting tools, assemblies, holders, extensions, materials, and
cutting parameters in the stand-alone Tool Manager. The properties displayed depend on which
document type you have open and which item you have selected in the document.

For example, if you have opened a Tools document through the Database Explorer and have selected a
tool, the Properties Grid will be populated with the data stored for that tool in the open database.

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Note that some properties data fields are editable, and when you click in a property field, a description of that
property appears in the summary area below the Properties Grid. Use the controls at the top of the Properties Grid
(shown below) to sort the list by category, alphabetically, or you can sort (filter) the properties by keyword.

Sorting by category or alphabetically

Searching

Edit holder section/segments

Adding and Editing Tool Manufacturers

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Working in the Search Window

The stand-alone Tool Manager allows you to search within a TOOLDB to find specific tool types, tools with a specific
size, holders, and other components. Click the drop-down below to view a procedure on how to use the search feature.

Open a TOOLDB file.

Select Search on the Home tab.

Click the Default searches folder to open common database searches installed with Tool Manager.
Double-click a search to open it, or use the Favorites folder to access your personal saved searches.
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Once you have selected a database search, a new row in the datagrid appears.

Use the Search item drop-down to narrow your search, such as Chuck ID or Cutting depth.
Select a search condition from the Condition drop-down.
Enter the appropriate search criteria in the Value column to further narrow your search.

NOTE

The type of data you can enter depends on what you chose in the Search item drop-down. For
example, some conditions allow you to enter numeric or text values, whereas other conditions
may cause the Value column to become a drop-down.

Use the additional Search item rows if necessary to search for multiple items at once. This allows you
to search for items that satisfy the first criteria and any subsequent ones. You cannot specifiy an Or
condition, such as Tool type = Spot drill or Tool type = Center drill.
When you are finished entering your search criteria, click Search on the Home tab to display your search results.
These results will automatically be added to your recent search list, accessed by clicking Recent on the Home tab.
If you want to save your search, click Favorites on the Home tab, enter a name for your search, and click Add.
To add a tool to the Tool Manager, drag the item from your Search Window and drop it into the Tools
document in Tool Manager.

Related topics

Working with Mastercam Tool Manager

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Working with Mastercam Tool Manager

Mastercam’s stand-alone Tool Manager (accessed from the Start Menu) provides an efficient and comprehensive way to
manage tools and tool holding components, and to create tool assemblies to use in Mastercam. In addition to the tooling
component support, Tool Manager also integrates work material and cut parameter data so that you can accommodate a
manufacturer’s cutting recommendations. You can also create your own cut parameter data and store it in the database.

With Tool Manager, you can:

Work without Mastercam open: Although you need to have Mastercam installed to run the stand-alone
Tool Manager, you do not have to have Mastercam open. You don’t even need to have a SIM plugged in.
When you create, edit, and organize your tool libraries without running Mastercam, you increase your
computer’s performance while reserving that licensed Mastercam seat for someone else.
Search: You can search for tools, assemblies, and other components that match your search
criteria. You can save searches for future use as Favorites and you can view recent searches.
Copy components between libraries: You can copy tools, holders, and assemblies from one TOOLDB
to another, open the different tool libraries in separate instances of Tool Manager and drag and drop
the tooling component from one Tool Manager to the other.
Create and edit materials and cut parameters - Tool Manager allows you to create and edit materials and cut

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parameters. These settings are stored in the tool library and are easily accessed through
Mastercam when you create or edit a tool with the Tool Wizard.
Edit multiple component: You to select multiple document items, such as multiple tools, and edit the
properties for all selected items with the Properties Grid.

Tool Manager is designed to create tool libraries (TOOLDB) that can be specific to a job and/or
machine. These tool libraries can be used as part of a job “kit” that resides on one machine, or
travels with the part. The recommended workflow is to set up your tool libraries using the Tool
Manager, and then use those libraries in Mastercam to apply to specific jobs, parts, and machines.

After installing Mastercam, you must open Mastercam before opening Tool Manager for the first time. If you
are working from a new Mastercam install and try to open the stand-alone Tool Manager without at least
opening and closing Mastercam, you will receive an error message prompting you to open Mastercam. You
don’t have to have Mastercam running to use the Tool Manager in subsequent sessions.

Related topics

Mastercam's Tool Managers

Documents

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Add/Edit Reference Tool

Mastercam uses the values in this dialog box to calculate the material removal rate for an individual tool,
to be used by the highfeed machining function. The values here are displayed in the reference tool table
in the Optimization Parameters tab for the Highfeed machining dialog box.

When you enter the highfeed function, Mastercam reads or calculates default values for all of the material removal
parameters for each tool and writes them to the table. Use the Add/Edit Reference Tool dialog box to enter this
information when you are adding a tool manually to the table, or when editing the parameters for an existing tool.

The material removal rate may be entered directly by entering the volume of material per minute;
indirectly by entering either the depth of cut and feed rate; or by entering the plunge rate. When you
enter or change one value, Mastercam will automatically update the other values.

NOTE

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Values that you enter or change here are not written back to the original operation's toolpath
parameters or the tool definition.

Parameters

Related topics

Highfeed Machining

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Arc Filter/Tolerance
Use this page to control toolpath tolerances. Typically, this involves several sets of variables.

Mastercam uses the values you enter here to convert the toolpath—originally created using G1, G2, G3 motions
—to a refined set of smoothed G1 motions wherever possible, and within the tolerances you specify.

Before refinement After refinement

Click the text below to see filtering and smoothing examples.

Line / Arc Filtering

Important Guidelines for Using Line/Arc Filtering

Smoothing

Important Guidelines for Using Smoothing

Parameters

Related topics

Filleting Toolpaths
Toolpath Corner Rounding

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Associativity: Overview
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Associativity in Mastercam refers to the relationship between entities and the toolpaths that are created
from it. When you create a toolpath, Mastercam links it to the entities. This association can be broken
only by deleting the operation. If you try to delete entities used in a toolpath, Mastercam warns you.

Associativity is what lets Mastercam regenerate a toolpath (without your having to recreate it from the beginning)
when the geometry changes. When you change an operation's parameters, use the Toolpaths Manager to regenerate
the operation. Only the toolpath that is directly affected by an edit is marked dirty. Other operations are not.

Mastercam uses the following terms to describe a toolpath and its current state of associativity:

Clean: Describes an operation whose parameters match the associated geometry. This condition
applies to all newly created operations and to operations that have been successfully regenerated.
For a toolpath or wirepath to be stable and current, its operations should be clean.
Dirty: Describes an operation whose defining parameters or geometry have changed and no
longer match. These toolpaths must be regenerated.

NOTE

You can use the Analyze Entity function on the Home tab to check for associations to a solid,
toolpath, plane, 3D annotation, or dimension.

Related topics

Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths
Toolpaths Manager

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Calculating the Proper Cornering Acceleration

Follow these steps to calculate the proper cornering acceleration, if this information is not available in
your machine tool documentation.

Making test cuts at your machine tool

Entering the information in Mastercam

Related topics

Highfeed Machining
Machine Definition Manager

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Climb and Conventional Milling

When creating certain toolpath types, such as pocket or face, you can select either climb or conventional milling.

Climb milling cuts the chained geometry with the tool rotating opposite the direction of travel along the
cutting side of the tool. This type of machining generally produces a smoother surface finish than
conventional milling. Click here to see an example of climb milling.
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Conventional milling cuts the chained geometry with the tool rotating in the same direction as the direction of
travel along the cutting side of the tool. Click here to see an example of conventional milling.

Related topics
Cutter Compensation
Cut Parameters: Pocket
Cut Parameters: Face

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Cornering Acceleration: Overview

Cornering values are the most important machine dynamics parameters used by Mastercam's highfeed machining function.
Mastercam uses them to limit feed rates at sharp corners and arcs, resulting in increased accuracy and a better finish.
Cornering parameters are stored in the machine definition on the Machine dynamics tab.

The key value is the cornering acceleration, in Gs. You can get the proper value in either of two ways:

Some manufacturers provide this information in their machine tool documentation. If so, enter this information
in the Cornering acceleration field or calculate it using the Cornering Acceleration dialog box.
If this information is not provided by the manufacturer, perform a machining test to figure out the proper value.

In addition to the acceleration, Mastercam needs to know about the minimum feed rates to be used at
the corner. First, tell Mastercam the angle threshold to use to define a corner. Enter the angle in the field
labeled Slow down to minimum cornering feed rate when direction changes (degrees). When the
toolpath approaches an area where the direction changes more than this value, the feed rate is reduced
to the minimum rate. Enter this value in the Minimum cornering feed rate field.

NOTE

The end of the plunge move and the start of the retract move are considered to be sharp corners,
since the cornering angle is measured in three dimensions.
The Look-ahead and Maximum feed rate change per block parameters also affect the way the tool is
slowed down at corners.

Related topics

Highfeed Machining
Feed Rate Smoothing
Calculating the Proper Cornering Acceleration
Machine Dynamics: General Machine Parameters

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Feed Rate Smoothing

Feed rate smoothing parameters are stored in the machine definition on the Machine dynamics tab.

Feed rate smoothing is used by Mastercam's highfeed machining function. It controls how fast the feed rate
is allowed to change between blocks. For roughing toolpaths, this happens when the tool transitions between
areas where there are significant changes in material volume. Feed rate smoothing also affects how the feed
rate changes as the tool approaches and departs corners, in combination with the cornering parameters.
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Feed rate smoothing parameters also affect the size of the NC file. If you only allow very small transitions
between blocks, Mastercam needs to create more toolpath blocks to achieve the necessary transition.
Control feed rate smoothing by entering values for the following parameters:

Recombine segments when feed rate changes less than (%)

Look ahead (% of tool diameter)

Maximum feed rate change per block

Use Accelerate to smooth feed rates to break the toolpath into even smaller segments than those created
by the Look ahead distance.

Lines and arcs that are longer than the Segment length are broken into shorter segments. Since the segments are
smaller, the machine tool cannot reach the maximum feed within a given block. Instead, the feed rate change is
limited by the Cornering acceleration. This value lets the machine slow down later as it approaches a corner and
speed up more quickly as it departs the corner, resulting in smoother motion and less tool flex. Set the Segment
length to a value less than the Look ahead distance, if your control processing speed allows.

This option is not recommended for controls that have a slow processing speed. For these controls, it
could result in longer processing time, since there are more blocks to process.

Related topics

Highfeed Machining
Cornering Acceleration: Overview

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Highfeed Colors
Use the Highfeed Colors dialog box to set the stock color and/or the color used to display the STL file.
Which color gets used depends on which type of stock model you have selected in the Stock setup tab.

For each color, choose Color to select a color or enter its number directly in the field.

Related topics

Stock Setup: Highfeed Machining

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Highfeed Machining
Highfeed machining optimizes feed rates for 2.5 axis and 3-axis mill toolpaths. It computes feed rates that
reduce machining time without sacrificing accuracy. Instead of using the same feed rate for the entire
toolpath (as entered in the toolpath parameters), Mastercam adjusts the feed rate for each tool position
based on the volume of material currently being removed. This typically results in a faster machining cycle
and better control over the machining forces. Highfeed machining has two components:

Use the machine definition to store Machine dynamics parameters for your machine tool.
Mastercam uses these to optimize feed rates around corners and in other critical locations.
Use settings in the Highfeed machining dialog box to activate high speed machining for selected toolpaths. When
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activated, Mastercam performs a sophisticated analysis of your stock model and stock removal to
calculate and maintain an optimal chip load. This includes very precise, gouge-checking algorithms.

You can use highfeed machining to optimize either roughing or finishing operations. For finishing operations,
Mastercam only uses the first part: the machine dynamics for your specific machine. Since finishing operations
typically do not have a heavy chip load, Mastercam does not perform the stock removal or chip load analysis.

Highfeed machining is not just about increasing feed rates wherever possible. It is about finding the best
feed rate, one that balances fast machining time, part accuracy, and finish quality. Sometimes the
highfeed function produces longer machining times, which can be an indication that your programmed
feed rates would not have produced a high-quality part. Proper use of highfeed machining also helps
prevent servo over-travel when the tool is stopping or changing direction sharply.

Mastercam draws on data from different places when optimizing the toolpaths:

Machine dynamics parameters are read from the machine definition for the active machine group.
Typically you will use the stock model that has been defined in the active machine group. But you
can also use an external STL file or define a different stock model in the Stock Setup tab.

Highfeed machining rules

Related topics

Feed Rate Smoothing

Stock Setup for Highfeed Machining
Optimizing Toolpaths with Highfeed Machining

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Inch and Metric Tap Drill Sizes

Use this chart to enter diameters into calculable fields. When you select a tap name from the chart,
Mastercam enters the correct diameter into the field.

Click on column headings to sort the list by that column. Drag column headers to adjust column width.

This chart displays inch and metric sizes. It converts values to match the current system units and
displays the native unit equivalents in parentheses next to the converted values.

NOTE

To determine standard tool diameters, Mastercam references entries in the following files
installed in Mastercam's \Common\FBM directory:

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FbmToolTable.xls - Used if Microsoft Excel is installed or accessible from your Mastercam workstation
FbmToolTable.csv - Used if your Mastercam workstation does not allow access to Microsoft Excel

You can customize these files using your preferred XML or text editor. However, do not change the
file names or their locations.

Related topics

Number and Letter Drill Sizes

Data Entry Shortcuts

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Lead In/Out
Use this page to create lead in/out moves for toolpaths that have a tree view list of pages for Mill or Router toolpaths.

You can create either entry moves, exit moves, or both. Select the Entry or Exit checkboxes to
activate the type of move you wish to create.
Your lead in/out move can include both lines and arcs. To use an arc only, enter a line length of 0. To
use a line only, enter an arc radius of 0.
Enter arc or line dimensions as either absolute values or a percentage of the tool diameter. When you
make an entry in one field, the other automatically updates.
Use Copy to copy entry dimensions to the exit section or exit dimensions to the entry section.

Parameters

Related topics

Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths

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Linking Parameters
Use this page to create the links between the cutting passes. In general, you can think of linking moves
as air moves when the tool is not in contact with the part, compared cutting moves which are configured
on the toolpath's Cut parameters page.

First, select a retract method. This determines how the tool will move between the end of one pass and the
beginning of another. Then, use the Leads fields to control how the tool moves onto and off of the part at the
start and end of each cutting pass. These moves are applied to each pass no matter which cutting pass is
selected. Finally, select a Fitting option to control how the entry and exit arcs will be fit into each pass.

NOTE

Mastercam creates linking moves only when the spacing between cutting passes is greater than the
Keep tool down within distance on the Cut parameters page.

Parameters

Related topics

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Retracts and Leads

Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths

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Linking Parameters: Mill/Router

Use the Linking Parameters page to define how Mastercam calculates clearance height. Other settings control tool movement for
retract, feed plane, top of stock, and depth heights. Set these heights as either absolute or incremental values.

Parameters
Stock associativity

Related topics

Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths
Absolute and Incremental Values

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Mill Toolpaths
Mastercam includes many toolpath types that let you quickly build toolpaths for specific applications.
Your ability to access specific toolpaths and features depends on your license level and the capabilities
of the active machine definition. Some Mill toolpaths are also available to other Mastercam products with
the appropriate license level. The toolpaths listed can be created with 2½- or 3-axis mills.

You can make it easier to differentiate between toolpath entities such as entry motion, transition motion,
vectors, and endpoints, by changing their color and display style. Select Advanced Display on the View tab.

Use the drop-downs below to learn more about the Mill toolpaths available to you.

2D Toolpaths

3D Toolpaths

Multiaxis Toolpaths

Toolpath Utilities

Related topics

Lathe Toolpaths
Creating Milling Operations in Mastercam Lathe
Subprograms
Router Toolpaths

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Multiple Heads
Use this page to select which machining heads to use when your machine has several machining heads defined. You can
select a single head, or you can select several heads to cut several copies of the part in "piggy-back" mode.

The Head parameters fields display the location and offset information Mastercam reads from the
machine definition. Use the Machine Definition Manager to edit these values.

NOTE

The router spindles and piggy-back heads should be selected in pairs. If you select a main head and then a piggy-
back head that are not collinear—you selected a router spindle, and a piggyback head from a different spindle—
Mastercam will generate a warning. You can continue with the toolpath, but you may not get the results you expect.

Follow these general guidelines:

Before you can select and use multiple or piggy-back heads, they need to be added to the machine
definition. You can only select heads that are included in the active machine definition.
In the Tool page select the tool. You select the tool and the heads separately. Each head will use the same tool.
Select the Multi-heads option on this page to enable the head selection features.
In the Heads window, select each head that you wish to use by clicking in the checkbox next to its name.

Parameters

Related topics

Selecting a Block Drill

Selecting an Aggregate Head

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Optimizing Toolpaths with Highfeed Machining

Follow this general outline to use Mastercam’s Highfeed machining.

If necessary, select the desired machine definition in Mastercam and enter the proper parameters
in the Machine dynamics tab.
Use the Toolpaths Manager to set up the machining job.
Make sure that the machine group uses the same machine definition where you entered the
machine dynamics parameters:

Create the toolpaths and select the ones to be optimized.

Click Highfeed on the Toolpaths Manager.
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The Highfeed dialog box displays.

Use the Optimization Parameters tab to define whether you are optimizing roughing or finishing operations, and
to edit the cutting parameters of each tool so that Mastercam can maintain your desired chip load.
Use the Stock setup tab to refine the stock model from the machine group properties, or to define one
if the machine group properties does not have one.
Preview the optimized operations in the graphics window using the Highfeed dialog box. Step through
the toolpath moves and evaluate the feed rates at key locations in the toolpaths, as well as the
overall machining time. Save them when you are satisfied with the results.
Mastercam locks the optimized toolpaths from further editing. Post the toolpaths as you normally would.

Click here for details on things that can impact the highfeed function.

Related topics

Highfeed Machining
Feed Rate Smoothing
Stock Setup for Highfeed Machining
Calculating the Proper Cornering Acceleration

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Optimization Parameters: Highfeed Machining

Use this tab to choose whether the selected operations include both Roughing and finishing, or Finishing only.

You also use this tab to edit feed rate parameters for individual tools. Mastercam uses this information, together
with the stock setup parameters, to compute feed rates that result in an appropriate chip load. The large window
contains a table of reference information for each specific tool; the parameters on the bottom apply to all tools.

Highfeed generates the reference tool table automatically when you select the operations to optimize. The tool
diameter, shape, corner radius, and feed rate are taken from the toolpath parameters for each operation.
Mastercam sets the reference depth of cut to the tool radius, regardless of the toolpath parameters.
Mastercam calculates the plunge rate and material removal rate based on the feed rate and depth of cut.

To make changes to any of the information, click on the line for the desired tool and choose Edit tool.

Whenever you change one of the following parameters, Mastercam automatically changes the others:

Depth of cut
Plunge rate
Feed rate
Volume/min (material removal rate)

NOTE

Highfeed automatically changes the reference cut depth to half the tool diameter. You may need to
check and adjust the reference cut depth.
The reference cut depths in the material removal table do not modify the cut depths in the NCI file.
If you select Finishing only, the Stock Setup tab is unavailable. Mastercam uses only the
machine dynamics parameters defined in the Machine Definitions Manager.

Parameters

Related topics

Stock Setup for Highfeed Machining

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Highfeed Machining
Optimizing Toolpaths with Highfeed Machining

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Router Toolpaths
Mastercam Router offers a wide range of toolpaths for both 2D and 3D cutting. With Mastercam Router,
you have access to two Router-specific toolpaths (Saw and Block Drill), as well as most Mill toolpaths
depending on your license level. To learn more about Saw and Block Drill, use the drop-downs below.

Saw toolpaths

Block Drill toolpaths

Related topics

Mill Toolpaths
Lathe Toolpaths

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Rotary Axis Control: Mill/Router

Use the Rotary Axis Control page to configure rotary axis motion for your toolpath. Once you select
the type of rotary motion, select the axis about which the part will rotate.

NOTE

Before you can create rotary axis motion, you need to properly configure the rotary axis components in your machine
definition. You will only be able to select rotary axis options which are supported by your machine definition.

Parameters

Related topics

Rotary: Control Definition Manager

Rotary Axis Control: Lathe

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Rotary Axis
Use the Rotary Axis dialog box to configure rotary axis motion for your toolpath. Select one of
three types of rotary motion:

Use Rotary axis positioning to index the part to a specified tool plane. The tool can then move in three axes.
Use 3-axis to rotate the part while the tool axis stays parallel to the axis of rotation. Also called polar conversion, this
replaces linear motion in X, Y, or Z with rotary motion. For example, if this is enabled about the Y axis, instead of the
tool moving linearly in Y, the part rotates to the Y-axis position. This is typically used to machine a toolpath on a
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face of a part.
Use Axis substitution to wrap a toolpath around a cylinder. The geometry can be either flat or
already properly oriented in 3D space (select the Unroll option if this is so).

Once you select the type of rotary motion, select the axis about which the part will rotate.

NOTE

Before you can create rotary axis motion, you need to properly configure the rotary axis components in your
machine definition. You only can select rotary axis options that are supported by your machine definition.

Parameters

Related topics

Rotary: Control Definition Manager

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Stock Setup: Highfeed Machining

Use this tab to refine the stock model used by the highfeed machining function. If you are only optimizing
finishing operations, you do not need to create a stock model, and Mastercam will ignore the settings on
this tab; however, if you will be optimizing roughing operations, these settings are required.

You can choose to use the stock model from the Machine Group Properties, an external STL file, or, if no
stock model has been defined in the machine group, you can define one here.

Parameters

Related topics

Optimization Parameters: Highfeed Machining

Highfeed Machining
Stock Setup for Highfeed Machining

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Stock Setup for Highfeed Machining

Highfeed machining requires an accurate stock model. If the stock model is smaller than the physical
stock, Mastercam might calculate excessively high feed rates through the material, potentially
damaging the tool, part, and increasing the potential for personal injury. If the stock model is larger than
the physical stock, you might get low feed rates through air, leading to increased machining time.

Mastercam uses the stock model only when you select Roughing and finishing in the Optimization
Parameters tab. If you will be working only with finishing operations, Mastercam assumes that there is
little remaining stock and so there is no need to adjust feed rates during the course of the toolpath.

Use the Stock setup tab in the Highfeed machining dialog box to define your stock model. You can define
either a rectangular block by entering its dimensions, or use an external STL file. If you are not using an
STL file, Mastercam gives you several options for creating rectangular stock models.
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You can also configure highfeed to integrate gouge and collision checking on the optimized toolpaths.

Related topics

Highfeed Machining
Stock Setup: Highfeed Machining
Optimization Parameters: Highfeed Machining

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Transitions
Use this page to configure the entry move that the tool will make as it transitions to new Z levels. You can
choose to create either a ramp entry, or helical entry move. The entry ramp will be a profile ramp that
follows the contour of the cutting pass for a smoother transition into the cut.

For either type of entry, use the Z clearance to tell Mastercam how far above the previous cut the
entry move should begin.
You can also choose whether to apply the regular feed rate, or the plunging rate to these moves.
These rates are specified on the Tool page.
If you choose to create a helical entry and there is not enough room, Mastercam will create a ramp entry instead.

The difference between these entry moves and the approach/retract moves you define on other
parameter pages is that the linking moves connect multiple cuts on the same Z level, while the entry
moves control the transition to a new set of cuts on a different Z level.

Avoiding small areas

Parameters

Related topics

Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths

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Toolpath Parameters: Mill/Router

Use this tab to select a tool, set feeds and speeds, and set other general toolpath parameters. Click on a
drop-down below to learn more.

Selecting a tool

Feeds and speeds

Coolant options

Other toolpath options

Parameters
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Right-click menu options

Related topics

Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths
Machine Group Properties

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Toolpath Type: Mill/Router

This page is the starting point for creating Mill/Router toolpaths that have a tree view list of pages in the
Mill/Router Toolpath dialog box. This includes many Lathe toolpaths accessed from within a Lathe
machine group, such as the C-Axis and Mill toolpaths.

Pages that you have made changes to are marked with a green check mark and pages that are inactive are
marked with a red circle and a slash. You can also use the options in the right-most side of this page to chain
geometry for the selected toolpath type, and make other selections in the graphics window for the toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths
Lathe Toolpaths
Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

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Working with HST Defaults

Default values for many cutting and linking parameters are determined by the dimensions of the selected
tool. When you select a new tool, Mastercam updates the values of these fields based on the new tool. This
is different from many other Mastercam toolpaths, where only feeds and speeds are based on the tool, not
cutting or other toolpath parameters. These are typically read from the .mcam-defaults file.

Even if you have edited some of the cutting parameters, the edited values will be overwritten when you select a new tool.
This happens even if the new tool has the same dimensions as the old one.

However, Mastercam includes an option that you can use to control this behavior. On the Toolpaths
page in the System Configuration dialog box, deselect Automatically calculate HST defaults.
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This disables the automatic update feature so that when you select a new tool, Mastercam does not
update any of the cutting or linking parameters. Instead, you will see a new button on the Tool page:

Click Recalculate values to have Mastercam update the cutting and linking parameters based
on the current tool dimensions. In this way, you can control when values are updated.

This also lets you use values from your .mcam-defaults file more like other Mastercam toolpaths. Whether or not
Automatically calculate HST defaults is selected, you can still store HST default values in your .mcam-defaults file.
However, if Automatically calculate HST defaults is active, many of the defaults will be overwritten as soon as you select a
tool. When this option is not active, the default values will persist until you explicitly choose to recalculate them.

Related topics
Working with Toolpath Defaults
3D HST Default Formula Files
3D High Speed Toolpaths

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2D High Speed Area Mill Toolpaths

Use this toolpath to machine pockets, material that other toolpaths left behind, and standing bosses or cores.

Rest Mill Strategy

From Outside Strategy

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Stay Inside Strategy

Related topics

2D High Speed Mill Toolpaths

Toolpath Type: Mill/Router
Chain Options

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2D High Speed Blend Mill Toolpaths

2D High Speed Blend Mill toolpaths morph smoothly between two open chains. You can create the toolpath along or
across the selected chains, generating the best motion for the application. The toolpath uses dynamic motion with
accelerated back feed moves when the tool is not engaged in material. This machining strategy supports the full depth of
the cutting tool, utilizing more of the cutter's flute length and resulting in less cycle time and tool wear.

Related topics

2D High Speed Mill Toolpaths

Mill Toolpaths

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2D High Speed Dynamic Milling Toolpaths

2D High Speed Dynamic milling toolpaths utilize the entire flute length of their cutting tools to
achieve efficiency in milling. They maximize material removal while minimizing tool wear. The
benefits provided by high speed dynamic milling toolpaths also include:

Tool burial avoidance

Minimum heat buildup
Better chip evacuation

Intelligent high speed dynamic milling toolpaths

Dynamic milling toolpaths support many powerful entry methods including a custom entry method, all
designed to simplify the programming of complex pocket and standing core shapes. Chain an open
boundary to define the custom entry motion. To further control the custom entry motion, specify a plunge
angle or entry pitch, along with any additional slot width or Z clearance.
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Micro lifts further refine the dynamic milling motion and avoid excessive heat build up. Entry methods
and the micro lifts support custom feeds and speeds to optimize and generate safe tool motion.

Use dynamic milling's flexible retract options to keep the tool down in smaller parts, and rapid retract on larger parts.

Related topics

Toolpath Type: Mill/Router

2D Mill Toolpaths
Mill Toolpaths

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2D High Speed Mill Toolpaths

Mastercam's 2D High Speed toolpaths are specially designed to produce the smoothest, most
efficient tool motions, optimized for high speed and hard milling.

2D High Speed Peel Mill Toolpaths

2D High Speed Blend Mill Toolpaths
2D High Speed Area Mill Toolpaths
2D High Speed Dynamic Milling Toolpaths

2D high speed toolpaths can make your current processes more efficient and automated, minimizing
programming and cycle times.

To begin creating a 2D high speed toolpath

Related topics

Chain Options
Toolpath Type: Mill/Router
2D Mill Toolpaths
Mill Toolpaths

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2D High Speed Peel Mill Toolpaths

Mastercam's 2D High Speed Peel Mill toolpath allows for efficient milling between two selected contours or along a single
contour. It uses a dynamic style of motion with accelerated back feed moves when the tool is not engaged in material. For
single chains, you define the width of the cut. Otherwise, the width is defined by the area between the two contours.

When cutting hardened material, the Peel Mill toolpath allows you to use the full flute depth of the cutter and avoid taking
many shallow cuts. You can take a deep cut relative to the tool's flute depth and use a small stepover, such as less than

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20% of diameter. This technique avoids burying the tool, easing the cutter into and out of the material.

Related topics

2D High Speed Mill Toolpaths

Router Toolpaths
Toolpath Type: Mill/Router
Mill Toolpaths

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2D Mill Toolpaths
Mastercam's 2D toolpaths are simple, but powerful and effective toolpaths for specialized machining,
such as machining pockets, faces, or chamfers.

Contour Toolpaths
Pocket Toolpaths
Face Toolpaths
Slot Mill Toolpaths
Model Chamfer Toolpaths

To begin creating a 2D toolpath

Related topics

2D High Speed Mill Toolpaths

3D High Speed Toolpaths
Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths

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2D Sort: FBM Drill/Wizard Holes

Use the 2D Sort, FBM Drill/Wizard Holes dialog box to set the drilling order for each set of points distributed in
a flat plane. Click a button to select the point sorting pattern to use. Mastercam applies the selected sort order
whenever possible in each of the drill toolpaths generated from the FBM Drill or Wizard Holes toolpath.

NOTE

The button icons describe how the points are sorted relative to the starting point.
In each icon, the red point indicates the starting point.
Hold your cursor over each button to see the name of the sort pattern.
Choose the pattern that makes the most sense for the point layout in your part.

Related topics

FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

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Across and Along Cut Distances for Lofted Toolpaths

For Lofted toolpaths, the along cut distance sets the cutting increment in the along direction, applied to the
longest along contour. It also determines the surface smoothness. The across cut distance sets the cutting
increment in the across direction (perpendicular to the along direction), applied to the longest across
contour. Mastercam uses this distance to calculate the cutter stepover between each along cut.

The more drastic the curvature on the part, the finer the cut distance should be. On a fairly flat surface,
a larger cutting distance can be used (for example, 0.150). A smaller cutting increment creates a
smoother part. However, this may result in a longer NC program.

The following picture shows an example of along and across cut distances for a Loft toolpath.

Along distance
Across cut distance

Related topics

Lofted Toolpaths
Wireframe Toolpaths

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Adding Points to a Drill Toolpath

Follow these steps to add points to a drill toolpath.

Open the Toolpath Hole Definition function panel by clicking Geometry in the Toolpaths Manager.
Multiaxis operations require you to click Select on the Cut Pattern page. The Toolpath Hole Definition
tells you whether the current list of drill points is sorted, and the most recently used sort pattern.

Select the new drill points.

Mastercam adds the new points to the Features list, and sorts them according to your currently selected Sort method.
To change your sort order, select a new method from the Sort drop-down.
Click OK to close Toolpath Hole Definition.

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6. Regenerate the toolpath.

Related topics

Turning Off Point Sorting

Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router

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Adjusting Finish Passes for Thin Wall Pockets

Finish passes on a pocket with thin walls should be cut with several z depth passes, instead of cutting the full depth at once,
to prevent breaking or over-stressing the walls. To create the passes, use the following guidelines to set values.

For surface rough pocket toolpaths

For standard pocket toolpaths

NOTE

You can use spring passes in addition to thin wall finish passes to remove any material remaining on the
walls left from the wall flexing during the machining cycle.

Related topics

Pocket Toolpaths
Surface Rough Pocket Toolpaths
Thin Wall Finish Passes

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Adjusting the Start and End of a Contour: Examples

Below are three examples of when you might adjust the start or end of a contour, instead of, or
combined with, creating regular lead in/out moves.

Clearance for turning on cutter compensation

Ensuring complete material removal and avoiding part walls

Intentionally leaving material behind

NOTE

You can also use the tabs feature for Contour toolpaths, which gives you a complete set of tools for creating tabs.

Related topics

Lead In/Out Moves for Contour Toolpaths

Contour Toolpaths

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Aggregate Selection
Use the Aggregate Selection dialog box to select an aggregate or angled head and configure it for a toolpath.

The Stations window on the left lists all of the aggregate heads that have been added to the active
machine definition. Expand each entry to see a list of the tool stations defined for it.
Stations whose orientation is compatible with the selected geometry are automatically displayed in
bold. In other words, if you are machining a feature on the right side of the part, only those tool
stations which can access that side of your part will be shown in bold.
Click on a station to select it. Right-click the selected station to select a tool for it or to edit the tool
already mounted in it.
For heads with horizontal outlets, you can enter a safe height.
If the head is capable of it, you can enter or change its angle or the angle of the tool axis for the current operation.

When you select a station, Mastercam displays other information about it, such as its location in the
head and the work offset assigned to it. The fields are disabled here so you cannot edit them. Use the
Machine Definition Manager to edit these fields if necessary.

Parameters

Right-click menu

Related topics

Component Parameters: Tool

Component Parameters: Aggregate
Selecting an Aggregate Head

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Automatic Drill Toolpaths

Automatic drill toolpaths create a complete series of drill operations for a set of arcs or points. For
example, after selecting a set of holes, Mastercam can automatically create a sequence of spot drilling,
pre-drilling, tapping, and chamfering operations.

NOTE

When working with solid models, use FBM Drill to detect holes in the solid based on specified criteria,
and automatically generate a complete series of drill operations for selected features.

Mastercam automatically selects drills from the tool library that you specify and matches them to
the diameter of the selected arcs for each drilling cycle that it creates.

If you select points, Mastercam prompts you to specify the final diameter of the hole to drill at point locations. You
can mix arcs of different diameters and Mastercam automatically selects the proper drills. However, you can only
specify a single hole size to be used for the points; so if you want to drill holes of several different diameters, you
should create arcs in your part. Mastercam does not drill a hole if it cannot find a matching drill in the tool library.

The drill cycles used in each operation are determined by the cycle stored with each tool definition. (If you select a
flat end mill as the finish tool type, Mastercam uses a drill/counterbore drill cycle for the finish drill cycle.) Mastercam
only uses cycles that have been enabled in the active control definition on the Machine Cycles page.

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The result of the automatic drilling process is a series of individual drill operations that are listed in the Toolpaths
Manager. You can then review, modify, move, or regroup each operation individually without affecting the others, using
any Toolpaths Manager function. The operations are not associative with each other after Mastercam generates them; in
other words, if you change one operation after it has been generated, Mastercam does not automatically change others in
response. You cannot go back and directly edit the auto drilling parameters. Consider using the Edit Common Parameters
dialog box if you need to change values for toolpath settings that affect all or several of the operations.

To begin using the automatic drilling function, follow this general outline:

Select Auto Drill from the Mill or Router contextual tab.

The Toolpath Hole Definition function panel displays so that you can select the drilling locations.
Once you have finished, click OK.

NOTE

To select arcs, choose Mask on Arc, and then select an arc of the desired diameter, or choose
Entities and use the Selection Bar options to select the desired arcs.

The Tool parameters tab displays so that you can begin to enter the drilling parameters. Click the help
for each tab to learn more about filling in the parameters to create the drilling operations.

Related topics

Automatic Drilling Functions

Router Toolpaths
Mill Toolpaths

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Automatic Drilling Functions

Mastercam includes automatic drilling functions that automatically create a complete series of drill operations for a
set of points or arcs. For example, after selecting a set of holes, Mastercam can automatically create a sequence of
spot drilling, pre-drilling, tapping, and chamfering operations. Mastercam picks the appropriate tools for you,
based on your specifications. Mastercam includes the following types of automatic drilling functions:

FBM Drill detects holes in a solid based on specified criteria, and automatically generates a
complete series of drill operations for the selected features.
Wizard Holes generates drill toolpaths with data exclusively from pre-selected holes created by the
SOLIDWORKS® Hole Wizard®. While some parameters of a Wizard Holes operation can be modified
in Mastercam, you can create the operation only in SOLIDWORKS with Mastercam for SOLIDWORKS.
Auto drill creates a series of drilling operations for wireframe arcs.
Drill start hole automatically creates drill toolpaths at the plunge points for one or more toolpaths
that you select. Mastercam calculates necessary plunge points for individual depth cuts or
cutting passes within the selected toolpaths.

NOTE

Mastercam no longer offers the Solid drill toolpath. However, you can modify Solid drill operations that
were created in prior versions of Mastercam and regenerate their drilling cycles. Mastercam replaces
the Solid drill toolpath type with FBM Drill, a more powerful and customizable solid drilling application.

Related topics

Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router

Router Toolpaths

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Other Drilling Applications

Mill Toolpaths

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Axis Depth for Revolved Toolpaths

For a Revolved toolpath, the axis depth is the absolute coordinate for the axis of rotation on the Z axis
of the current construction plane. The default value is the z depth of the chained cross-section. The
picture below shows an example of axis depth in revolved toolpaths.

Axis Depth
Axis of Rotation
Z=0.0000

Related topics

Trimming a Revolved Toolpath

Revolved Toolpaths
Wireframe Toolpaths

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Block Drill Toolpaths

Use Block drill toolpaths to take advantage of the capabilities of a drill block, or gang tooling. During a
block drilling operation, Mastercam selectively drops different drills depending on the holes that need to
be drilled. Block drill toolpaths are available only in Mastercam Router.

Use the different drills on the drill block to automatically drill several holes at the same time.
Mount different size drills in the block and have Mastercam automatically drop the proper drill for each hole.

Unlike most other drilling operations where you can select point entities or other locations, block drill
toolpaths require that you select arcs. Mastercam uses the arc diameter to determine which drills to
drop for each hole. You can select holes of different diameter. Mastercam drills a hole only if it finds a
drill of matching size in the block (when you create the toolpath, you can specify a matching tolerance).

Drill block parameters

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How do I create a block drill toolpath?

Related topics

Selecting a Block Drill

Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router
Router Toolpaths
Component Parameters: Drill Block

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Break Through
Use the Break Through page to cut completely through the material by an amount that you specify. Break through causes
the tool to cut into the spoil board to ensure a clean cut through the material. Always enter the break through amount as a
positive number. Mastercam adds the break through amount to the final depth of the toolpath to ensure through-cutting.

To activate the Break Through page, select Break through. Then enter a Break through amount.

Related topics

Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths

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Chamfer Contour Toolpaths

Use this toolpath to automatically cut a chamfer around a contour. Create chamfer toolpaths as stand-
alone operations that cut only chamfers.

For example, to cut a contour 30mm deep with a 2mm chamfer, create one toolpath to cut the contour to the desired depth.
Then create a separate contour chamfer toolpath to place the 2mm chamfer.

Use the chamfer field in the toolpath's Cut parameters page to set the chamfer dimensions. Typically, when creating
a chamfer toolpath, you set the Depth to 0.0 relative to the chained geometry (on the Linking parameters page), and
let Mastercam calculate the tool depth from the chamfer dimensions. Enter a non-zero Depth only if you want to
locate the top of the chamfer at a distance from the chained geometry. For example, the following toolpath uses a
depth of 0 and a chamfer width of 0.1. Mastercam calculates the actual tool depth itself:
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To create a chamfer toolpath, select 2D chamfer or 3D chamfer from the Contour type drop-down on the Cut
parameters page (Mastercam selects 2D or 3D automatically, depending on the chained geometry).

Then, enter the chamfer dimensions in the fields provided.

NOTE

You must select one of the following tool types when creating a Chamfer toolpath:

Bull-nose cutter
Ball (spherical) cutter
Chamfer mill

If you do not select one of these tool types, Mastercam displays a warning after you finish
entering the toolpath parameters.

Related topics

Contour Toolpaths
Cut Parameters: Contour

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Circle Mill: FBM

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Use this page to define circle mill roughing and finishing passes and set toolpath parameters for stock to
leave, depth cuts, and entry/exit motion. You also configure the cutting method and the type of cutter
compensation Mastercam uses for your FBM-generated circle mill toolpaths.

Parameters

Related topics

Circle Mill Toolpaths

FBM Mill Overview

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Circle Mill Toolpaths

Use the 2D Circle Mill toolpaths to mill circular pockets. You can select either point entities, center points
of arcs, solid holes, lines, or AutoCursor points. Mastercam then pockets out a circular area of the
diameter and to the depth that you specify. After milling the center of the circle, Mastercam calculates an
entry arc before approaching the perimeter and then a similar exit arc.

High speed entry moves are an option, as well. You can add enhancements such as multiple passes,
multiple depth cuts, and helical plunge moves, as well as fine-tune the entry and exit arcs. Feed rate
and spindle speed overrides are available for semi-finish and finish passes.

The following picture shows a Circle Mill toolpath with helical entry (the part has been sectioned to give
you a better view of the toolpath):

Here is the same toolpath with a straight plunge entry:

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Choose Circle Mill from the 2D gallery on Mill or Router contextual tab to begin creating a Circle Mill toolpath. The
Toolpath Hole Definition function panel displays, where you can select one or more hole locations for the toolpath.

You can also add multiaxis capability to a Circle Mill toolpath by using the Tool Axis Control page in the toolpath dialog
box. However, you must have a machine that supports multiaxis and a Multiaxis license to access these features.

Related topics

Mill Toolpaths
Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router

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Constant Z Cutting for Ruled Toolpaths

Constant Z cutting keeps the tool at a constant Z depth for each cut of a ruled toolpath. You can set the
initial cut, the final cut, and the size of the steps between the initial and final cuts. Cuts are relative to the
current tool plane (if you define a tool plane) or the XY plane (if you do not define a tool plane). The
Gouge check parameter is ignored if you enable Constant Z cutting.

NOTE

Turn the Constant Z cutting parameter to Off if you select the 5-axis cutting method.

The following picture shows an example of constant Z cutting in ruled toolpaths.

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Initial Z depth
Final Z Depth
Z Step size

Related topics

Ruled Toolpaths
Wireframe Toolpaths

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Contour Toolpaths
Contour toolpaths remove material along a path defined by a chain of curves. Contour toolpaths only
follow a chain; they do not clean out an enclosed area. You can select an unlimited number of chains
for each toolpath. You can create either 2D or 3D contour toolpaths.

2D contour toolpaths cut geometry in a single plane (typically XY) at a constant depth (Z), although
you can create multiple passes at different depths. Mastercam automatically defaults the Contour
type to 2D if you only chain 2D geometry.
3D contour toolpaths cut geometry in XY and Z, where the Z depth can vary over the toolpath. Use
this type if the geometry for each cutting pass is not contained within a single plane. Only
available if you chain 3D geometry as part of the contour toolpath.

You can chain 2D geometry, 3D geometry, or a combination of 2D and 3D geometry for contour
toolpaths. Chaining 2D geometry generates a 2D contour toolpath.

If you chain 3D geometry—or a combination of 2D and 3D geometry—you can choose to create either a
2D or 3D contour toolpath.

2D contour - offsets and flattens 3D geometry to an absolute depth, relative to the construction plane.

Absolute depth
3D entities

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3D contour type - offsets 3D geometry with depths matching the chains, then adds the incremental depth value.

Incremental depth
3D entities

Choose Contour from the selected machine's Toolpaths contextual tab to begin creating the toolpath. After
chaining the geometry, you see the Toolpath dialog box where you can enter the toolpath parameters.

Related topics

Remachining Contour and Pocket Toolpaths

Lead In/Out Moves for Contour Toolpaths
Mill Toolpaths
2D Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths

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Contour Wall
Use this page to define the stock thickness (X/Y) of the stock to be milled.

If the stock has already been cut by another toolpath, you can optionally enter the tool radius and the
toolpath radius used in the prior toolpath. Providing this extra detail ensures that any material left along
the contour wall by the preceding toolpath is considered and removed by the dynamic contour toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

2D High Speed Dynamic Milling Toolpaths

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Custom Drill Parameters

NOTE

The exact name that appears on this tab depends on the cycle you select in the Drill cycle parameters
drop-down list on the Drill Cycle parameters tab.
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Use this tab to enter values for any custom parameters that have been defined for this drill cycle.
Choose Apply custom drill parameters to activate the fields, and enter the appropriate values.

The name of this tab and the exact list of parameters that appear is determined by the Text section of the
active control definition. You can create separate sets of custom parameters for each mill and lathe drill
cycle (including custom cycles), plus a separate set for the automatic drilling function.

Related topics

Working with Post Text

Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router
Customizing Drilling Operations

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Customizing Drilling Operations

Mastercam provides several techniques for customizing Drill operations. Typically, there are two stages to
implementing these features. First, define or enable the features in the control definition for the machine you
will use. Use the Control Definition Manager to add the required text to the post file. The new features will then
be available in Mastercam's regular toolpath parameter dialog boxes (such as the Cut Parameters page for
Drill toolpaths), where you can select and apply them just like Mastercam's standard features.

Some of the ways you can customize drilling operations include:

Associate canned text with any drill point or points. Use the Post text section of the control
definition to define which canned text commands are available for your machine.
Customize the list of drill cycles and their parameters. Use the Machine cycles section in the
control definition to select which cycles will appear, and use the Post text section to customize
the names of the cycles and their parameters.
Define custom parameters for each cycle. Values for these parameters can be set on an operation-specific
basis with the Cut Parameters page or the Custom drill parameters tab, based on the selected toolpath
type. Use the Post text section to define custom parameters for a particular cycle.

You can also use the control definition to create custom integer and floating-point variables. These are
available to any toolpath type, not just drilling. For tree-style toolpaths, use the Misc Values page to
access custom variables. For tabbed-style toolpaths, use the Miscellaneous Values dialog box.

Related topics

Canned Text Overview

Working with Post Text
Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router
Lathe Drill Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Area Mill

Use the Cut Parameters page to specify cutting parameters and compensation options for a 2D Area Mill toolpath.

Parameters

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Related topics

Toolpath Corner Rounding

Arc Filter/Tolerance
Mill Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Blend Mill

Use this page to control the cutting motion Mastercam uses between the two open chains you selected for the 2D
High Speed Blend Mill toolpath. The blend cutting method can be Zigzag, One way, Spiral, From center, or To
center. The Along or Across options let you create cuts that start with the first blend chain and then morph toward
the second blend chain in either an across or along direction. For along cuts, you can change the resolution of the
tool stepover. Extending your entry or exit motion allows for fine tuning of the toolpath.

If your part has a consistent shape in the region between the blend curves or if the blend curves are similar
in shape, you may be able to make the resolution less refined: use a larger distance or percentage of
stepover, 500% or 1000%, for example. A larger stepover reduces the toolpath calculation time.

If your part has many small features (bosses or cavities), then you might need to make the resolution
more refined: use a smaller distance or percentage of stepover, 50% or 25%, for example. A smaller
stepover increases the toolpath calculation time but the toolpath will maintain a consistent stepover.

Parameters

Related topics

2D High Speed Blend Mill Toolpaths

Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Circle Mill, Helix Bore

Use the Cut Parameters page to enter values for different cutting parameters and compensation options
for a Circle Mill or Helix Bore toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics
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Cutter Compensation
Circle Mill Toolpaths
Helix Bore Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Contour

Use this page to enter cutting parameters for a Contour toolpath. Follow this general outline.

Enter values for different cutting parameters and compensation options.

Select a Contour type from the drop-down list in the upper-right corner. Selecting a contour type activates
additional parameters that display directly below the field. Use these fields to further refine the toolpath.

NOTE

Contour type fields do not display for Tab Cutoff toolpath cut parameters.

Use the pages nested below the Cut parameters page to activate and configure advanced toolpath features.

Types of contour toolpaths

Parameters

Related topics

Cutter Compensation
Using Tabs

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Cut Parameters: Drill

Use this page to select a drilling cycle and enter basic drilling parameters for the toolpath, such as peck
amounts or dwell times for those cycles that require them. The cycles that are available, and the
parameters accompanying them, depend on the active control definition.

You can also apply custom drill parameters, and enter values for any custom parameters that have been defined for
the drill cycle. Choose Apply custom drill parameters to activate the fields, and then enter the appropriate values.

NOTE

Use the control definition's Drill Cycles page to manage the list of cycles.
The exact list of custom drill parameters is defined in the Text section of the active control definition.

Parameters

Related topics

Standard Drill Cycles

Customizing Drilling Operations
Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router
Drill Cycles: Control Definition Manager
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Cut Parameters: Dynamic Milling

Use this page to specify cutting parameters and compensation options for a Dynamic Mill or Dynamic Contour
toolpath. This includes defining a microlift distance, retract moves and stock to leave. Microlifts raise the tool
slightly off of the part on back moves (non-cutting moves) to help clear chips and minimize excessive tool
heating. The Cut order optimization drop-down allows you to control where you start a new cut within a pocket.
By default, it is set to Material, which starts at the most recently machined material.

Use the pages nested below the Cut parameters page to activate and configure advanced toolpath features. These
additional parameters may include depth cuts, contour walls, finishing, entry motion, and break through amount.

Parameters

Related topics

2D High Speed Area Mill Toolpaths

Router Toolpaths
Mill Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Face

Use this page to enter cutting parameters and compensation options for a Face toolpath. Follow this general outline:

Choose a cutting style. Then set the tip compensation, and define how you want to roll the cutter around corners.
Set an overlap distance for the edges of the stock. You can also add an approach/exit distance on
the first and last passes.
Define the maximum stepover amount. Then set the cutting direction.
Choose the type of tool motion to use when transitioning between passes, and the feed rate you want to use.

NOTE

Use options in the Depth cuts page to remove the stock in several layers.

Parameters

Related topics

Face Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths
Mill Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Peel Mill

Use this page to define the cutting parameters used to create a Peel Mill toolpath. The toolpath is created using dynamic
tool motion along a single selected chain, or between two specified chains (two chains are used in the following
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illustration). Dynamic motion allows the toolpath radii to change based on the part. Instead of a full
radius between passes, the radius is altered to reduce excess motion.

NOTE

Mastercam's microlift parameters help to clear chips and minimize excessive tool heating. When
microlift is active, the tool lifts slightly off of the part on back moves, using the specified feed rate.

Parameters

Related topics

2D High Speed Peel Mill Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Pocket

Use this page to enter cutting parameters and compensation options for a pocket toolpath. Selecting a Pocket
type other than Standard activates additional parameters that display directly below the field. Use these fields
to fine-tune the cutting action. The pocket type you choose is generally based on the pocket geometry.

Parameters

Related topics

Climb and Conventional Milling

Pocket Toolpaths
Depth Cuts and Island Depths

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Cut Parameters: Saw

Use this page to configure the Saw toolpath's cutting passes. Follow this general outline:

Enter values for different cutting parameters and compensation options.

Use the pages nested below the Cut parameters page to activate and configure advanced toolpath features.
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Parameters

Related topics

Saw Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Slot Mill

Use this page to enter cutting parameters and compensation options for a Slot Mill toolpath. Use the
pages nested below the Cut parameters page to activate and configure advanced toolpath features,
including roughing and finishing passes, depth cuts, and a break through amount.

Parameters

Related topics

Cutter Compensation
Slot Mill Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Thread Mill

Use the Cut Parameters page to enter cutting parameters and compensation options for your Thread Mill toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

Thread Mill Toolpaths

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Cutting Laminates with a Contour Ramp Toolpath

Open your part file or create the geometry to be cut.
Choose Contour from the selected machine's Toolpaths tab.
Chain the geometry.
Choose the Tool page. Then select a tool and set parameters.
Choose the Linking Parameters page and enter the following values:
Set the Feed plane to a height above the part.
Set the Top of stock to the bottom of the part. This setting plunges the tool to the bottom of the part.
Set the Depth to the amount below the part that you want the tool to cut into the spoil board, or
the additional amount of tool cutting edge to use if the part is on a pod.
Choose the Cut Parameters page, and enter the following values:
Select Ramp as the Contour Type.
Select Depth as the Ramp motion. A depth ramp creates cutting motion that gradually increases in depth as the
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tool moves along the contour.

For the Ramp depth, enter the difference between the bottom of the part and the final depth.
Deselect the Make pass at final depth checkbox. Deselecting this checkbox continues the
ramping motion throughout the entire toolpath. If this option is not selected, Mastercam
ramps to the cut depth and then makes a final pass without a ramp at the final depth.
Review all toolpath properties pages, and enter your desired values for other toolpath and cutting parameters.
Choose OK to generate the toolpath.

Related topics

Ramp Contour Toolpaths

Laminate Machining Techniques

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Deep Drilling: FBM Drill/Wizard Holes

Use this page to activate and define deep drilling strategies for FBM Drill and Wizard Holes operations. Mastercam applies
the selected deep drilling strategy and drill cycle to holes whose length-to-diameter ratio (L/D) exceeds the specified value.
The correct hole depth and tool length are shown after generating the operation when splitting the holes. Split holes are
generated features that require the toolpath to be generated before the proper depths and lengths can be set.

Parameters

Related topics

Standard Drill Cycles

Customizing Drilling Operations
FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

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Depth Calculator
Use the Depth Calculator to calculate the proper drilling depth when the finish diameter of the hole is
different from the drill diameter—for example, when countersinking a hole.

Mastercam automatically displays the Tool diameter, Tool tip included angle, and Tool tip diameter for the drill that has
been selected for the operation. Deselect Use current tool values to specify different values for these parameters.

Once you calculate the depth, you have two options to modify the depth value defined on the Linking Parameters page:

Choose Overwrite depth to replace the existing depth value.

Choose Add to depth to add the calculated depth to the existing depth.

NOTE

By deselecting Use current tool values, you can use the depth calculator as a general purpose depth calculator for any drill.
Just choose Cancel without saving the results.

Parameters

Related topics
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Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router

Drill Tip Compensation

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Depth Cuts
Select Depth cuts to activate the options in this page. Use the following guidelines to set the number of depth cuts:

Enter a maximum rough step. Mastercam divides the total depth into equal steps.
Or, enter the exact number of finish steps and the size of each finish step.

Mastercam never creates unequal rough depth cuts.

Island depth cuts and island facing

Parameters

Related topics

Using Depth Cuts

Router Toolpaths
Mill Toolpaths
Subprograms

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Depth Cuts and Island Depths

Depth cuts are Z axis cuts. Use the Depth cuts page to divide the total depth into separate depth cuts.

Mastercam never performs unequal depth cuts. You can enter a maximum rough step, and Mastercam divides the total
depth into equal steps. Or you can enter the exact number of finish steps and the size of each finish step.

Depth cut parameters for pocket toolpaths and for 2D high speed toolpaths (excluding Peel Mill, Blend
Mill, and Dynamic Contour) also include the ability to use any island depths to set the depth cuts.

The first picture below shows an example of creating depth cuts using island depths. It shows the tool motion
for a cutting pass; Mastercam automatically adjusts the height so that it is at the same depth as the top of the
islands. The second picture shows how the cutting pass differs when island depths are turned off.

Subsequent passes then follow the contour of the islands.

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If depth cuts are used, the value for the current top of stock recalculates after each depth cut for the
following parameters (when using incremental values):

Clearance
Retract
Feed plane
Helix/ramp Z clearance

The depth cuts functionality is also used for creating thin wall finish passes. However, when configuring
the finish passes, you can divide the rough step so that it is appropriate for a finish operation.

Related topics

Pocket and Island Facing

Adjusting Finish Passes for Thin Wall Pockets
Pocket Toolpaths

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Depth Cuts: Engraving

Use the Depth Cuts, Engraving dialog box to enable and define depth cuts for an Engraving toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

Engraving Parameters
Engraving Toolpath

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Depth Cuts: Pocket

Select Depth cuts to activate the options in this page, and to add the following features to your pocket toolpath:

Divide the total pocket depth in increments. These will be used for both the roughing cuts and the
finish passes on the walls.
Create finishing passes for the floor of the pocket.
Create tapered walls and islands.

In addition, you have the option of outputting subprograms for each depth. This option works
only if the proper subprogram functionality has been enabled in your control definition.

To set the number of depth cuts, enter a maximum rough step. Mastercam divides the total depth into equal steps. Or, enter
the exact number of finish steps and the size of each finish step. Mastercam never creates unequal rough depth cuts.

Parameters

Related topics

Pocket Toolpaths
Subprograms
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Depths, Group and Library tab: Automatic Arc Drilling

Use this tab to enter settings for an Auto Drill or Start Holes operation. You can also use this tab to
modify settings for Solid drill operations.

NOTE

The Solid drill toolpath was removed from Mastercam. However, you can modify Solid drill operations that
were created in prior versions of Mastercam, and regenerate their drilling cycles. Mastercam replaces the
Solid drill toolpath type with FBM Drill, a more powerful and customizable solid drilling application.

Enter depths and other drilling parameters and dimensions, such as clearance and retract heights,
top of stock, and break through amount.
Use the Drill group and type area to enter a machine group name for the drilling operations. Select a machine group
from the drop-down list to add the newly created drill operations to it, or type in a new name, and Mastercam will
create it when it creates the operations. Then, tell Mastercam how to organize the arcs and their drill operations if
they lie in different planes. You can select 5-axis (multiaxis) output here if your machine is capable of it.

NOTE

For Solid drilling operations, if the holes lie in different planes (for example, the top and
sides of the part), Mastercam automatically orients these values to the plane of the hole.

Choose the tool library from which Mastercam will select the drills. Mastercam will use the
Diameter match tolerance value when matching drills from the library to specific holes.

Parameters

Related topics

Absolute and Incremental Values

FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview
Automatic Drill Toolpaths
Start Hole Toolpaths Function

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Detection States and Modes in FBM

The following sections describe the differences between FBM's detection states and modes.

Detection modes in FBM

Detection has two modes: quick and full. Full detection reanalyzes the entire solid model and
completely rebuilds the Features page list. The first detection Mastercam runs for the FBM operation
is a full detection. After this, Mastercam performs full detection only under the following conditions:

FBM Drill: If any parameters in the Hole Detection or Tools pages were modified since the last detection.
FBM Mill: If the Setup page Search plane setting has changed. Or, in the Feature Detection page, if
the Edge curves or Recognize holes greater than this diameter as features settings were modified.
FBM Mill and FBM Drill: You choose OK to save the FBM operation, and it is in a dirty detect state.

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For all other changes that require detection (dirty detect state), Mastercam uses the quick detect
mode to update information in the Features page list. Quick mode detection is significantly faster
because the solid model is not re-analyzed.

Accept the FBM operation only when Detect is in a clean state (see "Detection states in FBM" below), you
have carefully reviewed the results in the Features page, and you have made the necessary adjustments.
Otherwise, the resulting operation may not match the Features page list you viewed and approved.

Detection states in FBM

FBM detection has two states: clean and dirty.

Icon Description
Clean: Detection is not required. The Features page contains the most current list of
features and machining information.
Dirty: Detection is required because it has not yet been run, or changes were made to the FBM operation's
parameters since the last feature detection. The Features page does not contain the most current list of features
or machining information. Click the button to re-detect features and change its status to a clean state.

Related topics

FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

FBM Mill Overview

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Drill Block Selection

Use the Drill Block Selection dialog box to select a drill block and configure it for a block drill operation.

The Tool group window on the left lists all of the drill blocks that have been added to the active
machine definition. Select a drill block to see its drill layout in the window to the right.
Expand the block to see a list of its tool stations. Right-click the selected station to edit the drill
mounted in it, or select a different one.
For blocks with horizontally mounted drills, enter a safe height. This is a vertical distance measured
directly above the table, regardless of which plane is active or used in the toolpath.

When you select a station, Mastercam displays other information about it, such as its location in the
block and the work offset assigned to it. The fields are disabled here so you cannot edit them. Use the
Machine Definition Manager to edit these fields if necessary.

Parameters

Right-click menu

Related topics

Block Drill Toolpaths

Component Parameters: Drill Block
Drilling Blind Holes Using a Block Drill Toolpath
Selecting a Block Drill

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Drill Start Holes

Use the Drill Start Holes dialog box to drill start holes for one or more toolpaths. Mastercam determines where plunge holes are
required and calculates the dimensions of the start holes based on the sizes of the tools used in those operations.

First, select the desired operations from the window. Then, tell Mastercam if you want to add some
space to the holes. By default, Mastercam creates a start hole slightly smaller than the roughing tool.

Choose Basic to create just a simple drill operation using the options in this screen, or choose Advanced
to include pre-drill or spot drill cycles or use other advanced drilling features. You can use all of the
automatic drilling toolpath tabs to configure the start hole operation.

Finally, select the tool library in which Mastercam looks for the drills it needs. It will search the library
for drills that match the sizes of the holes it calculates. If Mastercam does not find an exact match, it
tries to find a drill whose diameter is within the specified Diameter match tolerance of the hole.

Parameters

Related topics

Start Hole Toolpaths Function

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Drill Tip Compensation

Use the Drill Tip Compensation dialog box to tell Mastercam how far to drill past the final depth to
break through the stock. Enter a positive number only.

Set the breakthrough amount to zero to have Mastercam calculate the tip compensation only. Mastercam sets
the Tip angle to the value stored in the tool definition for the selected drill. You can override this if you want.

Parameters

Related topics

Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router

Depth Calculator

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Drill Toolpaths: Mill/Router

Use the 2D Mill Drill toolpath to drill holes by using the selected arcs, circles, solid holes, lines, or AutoCursor
points. The Drill toolpath supports many types of standard drill cycles, and you can customize drill operations.
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Choose Drill from the 2D gallery on Mill or Router contextual tab to begin creating a Drill toolpath. The Toolpath
Hole Definition function panel displays, where you can select one or more hole locations for the toolpath.

You can also add multiaxis capability to a Drill toolpath by using the Tool Axis Control page in the toolpath dialog box.
However, you must have a machine that supports multiaxis and a Multiaxis license to access these features.

Related topics

Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router

Mill Toolpaths
Custom Drill Parameters
Customizing Drilling Operations

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Drilling Blind Holes Using a Block Drill Toolpath

Blind holes are drilled partially through the stock, often using a brad point drill. You can set up
Mastercam to automatically detect and drill blind holes using the block drilling toolpath. Mastercam
gives preference to the brad point drills for creating these holes.

To drill blind holes, you will need to:

Set up the drill block by adding brad point tools of the diameter of the blind holes. Drill blocks are
the component Mastercam uses to represent gang tooling.
Set up the stock. Mastercam requires a stock definition so that it can tell the difference between through holes and blind
holes. Mastercam looks at all the arcs selected for the block drill toolpath. Arcs that are above the bottom of the stock
and lower than the top of the stock are drilled as blind holes. Arcs at the bottom of the stock or lower are drilled as
through holes. To avoid excessive tear-out, Mastercam will not use the brad point drill tools in a block drill

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to drill through holes.

How do I create a block drill toolpath to drill blind holes?

Related topics

Selecting a Block Drill

Block Drill Toolpaths
Component Parameters: Drill Block
Axis Combination

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Edit Tabs
Use the Edit Tabs dialog box to edit individual tabs that have been created for a contour toolpath or for
a tab cutoff operation. If you have created a separate cutoff operation, you need to apply changes to
both the original contour toolpath and to the cutoff operation separately.

Instead of editing individual tabs in the Edit Tabs dialog box, it is often easier to edit the original toolpath and recreate the
entire tab set. Click on Parameters in the Toolpaths Manager for the original toolpath, and choose the Tabs page.

The Edit Tabs dialog box contains the following buttons:

Attributes: Opens the Tabs dialog box, where you can change the attributes of just the selected tab.
Move: Click a tab location, and drag it to a new position. Press [Esc] when you have finished moving tabs.
Add: Click a location on the contour to create a new tab.
Delete: Removes the selected tab from the chain.
Delete all: Removes all tabs from the selected chain.

Related topics

Editing Tabs
Tab Cutoff Toolpaths

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Editing Tabs
Once you have added tabs to a Contour toolpath, Mastercam gives you two ways to edit them.

First, locate the source Contour toolpath in the Toolpaths Manager, and click Parameters. This lets you access the Tabs
page and the Tab Cutoff page. These let you view and edit the original tab parameters. Changes you make in this way
affect all the tabs in the toolpath. The only function you cannot access is the option to create a separate cutoff operation.

Second, you can edit individual tabs. You can add, delete, or move individual tab locations, or change the
size and shape of a single tab. Follow these steps to edit individual tabs:

In the Toolpaths Manager, click on the geometry icon for the contour toolpath which contains the
tabs. The Chain Manager displays.
Right-click on the desired chain, and choose Edit tabs. You have to right-click directly on the chain for this option
to be active; if you click in the white space in the Chain Manager window, it will not be available.

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The Edit Tabs dialog box appears, where you can:

Move tabs
Add a new tab location
Edit the size or attributes of a specific tab location
Delete single tab locations, or delete all tab locations

Note that if you have created a separate cutoff operation for the tabs, the changes you make to the tabs in the original
operation will not affect the cutoff operation. Follow steps 1 and 2 directly on the cutoff operation to edit its tab locations.
For example, if you add a new tab location, you will need to add the location once in the original contour so that
Mastercam will leave the tab, and then a second time in the cutoff operation so that the new tab is cut off.

Related topics

Using Tabs

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Engrave Geometry Manager

Use the Engrave Geometry Manager dialog box to reselect geometry for an Engraving toolpath that uses the
Wrapping option. Wrapping requires additional curves, points, and surfaces for positioning the toolpath. Use
the Engrave Geometry Manager to make changes to the geometry selection. The geometry needed for the
toolpath depends on the wrapping type you selected in the Wrapping toolpath dialog box.

Parameters

Related topics

Wrapping an Engraving Toolpath on a Surface

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Engrave Remachining
Use the Engrave Remachining dialog box to choose the method of remachining. An Engraving remachining toolpath uses a
smaller tool to remove material that can‘t be removed by the roughing tool, and then makes a finish pass. Mastercam can
calculate the material to be removed either from the previous operation or from the dimensions of the roughing tool.

If you use a previous operation to calculate the remaining stock for an engraving remachining operation, the
operations cannot be rearranged later in the Toolpaths Manager. If you move the remachining operation before the
previous operation, the remachining operation cannot correctly calculate the area of the roughing operation.

Parameters

Related topics

Engraving Toolpath
Engraving Parameters

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Engraving Parameters
Use this tab to set the parameters of your engraving toolpath. You can set the toolpath to roll around
sharp corners, wrap a toolpath on a curved surface, filter points from the toolpath for smoother motion,
specify the number and type of depth cuts, and remachine the toolpath.

If you use a flat cutter to machine out a cavity and plan to remachine the corners, you can enter an Angle for
flat cutter offset that will offset the tip of the straight (flat) bit to match the V-groove tip position of the
engraving bit or chamfer bit so that the roughing operation does not gouge the engraved edge.

Parameters

Related topics

Engraving Toolpath

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Engraving Toolpath
The Engraving toolpath creates the effect of classic hand-carved art when machining. The list below
describes tips and guidelines when creating an Engraving toolpath.

Engraving requires closed boundaries.

Engraving requires a V-groove tool, such as an engraving or chamfer tool.
Inner boundaries are islands and can be embossed by selecting Rough on the Roughing/Finishing
parameters tab of the Engraving toolpath dialog box.
You can remove material from a cavity using an Engraving roughing toolpath and a straight (flat) bit. On the Engraving
parameters tab of the Engraving toolpath dialog box, enter an Angle for flat cutter offset that matches the engraving
tool you selected. Set XY stock to leave to leave material for the finish pass. After creating the roughing operation,
reselect the geometry and create an engraving toolpath to carve the geometry with the selected tool.
When creating a roughing operation for engraving, set the Tolerance on the Roughing/Finishing
parameters tab of the Engraving dialog box to a value smaller than the XY stock to leave (located on
the Engraving parameters tab) but larger than the default. A looser tolerance will reduce the size of
the NC program. After creating the roughing operation, reselect the geometry and create a
remachining operation to clean up areas of material left by the roughing operation.

Related topics

Engraving Parameters
Roughing/Finishing: Engraving

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Entry Motion: Dynamic Mill

Use this page to configure an entry method for the Dynamic Mill toolpath. This determines how and
where the tool enters the part, and the cutting method/machining strategy used by the toolpath. Other
parameters let you further refine the entry moves, and set entry feeds and speeds.

NOTE
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If you edit the Entry method options, they will not be updated if you re-chain.
If you select an Entry chain:
If you select a point chain, Entry method is automatically set to Helix only and Center helix
on point is selected.
If you select a closed/open chain, Entry method is set to Custom, use entry chain.
If you select a closed/open chain and a point, Entry method is set to Custom, use entry chain.

Parameters

Related topics

2D High Speed Mill Toolpaths

Router Toolpaths
Mill Toolpaths

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Entry Motion: Pocket

Use this page to add helical entry or ramp entry moves to the roughing passes in a pocket toolpath. If you
choose to turn Off entry motion, Mastercam plunges the tool to the pocket depth at the start of the toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

Pocket Toolpaths

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Face Toolpaths
Use a facing toolpath to quickly clean the stock from the top of a part, qualify the top of the part, and create an even
surface for future operations. You can base the toolpath on either chained geometry or on the current stock model.

When facing the stock, it is important to have the tool overlap the edges of the part by at least 50% of its diameter to
prevent leaving little scallops of material at the edges of the stock. Mastercam provides additional options for zigzag and
one way cutting methods to minimize burring or chipping on the final pass along the opposing edge of the face.

To begin creating a face toolpath, choose Face from the selected machine's Toolpaths contextual tab.

Use the Chaining dialog box to select the part geometry, or simply choose OK without selecting
anything to use the stock model from the machine group properties. Use the properties pages in the
toolpath dialog box to enter the toolpath parameters and complete the toolpath.

To face islands, consider using Mastercam's pocket toolpaths, which include an automatic island facing feature. You can
also face islands using Mastercam's 2D high speed toolpaths (excluding Peel Mill, Blend Mill and Dynamic Contour).

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Related topics

Pocket and Island Facing

2D Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths
Mill Toolpaths

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Facing: FBM Mill

Select Enable facing on this page to add a face toolpath to the FBM Mill operation and to define its
cutting passes. In the FBM Mill toolpath group, Mastercam creates the face toolpath first.

NOTE

Mastercam selects tools for face operations based on settings you choose in the FBM Mill setup and
FBM Mill tools pages.
Other parameters for the toolpath type come from values in the operations DEFAULTS file, as
defined in the Files tab for the machine group. You can also use options in the machine group's
Tool settings tab to replace some of the operation defaults with tool definition defaults.

Parameters

Related topics

Face Toolpaths
FBM Mill Overview

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FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

FBM Drill is a robust feature-based machining (FBM) strategy. FBM Drill automatically detects holes in a
solid based on your specified criteria and generates a complete series of drilling and chamfering
operations for the detected features. FBM Drill also generates circle mill or helix bore operations for
large-hole features when you activate the hole milling page and settings.
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A Wizard Holes operation is another FBM strategy that generates drilling cycles with data exclusively from pre-selected
holes created by the SOLIDWORKS® Hole Wizard®. While some parameters of a Wizard Holes operation can be modified
in Mastercam, the operation can only be created in SOLIDWORKS with Mastercam for SOLIDWORKS.

Within each FBM drilling operation type, you perform the following basic functions:

Set criteria for hole detection (FBM Drill only)

Review the detected features list and edit or delete features
Preview toolpath operations and make additional changes before they are generated
Automatically generate a complete series of drilling and milling operations for the selected features

Hole detection is based on selected characteristics and includes blind, through, co-axial, and holes split between faces.
FBM Drill also reads hole data from solids created with the SOLIDWORKS Hole Wizard.

You can choose to group operations by tool or by plane. Use other FBM Drill options to define deep
drilling, spot drilling, and pre-drilling operation parameters.

You control the tool selection by using tools already in the .mcam file, choosing a tool library, and
allowing Mastercam to create tools, when necessary. When you activate hole mapping for the FBM Drill
operation, Mastercam uses data in the selected hole mapping file to automatically assign specific tools
to specific hole features (as defined by diameter and hole type).

FBM-generated operations are nested in the Toolpaths Manager under their parent FBM operation. You can
change parameters in the FBM parent operation and regenerate all of the toolpaths. You can also customize the
generated toolpaths before posting. Associativity is maintained between the solid model, the FBM Drill parent
operation, and its generated toolpaths. Associativity is maintained between the solid model, the FBM Drill or
Wizard Holes parent operation, and its generated toolpaths. Mastercam notifies you when any of these
associative entities have been modified by marking the model and operations as "dirty."

FBM Drill Requirements

NOTE

If you customize FBM-generated toolpaths, do so only when you are sure that you will not regenerate the FBM
parent operation. Any customization is overwritten when the FBM-generated toolpaths are recreated.
If you plan to create FBM Mill and FBM Drill operations in the same part, for optimal results, create the FBM Mill
operation first and generate its toolpaths. Then add the FBM Drill operations and generate its drill cycles.
The drill cycles used in each operation are determined by the cycle stored with each tool definition. Mastercam uses
only cycles that have been enabled in the active control definition on the Machine Cycles page.

Related topics

FBM Mill Overview

Feature Based Machining

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FBM Mill Overview

FBM Mill is a powerful feature-based machining (FBM) strategy. With a single operation, FBM Mill
analyzes a solid part, detects all machining features in a specified plane, and automatically generates all
of the 2D milling toolpaths necessary to completely machine the selected features.

Features Detected and Machined

FBM Mill-generated Toolpaths

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Tool Selection

FBM Mill Requirements

NOTE

If you customize FBM-generated toolpaths, do so only when you are sure that you will not regenerate the FBM
parent operation. Any customization is overwritten when the FBM-generated toolpaths are recreated.
Currently, FBM Mill detects only pockets with flat floors and straight walls in a single plane.
If you plan to create FBM Mill and FBM Drill operations in the same part, for optimal results, create the FBM Mill
operation first and generate its toolpaths. Then add the FBM Drill operation and generate its drill cycles.

Related topics

FBM Mill-generated Toolpaths

FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview
Feature Based Machining
Tapered Feature Detection and Machining: FBM Mill

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FBM Mill Tools

Use this page to manage tool selection for the finish operations FBM Mill creates. In the large
window, use right-click menu options to select up to 10 preferred tools for the operation type.

Mastercam uses the selected tools only when Preferred tooling is enabled in the Setup page, as
shown in the following picture.

The Automatic tool selection parameters in the tools pages apply to some or all of the following types of tools.

Tools in the part file

Tools in the selected library
Tools created by Mastercam for the operation
Tools used to fillet internal feature edges in the X and Y axes.

NOTE

You can save the default list of preferred tools and other FBM Mill parameters in the operations .mcam-
defaults file. Click Save parameters to defaults file located at the top of this dialog box.

Parameters

Right-click menu options

Related topics

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FBM Mill Overview

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FBM Mill-generated Toolpaths

From a common set of parameters, FBM Mill creates all of the 2D toolpaths necessary to machine the
features it detects in a solid model.

The following table shows the relationship between detected features and the types of toolpaths that FBM
Mill generates to machine them.

NOTE

FBM Mill generates one face toolpath and one outside contour toolpath per FBM Mill operation
if the stated conditions are met.
For complex nested pockets, FBM Mill creates a separate zone for each depth.

For each zone, FBM Mill generates a set of toolpaths to completely machine the zone. The types of toolpaths
created for each zone appear in the highlighted (gray) section of the table. In the Toolpaths Manager,
Mastercam creates a separate toolpath group for each zone and its FBM Mill-generated toolpaths.

Use the FBM Mill parameters pages to control the types of toolpaths FBM Mill generates for your part.

Feature type FBM Mill-generated toolpath

Facing* (top of part) Face Toolpaths
Open pockets
Closed pockets (excluding from hole 2D High Speed Area Mill Toolpaths roughing
milling or slug cutting)
Feature walls (finishing) Pocket Toolpaths (standard or open)
Feature floors (finishing) 2D High Speed Area Mill Toolpaths (open and closed pockets)
Contour Toolpaths or Ramp Contour Toolpaths (roughing/finishing passes)

Through pockets selected for slug cutting

Remachining Contour and Pocket Toolpaths (restmill passes
defined in Slug Cutting: FBM Mill)
Round through hole features selected Helix Bore Toolpaths or Circle Mill Toolpaths (defined in Hole Milling:
for hole milling FBM Mill)
Outside part profile** Contour Toolpaths

*= Must activate Enable facing in the Facing page, and Top of stock must be higher than the top of the
part in the Z-axis. Facing toolpaths are generated only for rectangular or cylindrical stock model
(defined in the Machine Group Properties dialog box).

**= Must activate Rough outside of part or Finish outside of part in the Setup page.

Related topics

FBM Mill Overview

Feature Based Machining
Router Toolpaths
Mill Toolpaths

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FBM Warnings
Use the FBM Warnings dialog box to view a list of warnings or messages that Mastercam reports
after generating toolpaths for the FBM operation.

The list displays in a text-editing window that supports text entry and basic editing functions (delete, copy, cut, and paste).
Resize the window as necessary to better view the information.

Use the following guidelines when working in this dialog box:

To add or modify text, position the cursor in the window and either manually type, or cut, copy, and paste text.
To print or save the information to a text file, select all text. Then copy and paste it in your preferred
text editor. Use the text editor's functions to print or save the text.
To undo all changes made in the text window and restore it to its initial state, choose Reset.

A tool found to contain zero RPM or feed rate has been updated.

Right-click menu options

Related topics

FBM Mill Overview

FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

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Feature Based Machining

Features define a solid part's topology. They describe the part's physical properties including its faces,
and the shape, size, and location of holes, slots, pockets, bosses and other characteristics.

Mastercam's feature-based machining (FBM) eliminates the manual processes involved in identifying features for
programming milling and drilling operations on solid parts.Mastercam's feature-based machining (FBM) eliminates the
manual processes involved in identifying features for programming milling and drilling operations on solid parts.

FBM analyzes the part for specific feature types and automatically creates the individual toolpaths
needed to machine the selected features.

FBM Mill and Mastercam's two FBM drilling operation types, FBM Drill and Wizard Holes, use information derived from the
part's features in combination with the machine group's stock definition. With this information and the guidelines you
define for the FBM operation type (Mill, Drill, or Wizard Holes) Mastercam performs the following tasks:

Detects all features for the selected FBM operations type, based on your selection criteria (FBM Mill and Drill)
Detects all features based on Hole Wizard data that is pre-selected in a SOLIDWORKS document
with Mastercam for SOLIDWORKS (Wizard Holes)
Wizard Holes operations can only be created in Mastercam for SOLIDWORKS. Contact your
Reseller for more information.
Intelligently designs an effective machining strategy
Selects the appropriate tools, either from your preferred tools list or from libraries you specify
Creates and assigns boundaries needed to drive or constrain tools
Automatically generates all of the toolpaths necessary to machine the features

With any FBM operation type, you review all of the identified machining features, and can selectively modify or remove
features from the list before generating toolpaths. You can easily change parameters in the FBM parent operation and
regenerate all of the toolpaths. You can also customize the generated toolpaths before posting. Associativity is maintained

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between the FBM parent operation and the generated toolpaths. FBM Drill and Wizard Holes also
maintains associativity with the solid model. Mastercam notifies you when any of these associative
entities have been modified, marking them as "dirty."

Mastercam marks the FBM Mill or Drill parent operation and the Detect button in the parameters as "dirty"
when you modify and regenerate the solid model. With Wizard Holes, only the parent and drill cycles are
marked dirty. You need to edit the FBM parent operation, re-detect the features, and regenerate the FBM
operations when the solid model has been hanged. You need to edit the FBM parent operation, re-detect or re-
select the features, and regenerate the FBM operations when the solid model has been changed.

Guidelines

Related topics

FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

FBM Mill Overview

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Feature Detection: FBM Mill

Use this page to control the types of features FBM Mill detects. For example, you can include pockets
that extend through the part and set a minimum diameter to exclude small drill holes from detection.

You can choose a pocketing or hole milling strategy to machine the round features FBM Detects. If you choose Hole
milling, use the parameters on the Hole Milling and the Circle Mill or Helix Bore pages to define the toolpath settings.

During feature detection, Mastercam creates edge curve geometry for the FBM Mill-generated
toolpaths. Use options on this page to assign a level to this geometry.

Only features that match your detection criteria appear in the Features page for review. Mastercam
automatically creates toolpaths for detected features when you save the FBM Mill operation.

Choose Detect (shown below) in this dialog box to detect features. You can also configure Mastercam
to detect features when the FBM Mill dialog box opens. To do this, select Automatic initial feature
detection in the Setup page, and then save the setting to the operations .mcam-defaults file.

Parameters

Related topics

FBM Mill Overview

FBM Mill-generated Toolpaths

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Feature Selection Filter

Use the Feature Selection Filter dialog box to define a filter that automatically selects all holes in the
Feature list with common attributes. When you finish selecting the attributes, click OK to exit.

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All hole features that match your filter are pre-selected in the list, making it easy to review and edit them
as a group using the Features page right-click menu options.

Parameters

Related topics

FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

Features: FBM Drill/Wizard Holes
Working in the FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Features

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Feature Summary: FBM Drill/Wizard Holes

Use the Feature Summary, FBM Drill/Wizard Holes dialog box to view a summarized list of all detected
features grouped by hole type, diameter, and finish tool.

Each line summary contains the following information:

Number of detected features in the summary group

Tool diameter
Tool source:
MCAM: Part file
LIB: Tool library
XLS: FBM standard tool definitions file, used when FBM is allowed to create tools
Hole type
Tool definition

NOTE

Tool source is based on your tool selection settings in the FBM Drill or Wizard Holes Tools page.

Related topics

Working in the FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Features

Tool

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Features: FBM Drill/Wizard Holes

Use this page to manage the list of hole features that the FBM drilling operation detects in the solid model. The
holes and machining information in the list are based on the parameters you set in the operation's other pages.

For each hole listed, you can use right-click menu options to change the hole type, tool plane, and finish
tool. You can also delete holes from the list (select and press [Delete]), or use the right-click Suppress
option to exclude them from the operation.

When you accept the operation, Mastercam creates drill cycles for all holes in the Features list that can be machined.

Make these modifications only at the final stage of creating the FBM drill operation. Detect rebuilds the
Features page list, overwriting any hole type, plane, and finish tool modifications.

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NOTE

The Features page settings are saved within the part file after choosing OK. The saved settings—
including assigned hole types, finish tools, suppressed states, and planes—are applied to existing
features even if Detect is selected again.
Imported SOLIDWORKS® data is the exception to this rule. On redetect, Mastercam replaces all
imported SOLIDWORKS Hole Wizard® data with feature data detected in the Mastercam part file.
To delete all saved data and regenerate new data for the FBM Drill operation, activate the Delete
existing features on detect checkbox in the Hole Detection page, and then detect features.
Different options display when you right-click in the Hole type, Plane, and Finish tool columns.
The Z1 column displays the depth where the hole feature starts. For co-axial features, the Z1 value is
also the bottom (end) of the feature that is positioned immediately above the next co-axial feature.
The Depth column shows the distance between Z1 and the designed bottom of the hole.
Hole information is not listed until you click Detect, located at the top of the dialog box. Choose
Detect whenever you make changes to FBM Drill parameters. Then view results in the Features
page carefully before saving the operation.

Use [Shift+click] and [Ctrl+click] methods to select more than one hole in the list.
Features with this status indicate that Mastercam cannot completely machine them using the
current tool selection and FBM drilling parameters.

If you are working with an imported SOLIDWORKS part, and you have SOLIDWORKS installed on your
local PC, click Select SOLIDWORKS file to open the model's .sldprt file and update the features list
with imported SOLIDWORKS Hole Wizard data.

Parameters

Right-click menu options

Related topics

FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

Working in the FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Features

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Features: FBM Mill

Use this page to manage the list of features that FBM Mill detects in the solid model. The features and
machining information in the list are based on the parameters you set in other FBM Mill pages.

NOTE

Features are not listed until you click Detect, located at the top of the dialog box.
Click Detect whenever you make changes to FBM Mill parameters. Then carefully view results in the
Features page before saving the operation.

For complex nested pockets, Mastercam creates a separate zone for each depth and creates the edge curve geometry

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required to machine it. When you click on a feature or zone in the list, Mastercam highlights the drive
geometry in the graphics window.

Parameters

Related topics

FBM Mill Overview

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Filter Settings: Engraving

Use the Filter Settings, Engraving dialog box to set parameters for Engraving toolpath filtering
(toolpath optimization), which includes:

Tolerance for replacing multiple linear tool moves with a single move
Mastercam adds the filter cut tolerance to the precision tolerance that is set on the Roughing/Finishing tab.
If you set a .001 cut tolerance and a .001 precision tolerance, the total tolerance will be .002.
Number of points Mastercam looks ahead when filtering a toolpath
Minimum and maximum arc radius.
Optional replacement of linear moves with arcs

Parameters

Related topics

Engraving Parameters
Engraving Toolpath

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Finish Passes
Use this page to add high speed finishing passes along the selected boundaries of the toolpath. After
selecting the Finish pass option, use the other parameters on this page to further define the finish pass,
such as feed rate and spindle speed overrides. Use the stock-to-leave options on the Cut parameters page
to ensure there is material for the finish passes. A peel mill toolpath with two finish passes is shown below.

Parameters
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Related topics

2D High Speed Blend Mill Toolpaths

2D High Speed Peel Mill Toolpaths

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Finishing: Circle Mill

Activate this page by selecting Finishing. When you define multiple cutting passes, the tool approaches
the part geometry at the cutting depth in steps instead of cutting right to the part geometry.

Semi-finish passes
Finish passes
Circle geometry

Use the following guidelines to create semi-finish and finishing passes:

Enter a value for the number of passes.

Define the spacing distance.
Choose whether to override the operation's feed rate and spindle speed.
Set the machining depth for finish passes.
Choose whether to retract or to keep the tool down between all passes.

NOTE

You can also combine multiple passes, which divide the distances in the XY or cutting plane, with depth
cuts, which divide plunge moves into Z-axis increments.

Parameters

Related topics

Using Multiple Cutting Passes

Using Depth Cuts

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Finishing: Dynamic Contour

Use this page to add a high speed finishing pass along the contour walls. After selecting the Finish pass
option, use the other parameters on this page to further define the finish pass, such as the number of
passes and spacing, and the feed rate and spindle speed overrides.

NOTE

The Stock to leave on walls value you set in the Cut parameters page plus the Number of passes and
Spacing you specify here defines the amount of material the roughing pass removes in the XY axes.

Parameters

Related topics

2D High Speed Dynamic Milling Toolpaths

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Finishing: Pocket
Select Finish to activate the options in this page, and to create finishing passes for your pocket
toolpath. Leave this option deselected to create only roughing passes.

Follow these general guidelines to create finishing passes:

Enter the number of passes.

Define the amount of stock to remove with each pass.
Select the type of cutter compensation.

You can also choose to override the feed rate and/or spindle speed that was set in the Tool page, and
to divide the finish pass into multiple depth cuts for thin-wall pockets.

NOTE

The entry method selected in the Entry Motion page applies only to roughing passes. For finish passes,
Mastercam automatically places the starting point at the midpoint of the first chained entity in the chain
direction. Use the Lead in/out page to create more refined entry and exit moves.

Parameters

Related topics

Pocket Toolpaths
Adjusting Finish Passes for Thin Wall Pockets

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Floor Finish: FBM Mill

Select Enable floor finish to add finish passes for the floor of each pocket feature in the FBM Mill operation. When this
option is deselected, Mastercam creates only roughing and restmill operations for pocket floors. Finish toolpaths remove
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material left from the restmill operations to the Stock to leave depth you define in this page.

NOTE

Mastercam selects tools for finish operations based on settings you choose in the FBM Mill Setup
and Finish tools pages.
Stock to leave on walls must be greater than or equal to the stock left on the floor. The exceptions are
horizontal area passes in 2D high speed toolpaths, and 3D high speed toolpaths.
Other parameters for the toolpath type come from values in the operations .default file, as defined in
the Files tab for the machine group. You can also use options in the machine group's Tool settings
tab to replace some of the operation defaults with tool definition defaults.

Parameters

Related topics

FBM Mill Overview

Leaving Stock on Drive and Check Geometry

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Helix Bore: FBM

Use this page to create roughing and finishing passes, and to define cutting parameters and
compensation options for the Helix Bore toolpaths that FBM generates.

Choose Finish to enable the finish pass options. Typically, if you use this option, you would set the Stock
to leave values to 0.

You can set feed rate overrides separately for each type of cut (rough and finish).

Parameters

Related topics

Helix Bore Toolpaths

FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview
FBM Mill Overview

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Helix Bore Toolpaths

Use Helix bore to machine a hole using helical motion. Roughing passes are created as you cut down the hole.
You have the option to create finish passes in the same operation. Select how finishing passes are created:

From the bottom up

From the top down
A single circular pass at the bottom of the hole

Like a circle mill toolpath, you only need to chain a single point to create the toolpath; the outer
diameter of the hole is determined by your toolpath parameters.

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Choose Helix Bore from the Mill or Router Toolpaths contextual tab to begin creating a Helix Bore toolpath. The
Toolpath Hole Definition function panel displays, where you can select one or more hole locations for the toolpath.

Related topics

Circle Mill Toolpaths

Router Toolpaths
Mill Toolpaths

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Helix: Helix/Ramp Parameters

Use this tab to add a helical entry move to the Surface Rough Pocket operation. You can add either a helix or a
ramp entry, but not both. To switch to ramp entry, select the Ramp tab and enter the desired entry dimensions.

NOTE

The helix/ramp options are off by default. If no helix/ramp options are set, Mastercam plunges the tool
to the pocket depth at the start of the toolpath.
If you select the Follow boundary option and do not select On failure, the Minimum radius,
Maximum radius, and Center on entry point options are not available.

Parameters

Related topics

Surface Rough Pocket Toolpaths

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Helix Parameters
Use the Helix Parameters dialog box to edit the plunge tool motion. Mastercam will always try to make
an entry helix that uses the maximum possible radius to use more of the side of the tool and less
plunge. The direction of the entry helix usually matches the toolpath direction.

Parameters

Related topics

Surface Toolpaths

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Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router

Mastercam offers a wide range of hole-making toolpaths, from the standard Drill toolpath to the more
automated feature-based machining. In addition to supporting standard drill cycles, Mastercam gives
you great flexibility for customizing drill operations and creating new drill cycles.
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The standard drill toolpaths give you many options for selecting drill points:

Selecting points, arcs, lines, or AutoCursor positions.

Automatically selecting all points from a previous operation.
Drilling patterns such as grids or bolt holes without needing to create geometry.

Most product levels of Mill and Router include all standard drill toolpaths and features. Some hole-
making toolpaths include multiaxis capabilities, which rotate the drill axis and change it from hole
to hole. However, you must have a Multiaxis license to access this functionality.

Listed below are the available toolpaths:

Drill Toolpaths: Mill/Router

Circle Mill Toolpaths
Helix Bore Toolpaths
Block Drill Toolpaths
Thread Mill Toolpaths
FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview
Start Hole Toolpaths Function
Automatic Drill Toolpaths

Also, there are Automatic Drilling Functions that automatically create a complete series of drill
operations for a set of points or arcs, such as the FBM Drill toolpath.

How do I create a hole-making toolpath?

How do I add multiaxis capabilities to a toolpath?

Related topics

Standard Drill Cycles

Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths

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Hole Detection: FBM Drill

Use this page to control the types of holes FBM Drill detects. For example, you can exclude blind or split
holes, include only holes of a specific diameter or arc sweep, and limit the search to a specific tool plane.
You can also include or exclude chamfer operations for all holes.

Only holes that match your detection criteria appear in the Features page. Mastercam automatically
creates drill cycles for selected features when you save the FBM Drill operation.

NOTE

The Co-axial holes parameters apply to multiple holes that share a common axis. Your settings
determine whether Mastercam machines co-axial holes as a single hole in a single operation or
creates separate operations to drill the holes from different planes.
To delete all saved data in the Features page and regenerate new data for the FBM Drill operation, first activate the Hole
detection option to Delete existing features on detect. Then, choose in the dialog box menu to redetect features. On
redetection, Mastercam always replaces imported SOLIDWORKS® Hole Wizard® data with feature data detected in
the Mastercam part file, regardless of the Delete existing features on detect setting.
You can configure Mastercam to detect holes when the FBM Drill dialog box opens. To do this, select Automatic
initial hole detection in the Setup page, and then save the setting to the operations .mcam-defaults file.

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Parameters

Related topics

FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

Working in the FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Features

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Hole Mapping: FBM Drill

Select Hole mapping to activate FBM Drill's hole mapping feature and the options in this page. Use
this page to create, edit, or load a hole mapping file for use in the current FBM Drill operation.

A hole mapping file contains data that assigns a specific tool to a hole feature (defined by diameter and hole type).

When hole mapping is enabled, FBM Drill scans the current hole mapping file during feature detection. If
a detected hole feature matches an entry in the file (diameter and hole type), FBM assigns the specified
tool to the feature. This assignment overrides any Tools page settings.

NOTE

Your Tools page settings must allow access to the tools you assign in the hole mapping file. For
example, if you configure FBM Drill to use only tools in a specific library, the tools assigned in the hole
mapping file must be included in the selected library.

Mastercam stores hole mapping data in a comma separated file (CSV) that is saved with a MAP file
extension in your Mastercam installation's \Common\FBM directory. An empty default MAP file
(Hole.MAP) is provided with your installation, but you can create and save many hole mapping files. This
flexibility lets you load and use a custom MAP file with a specific application.

Parameters

Related topics
FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview
Working in the Hole Mapping page

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Hole Milling: FBM Drill/Wizard Holes

Use this page to include Circle mill or Helix bore toolpaths with FBM-generated drill cycles for detected
(FBM Drill) or selected (Wizard Holes) features.

Adding Circle mill or Helix bore toolpaths to your FBM-generated drill operation lets Mastercam switch from
drilling to milling when machining holes that are significantly larger than drills, or require flat bottoms.

Hole Milling guidelines

NOTE

Make sure that the minimum hole diameters you define here fall within the minimum/maximum diameter range set
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in the Hole Detection page.

To deactivate the Hole Milling page, deselect all hole types. FBM generates only drill cycles for
all detected features.

Parameters

Related topics

FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

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Hole Milling: FBM Mill

This page is active when you choose Hole milling in the Feature detection page.

FBM Mill uses additional settings in the Feature detection page to detect through hole features. Choose
Circle mill or Helix bore as the toolpath type that FBM generates for the hole milling features it detects.

Parameters

Related topics

FBM Mill Overview

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HST Leads
Use this page to specify an entry and exit arc radius value for a 2D High Speed Area Mill toolpath. The arc is created
vertically to lead on and off the material. The values are allowed to be different to suit your machining requirements.

Related topics

2D High Speed Area Mill Toolpaths

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Laminate Machining Techniques

This technique, available in Mill and Router, is designed for cutting laminated material. Cutting laminates
decreases tool life when the laminate comes into contact repeatedly with an area on the tool. Using a
contour ramp toolpath and disabling the final pass at the toolpath depth prevents the laminate from
being in contact with the tool on the same spot. The graphic below shows the key parameters to creating
a contour that ramps along the entire toolpath. The values shown are for illustration only.

Spoilboard
Feed plane: 30 mm
Top of stock: 0
Depth: -5 mm
Ramp depth: 5 mm

Related topics
Cutting Laminates with a Contour Ramp Toolpath
Ramp Contour Toolpaths
Contour Toolpaths

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Lead In/Out: Model Chamfer

Use this page to create lead in/out moves for a Model Chamfer toolpath.

You can create either entry moves, exit moves, or both. Select the Entry or Exit checkboxes to
activate the type of move you wish to create.
Use Copy to copy entry dimensions to the exit section or exit dimensions to the entry section.

Parameters

Related topics

Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths
Model Chamfer Toolpaths

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Lead In/Out: Thread Mill

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Use this page to configure entry and exit moves for a thread mill toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

Thread Mill Toolpaths

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Lead In/Out Moves for Contour Toolpaths

Lead in/out moves are a combination of lines and arcs at the beginning and end of a Contour toolpath that control how the
tool approaches and pulls away from the toolpath. Mastercam places entry and exit lines relative to the entry and exit arcs.
If both an entry line and an entry arc are defined, the line gets machined first. If both an exit line and an exit arc are defined,
the arc gets machined first. The angle of entry/exit ramps is determined by the line length and ramp height.

You can change the lead in/out settings by double-clicking Parameters in the Toolpaths Manager, and
then choosing Lead In/Out nested under Cut parameters.

NOTE

You can override the toolpath feed rate by setting feed rates for both lead in and lead out.
The contour lead in/out options are available for all contour types.
If you use an entry point and an exit point for the lead in/out moves, Mastercam uses the entry point
for both points, which is the last point chained before the toolpath chain.

Related topics

Contour Toolpaths

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Lead In/Out Moves for Pocket Finish Passes

Lead in/out moves are a combination of lines and arcs at the beginning and end of Pocket toolpath finish
passes. Mastercam places entry and exit lines relative to the entry and exit arcs. If both an entry line and an
entry arc are defined, the line gets machined first. If both an exit line and an exit arc are defined, the arc gets
machined first. The angle of entry/exit ramps is determined by the line length and ramp height.

You can change the lead in/out settings by double-clicking Parameters in the Toolpaths Manager, and
then choosing Lead In/Out under Cut parameters, Finishing.

NOTE

You can override the feed rate individually for both lead in and lead out.
If you use an entry and exit point for the lead in/out moves, Mastercam uses the entry point for entry and exit.

Related topics

Pocket Toolpaths

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Linking Parameters: Drill

Use Linking Parameters page to define hole depth and clearance heights for drill toolpaths. Other settings control tool
movement for retract, and top of stock heights. Set these heights as either absolute or incremental values.

Choose Subprogram to have Mastercam create subprograms from the drill points. This option is
unavailable for 5-axis drill toolpaths.

Parameters
Stock associativity

Related topics

Absolute and Incremental Values

Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router

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Linking Parameters: FBM Drill/Wizard Holes

Use this page to define how FBM Drill and Wizard Holes calculate clearance height and retract
height for the drilling cycles.

Parameters

Related topics

FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

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Linking Parameters: FBM Mill

Use this page to define how FBM Mill calculates clearance and retract heights for the 2D toolpaths it creates. You
also specify an incremental feed plane for the 2D motion used to machine the inside of each pocket zone.

Parameters

Related topics

FBM Mill Overview

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Linking Parameters: Thread Mill

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Use the Linking Parameters page to define clearance and feed planes for a Thread Mill toolpath.

Parameters
Stock associativity

Related topics
Thread Mill Toolpaths

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Lofted Parameters
Use this tab to enter the toolpath parameters for a Lofted wireframe toolpath. This toolpath simulates a
lofted surface over several chains of geometry.

First, select a cutting direction, across the calculated surface or along it, and enter the step sizes for each cutting pass.
Then, select a cutting method. This determines the pattern that the tool will follow over the part surface. The 5-
axis cutting methods will only work if 5-axis tool motion is supported in the current machine definition.
Enter other toolpath dimensions and compensation options.

Parameters

Related topics

Cutter Compensation
Toolpath Parameters: Mill/Router
Lofted Toolpaths

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Lofted Toolpaths
Use Lofted toolpaths to create a smooth, curved blend between chains of curves or cross-sections. You
must choose a minimum of two chains. When you are chaining the geometry, select the chains in order and
make sure that the chaining direction is consistent for all the chains so that the toolpath doesn't "twist."

The first picture below shows four chains of curves. the second picture shows the toolpath that results
from selecting the four curves in a lofted toolpath.
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To create a linear blend between the chains, create a ruled toolpath.

Choose Lofted from the selected machine's Toolpaths contextual tab to begin creating a lofted toolpath.

Related topics
Across and Along Cut Distances for Lofted Toolpaths
Wireframe Toolpaths

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Machining Open Pockets

Open pockets are created from chains that do not have the same start and end point. Mastercam calculates the distance
between the start and end points of the chain and treats the chain as closed geometry. For this type of geometry, you can
use the Open pocket cutting method, which starts the toolpath at the open end of the pocket and cuts from the inside to
the outside. To create an open pocket, select Open from the Pocket type list in the Cut parameters page.

The following picture shows a pocket toolpath that uses the open pocket cutting method.
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NOTE

Open pocket toolpaths cannot be used with facing or remachining.

The open pocket cutting method does not support islands.

Related topics

Pocket Toolpaths

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Manual Entry Operations

Use a manual entry operation to directly insert text, comments, or G-codes into your NC programs. You can
store text directly with the operation, or you can reference an external text file that Mastercam reads when
posting. You can either insert the literal text as G-code commands or have them formatted as comments.

Manual Entry and the Toolpaths Manager

Creating a Manual Entry operation

NOTE

To manually insert text, codes, or commands at specific points within a toolpath or operation, use the Change
at Point dialog box. You might also consider using canned text to create custom codes or program segments.

Related topics
Canned Text Overview
Change at Point

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Manual Entry
Use the Manual Entry dialog box to create an operation which inserts a block of text into an NC program when you post it.

Use the Change at Point dialog box to insert text at a specific point inside an operation or toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

Manual Entry Operations

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Minimizing Tool Burial: Pocket Toolpaths

You can avoid tool damage when cutting around pocket islands with particularly small tools by selecting
Minimize tool burial on the Roughing parameters page for 2D Pocket toolpaths, or the Pocket parameters tab
for Surface Rough Pocket toolpaths. This option applies only to the Zigzag cutting method. It attempts to
clear out the areas around each island before running across the area where tool burial typically occurs.

Minimize Tool Burial On Minimize Tool Burial Off

NOTE

The Minimize tool burial option may increase cutting time, but may also decrease the chance of
tool damage on certain parts with certain tools.
Mastercam includes a similar option on the Trochoidal Motion page for some Mill toolpaths,
typically used for machining bosses instead of pockets.

Related topics

Surface Rough Pocket Toolpaths

Pocket Toolpaths

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Model Chamfer Toolpaths

The Model Chamfer toolpath allows you to machine safe horizontal chamfers on solid models.
Model Chamfer only supports the following:
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Chamfer mill tool type

Solid edges and faces for Chain geometry
Surfaces, solids, and meshes for Avoidance model

Additionally, you can enter a Side clearance or Clearance to further protect your part.

Toolpath guidelines

What if my solid model already has a chamfer?

How do I control the machining if I selected the top or bottom rail of a chamfer?

Related topics

Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths
2D Mill Toolpaths
Contour Toolpaths

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Multi Passes: Contour, Model Chamfer

Activate this page by selecting Multi passes. When you define multiple cutting passes, the tool approaches
the part geometry at the cutting depth in steps instead of cutting right to the part geometry.
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Rough passes, where Number is set to 4 and Spacing is set to 0.1.

Finish passes, where Number is set to 2 and Spacing is set to 0.05.

Use the following guidelines to create roughing and finishing passes:

Enter a value for the Number of passes.

Define the Spacing distance.
Set the machining depth for finish passes.

NOTE

You can also combine multiple passes, which divide the distances in the XY or cutting plane, with depth
cuts, which divide plunge moves into Z-axis increments.

Parameters

Related topics

Model Chamfer Toolpaths

Contour Toolpaths

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Multi Passes: Thread Mill

Use this page to create multiple cutting passes for a Thread Mill toolpath.

Select Multi-passes to activate the fields in this page. Then define the number of roughing and finishing
passes, and the amount of stock to leave with each cut (stepover). For finish passes, you can also define
a number of spring passes, and set feed rate and spindle speed overrides, as necessary.

Parameters

Related topics

Thread Mill Toolpaths

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Multiple Head Selection

Use the Multiple Head Selection dialog box to select which heads to use for a toolpath. You can select
a single head, or you can select several heads to cut several copies of the part in "piggy-back" mode.

Before you can select and use multiple or piggy-back heads, they need to be added to the machine
definition. You can only select heads that are included in the active machine definition.
Select the toolpath and geometry like you normally do.
In the Toolpath parameters tab, select the tool. You select the tool and the heads separately. Each
head will use the same tool.
Select the Multi-heads checkbox and button.
In the Heads window, select each head that you wish to use by clicking in the square next to its name.
Enter any adjustments to the head position by entering values in the offset fields. The values that you
enter are added to the offset values stored in the machine definition. Optionally, you can also
specify a work offset code to be associated with the head.

Parameters

NOTE

The router spindles and piggy-back heads should be selected in pairs. If you select a main head, then a piggy-back head
that are not collinear, meaning that you've selected a router spindle, and a piggyback head from a different spindle,
Mastercam will warn you. You can continue with the toolpath, but you may not get the results you expect.

Related topics

Selecting a Block Drill

Selecting an Aggregate Head
Component Parameters: Router Spindle
Component Parameters: Tool
Work Offset Numbers

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Number and Letter Drill Sizes

Use this chart to enter diameters into calculable fields. When you select a drill number (1 - 97) or letter
(A - Z) from the chart, Mastercam enters the correct diameter into the field.

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Click on column headings to sort the list by that column. Drag column headers to adjust column width.

Information in this chart applies only to inch sizes. In metric configurations, the values on this chart are
converted and inch equivalents are displayed in parentheses.

NOTE

To determine standard tool diameters, Mastercam references entries in the following files
installed in Mastercam's \Common\FBM directory:

FbmToolTable.xls - Used if Microsoft Excel is installed or accessible from your Mastercam workstation
FbmToolTable.csv - Used if your Mastercam workstation does not allow access to Microsoft Excel

You can customize these files using your preferred XML or text editor. However, do not change the
file names or their locations.

Related topics

Inch and Metric Tap Drill Sizes

Data Entry Shortcuts

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Oscillating Contour Toolpaths

Adding oscillation in the Z axis along your contour toolpaths uses more of the cutting length of the tool, and can
reduce tool wear in that axis. This is especially useful when cutting thinner materials or laminated materials such
as kitchen counter tops. Mastercam provides an oscillation strategy for its mill and router contour toolpaths.

When creating a 2D Contour toolpath, you can add an oscillation strategy by selecting Oscillate as the
contour type in the Cut Parameters page.

Then use the oscillate parameters that display below the Contour type field to define your strategy. You
can choose a linear (zig-zag) or a smoother high speed (sine curve style) oscillation movement. You also
define the Maximum depth and the Distance along contour for the oscillating tool movement.

NOTE

The Top of stock that you enter in the Linking parameters page sets the maximum Z height for the oscillating contour
toolpath. However, the tool will not exceed the Maximum depth that you specify in the Cut Parameters page.

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The Distance along contour determines how far the tool moves in X or Y before changing direction in the Z axis.
If you edit the operation and modify the tool, Mastercam automatically verifies that the flute length of the tool
is sufficient. A message warns you if the flute length is less than the overall oscillation distance.

Related topics

Contour Toolpaths

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Onion Skin Contour Operations

If a part is too small, a CNC router may not be able to maintain enough of a vacuum to keep the part from
moving while cutting. The onion skin option adjusts the depth of the outside profile cuts so that the tool does
not cut all the way through the sheet. This lets the router maintain full vacuum during the heavy cutting.

Choose Onion skin in the Additions tab of the Toolpath Nesting dialog box to add an onion skin final return cut for the
original operation. You can specify a different router bit and adjust feeds and speeds for the onion skin final return cut. The
onion skin parameters for the final return cut display directly below the nesting operation in the Toolpaths Manager list.

Mastercam assumes that the onion skin source operation is programmed to an absolute Z depth that
cuts the part contour all of the way through the material. If you choose the option to create new
operations and geometry and also choose to create an onion skin return pass, be sure to set all of the
independent operations to the same absolute Z depth. Otherwise, you will not get the desired result.

Use Advanced in the Onion skin section of the Toolpath Nesting, Additions tab to define specific contour
toolpath parameters. After the onion skin toolpath is created, you can also use Toolpaths Manager
options to display and edit Onion skin contour toolpath parameters.

Mastercam provides initial factory default settings for onion skin contour toolpath parameters. To save your own
set of defaults for onion skin contour toolpaths, right-click in the Additions tab of the Nesting dialog box and
choose Save defaults. The current values are saved to the defaults file specified in the machine group properties.

NOTE

Use the Tool property page of the Onion skin dialog box to select a tool, set feeds and speeds, and set other
general toolpath parameters. This tab is the same, or very similar, for most mill and router toolpaths.
Use the Cut parameters property page of the Onion Skin dialog box to enter cutting parameters for the toolpath.
This tab is also similar for most mill and router contour toolpaths, with the following exceptions:
Mastercam sets the Contour type to 2D, and the drop-down is unavailable for change.
Some options are unavailable, such as the Filter and Tabs, checkboxes, and buttons.
The Compensation direction drop-down offers Climb and Conventional options in place of
Left and Right. Choosing Climb automatically sets the chaining direction in the onion skin
toolpath to CW. Choosing Conventional sets the chaining direction to CCW.

Related topics

Additions: Toolpath Nesting

Contour Toolpaths

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Other Drilling Applications

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Mastercam Mill and Router include the following specialized drilling-related functions for specific applications:

FBM Drill detects holes in a solid based on specified criteria, and automatically generates a
complete series of drill operations for the selected features.
Auto drilling automatically creates a series of drill operations on the same set of holes.
Start hole toolpaths automatically calculate plunge points for a range of toolpaths.
Multiaxis drill toolpaths generate 4- or 5-axis out
Router includes block drill toolpaths that utilize gang tooling and block drilling heads.

Mastercam also includes specialized circle toolpaths for thread milling, helix boring, or for milling holes
with other types of tools like end mills.

Related topics

Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router

Customizing Drilling Operations
FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

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Peck Clearance and Retract Amount

Peck drill and chip break drill cycles use peck clearance and retract amount parameters to determine how the drill
moves in and out of the stock. Mastercam adds the peck clearance to the location of the previously drilled peck
depth. The retract amount should always be a positive value. Note that it does not represent an absolute Z height.

You can set the peck clearance and the retract amount if you select a peck drill or chip break cycle on the
toolpath's Cut Parameters page. These parameters can also be enabled for custom drill cycles. The
following picture shows an example of peck clearance and retract amount.
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Clearance Height
Retract Height
Retract Amount
Peck Clearance

Related topics

Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router

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Pocket and Island Facing

Facing prepares the top of the material for further machining. Mastercam can face the entire part or just
face any islands on the part. Set the facing parameters using one of the following methods:

For 2D Pocket toolpaths, choose Facing or Island facing from the Pocket type drop-down list on the
Cut Parameters page.
For 2D high speed toolpaths (excluding Peel Mill, Blend Mill and Dynamic Contour), choose Island
facing on the Depth Cuts page.

NOTE

Creating a facing toolpath is recommended instead of pocket facing for most parts.
Facing cannot be performed on open pockets or in conjunction with pocket remachining.
Island facing should not be used in conjunction with the Morph Spiral cutting method.
If you select a face mill tool, the toolpath is calculated based on the diameter that makes contact with
the part. Mastercam uses the diameter (the inner dimension) for cutter compensation. To avoid
collision when facing inside a pocket, enter the outer diameter as the inner diameter for the face
mill, or select a flat end mill with the diameter of the face mill to generate the toolpath.

Outer diameter

Inner diameter of tool used for cutter compensation

Related topics

Depth Cuts and Island Depths

Face Toolpaths
Pocket Toolpaths

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Pocket Toolpaths
Use 2D Pocket toolpaths to clean out material from an enclosed boundary. Mastercam offers many
options for integrating rough and finish operations and tailoring the toolpath to your geometry. Use the
following outline as a guide for creating pocket operations and organizing the different pocketing
options. Click a topic below to see more information about the step.

Chain geometry and select a tool

Select a pocket type

Select a cutting method

Create a finishing pass

Create a separate finishing operation

Specifying an entry location

Related topics

Machining Open Pockets

2D Mill Toolpaths
Remachining Contour and Pocket Toolpaths
Pocket and Island Facing

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Point Toolpath
Use the Point Toolpath dialog box to create or edit a point toolpath. When you start the toolpath, you are prompted to select
the first point to which the tool will rapid from the home position. Then, click the desired locations in the graphics window to
add additional points. If Mastercam is in 2D mode when you create the toolpath, when you select each point Mastercam will
project its X and Y coordinates to the current depth. Press [Esc] when you finish editing and adding points.

Parameters

Related topics

Lathe Point Toolpath

Point Toolpaths

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Point Toolpaths
It might be necessary to position the tool at a specific point or have it follow a series of specific points to
avoid a fixture or clamp, or to get the tool into or out of a tight area or awkward shape. Point toolpaths let you
build a series of tool movements by selecting a series of individual tool locations in the graphics window,
rather than have the tool follow geometry. For each point in the toolpath, you can program either:
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A rapid move to the point. Whether the rapid move is broken up into separate moves for each axis, or
interpolated in multiple axes, is determined by the control definition.
A feed rate move. In this case, the tool moves to the new points at a programmed feed rate. Enter the
feed rate after selecting all the points.

A typical use would be to position the tool between cutting operations. You might need to disable the
reference points feature (make sure Reference points is deselected) to achieve the desired tool motion.

To create a point toolpath, choose Point from the selected machine's Toolpaths tab. Mastercam prompts you to select the
first point in the toolpath, to which the tool will rapid from the home position. Then use the Point Toolpath dialog box to
select the next points. Choose OK to close the dialog box and enter the other toolpath parameters.

To edit a point toolpath, choose Geometry for a Point toolpath in the Toolpaths Manager. Use the Point
Toolpath dialog box to edit the desired points or add new ones.

Related topics

Reference Points
Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths

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Positioning Tabs with Square Points

Use the square point method to design tab locations right into your part. This is especially useful when you
will be nesting parts and can plan the part layout. Think about how the parts will be laid out on the table or
nested together to figure out the best tab locations, and then mark them with square points. Then, when you
nest the parts and create the toolpaths, Mastercam can read the tab locations automatically.

For example, in the following nested layout, the best tab locations are at the locations shown by the
arrows. Here, the tabs will overlap and create a "mesh" which will securely hold the parts to the table.

When you are drawing the original part, place a square point at each of these four locations and then create the toolpath.

Adding the points to your part

Creating the tabs

NOTE

Once Mastercam creates the toolpath created, the tab locations are no longer associative with the square points, so that if

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you move or delete a square point, it will not affect the toolpath. To move or delete tab locations, use
Mastercam's tab editing tools.

Related topics

Using Tabs
Edit Tabs

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Pre-drilling: Automatic Arc Drilling

Use this tab to create pre-drilling (roughing) operations which rough out the drill holes before the finish
drill cycle which you selected on the Tool parameters tab.

First, select Generate pre-drill operations to tell Mastercam to create the operations and activate the
other fields. Then, enter the other pre-drill parameters.

Note: The Solid drill toolpath was removed from Mastercam. However, you can use this tab to modify Solid drill
operations that were created in prior versions of Mastercam, and regenerate their drilling cycles. Mastercam
replaces the Solid drill toolpath with FBM Drill, a more powerful and customizable solid drilling application.

Parameters

Related topics

Start Hole Toolpaths Function

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Pre-drilling: FBM Drill/Wizard Holes

Use this page to activate and define pre-drilling (roughing) cycles that rough out the drill holes before the finish drill
cycles. Mastercam pre-drills each hole with successively larger drills until it reaches the finish diameter.

To control the tool change, set the minimum tool diameter and the size increment between drills. Then
define the amount of stock to leave for pre-drill cycles.

Select Pre-drill only pilot holes if you want to disable all roughing pre-drill cycles. Mastercam then
generates only pre-drill cycles for assigned pilot holes, followed by finish hole drill cycles.

Parameters

Related topics

FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

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Preview Chains Colors

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Use the Preview Chains Colors dialog box to change the preview color of material regions, the cross
hatch of material, the tool motion region, and the tool containment boundary for 2D Area Mill and
Dynamic Milling toolpaths. The image below displays the default colors for Preview Chains.

Related topics

Chain Options
Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths

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Ramp
Use the Ramp dialog box to define the degree of slant at which the tool enters the part when plunging
into a roughing pass for Engraving toolpaths. You may enter any value between 10 and 90 degrees.

Related topics

Roughing/Finishing: Engraving

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Ramp Contour Toolpaths

Use contour ramp toolpaths when you want to use a continuous ramp to transition smoothly between depth cuts, instead
of individual plunge cuts. This technique is especially useful in high speed machining. Contour ramping is only available
for 2D Contour toolpaths. You can ramp by a set angle, by a set depth, or to plunge directly between depth cuts.
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To create a contour ramp toolpath, select Ramp from the Contour type drop-down list in the Cut
Parameters page. Then, enter the ramp dimensions in the fields provided.

Related topics
Cutting Laminates with a Contour Ramp Toolpath
Contour Toolpaths

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Remachining Contour and Pocket Toolpaths

Remachining calculates areas where the roughing tool could not machine the stock and creates a second toolpath to
clear the remaining material. Slightly different options are available depending on whether you are remachining a contour
or pocket toolpath. You can choose three methods to calculate how much stock the new toolpath will remove:

The stock left by all previous operations

The stock left by the most recent previous operation
The size of the roughing tool. Use this method when the roughing operation is not included in the current part file;
Mastercam determines how much stock would be left based on the size of a roughing tool that you enter.

The tolerance value also affects the toolpath. A low tolerance creates a more accurate toolpath. For
remachining, a low tolerance may result in more areas being machined.
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If you choose Display stock, Mastercam leads you through a series of previews which display the calculated
stock to be removed and how much of that stock would be removed with the current remachining settings.

NOTE

If you base a remachining operation on a previous operation, and then change the order of the operations in
the Toolpaths Manager so that the remachining operation is before the roughing operation, the remachining
operation will not be able to correctly calculate the area of the roughing operation.
Do not use compensation in control with remachining operations.
Contour remachining “keep tool down” moves between remachining passes are not gouge checked! Take the
necessary precautions to eliminate the risk of gouging. This applies only for contour remachining toolpaths,
and only if you choose the option to “keep tool down” for depth cuts or multiple passes.
Pocket remachining cannot be performed on open pockets or in conjunction with facing.
If you use only the previous operation to calculate the remaining stock, and the previous operation is
only a finish pass, the remachining toolpath may be cutting air through areas of the part that were
roughed by an operation before the finish pass.

Related topics

Contour Toolpaths
Pocket Toolpaths

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Restmill: FBM Mill

Select Enable restmill on this page to add restmill toolpaths to the FBM Mill operation and to define their cutting passes. In
the FBM Mill toolpath group, Mastercam creates the restmill toolpaths after roughing operations and before finish passes.

Restmill toolpaths are roughing operations that remove remaining stock based on a previous roughing
toolpath or based on a roughing tool. Mastercam calculates areas where the roughing tool could not
machine the stock and then creates a restmill toolpath to clear the remaining material.

NOTE

Mastercam selects tools for restmill operations based on settings you choose in the FBM Mill Setup
and FBM Mill tools pages.
Other parameters for the toolpath type come from values in the operations DEFAULTS file, as
defined in the Files tab for the machine group. You can also use options in the machine group's
Tool settings tab to replace some of the operation defaults with tool definition defaults.

Parameters

Related topics

FBM Mill Overview

Remachining Contour and Pocket Toolpaths

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Revolved Parameters
Use this tab to enter the toolpath parameters for a revolved wireframe toolpath. This toolpath revolves a cross-section or

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profile through either the X- or Y-axis to simulate a surface.

First, select the surface shape to create, either concave or convex.

Select the axis of rotation, either X or Y. Use the Axis depth to position the toolpath above or
below the chained geometry.
Enter other toolpath dimensions and compensation options.
Finally, select the trimming options. You can trim either the Height or the Width. Click Select to
select width trim lines from the graphics window. If the toolpath would extend past the trim plane,
it is clipped; if the trim plane is outside the toolpath, the toolpath is extended to it.

Parameters

Related topics
Axis Depth for Revolved Toolpaths
Revolved Toolpaths

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Revolved Toolpaths
Revolved toolpaths create a surface of revolution from a cross-section. The toolpath calculates in the current construction plane,
then transforms into the current tool plane. The toolpath can be trimmed to a given height or width (relative to the construction
plane) and can generate a convex or concave shape. You must select a ball end mill for this toolpath type.

The first picture below shows a part profile lying flat in the XY plane. The second picture shows a
revolved toolpath created from the geometry:

Choose Revolve from the selected machine's Toolpaths contextual tab to begin creating a revolved toolpath.

Mastercam prompts you to select the geometry that defines the edge of the revolved surface. Then, you will be
prompted to select a point on the axis of revolution. Enter the toolpath parameters to complete the toolpath.

When rotating the cross-section, the axis of rotation line must lie parallel to either the X or Y axis of the
current construction plane (Cplane). If the line does not lie in the current Cplane, Mastercam projects the
line into the current Cplane. The surface of revolution then rotates about the projected line.

Related topics

Axis Depth for Revolved Toolpaths

Wireframe Toolpaths
Trimming a Revolved Toolpath

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Rough/Finish: Helix Bore

Use the options on this page to create roughing and finishing passes for a helix bore toolpath. You can
set feed rate overrides separately for each type of cut. You can enter either a percentage override or an
absolute value; Mastercam automatically adjusts the other field when you type a value in one.

Choose Finish to enable the finish pass options. Typically, if you use this option, you would set the
Stock to leave values on the Cut parameters page to 0.

Parameters

Related topics

Helix Bore Toolpaths

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Rough/Finish: Slot Mill

Use this page to create roughing and finishing passes for a Slot Mill toolpath.

You can create a ramp entry instead of a direct plunge to allow for smoother entry into the part. The toolpath
ramps down to the cutting depth on the first pass; the next passes are horizontal to the tool plane.

Use the other parameters to create roughing passes, finishing passes, or both for the operation. Enter a non-zero value
in the Number field to enable finishing passes. Roughing passes are created based on the specified roughing stepover.

NOTE

The finishing passes defined on this page will be adjusted for the Stock to leave on walls setting on the Cut parameters
page. Typically, if you choose to create finishing passes, you would set Stock to leave on walls to zero.

Parameters

Related topics

Slot Mill Toolpaths

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Roughing: Circle Mill

Select Roughing to activate the circle mill roughing feature. It provides high-speed pocket-style cleanout for
the circle geometry with motion similar to the Spiral pocket style. This style creates roughing passes using
tangent arcs. The result provides a smooth motion for the tool, a short NC program, and good

If you select Helical entry, Mastercam creates the roughing motion tangent to the helical entry. If you
are also creating depth cuts, the high-speed roughing features are repeated at each depth.
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Both the direction for the helical entry and the machining direction for the roughing motion are
determined by the compensation settings for the toolpath defined in the Cut parameters page.

NOTE

If you use these roughing options, you may not need to use the Semi-finish section of the
Finishing page, which provides more contour-style roughing motion.
For movement between the roughing and finishing sections to be tangent, set the Entry/exit arc
sweep parameter on the Transitions page to 180 degrees.

Parameters

Related topics

Circle Mill Toolpaths

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Roughing: FBM Mill

Select Enable roughing on this page to add roughing toolpaths to the FBM Mill operation and to define their cutting passes.
In the FBM Mill toolpath group, Mastercam creates the roughing toolpaths before any restmill or finish passes.

For complex nested pockets, Mastercam creates a separate zone for each depth and creates the edge
curve geometry required to machine it. Roughing is the first series of operations for each pocket zone. A
single pocket with multiple zones will have multiple roughing operations. Mastercam uses 2D high speed
toolpaths, such as Area Mill, to efficiently rough pockets.

NOTE

Mastercam selects tools for rough operations based on settings you choose in the FBM Mill Setup
and FBM Mill tools pages.
Other parameters for the toolpath type come from values in the operations DEFAULTS file, as
defined in the Files tab for the machine group. You can also use options in the machine group's
Tool settings tab to replace some of the operation defaults with tool definition defaults.
If you edit the Entry method options, they will not be updated if you re-chain.

Parameters

Related topics

FBM Mill Overview

Leaving Stock on Drive and Check Geometry

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Roughing: Pocket
Select Rough to activate the options in this page, and to create roughing passes for your pocket
toolpath. Leave this option deselected if you want Mastercam to create only finish passes.

Then, select a cutting method from the large window. The parameters you can choose changes based on the selected
cutting method. For example, choosing a High Speed cutting method activates the Trochoidal cuts parameters.
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When you complete the parameters on this page, use the Entry Motion page to define ramp or
helical entry moves for roughing passes.

Parameters

Related topics

Pocket Toolpaths

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Roughing/Finishing: Engraving
Use this tab to set roughing and finishing parameters for your Engraving toolpath.

A roughing operation removes material from a cavity. Although engraving toolpaths do not require
roughing, you can use roughing to clean out cavities as an alternative to pocketing. Engraving
generates a contour-like finish pass as part of the roughing operation.

Remachining toolpaths always use the zigzag cutting pattern.

Parameters

Related topics

Engraving Toolpath
Engraving Parameters

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Ruled Parameters
Use this tab to enter the toolpath parameters for a ruled wireframe toolpath. This toolpath simulates a
ruled surface over several chains of geometry.

First, select a cutting method. This determines the pattern that the tool will follow over the part surface. The 5-
axis SWARF cutting method works only if 5-axis tool motion is supported in the current machine definition.
Enter other toolpath dimensions and compensation options.
Finally, select the trimming options. You can define up to two trimming planes for the toolpath. Each
trimming plane consists of a value along one of the coordinate axes. If the toolpath would extend past the
trim plane, it is clipped; if the trim plane is outside the toolpath, the toolpath is extended to it.

Parameters

Related topics

Ruled Toolpaths

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Ruled Toolpaths
Use Ruled toolpaths to create a linear blend between chains of curves. You must choose a minimum of
two chains. When you are chaining the geometry, select the chains in order and make sure that the
chaining direction is consistent for all the chains so that the toolpath doesn't "twist."

The first picture below shows four chains of curves. the second picture shows the toolpath that results
from selecting the four curves in a ruled toolpath.

Choose Ruled from the selected machine's Toolpaths contextual tab to begin creating a Ruled toolpath.

Related topics

Wireframe Toolpaths
Lofted Toolpaths

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Saw Toolpaths
Use a Saw toolpath to drive a saw blade cutting along a straight line. By using the Saw toolpath, available only with
Mastercam Router, you can program multiple saw cuts using a single tool plane (for example, TOP) in a single operation.

Typically, the axis of rotation of the saw blade is parallel to the sheet. Use the Machine Definition
Manager to define a right angle aggregate for the machine definitions used with this toolpath.

When selecting chains for a Saw toolpath, you indicate a kerf direction (cut side) for each selected
chain. Mastercam allows for kerf direction differences on a per-chain basis within the same operation
and stores this data with each chain so you can modify it as needed.

You also control the arbor side based on the selected cutting direction (Climb or Conventional).

To begin creating a saw toolpath

Related topics

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Toolpath Type: Mill/Router

Router Toolpaths
Machine Definition Manager

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Select Drill Operations

Use the Select Drill Operations dialog box when you want to reuse the drill points from an operation that
has already been created. Mastercam creates a subprogram with the drill point locations and uses it for
both the new operation that you are creating and the operation you are selecting the points from.

Select the operation from the list in the window, and then select the type of subprogram to create
—Absolute or Incremental. The original operation and the new operation will both display the
subprogram icon in the Toolpaths Manager:

If you click Geometry for the new operation, you will see this dialog box again where you can
select a different operation.
If you click Geometry for the original operation, you can edit the set of drill points. The new set
of points are automatically applied to both operations when you regenerate.

Related topics

Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router

Subprograms

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Selecting a Block Drill

In Mastercam Router, you can select drill blocks in addition to simple drills. To use a drill block, first
define the drill block and add it to a router machine definition. Then, after selecting the machine
definition, choose to create a Block Drilling Toolpath.

How do I select a block drill?

After a block drill toolpath is created, right-click on the drill block in the tool selection window and
choose Edit tool to display the Drill Block Selection dialog box again. Do this if you need to change
the drills or their settings after the toolpath has been created.

Related topics

Block Drill Toolpaths

Selecting an Aggregate Head
Drilling Blind Holes Using a Block Drill Toolpath
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Block Drill Toolpaths

Drill Block Selection
Axis Combination

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Selecting an Aggregate Head

Both Mastercam Mill and Mastercam Router support aggregate or angled heads. Depending on the
capabilities of the specific head, they can have several tools mounted at once, swivel or rotate to
different positions, or can be fixed at different angles. In general, aggregate heads can be used for
any type of operation that is supported by their individual tools.

Before you can select an aggregate head in an operation, it must be defined and added to the Machine Definition
Manager. Tell Mastercam about the geometry of the head and its tool stations, its rotary and tool change
capabilities, and other properties. You can choose to either set tools in the tool stations or leave them empty.

How do I use an aggregate head for a toolpath?

Related topics

Selecting a Block Drill

Component Parameters: Tool
Aggregate Selection
Machine Axis Combinations: Machine Definition Manager

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Setup: FBM Drill/Wizard Holes

Use this page to set the following basic parameters for the FBM Drill or Wizard Holes operation.

Define how to group the FBM-generated drill cycles in the Toolpaths Manager.
Optionally sort all drill points in each FBM-generated drill cycle and, when activated, choose the 2D sort method.
Create operations that are independent of the solid model. This selection automatically creates a
point at the top of the hole, associative to the independent operation.
Create additional geometry (points and vectors) on a level you choose. The new geometry is
non-associative (independent of any toolpath or solid model feature).

NOTE

If you choose to Create operation independent of solid (create points) and also select Points at top of hole, place the
additional geometry on a different level than the toolpath geometry. Otherwise, you will create duplicate points.
If you plan to use the Drill toolpath to machine hole features in your solid model, consider using
FBM Drill first to efficiently create the necessary vectors and bottom point geometry.

Parameters

Related topics

FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

Subprograms
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Setup: FBM Mill

Use this page to define the tools Mastercam selects for the FBM Mill-generated toolpaths. FBM Mill locates
features based on the Search plane you choose and the parameters you set in the Feature detection page.

You can optionally add toolpaths to the FBM Mill toolpath group to rough and finish the outside profile of the part.
Additionally FBM can be set to recognize tapered walls in the part.

Tool selection can include any combination of the following sources:

Up to 10 preferred tools that you define in each type of FBM Mill tools page.
Tools in the Mastercam part file
Tools in a specified tool library
Tools that Mastercam creates as needed

Mastercam chooses tools from only the selected sources. Red lines connecting the tool source
checkboxes show the hierarchical order in which Mastercam searches for tools.

Example 1 Example 2 Example 3

NOTE

Tool creation parameters in this page are available only when your tool selection includes Create as needed.

Parameters

Related topics

FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

FBM Mill Overview

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Single Pass Flowline Toolpaths

Mastercam's Flowline toolpaths include a Rib cut option that lets you create a single cutting pass down
the middle of the selected drive surfaces. This can be useful for part features like ribs or flanges:
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This option is available for the following toolpath types:

Surface rough flowline

Surface finish flowline
Multiaxis Flow

To create the single pass, select the drive geometry normally, then select the Rib cut option on the Cut Pattern page:

Mastercam automatically disables other flowline parameters that do not apply when creating a single
pass, such as stepover and the cut control distance.

Related topics

Surface Flowline Toolpaths

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Slot Mill Toolpaths

Use Slot Mill toolpaths to efficiently machine obround slots. The slots must be closed and include two parallel,
straight sides. An example of an obround slot generated from Create, Rectangular Shapes is shown below:
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Slot Mill toolpaths automatically calculate plunge, entry, and exit points appropriate for slots. In this example,
Mastercam automatically calculated the plunge point and placed the entry/exit arcs at the midpoint of the
contour. You can also tell Mastercam to create an entry ramp to plunge gradually to the cut depth.

Choose Slot Mill from the Mill or Router Toolpath contextual tab to begin creating a Slot Mill toolpath.
After chaining the geometry, use the properties pages to enter the toolpath parameters.

Related topics

Mill Toolpaths
2D Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths

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Slug Cutting: FBM Mill

When these options are activated, FBM Mill switches from pocketing to contour machining based on
the size of the area where the material is being removed. This might be desirable when working with
wood and composite materials on large vacuum table machines.

Instead of pocketing the entire area, FBM Mill uses the parameters you define to generate a contour toolpath
that cuts the outermost passes of the profile, leaving behind a slug that is held in place by the vacuum table.

Parameters

Related topics

FBM Mill Overview

Feature Detection: FBM Mill

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Solid Model
This dialog box displays the number of solid models being used for the current Model Chamfer toolpath, as well as
highlighting the solid model in the graphics window. Select OK to return to the 2D Toolpaths - Model Chamfer dialog box.

Related topics

Model Chamfer Toolpaths

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Stock: 2D High Speed Toolpaths

Use this page to define how Mastercam calculates the stock model for a 2D high speed Dynamic
Mill or Area Mill toolpath. There are two main approaches:

You can choose to calculate the stock remaining from one or more source operations. Select one or more other
operations from the list in the window. The source operation does not have to be another high speed toolpath.
You can also just enter the dimensions of a roughing tool. Mastercam calculates a stock model based
on the areas of your part that could not be cut or accessed by such a tool.

Parameters

Related topics

2D High Speed Area Mill Toolpaths

2D High Speed Dynamic Milling Toolpaths

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Spot Drilling: FBM Drill/Wizard Holes

Use this page to activate and define Spot Drilling toolpaths for the FBM Drill or Wizard Holes operation. Mastercam
performs spot drilling before any pre-drilling or finish drill toolpaths in the FBM Drill or Wizard Holes toolpath group.

Parameters

Related topics

FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

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Standard Drill Cycles

Mastercam provides several pre-defined (canned) drilling cycles and numerous custom cycles. Selecting
a drill cycle determines the drill toolpath parameters. You can select one of the following drill cycles
from the Cycle drop-down list on the drill toolpath's Cut Parameters page.
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Drill Cycle Description

Drill/Counterbore Recommended for drilling holes with depths of less
than three times the tool diameter.
Peck Drill Recommended for drilling holes with depths of more
than three times the tool diameter. Retracts fully out
of the drilled hole to remove material chips. Used
often with chips that are hard to remove.
Chip Break Drills holes with depths of more than three times the
tool diameter. Retracts partially out of the drilled
hole to break material chips.
Tap Taps right or left internal threaded holes.
Bore #1 Drills holes with feed-in and feed-out motion. This
creates a straight hole with a smooth surface.
Bore #2 Drills holes with feed-in, stop spindle, and rapid-out
motion.
Fine bore (shift) Stops the spindle at the end of each drill point, then
spins to orient the tool to a pre-defined angle, shifts
off the wall of the drill hole, and retracts.
Custom cycle 8 to 20 Drills holes using customized parameters. For
more information, see Customizing drill parameters.
NOTE

Only those cycles which have been enabled in the control definition for the current machine definition will appear here.
Use the Machine Cycles page to enable or disable cycles for this list.

Related topics

Customizing Drilling Operations

Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router

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Start Hole Toolpaths Function

Use the Start Holes function to automatically create drill toolpaths at the plunge points for one or
more toolpath. Mastercam scans individual depth cuts and passes for each toolpath and create
toolpaths for multiple plunge points if necessary.

You can drill start holes with either basic or advanced options.

The basic toolpath creates finish drill operations only and does not include spot, step, or pre-
drilling. You select an operation and, optionally, supply an additional hole diameter or depth
amount. Mastercam then automatically analyzes the NCI file to create the plunge points.
The advanced option lets you set tool, depths, group, library, custom drill, and pre-drilling parameters. You can
create a series of drill operations per hole, such as spot drilling, pre-drilling (roughing), and a finish drill cycle.

NOTE

Start hole toolpaths are not associative. This means that if you change the original toolpath, the Start
Hole toolpaths are NOT updated automatically.
Mastercam selects a drill slightly smaller than the roughing tool.
The Start Holes feature works with all toolpath types, but is especially effective when used together with the
Align plunge entries for start holes feature found in Surface Rough Pocket. This feature organizes all of the
plunge points so that one pre-drilled hole can serve as the plunge position for multiple depth cuts.

To create a Start Hole toolpath, choose Start Hole from the Mill or Router Toolpathscontextual tab.
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Mastercam displays the Start Hole Toolpaths dialog box, where you can select the Basic or Advanced toolpath
and select the source operations.When you are finished, Mastercam creates a new group for the drilling
toolpaths it creates. Once the toolpaths are created, you can edit them just like any other toolpath.

Related topics

Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router

Router Toolpaths
Mill Toolpaths
Automatic Drilling Functions

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Steep/Shallow
Use this page to limit how much of your drive surfaces will be machined. Typically these options are used to
create machining passes in steep or shallow areas, but they can be useful for many different part shapes.

Parameters

Related topics

Using Surface Angle to Create a Machining Zone

Using Z Limits to Create a Machining Zone
Using Contact Areas to Create a Machining Zone

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Swept 2D Parameters
Use this tab to enter the toolpath parameters for a Swept 2D wireframe toolpath. This toolpath
simulates a surface by sweeping one contour along another to create a 2½-D toolpath.

First, enter the toolpath dimensions and other options.

Then, select the cornering and compensation options for the across and along contours. Use the
compensation options to orient the toolpath with respect to the geometry. Use the cornering
options to tell Mastercam whether to insert arcs at toolpath corners.

Parameters

Related topics

Toolpath Parameters: Mill/Router

Swept 2D Toolpaths

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Swept 2D Toolpaths
Swept 2D toolpaths are 2½-D toolpaths that are created by sweeping one boundary (the across contour) along a second
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contour (the along contour). A Swept 2D toolpath can have only one along boundary. The across and
along boundaries are blended to generate a 2½-D toolpath.

Boundaries for a swept 2D toolpath need to meet these conditions:

The boundaries can not contain splines.

The along boundary must lie parallel or perpendicular to the current tool plane, or to the XY plane (top Plane) if you do
not define a tool plane. This only applies when the final toolpath contains arcs. The final toolpath contains arcs when
either the along boundary contains arcs or when you choose to roll the toolpath around corners.

Swept 2D toolpaths have an advantage over swept 3D toolpaths in that they output arcs and create shorter NCI files.
However, swept 3D toolpaths give you much more flexibility.

The first picture below shows the geometry that is required for a swept 2D toolpath. The magenta
profile is the across contour. The blue arc is the along contour. The red point is the intersection. The
second picture shows the toolpath that results from sweeping the across contour along the blue arc.

Choose Swept 2D from the 2D gallery on the Mill Toolpaths contextual tab to create the toolpath.

Related topics

Swept 3D Toolpaths
Wireframe Toolpaths

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Tab Cutoff
Use this page to select the type of cutoff operation for the tabs defined in the Tabs page.

Parameters

Related topics

Using Tabs
Edit Tabs

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Tab Cutoff Toolpaths

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The tab cutoff toolpath is a separate operation that you can create when you add tabs to a contour
toolpath. Creating a separate operation lets you edit it separately from the original contour operation.
For example, you can select a different tool, or change other parameters such as retract heights, feed
planes, lead in / lead out settings for entry and exit moves, or break through amount.

To create a tab cutoff operation, select Separate operation in the Tab Cutoff page while you are
entering parameters for a contour toolpath:

Mastercam automatically creates a Tab Cutoff operation and adds it to the Toolpaths Manager. Note that this
option is only available when you first create the contour toolpath. If you edit an existing contour toolpath, you
can change many of the tab settings, but the Separate operation option will not be available.

Even though the tab cutoff operation is created when you create the contour operation, it does not stay
associative with it. This means that if you make changes to the original contour operation, edit its tab
settings, or change the tab locations, the changes are not automatically copied to the cutoff toolpath.

However, you can change or edit the tab locations for a tab cutoff operation using the normal tab editing tools.
Click on Geometry for the tab cutoff operation to open the Chain Manager. Right-click and choose Edit tabs.

Related topics

Using Tabs
Contour Toolpaths

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Tab Settings
Use the Tab Settings dialog box to fine-tune the tabs that you are adding to a Contour toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

Tab Cutoff Toolpaths

Edit Tabs

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Tabs
Select the Tabs checkbox to activate the options in this page.

Use this page configure tabs for a contour toolpath by:

Setting the tab position by choosing a method that Mastercam uses to place tabs along the contour.
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Defining the tab motion and configuring the size of the tabs.

NOTE

If your layout includes many parts of different sizes, you can tell Mastercam the size of the largest part for
which to automatically create tabs. (Typically, tabs are only used for smaller parts.) To do this, choose
Create tabs on shapes less than, and then enter the dimensions of the largest part that requires tabs.

After completing options in this page, choose the Tab Cutoff page to select the type of cutoff operation.

Parameters

Related topics

Using Tabs
Edit Tabs
Positioning Tabs with Square Points

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Tabs: Configure
Use the Tabs, Configure dialog box to configure tabs for a contour toolpath.

Click Settings to access more advanced tab options, such as ramped tabs and setting a size
threshold for the parts to be automatically tabbed.

Parameters

Related topics

Using Tabs
Edit Tabs

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Tapered Feature Detection and Machining: FBM Mill

To activate FBM Mill's detection of tapered features (walls and bosses) in solid models, select
Recognize tapered features in the Setup page.

Follow these guidelines when using FBM Mill to detect and machine tapered features.

For best results, generate FBM toolpaths on models with uniformly tapered walls or bosses. All walls in a single feature
or machining zone should be tapered at the same angle. The taper angle for bosses can differ from the walls.
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However, all bosses in a single feature or machining zone should have the same draft angle.
FBM Mill does not currently detect or machine pocket walls with negative tapers (undercuts). If your
model contains features of this type, use an additional machining strategy to machine them.
If the walls of a single pocket feature are tapered at different angles, FBM Mill detects them.
However, it machines all of the walls at a 90-degree angle from the bottom up.
FBM groups multiple bosses with tapers in a pocket. If the bosses are uniformly tapered but at different
angles, FBM machines all of the bosses at the angle that removes the least material. In the first picture
below, a boss with a uniform 25-degree taper (#1) and a boss with a uniform 5 degree taper (#2) are both
in the same pocket and machining zone. FBM machines both bosses at 5-degree tapers. The second
picture shows the results of processing the FBM Mill-generated toolpaths for these features.

Related topics

Setup: FBM Mill

FBM Mill Overview
FBM Mill-generated Toolpaths

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Thread Mill Toolpaths

Thread mill toolpaths create a series of helixes for machining a thread with a thread mill or other suitable tool. For inside

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diameter (ID) threads, you must drill a hole first. For outside diameter (OD) threads, you must create a boss
first. You can use either point entities or arc center points for the toolpath. (If you select duplicate geometry,
or both an arc and its center point, Mastercam warns you and displays the duplicate geometry in red.)

The number of active teeth, top of thread, thread depth and thread pitch parameters all indirectly
determine the number of revolutions that the tool makes while machining the thread. If the number of
revolutions is less than one, Mastercam adjusts the top of thread to create at least one revolution.

You can create a pipe thread or tapered thread by selecting an appropriate tool and setting the Taper
angle parameter in the Thread Mill dialog box.

The sample part shown here uses a slot mill to cut the coarse threads around the top of a valve core:

Choose Thread Mill from the Mill or Router Toolpaths contextual tab to begin creating a Helix Bore toolpath. The
Toolpath Hole Definition function panel displays, where you can select one or more hole locations for the toolpath.

Using Climb or Conventional Milling in a Thread Mill Toolpath

Use the following table as a guide for orienting your thread mill toolpath so that it cuts the threads in the intended manner.
Use the Cut parameters page to set these values.

ID or OD threadRight-hand or left-hand threadMachining directionMilling direction

ID thread Right-hand thread Top to bottom Conventional
ID thread Right-hand thread Bottom to top Climb
ID thread Left-hand thread Top to bottom Climb
ID thread Left-hand thread Bottom to top Conventional
OD thread Right-hand thread Top to bottom Climb
OD thread Right-hand thread Bottom to top Conventional
OD thread Left-hand thread Top to bottom Conventional
OD thread Left-hand thread Bottom to top Climb

Related topics

Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths

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Tip Compensation: Point-based

Select the Tip Compensation checkbox to activate the options in this page. Then use the Breakthough amount field
to configure how far the toolpath drills past the final depth to break through the stock. Enter a positive number
only. Set the breakthrough amount to zero to have Mastercam calculate the tip compensation only.

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Mastercam sets the Tip angle to the value stored in the tool definition for the selected drill. You
can override this if necessary.

Parameters

Related topics

Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router

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Tips for Routing Stair Stringers

Stairs can be cut in two operations. The first operation is a Contour toolpath that cuts the stringer away from the material.
The graphic below shows a left-side stringer, rotated to the X axis, as simulated in Mastercam Simulator.

To finish the risers with mitered corners, use a Contour (Chamfer) toolpath. The Contour (Chamfer)
toolpath requires a V-groove tool, such as a chamfer bit. The graphic below shows the mitered risers.
The gold represents the 2D chamfer toolpath.

Creating a contour chamfer toolpath on the risers requires using Single chaining so that you can pick only the riser
geometry from the stair stringer. Because chaining sets the cutting direction, select each riser near the top of the
riser. You also need a chamfer tool with an outer diameter at least twice the depth of the chamfer, and lead-in moves
at least 50% of the V-groove diameter. Do not use lead-out moves because they will cut into the stringer.

Related topics

Stair
Contour Toolpaths
Chamfer Contour Toolpaths
Chaining: Wireframe Mode
Lead In/Out Moves for Contour Toolpaths

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Tool Parameters: Automatic Arc Drilling

Use this tab to select the tools needed for automatically created drill operations. This tab is used by the Automatic drilling
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and Start Hole features. You can also modify tools for Solid Drill operations.

NOTE

The Solid drill toolpath was removed from Mastercam. However, you can modify Solid drill operations that
were created in prior versions of Mastercam, and regenerate their drilling cycles. Mastercam replaces the
Solid drill toolpath type with FBM Drill, a more powerful and customizable solid drilling application.

Select checkboxes to activate other advanced toolpath setup options, such as home and reference
positions, rotary axis parameters, etc.

Parameters

Related topics

Start Hole Toolpaths Function

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Toolpath Corner Rounding

Toolpath corner rounding is available for Mastercam's high speed toolpaths. Use it to round the corners of the toolpath.
This lets the machine tool maintain a higher feed rate and reduces wear on the cutter.

This feature is often used when roughing. It lets you remove large amounts of material quickly, without
worrying about the exact rendering of edges.

NOTE

Turning on toolpath corner rounding often results in a greater number of cutting passes; the actual
stepover between each pass tends to be smaller.
Because Mastercam first calculates the cutting pass without corner rounding, the Offset tolerance value should be
less than the minimum XY Stepover on the Cut Parameters page. Otherwise, the corner rounded profile of one
cutting pass could overlap the original cutting pass at the next profile, and no further material would be cut.

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

2D High Speed Mill Toolpaths
Filleting Toolpaths

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Toolpath Fillet
Use this page to have Mastercam automatically generate fillet motion in your high speed toolpath.
Toolpath filleting allows you to create smooth toolpath motion while maintaining a high feed rate.
Generate the toolpath fillet based on a simple radius value or by entering tool information to control the
fillet. The fillet motion is generated only on internal corners. Your part geometry remains unaltered,
however, your toolpath contains smoother motion, as shown in the simplified example below.

Toolpath Fillet (On) Toolpath Fillet (Off)

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Parameters

Related topics

Filleting Toolpaths

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Toolpath Operations Preview: FBM Drill/Wizard Holes

Use the Toolpath Operations Preview, FBM Drill/Wizard Holes dialog box to view a list of toolpath operations (drill
cycles) that the FBM Drill or Wizard Holes operation will create to machine the holes displayed in the Features page.

Mastercam provides the following information for each operation in the list:

Drill cycle type

Tool type and definition
Number of holes included in the cycle and an expandable list of each hole's XY coordinates

The total number of FBM-generated drill operations displays at the bottom of the dialog box.

Use options in the Features page to change machining information for detected holes.

Related topics

FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

Features: FBM Mill
Working in the FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Features

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Tools: FBM Drill/Wizard Holes

Use this page to control the tools FBM selects for the drill cycles it creates.

Mastercam attempts to match the hole diameter with the closest sized tool using the tool sources you select here and other
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tool creation settings. However, this does not guarantee that the hole can be successfully machined
and that all material will be removed.

You can limit tool selection to any combination of the following sources:

Tools in a block drill (if available in the current Router machine group)
Tools in the current file
Tools in a specified tool library
Standard or custom-sized tools that Mastercam creates as needed

If you select Use block drill for the FBM Drill operation, Mastercam assigns matching block drill
tools first. Then it assigns tools based on the following hierarchal order:

Red lines connecting the tool source checkboxes show the hierarchical order.

Example 1 Example 2 Example 3

Block drill tools are given the highest priority for tool assignments to minimize tool changes in the FBM
Drill-generated toolpaths. If you do not select a specific block drill and more than one is configured,
Mastercam assigns the first one in the machine definition's component list. You can assign a specific
tool to spot drill cycles in the Spot Drilling page. This assignment overrides any Tools page settings.

Parameters

Related topics

Tool Libraries
FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

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Transitions: Circle Mill

Use this page to control tool motion during the transition between passes and lead in/out behavior. High speed
entry and Lead In/Out are activated by checkboxes. Complete the remaining fields to alter the tool motion.

High speed entry motion allows the tool to transition from one pass to another using a small arc to and
from the pass, connected by a straight line. You define the angle. Mastercam calculates the arc radius as
a percentage of the pass stepover. High speed entry minimizes tool motion outside of the cutting passes .

Parameters

Related topics

Circle Mill Toolpaths

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Trimming a Revolved Toolpath

Mastercam lets you trim a revolved toolpath to a specific height or width. In the first example shown
here, the toolpath is trimmed to a height below the axis of rotation, so the rotation is clipped:

Axis of rotation
Trimming plane

In this example, the toolpath is trimmed to a height above the axis of rotation, so the rotation is extended:

Axis of rotation
Trimming plane

This example shows the effect of trimming to width:

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Axis of rotation
Horizontal trimming lines
Toolpath trimmed to tool center (not the edge)

Related topics

Trimming Planes
Axis Depth for Revolved Toolpaths
Revolved Toolpaths
Wireframe Toolpaths

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Trimming Planes
Trimming planes extend each cut for clearance or prevent the tool from cutting past the specified
coordinate. The toolpath extends or trims to each trimming plane but the actual surface remains
unchanged. The following graphic shows an example of trimming planes in ruled toolpaths.

Contour 1
Trimming plane 1
Contour 2
Trimming plane 2

Related topics

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Trimming a Revolved Toolpath

Revolved Toolpaths
Wireframe Toolpaths

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Trochoidal Motion
Mastercam's High Speed toolpaths have been specially designed for high speed machining and hard
milling applications, specifically Area Roughing and Horizontal Area toolpaths. Because of this, it is
important to detect and avoid circumstances where the tool is fully buried or is engaging too much
material for the high speed strategies to be safely employed.

For example, in the part shown here, you can see the loops that Mastercam inserts as the tool
approaches the area between the two bosses. As the tool is forced to engage more material because of
the part geometry, Mastercam calculates smaller loops.

Minimize burial (on) Minimize burial (off)

Inserting the loops typically results in increased machining time. If you are confident that a fully buried tool does
not pose a problem for your application, you can de-select Minimize burial. For most applications, however, this
should be turned on by default, since Mastercam only inserts the loops if it detects problem areas in the toolpath.

Area Roughing example

Parameters

Related topics

Horizontal Area Toolpaths

2D High Speed Area Mill Toolpaths

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Turning Off Point Sorting

Follow these steps to turn off point sorting for an existing point-based toolpath.

In the Toolpaths Manager, click Geometry for the toolpath. Multiaxis operations require you to click
Select on the Cut Pattern page.
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The Toolpath Hole Definition function panel displays. Sort displays the current sorting method. If Sort is set
to Selected Order, the points are already unsorted and you do not need to complete this procedure.

Click the Sort drop-down.

Select Selected Order from the drop-down. A warning dialog box will display, informing you that
point sorting is turned off. Click OK.
Click OK to return to the Toolpaths Manager.
Regenerate the toolpath.

Related topics

Hole-Making Toolpaths: Mill/Router

Adding a Point to a Toolpath

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Using Depth Cuts

Use depth cuts to divide the total depth of a toolpath into smaller Z-axis cuts to reduce tool wear. At each cut depth,
Mastercam cuts the complete contour before plunging to the next depth. Mastercam lets you create both rough and finish
steps. Mastercam also gives you the option to create a subprogram and use it for each pass for the most efficient NC code.

As an alternative to depth cuts, you might also consider using a contour ramp toolpath, where the tool
plunges with a ramp motion which extends throughout the part contour.

NOTE

Mastercam recalculates the top of stock for each depth cut. This affects the following parameters
in incremental mode, since they are calculated from the top of stock:
n Clearance
n Retract
n Feed plane
You can create depth cuts for 2D high speed, Contour, Pocket, Circle Mill, and Face toolpaths. The
parameters for each type of toolpath are similar but each has specific options.
If you choose to create subprograms, you cannot create tapered walls.

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Related topics

Using Multiple Cutting Passes

Contour Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths
Mill Toolpaths

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Using Multiple Cutting Passes

Use multiple cutting passes on toolpaths that follow contour geometry when you want to approach the
geometry in steps instead of cutting right to the geometry on the first cut. Typically, this occurs when
there is too much stock on the part to remove in one cut or when you want to reduce tool wear. The
part contour is offset in the cutting plane by a distance you specify for each pass.

You can create separate pass dimensions for both roughing and finishing. Use the Multi Passes page to create the passes.
Use the Finishing page to create the passes when creating a Circle Mill toolpath.

NOTE

Mastercam offsets the multiple passes in the cutter compensation direction. When cutter compensation
is set to Off, Mastercam still creates the passes using the active compensation direction (left or right).
However, Mastercam drives along the curve for the final pass instead of offsetting the radius of the tool.

Related topics

Circle Mill Toolpaths

Router Toolpaths
Contour Toolpaths
Mill Toolpaths

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Using Tabs
Tabs are uncut areas of a toolpath that assist in holding down a part. While the tool is cutting the contour,
it retracts slightly at the tab location to leave a small amount of stock, then plunges back to the normal
cutting depth. Tabs are especially useful when you are cutting out small parts, multiple parts, or nested
parts. Tabs are integrated with Mill and Router contour toolpaths; activate options in the Tabs page (and
optionally, the Tab Cutoff page) when creating a Contour toolpath.

Types of tabs
You can create either full or partial tabs. Full tabs are the full stock height; in other words, at each tab
location, the tool pulls back all the way to the retract height. Partial tabs are less than the full stock
height; you tell Mastercam how far to pull back from the cut depth. For either type, you need to tell
Mastercam how long the tabs will be. You can also choose to ramp to and from the tab height.

Locating tabs
You can locate tabs either manually or automatically. For manual tabs, you can either return to the graphics window and select
each tab location, or add square points along the contour to mark the tab locations. To position tabs automatically,

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tell Mastercam how many tabs to place along each contour, and it will space them evenly along the
contour. If a tab position will overlap a corner, the tab will wrap around it. Additional options let you
specify a size threshold for creating tabs, so that Mastercam only creates tabs for small parts.

Mastercam also gives you many options for cutting off the tabs. After you have created the
toolpath, use the Chain Manager to move, add, or delete tab locations to the toolpath.

Related topics
Positioning Tabs with Square Points
Contour Toolpaths

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Wall Finish: FBM Mill

Select Enable wall finish on this page to add finish passes for the walls of each pocket feature included in the FBM Mill
operation. When this option is deselected, Mastercam creates only roughing and restmill operations for pocket walls.

Tapered wall restrictions

NOTE

Mastercam selects tools for finish operations based on settings you choose in the FBM Mill Setup
and Finish tools pages.
Stock to leave on walls must be greater than or equal to the stock left on the floor.
Other parameters for the toolpath type come from values in the operation's .defaults file, as defined
in the Files tab for the machine group. You can also use options in the machine group's Tool
settings tab to replace some of the operation defaults with tool definition defaults.

Parameters

Related topics

FBM Mill Overview

Leaving Stock on Drive and Check Geometry

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Warning for Engraving Depth Cut

This dialog appears when you create an Engraving toolpath and set the Depth in the Engraving parameters tab
greater than the length of the conical section of the selected V-groove tool, such as an engraving or chamfer tool.
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Depth exceeded conical part of tool

Tool
Workpiece

Depending on the type of cutting tool, specifically its cutting edge, plunging the conical section of the tool
too deep may result in a damaged part, tool shaft damage, machine damage, or even personal injury.

Parameters

Related topics

Engraving Parameters
Engraving Toolpath

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Wireframe Toolpaths
Mastercam's wireframe toolpaths let you create toolpaths similar to surface toolpaths, but with wireframe geometry. Use
them to machine regions defined by wireframe geometry when you are not going to create surfaces first.

Mastercam includes several types of wireframe toolpaths, similar to the different types of surfaces.
Choose the one that best fits your part geometry:

Ruled Toolpaths create a linear blend between several chains.

Lofted Toolpaths create a smooth, curved blend between several chains.
Revolved Toolpaths revolve a profile around an axis.
Coons Patch Toolpaths define patches in a grid of curves or chains.
Swept toolpaths sweep a profile or contour along another curve. You can choose Swept 2D Toolpaths, if
the along curve lies within a single plane, or Swept 3D Toolpaths, if the along curve does not.

Related topics

Mill Toolpaths
Router Toolpaths

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Wrap Toolpath
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Mastercam lets you wrap engraving toolpaths onto surfaces, onto cylinders, and between two curves
to create a 3D toolpath. Use the Wrap Toolpath dialog box to wrap your toolpath. A wrapped Engraving
toolpath creates 4-axis and 5-axis tool motion, so your post processor and your machine tool must
both be able to handle these types of tool motion in order to machine a wrapped toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

Wrapping an Engraving Toolpath on a Surface

Engraving Parameters
Engraving Toolpath

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Wrapping an Engraving Toolpath on a Surface

With Mastercam Engraving, you can wrap engraving toolpaths onto surfaces, onto cylinders, and
between two curves to create 3D toolpaths. You select the wrapping function on the Engraving
parameters tab of the Engraving toolpath dialog box.

By using the wrapping function instead of projecting a completed engraving toolpath onto the
surfaces, the tool remains normal (perpendicular) to the surfaces. The wrapped toolpath is also a more
accurate representation of the original geometry.

Geometry requirements

Related topics

Wrap Toolpath
Engraving Toolpath

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Working in the FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Features

Use the following guidelines when working in the FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Features page.
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Sorting the list – Click in any column heading to sort the list in ascending / descending order by the
column data. To reverse the sort order, click again.
Selecting more than one feature – Use [Shift+click] and [Ctrl+click] methods. Or, use the Select all and
Unselectall buttons. Other selection options for common features and co-axial holes are described below.
Selecting all co-axial hole features – Activate the Select co-axial features checkbox to
automatically select all co-axial holes in the list (multiple holes that share a common axis).
Selecting all features with the same attributes (for example, hole type, diameter, tool plane, and finish
tool) – Select the Select common features checkbox. Then click the button to access the Feature
Selection Filter dialog box. Select all of the attributes that you want to match in the list and click
OK. Mastercam automatically selects all holes in the list that match your selection filter.
Changing the hole type, tool plane, or finish tool – Select one or more features. Then right-click in the
corresponding column (Hole type, Plane, Finish tool) and choose one from the list.
Save feature settings - The Features page settings are saved within the part file after choosing OK.
The saved settings, including assigned hole types, finish tools, suppressed states, and planes,
are applied to existing features even if Detect is selected again. Imported SOLIDWORKS® data is
the exception to this rule; on redetect, Mastercam replaces all imported SOLIDWORKS Hole
Wizard® data with feature data detected in the Mastercam part file.
Locating hole features – Use one of the following methods:
Click Select to return to the graphics window and select hole features in the solid model. When you
end selection and return to the Features page, all selected holes are highlighted in the list.
Select one or more features in the list to highlight its geometry (including wireframe face
geometry) and show the normal direction in the graphics window. After selecting features in
the list, click Hide dialog to minimize the dialog box and get a better view of the graphics
window. Press [Esc] when finished to maximize the dialog box.
Suppressing features – Select one or more features in the list. Then right-click and choose
Suppress. Mastercam creates no toolpaths for suppressed features. However, when the FBM
drill operation generates toolpaths for unsuppressed features, it considers suppressed feature
data when calculating incremental clearance and retract moves.
Deleting holes – Select one or more holes in the list. Then press the [Delete] key, or choose Delete
from the right-click menu.
n Resolving machining conflicts for holes that cannot be created – Try choosing a different Finish
tool, changing the Hole type, or resetting FBM Drill parameters and then re-detecting holes.
n Importing SOLIDWORKS® Hole Wizard® information – If you are working with an imported SOLIDWORKS
part, and you have SOLIDWORKS installed on your local PC, you can read SOLIDWORKS Hole Wizard
data into the list. Click Open SOLIDWORKS file, and select the SOLIDWORKS part file.
n In the background, Mastercam runs SOLIDWORKS and extracts the Hole Wizard information.
The features list updates with the imported information. The State column changes for all
holes updated by the SOLIDWORKS Hole Wizard. (FBM Drill only)

Related topics

FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

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Working in the Hole Mapping page

Use the following guidelines when working in the Hole Mapping page:

To create a hole map entry, right-click in the table and select Add, or click Create new hole definition
located below the table. Enter a value in Diameter. Then press the [Tab] key to advance to the next
two columns, and choose a Hole Type and Finish Tool from the drop-down lists.
The tools in the Finish Tool drop-down list are based on the hole diameter and hole type you entered,
and on the tool selection parameters in the Tools page. The three-character prefix in the finish tool
list indicates that the tool is from one of the following tool sources:
n mcam– Mastercam part file
n lib – Selected tool library

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xls– Created for the operation using FBM’s standard tool definitions file. FBM uses the tool definitions in
this file to create new tools if your automatic tool selection settings on the Tools page include Create as
needed. It is used exclusively if Create only standard sizes is also selected on that page.
To change information for an existing entry, click in the column. Then enter or choose a new value.
To delete an entry in the table, use the cursor to select the row. Then press the [Delete] key, or right-
click and choose Delete.
To save the existing file, click Save. The Save As dialog box opens where you can enter the file name.
Assigning the mcam part file name to the MAP file makes it easier to associate MAP files with
specific applications. Make sure the Save as type is set to MAP files (.map). The file will be saved in
the Mastercam installation's \Common\FBM directory.
To select a different hole mapping file, choose it from the file drop-down list. The list contains all
MAP files that exist in the Mastercam installation's \Common\FBM directory.
Sort hole mapping entries in ascending/descending order by any column in the table. To do this,
click in the column heading. To reverse the sort order, click again.
Use the [Tab] key to move between columns.
Use the up and down arrow keys to move the cursor between rows. The [Page up] and [Page Down]
keys positions the cursor in first and last rows, respectively.
Use [Shift+click] and [Ctrl+click] methods to select more than one row. Or, use the Select all and
Unselect all buttons.

Related topics

FBM Drill/Wizard Holes Overview

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3D High Speed Blend Toolpaths

3D High Speed Blend toolpaths machine the selected Machining geometry between selected Curves,
and conforms to the part shape. In the part below, the selected Curves are the line geometry.

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Create a 3D High Speed Blend toolpath by selecting Blend from the 3D gallery in the Mill Toolpaths contextual tab.

What is causing the Reporting computation error to display?

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

Cut Parameters: Blend

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3D High Speed Pencil Toolpaths

3D high speed pencil toolpaths are used to clean out the corners of a job. The tool follows a contour defined by
the intersection of two or more surfaces. You can create pencil toolpaths with either single or multiple passes.
High speed pencil toolpaths are similar to Mastercam's standard pencil toolpaths, but are enhanced to produce
the smoother, free-flowing tool motion and transitions necessary for high speed machining. You can define the
size of the cutting zone by creating multiple offset profiles from the surface boundary.
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Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

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3D High Speed Radial Toolpaths

Use radial toolpaths to create cutting passes that radiate outwards from a central point, using Mastercam's high
speed surface toolpath engine. This machining strategy is most effective on areas with shallow curved surfaces and
circular areas. Since the stepover between each pass is a 2D value calculated in the XY plane only, the cuts might not
be appropriate for steep areas. This is especially true when the steep contour is perpendicular to the cutting
direction. In such areas a waterline, spiral, or hybrid toolpath might produce better results.

To define the machining zone, enter the radius of the circle to be machined and the coordinates of its
center point, in the Cut Parameters page. Mastercam projects this circle onto your selected drive
surfaces and calculates the toolpath within this area.

To select the radius or center point coordinate based on geometry in your part file, right-click in the
desired field and choose a value from the short cut menu.

Using start and end angles

Calculating stepover

Preventing overmachining
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Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

Cut Parameters: Radial

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3D High Speed Scallop Toolpaths

The 3D High Speed Scallop toolpaths are also known as constant stepover toolpaths. Since the stepover
is measured along the surface, the spacing between cuts is maintained as the surface angle varies,
producing a consistent scallop height across the surface.

The stepover distance is measured along the surface, instead of parallel to the tool plane. This ensures a consistent scallop
height across the surface, regardless of the surface direction. This is an ideal strategy to use on the boundaries generated
by rest machining, or in any circumstances where you want to ensure a constant 3D distance between passes.

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

Cut Parameters: Scallop

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3D High Speed Toolpaths

3D high speed toolpaths (HST) are a set of machining strategies specially designed to produce the smoothest, most
efficient tool motions when machining surface models or solid faces. Mastercam uses two main techniques to achieve this:

Each cutting pass can be configured with advanced corner rounding and toolpath refinement techniques to
reduce the impact of corners, sharp angles, and other discontinuities. These parameters help maintain a
constant load on the tool, reduce machining time, and improve machined surface quality.
An advanced suite of linking tools lets you optimize the transitions between cutting passes and the lead in/out to
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each cutting pass.

Also, 3D high speed toolpaths extend Mastercam’s gouge-checking capabilities to include the tool holder. Use the Holder
page incorporated in the high speed toolpath interface to define custom holder shapes and save them in holder libraries.

Another difference between high speed toolpaths and Mastercam's other toolpaths is how they use
defaults. Most toolpaths read default values from the .mcam-defaults file for each operation type. High
speed toolpaths dynamically calculate default values based on the selected tool. Whenever you select a
new tool for an operation, Mastercam updates the toolpath parameters.

3D high speed toolpaths support both roughing and finishing operations. The following toolpaths are available:

Roughing Finishing
Area Roughing Toolpaths Waterline Toolpaths
Dynamic OptiRough 3D High Speed Scallop
Toolpaths Toolpaths
Horizontal Area Toolpaths
Equal Scallop Toolpaths
Raster Toolpaths
3D High Speed Pencil
Toolpaths
Spiral Toolpaths
3D High Speed Radial
Toolpaths
Project Toolpaths
3D High Speed Blend
Toolpaths
Additional surface toolpaths
Check surfaces support

Related topics
3D HST Default Formula Files
Working with HST Defaults
Mill Toolpaths

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3D HST Default Formula Files

Mastercam default formula files apply only to 3D high speed toolpaths. The formulas are for calculating
the default values for 3D high speed toolpaths and are stored in files with .formula extensions. Typically,
these are stored in the following folder:

..\<Shared Data Folder>\MILL\FORMULA

Mastercam installs a default .formula file that contains the system defaults. If you wish, you can select
a different set of defaults. Typically, different default files are created for different materials. For
example, for softer materials you might use more aggressive cutting parameters.

Selecting a .formula file

Opening and saving .formula files

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Creating new .formula files

Resetting the default.formula file

Understanding the formula file structure

Building formulas

Related topics

Working with Toolpath Defaults

Working with HST Defaults
3D High Speed Toolpaths

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Adaptive Stepdown
Use the Stepdown options on the Cut parameters page to configure how Mastercam spaces the cuts in Z. Mastercam can
maintain a constant stepdown between passes, or you can choose Add cuts to configure adaptive stepdown strategies.

Adding Cuts with Adaptive Stepdown

Area Roughing and Waterline toolpaths all use the Stepdown value on the Cut parameters page to
maintain a constant Z spacing between cutting passes. However, in areas of your part where the profile
is close to flat, maintaining a constant Z spacing can result in an unacceptably broad distance between
cutting passes. Use Add cuts to insert additional cutting passes in these areas.

The picture below shows how this works. Each horizontal line is a cutting pass seen from the side, separated by the
Stepdown. The image on the right shows the additional passes created by Add cuts. Use the Minimum stepdown and
Maximum profile stepover values to configure the added cuts. Mastercam will add enough new cuts to maintain the
maximum profile stepover, while spacing them each by at least as much as the minimum stepdown.
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Stepdown (constant Z)
Minimum stepdown
Maximum profile stepover

Add cuts will also result in cuts being added to island faces and similar flats, but the additional cuts are
not guaranteed to be at the exact level of the island. The amount of stock remaining on the island face
could be as much as the minimum stepdown amount.

NOTE

For most applications, the Maximum profile stepover should be greater than the Stepdown. Otherwise,
toolpath calculation time can increase significantly.

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

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Advanced Settings
Advanced Settings determines the tool motion on the edges of surfaces and solids, and the accuracy, or
tolerance, of tool motion on sharp corners for Surface Rough/Finish toolpaths. You can also perform
checks for hidden solid faces and sharp internal corners on surfaces.

Parameters

Related topics

Surface Toolpaths

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Advanced
Use the options on this page to filter small, unnecessary toolpath segments and/or passes that might lie
very close or tight against a steep Z pass.

Parameters

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

Cut Parameters: Hybrid

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Area Roughing Toolpaths

Use this toolpath to machine standing bosses and cores, cavities and pockets, or material that other toolpaths left behind.
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Rest Material Strategy

From Outside Strategy

Stay Inside Strategy

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

Stock: 3D High Speed Toolpaths
Toolpath Type: 3D High Speed Toolpaths

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Bias Angle: Surface Finish Scallop

When Mastercam creates a Scallop Finish toolpath, it scans the part to generate a mesh of points that it
uses as the basis for the toolpath. The bias angle refers to the angle at which Mastercam scans the part.
The part is scanned in two directions, once at the bias angle and again at a right angle to it. Consider
changing the bias angle if your part features are strongly aligned to the orientation of the mesh. In such
cases, changing the bias angle might result in finer resolution around important part features or details.

The following picture shows a Scallop toolpath for a rectangular surface with a bias angle of 0 degrees.
You can see that the corners of each pass are not sharp:

The following picture shows the same toolpath with the bias angle set to 45 degrees. Notice that the corners are sharper:

Related topics

Finish Scallop Parameters

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Blend Along Cut Settings

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Use the Blend Along Cut Settings dialog box to change the resolution of the tool stepover when using
the Along option for a Finish Blend toolpath. The Finish Blend toolpath drives the tool along the surfaces
using a pattern created from curves that mimic the part features.

If your part has a consistent shape in the region between the blend curves or if the blend curves are similar
in shape, you may be able to make the resolution less refined: use a larger distance or percentage of
stepover, 500% or 1000%, for example. A larger stepover will reduce the toolpath calculation time.

If your part has many small features, such as bosses or cavities, then you may need to make the resolution
more refined: use a smaller distance or percentage of stepover, 50% or 25%, for example. A smaller stepover
will increase the toolpath calculation time but the toolpath will maintain consistent stepover.

Parameters

Related topics

Finish Blend Parameters

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Contour Flat
Use the Contour Flat dialog box to add additional cuts to flat or very shallow areas of a surface rough
or finish contour toolpath.

Mastercam already includes the Shallow option, which adds additional cuts in shallow areas of the
part, but these additional passes are at different Z depths. In contrast, the extra cuts added with the
Flats option are at the same Z depth, making them appropriate for perfectly flat areas.

Flats option off

Flats option on

If you use Cut Depths, the contour flat cuts will be applied to the detected flats.

A common use is to enable both the Add cuts to shallow areas parameters in the Contour Shallow dialog
box and the Contour flats options. These options will result in fixed spaced cuts in steep areas, closely
spaced cuts in shallow areas, and contour flat cuts in the very shallow and flat areas.

Parameters

Related topics

Cut Depths
Contour Shallow

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Contour Shallow
Use the Contour Shallow dialog box to add or remove cuts from shallow areas in a Surface Rough or Finish
Contour (constant Z) toolpath. You can add or remove full cuts or partial cuts from the shallow areas.
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Parameters

Related topics

Rough/Finish Contour Parameters

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Corner Smoothing for Scallop Toolpaths

Mastercam’s standard Scallop Finish toolpath includes an option to smooth sharp corners and replace
them with curves. Eliminating sharp changes of direction results in a more even load on the tool and
lets you consistently maintain a higher feed rate.

For example, consider the mold below, where a scallop toolpath might be used to finish the cavity.

As the tool moves into the narrow arms of the mold, the toolpath will contain many sharp changes of
direction. The corner rounding parameters replace sharp corners with arcs, resulting in much smoother
transitions and tool motion. Compare the difference as illustrated below.

No Smoothing Corner Smoothing

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Corner smoothing is found on the Finish Scallop Parameters tab.

The picture below shows how to use Maximum rounding to control the smoothing.

Not every eligible corner will be smoothed by the amount of the Maximum rounding distance. If the arc
created by Maximum rounding would gouge the part, Mastercam will attempt to insert a smaller arc. If,
after several such attempts, Mastercam does not find a suitable curve, it will leave the sharp corner
unchanged. Also, if there are several sharp corners close together, Mastercam will reduce the size of the
inserted arcs so that the smoothed segments do not interfere with each other.

Original toolpath
Smoothed toolpath
Maximum rounding

NOTE

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Because this is a 3D toolpath, the smoothing curve can be either an arc or 3D spline. If the curve does not
lie in the XY, YZ, or XZ plane, Mastercam will linearize it to ensure that the part is not gouged.
The corner smoothing is calculated after Mastercam calculates the 3D collapse tool motions.

Related topics

Finish Scallop Parameters

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Cut Depths
Use the Cut Depths dialog box to specify the placement of Z-axis cuts for all Rough Surface
toolpaths and for Finish Contour toolpaths.

Parameters

NOTE

For Surface Rough Project, Radial, Parallel, and Flowline toolpaths, incremental cut depths are
measured from the top of the projected cut, not the top or highest point of the part model. To
avoid this condition, use Absolute cut depths for these toolpaths.
For Surface Rough Pocket, Rough Contour, Rough Restmill, and Finish Contour on parts with flat
areas: Use Critical Depths and enter 0 for the Adjustment to top cut and Adjustment to other cuts
parameters to avoid leaving an uneven amount of stock on the part.

Related topics

Surface Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Area Roughing

Use this page to configure the cutting parameters for an Area Roughing toolpath. The toolpath creates
multiple passes at different Z heights, and multiple profiles at each Z height.

Parameters

Related topics

Area Roughing Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Blend

Use the Cut Parameters page to configure the cutting parameters for a 3D High Speed Blend toolpath.

Parameters
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Related topics

3D High Speed Blend Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Dynamic OptiRough

Use this page to enter values for different cutting parameters and compensation options for Dynamic
OptiRough toolpaths, a high speed roughing toolpath capable of machining very large depths of cut.

Parameters

Related topics

Dynamic OptiRough Toolpaths

Leaving Stock on Drive and Check Geometry
3D High Speed Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Equal Scallop

Use this page to configure the cutting passes for a 3D Equal Scallop toolpath. Use this toolpath to create
finish passes with a constant stepover, where the stepover is measured along the surface instead of
parallel to the tool plane. This lets you maintain a constant scallop height across the toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

3D High Speed Scallop Toolpaths

Equal Scallop Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Horizontal Area

Use this page to configure the cutting passes for a Horizontal Area toolpath. This toolpath creates finish passes over a flat
area. Mastercam will create multiple cutting passes which represent the surface boundary offset by a stepover value.

Parameters

Related topics

Horizontal Area Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Hybrid

Use this page to configure the cutting passes for a hybrid toolpath. This is a finishing toolpath which
generates waterline-style cut passes for steep regions and scallop cut passes for shallow regions.
Mastercam switches smoothly between both styles to cut in a logical optimized order.

Parameters

Related topics

Hybrid Toolpaths
Linking Parameters: Mill/Router
3D High Speed Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Pencil

Use this page to configure the cutting passes for a Pencil toolpath. Use this toolpath to create additional
finish passes along the intersections between two or more surfaces.

Parameters

Related topics

Reference Tool Diameter for Pencil Toolpaths

Leaving Stock on Drive and Check Geometry
Overthickness
3D High Speed Pencil Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Project

Use this page to project curves, points, or another toolpath (NCI file) onto surfaces or solids. Set your
stock to leave, tip compensation, and parameters for keeping the tool down while on this page. A
common application for project toolpaths is engraving text or other curves onto surfaces.

Geometry selections are made in the Toolpath/surface selection dialog box. You may change the
selections from the Toolpath Type page.

Parameters

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

Project Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Radial

Use this page to configure the cutting passes for a radial toolpath. Use radial toolpaths to create cutting
passes that radiate outwards from a central point. Select a Cutting method to organize and orient the cuts.
You can choose to create one-way cuts in either direction; zig-zag cuts in both directions; or up/down mill.

Then, define the machining zone with the center point of a circle and its outer radius. Mastercam will project this circle
onto your selected drive surfaces and calculate the toolpath within this area. Mastercam automatically calculates a default
center point and outer radius based on your selected geometry. You can edit these if you wish. Enter an inner radius to
define a zone around the center point that is not machined. This is useful to prevent overmachining near the center point.

Parameters

Related topics

3D High Speed Radial Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Raster

Use this page to configure the cutting passes for a Raster toolpath. Use this toolpath to create parallel
finish passes with a constant stepover, aligned at an angle that you enter. This lets you optimize the
direction of the cuts to your part geometry for the most efficient cuts.

Parameters

Related topics

Raster Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Scallop

Use this page to configure the cutting passes for a 3D Scallop toolpath. Use this toolpath to create
finish passes with a constant stepover, where the stepover is measured along the surface instead of
parallel to the tool plane. This lets you maintain a constant scallop height across the toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

3D High Speed Scallop Toolpaths

Equal Scallop Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Waterline

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Use this page to configure the cutting passes for a Waterline toolpath. This is a finish toolpath
which traces parallel contours on the drive surfaces with a constant Z spacing between them.

Parameters

Related topics

Waterline Toolpaths

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Depth Limits
Use the Depth Limits dialog box to determine where the Z-axis cuts are placed for all Surface Finish
toolpaths except Finish Contour. All cuts are placed between the minimum and maximum depths.

If the depth limits cause Mastercam to remove sections of the toolpath, Mastercam will use the Gap settings to determine
the tool motion between the sections. For these toolpaths, it is possible that the gap settings might require tool
movements that conflict with the depth limits. In such cases, the gap settings take precedence over the depth limits.

Parameters

Related topics

Gap Settings

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Direction
Use the Direction dialog box for editing entry and exit moves for the Surface Rough and Finish toolpath.
The plunge parameters determine the entry moves and the retract parameters determine the exit moves.

Parameters

Related topics

Surface Parameters
Surface Toolpaths

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Dynamic OptiRough Toolpaths

The Dynamic OptiRough toolpath supports cutters capable of machining very large depths of cut. It uses an
aggressive, fast, intelligent roughing algorithm based on Mastercam’s 2D high speed dynamic milling motion.

A single toolpath can cut material in two directions, on stepdowns (-Z) and stepups (+Z). This highly efficient
bi-directional cutting strategy removes the maximum amount of material with the minimum of stepdowns,
significantly reducing cycle times. Dynamic OptiRough also contains three different machining strategies:
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Rest Material Strategy

From Outside Strategy

Stay Inside Strategy

As stepdowns are calculated, the dynamic roughing motion clears the material in the -Z direction, avoiding any islands.

If you activate stepup cuts in the toolpath's Cut Parameters, Mastercam calculates additional slices in
the +Z direction to remove any material left behind between the stepdowns—for example, islands or
large scallops on angled walls. The stepup cuts use a 2D high speed dynamic mill motion to clear
leftover material. Stepup cuts are ordered between stepdowns.

The following picture shows stepdowns only.

Because stepup cutting is optional, you can use this toolpath for aggressive roughing without
calculating the rest portion of the toolpath, which can be time-intensive.

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

Stock: 3D High Speed Toolpaths
Toolpath Type: 3D High Speed Toolpaths
Cut Parameters: Dynamic OptiRough

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Equal Scallop Toolpaths

The Equal Scallop toolpath creates a consistent scallop motion, relative to the stepover distance. It generates noise free
motion with the ability to smooth sharp corners, or convert the motion to a spiral approach while avoiding stepover moves.

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Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

3D High Speed Scallop Toolpaths

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Filleting Toolpaths
Use toolpath fillets to create a toolpath which automatically leaves fillets at the corners between the surfaces.
The fillets let you maintain smoother tool motion in corners and as the tool transitions between part features.

The fillets are created entirely by the programmed tool motion, and have no effect at all on your surface
model or part geometry. For many parts, this can be much easier and faster than actually creating the
fillets in your part geometry. This feature is available for all high speed surface toolpaths.

The following picture shows a part with a series of raster cutting passes. You can see the sharp
transitions between surface boundaries.

Note that the fillets are created not only along the direction of the tool motion, but across it as well. For example,
consider a toolpath which machined the inside corner shown here with a series of waterline passes down the walls:
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Filleting Off

Filleting On

Toolpath filleting can seem similar to toolpath corner rounding, but there is an important difference. Toolpath
filleting looks at your part model to calculate the fillets, while toolpath corner rounding looks directly at the
calculated tool motion. For example, if you cut a 6mm fillet with a 12mm ball mill, the toolpath will still have a
sharp corner. Toolpath corner rounding, on the other hand, would identify and apply an arc to that corner.

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

Toolpath Corner Rounding

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Flowline Data
Use the Flowline Options dialog box to change the direction, offset, tolerance, or step direction for
flowline geometry. All toolpaths that use flowline geometry cut a set of adjacent surfaces.

Surface Rough/Finish Flowline

MultiSurface (Multiaxis)
Flow (Multiaxis)
Port (Multiaxis)

Parameters

Related topics

Toolpath/Surface Selection

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Gap Settings
Use the Gap Settings dialog box to control the action when there is a break in tool motion in a surface toolpath. A
break can occur between two cuts, between drive and check surfaces, or between two drive surfaces.

Click below to see an example of gap motion where the tool is down (set to direct), and gap motion where the tool retracts.
The gap occurs between two drive surfaces.
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Example

The Reset button on this dialog box lets you load Mastercam's manufacturer's settings for gap settings. The manufacturer
settings may be different from any operation defaults that you create, or the gap settings you enter for a toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

Tangential Arcs and Lines: Gap Settings

Surface Toolpaths

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Gap Settings: Rough/Finish Contour, Restmill

Gap settings control the action retract or keep tool down when there is a break in tool motion in an
operation. A break can occur between two cuts, between drive and check surfaces, or between two drive
surfaces. The break in tool motion is called a gap or transition.

Use the Gap Settings, Rough/Finish Contour, Restmill dialog box to set the size of the gap that will
cause a retract. The gap size can be a percentage of the maximum stepdown, percentage of the tool
diameter, or an absolute distance. When a gap exceeds the size that you've set, the tool retracts.

The Transition option on the Rough/Finish Contour or Restmill parameters tabs sets the type of motion
when the tool is kept down. Mastercam keeps the tool down in areas that are smaller than the gap size.

Parameters

Related topics

Rough/Finish Contour Parameters

Restmill Parameters

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High Speed Parameters

Use the High Speed Parameters dialog box to set up trochoidal cuts for the high speed cutting method
for Rough Pocket toolpaths.

Parameters

Related topics

High Speed Trochoidal Cutting

Pocket Parameters

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High Speed Trochoidal Cutting

The High speed cutting method relies on trochoidal cutting motion. Trochoidal cutting produces smooth tool motion
at corners to prevent wear on the machine tool. Mastercam inserts arcs or loops into the toolpath which minimize
tool burial and optimize chip load. You can choose to insert the high speed loops throughout the cutting pass or just
at the boundaries between cuts. Mastercam inserts high-speed loops when the tool is fully buried, for example, in the
first cut in the center of a pocket. When it is not fully buried, it moves in a straight line.

To create high speed loops in your toolpath, choose the High speed cutting method when creating your
pocket or surface rough pocket toolpath. Click High speed to set the loop dimensions and other options.

Related topics

Pocket Toolpaths

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Horizontal Area Toolpaths

Use a Horizontal Area toolpath to machine the flat areas of your surface model. Mastercam will create
cutting passes at the Z height of each area. For example, in the toolpath shown below, there are two flat
areas: one at the top of the boss, and another at the base. Mastercam creates a set of cutting passes at
each level. The passes within each set are at the same Z height, but the tool does not cut as it moves
from one area to the other. Mastercam cuts from inside to out within each cutting area.

Mastercam analyzes the selected drive surfaces and automatically identifies the flat areas within each surface. This
means that you do not need to create special containment boundaries or other guides to limit the tool to the flat
areas. Even if the drive surface as a whole is not flat, Mastercam will identify and only machine the flat areas.
Mastercam will automatically calculate the toolpath in such a way that the tool does not exit on a sidewall.

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Horizontal area toolpaths act only on completely flat areas within the cut tolerance. If a surface has even a small
gradient, it will not be detected. You can adjust the cutting tolerance on the Arc Filter/Tolerance page to control how
much deviation from perfect flatness will be accommodated, or to handle small irregularities in the surface model.

This toolpath is often used for semi-finish operations, and includes several parameters to support these applications.

You can specify a number of depth cuts and a stepdown value, if your part has a large amount of stock remaining.
You can specify an amount of stock to leave on the floor of the part and on adjacent walls.

Because the profiles created by this toolpath are equivalent to the last set of profiles created by an Area
Roughing toolpath this is often a good finish option for an Area Roughing toolpath.

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

Arc Filter/Tolerance
Cut Parameters: Area Roughing

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Hybrid Cutting: Finish Leftover

Hybrid leftover cutting combines 2D and 3D cuts where cuts above the cutoff angle (usually the steepest
area) are constant Z and cuts below are 3D. Hybrid cutting is an option for one way and zigzag cutting
methods during leftover finish toolpaths.

The cutoff angle defines the hybrid area. A recommended cutoff angle is 45 degrees. You can extend
the 3D cutting area by entering an extension distance.

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Related topics

Finish Leftover Parameters

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Hybrid Toolpaths
Mastercam’s Hybrid toolpath addresses steep and shallow areas utilizing both scallop and constant Z approaches in
a single toolpath. The toolpath switches seamlessly between both methods and cuts in a logical optimized order.

Most of the parameters you define for the toolpath are similar or the same as other high speed
finishing toolpaths. However, the Step group of settings on the Cut Parameters page are unique. Use
them to control how Mastercam defines steep and shallow areas.

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

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Cut Parameters: Hybrid

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Including Cuts that Fall Outside of the Steep Range

The following technique for finish parallel steep toolpaths finishes a part without cutting areas of the part twice.

On the Finish parallel steep parameters tab, enter From slope and To slope angles to define the
steep range of the toolpath. A typical steep range is 50 to 90 degrees.
Select the Include cuts that fall outside checkbox.
Enter 0 (zero) degrees for the Machining angle.
Click OK to generate the toolpath.

In the Toolpaths Manager, right-click on the finish parallel steep toolpath, drag it below the first
finish parallel operation, and create a copy.
Click Parameters and choose the Finish parallel steep parameters tab.
Clear the Include cuts that fall outside checkbox.
Enter 90 for the Machining angle.
Choose OK, then regenerate the toolpath.
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Related topics

Finish Parallel Steep Parameters

Surface Toolpaths

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Lead In/Out: Surface Rough Pocket

Use the Lead In/Out, Surface Rocugh Pocket dialog box to create lead in/out moves for Rough Pocket toolpaths.

You can create either entry moves, exit moves, or both. Select the Entry or Exit checkboxes to
activate the type of move you wish to create.
Your lead in/out move can include both lines and arcs. To use an arc only, enter a line length of 0. To
use a line only, enter an arc radius of 0.
Enter arc or line dimensions as either absolute values or a percentage of the tool diameter. When you
make an entry in one field, the other automatically updates.

Parameters

Related topics

Surface Rough Pocket Toolpaths

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Leaving Stock on Drive and Check Geometry

When specifying how much stock to leave on your drive geometry, Mastercam lets you enter separate values
for the wall and floor surfaces. This feature is available for both roughing and finishing operations.

For roughing operations, specify stock to leave for a finishing operation.

For finishing operations, you can use these values to accomplish specific application goals. For
example, when machining shallow areas, you can use a large stock to leave amount to keep the
tool away from walls. Or you can use them to create a spark gap when machining electrodes.

Stock to leave on walls must be greater than or equal to the stock left on the floor. The exceptions
are horizontal area passes in 3D high speed toolpaths, and 2D high speed toolpaths.

For surfaces that are not exactly horizontal or vertical, Mastercam will interpolate between the wall and floor values.
When calculating the toolpath, Mastercam adds the stock to leave amounts to the tool radius in each direction.

For toolpath types that support check geometry, the stock left on the check geometry is the larger of
the Stock to leave amount for the walls or floors.

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

2D High Speed Mill Toolpaths
Linking Parameters

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Maximum Stepover
Maximum stepover sets the size of the step between XY cuts in a surface toolpath. A smaller maximum stepover
creates a more accurate toolpath, but it also creates a longer NC program and may take longer to generate.

Maximum stepover = 0.05 Maximum stepover = 0.2

Parameters

Related topics

Surface Toolpaths

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Minimizing Tool Burial

The Minimize tool burial option is available for Surface Rough and Finish Contour toolpaths, and Surface Restmill
toolpaths, when the Optimize cut order option is selected, causing the cuts to be ordered top to bottom.

When Minimize tool burial is selected, the toolpath takes into account that the tool could be engaging material
on both sides, as when machining between two bosses. To avoid this condition, additional retract and plunge
moves may be generated. When deselected, the toolpath does not take into account that the tool could engage
material on both sides. Some applications, such as machining graphite electrodes, can engage material on both
sides of the tool at once, so additional retract and plunge moves are not desirable.

Related topics

Restmill Parameters
Rough/Finish Contour Parameters

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Model Geometry
Use this page to define how Mastercam leaves stock for 3D High Speed toolpaths.

Parameters

Right-click menu
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Related topics

Stock: 3D High Speed Toolpaths

Toolpath Control

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Organizing Pocket Finish Operations

Mastercam gives you several strategies for organizing 2D Pocket finishing operations with
respect to the roughing operation. Click below to learn more.

Integrated roughing and finishing

Separate roughing and finishing operations

Finishing only the walls or the floor of the pocket

Related topics
Lead In/Out Moves for Pocket Finish Passes
Adjusting Finish Passes for Thin Wall Pockets
Pocket Toolpaths

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Overthickness
Typically, Mastercam will only create a pencil pass where the radius of the filleted material between two
surfaces is less than, or equal to, the radius of the tool. Use the Overthickness parameter to make the tool
seem bigger than it really is and force a cutting pass where Mastercam otherwise wouldn't create one.

Overthickness is often used when the tool is the same radius, or very close, as the fillets between the
surfaces. In these cases, you can get a certain amount of chatter in the toolpath, because at any given point
the tool might be seen as slightly larger or smaller than the fillet, depending on the cut tolerance. Using an
overthickness value in these situations can eliminate this effect and result in a smooth toolpath along the
entire region. For this type of application, we suggest an overthickness value of 10 times the cut tolerance.

The pictures below show how Overthickness is applied to your toolpath. Note that it does not result in
either gouging or extra material being left on the part.

The corner radius of the original tool is smaller than the surface fillet, so —without overthickness— no
cutting pass would be created here.
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An overthickness amount is applied to the tool, increasing its corner radius to larger than the surface fillet.

Mastercam calculates the points where the larger tool would contact the surface.

4. The toolpath is projected back onto the surface so that the original tool contacts the surface properly.

To take advantage of this feature by entering an Overthickness amount in the Cut Parameters page
for 3D High Speed Pencil toolpaths.

Related topics

3D High Speed Pencil Toolpaths

Cut Parameters: Pencil

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Plunge Control: Surface Rough Toolpaths

Plunge control determines the type of Z-axis movement for surface rough toolpaths. It can be used to prevent the
tool from air-cutting through a previously cleared area of the part. Plunge control works well for cavity parts.

Allow multiple plunges along the cut:

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Cut from one side:

Cut from both sides:

Related topics

Rough Parallel Parameters

Rough Radial Parameters
Rough Project Parameters
Rough/Finish Flowline Parameters

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Pocket Parameters
Use this tab to set up roughing and finishing passes for a rough pocket toolpath. Rough pocket is
used for machining cavities or bosses on surfaces and solid mode.

Parameters

Related topics

Component Parameters: Tool

Surface Parameters
Rough Parameters: Surface Rough Pocket

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Project Toolpaths
High Speed Project toolpaths project either geometry or a toolpath from an earlier operation onto
surfaces. The full suite of high speed toolpath parameters are available to refine the tool motion.

Projecting points onto surfaces can create plunging motion to clear small areas in detailed parts. A
common use of project is engraving created by projecting curves onto surfaces as shown below:

Point projection can create plunge-like motion with precise location of the points. Surface rough plunge,
by contrast, creates the plunge points in a grid or along the path of a previously created operation.

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

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Ramp: Helix/Ramp Parameters

Use this tab to add a ramp entry move to the Surface Rough Pocket operation. You can add either a helix or a ramp
entry, but not both. To switch to a helical entry, select the Helix tab and enter the desired entry dimensions.
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The helix/ramp options are off by default. If no helix/ramp options are set, Mastercam plunges the tool to
the pocket depth at the start of the toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

Rough Parameters: Surface Rough Pocket

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Raster Toolpaths
3D high speed Raster toolpaths are composed from a set of parallel passes with a stepover along a line
at a set angle. This machining strategy is most effective on shallow, nearly horizontal, surfaces, or
steeper surfaces that are perpendicular to the angle of the passes.

In the above example, the passes are parallel to the Y axis. You can adjust the Machining angle to
accommodate your particular geometry.

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

Cut Parameters: Raster

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Reference Tool Diameter for Pencil Toolpaths

When creating a high speed pencil toolpath, it is important to know the size of the machining area so that
you can make sure that you are in fact machining all of the areas that were missed by the roughing tool.
Mastercam calculates a special parameter called the Reference tool diameter that can help guide you.

This setting is available on the Cut Parameters page for pencil toolpaths when you specify multiple
offsets. When you create several cuts, the area that is machined is a function of several parameters:

The finish tool size

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The number of cutting passes

The stepover between passes

Based on the values that you enter for these parameters, Mastercam calculates the Reference tool diameter. This is
the size of the theoretical roughing tool that would have machined the cutting zone defined for the pencil toolpath. In
other words, if the Reference tool diameter is greater than the actual tool you used for your roughing operation, you
can be confident that the pencil toolpath will reach all of the areas that could not be roughed.

The picture below shows you how this value is calculated. If this value is smaller than your actual roughing tool, consider
increasing the number of passes until it is larger. You could also increase the stepover, or select a larger finishing tool.

Finish tool radius

Stepover
# of offsets
Reference tool radius

If you manually override the calculated Reference tool diameter with a different value, Mastercam will adjust the number of
offsets to the proper number. In other words, if you know how wide your machining zone needs to be, you can enter that
value directly in the Reference tool diameter field and Mastercam will automatically calculate the proper number of cutting
passes. Once you manually override the calculated value, Mastercam will not automatically change it again.

This distance is measured from each side of the surface boundaries. In other words, if the Reference
tool diameter is 20mm, the machining zone will be 40mm wide with the surface boundary in the middle.

Related topics

3D High Speed Pencil Toolpaths

Cut Parameters: Pencil

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Restmaterial Parameters
Use this tab to define how Mastercam calculates the remaining stock for processing for a surface rough restmill toolpath.

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Restmill can calculate remaining stock by using one or more source operations. You can also enter
the dimensions of a roughing tool rather than base the restmill on a previous operation.

Parameters

Related topics

Surface Parameters
Restmill Parameters

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Retracts and Leads

Mastercam divides the moves which link cutting passes into a number of discrete components so that you
can have the maximum degree of control over them. These are available on the Linking Parameters page.

The picture below shows the relationship between the different parameters when you select the
Minimum distance retract method. Mastercam divides the move into two zones: to/from the retract
plane, and to/from the part. Each move is a separate arc.

Rapid move to start of next pass.

Part clearance (minimum).
Cutting pass.
Curl down is the radius of the arc as the tool moves away from the retract height.
Vertical arc entry is the radius of the arc as the tool moves toward the part.
Vertical arc exit is the radius of the arc as the tool comes off the part.
Linear entry/exit extends the entry and exit vectors.
Curl up is the radius of the arc as the tool moves to the retract height.

Use the Fitting parameters to modify how the entry and exit arcs are actually applied to the cutting pass.

Typically, the height of the retract move is determined by the size of the arcs that you enter plus the linear
entry/exit moves. Use the Part clearance to define the minimum height that the tool needs to maintain over the part.
Mastercam will automatically extend the linear entry/exit moves if necessary to maintain the skim distance.

Waterline and horizontal area finish toolpaths also include options to create horizontal entry/exit arcs,
to ensure that the tool remains clear of sidewalls or other part geometry.

Related topics

Linking Parameters

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Rough/Finish Contour Parameters

Use the Rough contour parameters or the Finish contour parameters tab to set parameters for
Surface Rough or Finish Contour toolpaths.

Parameters

Related topics

Arc Filter/Tolerance
Helix Parameters
Minimizing Tool Burial

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Rough/Finish Flowline Parameters

Use this tab to set parameters for a rough or a finish flowline toolpath. Flowline toolpaths give you precise control of the
scallops left on the part for a controlled finish. They act on rows of adjacent surfaces or adjacent solid faces.

After selecting geometry, use the Flowline data dialog box to change the direction along and across
the part to flow the tool movement. Use the Cut control and stepover settings to further refine the cuts
along and across the part. Use the Rib cuts option to create a single pass flowline toolpath.

Rough flowline provides parameters for controlling the between passes and how the tool plunges into the part.
Finish flowline typically uses a small stepover or smaller scallop height to remove or minimize scallops.

Parameters

Related topics

Flowline Data
Single Pass Flowline Toolpaths

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Rough Parallel Parameters

Use this tab to set parameters for Rough Parallel toolpaths. Rough parallel toolpaths can rough bosses
or cavities with one-way or zigzag motion.

Parameters

Related topics

Arc Filter/Tolerance
Plunge Control: Surface Rough Toolpaths
Cut Depths
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Maximum Stepover

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Rough Parameters: Surface Rough Pocket

Use the Rough parameters tab to set parameters for a Surface Rough Pocket toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

Arc Filter/Tolerance

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Rough Plunge Parameters

Rough plunge toolpaths machine surfaces quickly with a drilling-type motion. One application for rough plunge is to clean
out a deep cavity using special drilling tools that allow for through-tool coolant that helps remove chips from the cuts.

Rough plunge can project a toolpath onto the drive geometry and create plunge points in that
pattern. Selecting NCI requires that you have the pattern operation already present in the file.

Parameters

Related topics

Arc Filter/Tolerance
Helix Parameters
Cut Depths

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Rough Project Parameters

Use this tab to project curves, points, or another toolpath (NCI file) onto surfaces or solids. Rough Project
can clean out cavities using a pocketing motion generated by a standard pocket and then projected onto the
surfaces that make up the cavity. It can also be used to engrave letters or other curves. Projecting points onto
surfaces can create plunging motion to clear small areas in detailed parts.

Parameters

Related topics

Arc Filter/Tolerance
Cut Depths

Do you have a specific question?

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Spiral Toolpaths
Use a Spiral toolpath to create cutting passes where the tool feeds into the part in a continuous spiral
instead of several discrete passes at a constant Z height. The spacing between each pass is a 2D distance
measured in the XY plane, so this toolpath type works best on shallow parts whose features can be
effectively machined with a circular motion. The following picture shows an example of a Spiral toolpath.

To define the machining zone, you need to enter the outer radius of the spiral, and the coordinates of its center
point. Mastercam will project this circle onto your selected drive surfaces and calculate the toolpath within this
area. This is different from a waterline toolpath, in which each cutting pass represents the actual profile of the
drive surface at a particular Z depth. Use the Cutting method together with the Spiral clockwise option to orient
the cutting passes. For most applications, the One way cutting method will cut from the center point outwards,
while the Other way cutting method will cut from outside in.

If the center point and radius of the spiral do not match your drive surfaces, Mastercam will simply cut
that portion of each spiral pass that lies on the drive surface.

To select the radius or center point coordinate based on geometry in your part file, right-click in the
desired field and choose from the short-cut menu.

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

Cut Parameters: Spiral

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Stock: 3D High Speed Toolpaths

Use the Stock page to define how Mastercam calculates the stock model for a high speed toolpath. The
stock model defines the amount of stock to be machined by the toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics
Adjusting the Stock Model for a 3D High Speed Toolpath
3D High Speed Toolpaths

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Surface Contour Toolpaths

Surface Contour toolpaths work well for parts that have steep walls. The rough and finish contour
toolpaths allow the tool to stepdown gradually in the Z axis instead of stepping over in the X and Y axes.

To create a Rough Contour toolpath, select Mill toolpaths, Surface rough, Contour from the right-click menu in Toolpaths
Manager. The Finish Contour toolpath can be created this way or created through the Mill Toolpaths contextual tab.

Related topics

Rough/Finish Contour Parameters

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Surface Finish Scallop Toolpaths

Finish scallop creates a consistent scallop height over the whole part regardless of whether the
surface becomes steep or shallow.
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Related topics

Bias Angle: Surface Finish Scallop

Corner Smoothing for Scallop Toolpaths

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Surface Flowline Toolpaths

Surface flowline toolpaths follow the shape and direction of the surfaces and create a smooth and
flowing toolpath motion. By contrast, using a finish parallel toolpath for the type of part shown below
would machine the part at a set angle and not flow with the surfaces.

Both rough and finish flowline toolpaths require an orderly row or grid of surfaces. You can change
the start point and direction of the cuts in the Flowline data dialog box.
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To create a Rough Flowline toolpath, select Mill toolpaths, Surface rough, Flowline from the right-click menu in Toolpaths
Manager. The Finish Flowline toolpath can be created this way or created through the Mill Toolpaths contextual tab.

Imported mesh entities cannot be used to create flowline toolpaths.

Related topics

Rough/Finish Flowline Parameters

Flowline Data

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Surface Parallel Toolpaths

The rough parallel toolpath removes stock quickly using multiple constant Z depth. Finish parallel uses the
same side-by-side cutting pattern as Rough parallel. Finish parallel makes its cuts directly on the surface.
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To create a Finish Parallel toolpath, select Mill toolpaths, Surface finish, Parallel from the right-click menu in Toolpaths
Manager. The Rough Parallel toolpath can be created this way or created through the Mill Toolpaths contextual tab.

Related topics

Rough Parallel Parameters

Finish Parallel Parameters

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Surface Project Toolpaths

Surface project toolpaths project either geometry or a toolpath from an earlier operation onto surfaces.

Rough project can clean out cavities using a pocketing motion generated by a standard pocket then projected onto the
surfaces that make up the cavity. Projecting points onto surfaces can create plunging motion to clear small areas in
detailed parts. A common use of finish project is engraving created by projecting curves onto surfaces as shown below:
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Point projection can create plunge-like motion with precise location of the points. Rough plunge, by
contrast, creates the plunge points in a grid or along the path of a previously created operation.

To create a Finish Project toolpath, select Mill toolpaths, Surface finish, Project from the right-click menu in Toolpaths
Manager. The Rough Project toolpath can be created this way or created through the Mill Toolpaths contextual tab.

Related topics

Rough Project Parameters

Finish Project Parameters

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Surface Rough Plunge Toolpaths

Rough plunge toolpaths rough a part quickly using a drilling-type motion. Shops that use these
toolpaths often invest in special tools.

Mastercam gives you two techniques for creating rough plunge toolpaths:

The zigzag method defines a rectangular grid and the tool plunges at intervals along it.
The NCI method lets the tool plunge at intervals along a previously created toolpath.

Related topics

Rough Plunge Parameters

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Surface Rough Pocket Toolpaths

Rough pocket toolpaths remove a lot of stock quickly by creating a series of planar cuts (or
constant Z), which is the preferred cutting method for many roughing tools.

Related topics

Rough Parameters: Surface Rough Pocket

Pocket Parameters

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Surface Toolpath Regen Files

Mastercam automatically names and saves a surface regeneration (regen) file for each surface toolpath.
The regen file speeds the regeneration of a surface toolpath when you change certain parameters. The
regen file contains information about the geometry, parameters, and computation of the tool motion for the
toolpath. When changing a parameter in a surface toolpath, such as feed rate or gap setting, Mastercam
regenerates the surface toolpath quickly because it reuses information stored in the regen file.

Mastercam stores regen files in the Regen folder of your Mastercam installation. By default Mastercam names the
regen file with the same name as the part file and includes a number that corresponds to an operation in the file.
For example, a regen file for the first operation newname.mcam would be newname_1.rgn.

Since numerous regen files can accumulate over time, Mastercam automatically deletes regen files on
exit based on criteria that you set up in the Toolpaths page of File, Configuration.

Related topics

Surface Parameters

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Surface Toolpaths
Mastercam surface rough and surface finish toolpaths drive the tool over surface or solid geometry or a CAD
file. Surface rough and finish toolpaths are available to Mastercam Mill and Router users, as well as to Lathe
users with Mill-Turn capabilities. The surface toolpaths in your installation of Mastercam depend on which
product level you are running, and the capabilities of the current machine and control definitions.

Surface Roughing and Surface Finishing

Surface roughing toolpaths typically use larger tools, multiple stepovers, and multiple stepdowns to quickly remove larger
volumes of stock and leave an even amount of stock for finishing. The roughing toolpaths you choose for your part depend
on the shape of the part, shape of the stock, and machining situation. Mastercam provides several roughing strategies.

Surface finishing toolpaths typically finish a part down to the drive geometry (or to the stock to leave
amount if one is specified). Mastercam provides several finishing strategies. Click the links below to learn
more and see an example of each surface finishing toolpath:

Click the links below to learn more and see an example of each surface roughing or finishing toolpath:

Roughing Finishing Roughing and Finishing

Surface Rough Restmill Toolpaths Surface Finish Parallel Steep Toolpaths Surface Parallel Toolpaths
Surface Rough Plunge Toolpaths Surface Finish Pencil Toolpaths Surface Radial Toolpaths
Surface Rough Pocket Toolpaths Surface Finish Scallop Toolpaths Surface Project Toolpaths
Surface Finish Shallow Toolpaths Surface Flowline Toolpaths
Surface Finish Leftover Toolpaths Surface Contour Toolpaths
Surface Finish Blend Toolpaths

High Speed Surface Toolpaths

High speed surface toolpaths use a different toolpath processing engine which emphasizes creating smooth,
free-flowing tool motion; maximizing continuous contact with the part for an even tool load; and high speed
transitions between cutting passes and cutting areas. See 3D High Speed Toolpathsto learn more.

Geometry Selection
Both surface rough and finish toolpaths use the same method to select geometry and apply parameters.
You can customize how and when Mastercam prompts for surface toolpath geometry by making
selections in the Toolpaths page of the System Configuration dialog box. Mastercam prompts for drive
geometry, check geometry, and a tool containment boundary for each surface toolpath type.

Depending on the toolpath type, additional geometry may be optionally selected, such as a starting point, a
radial center point, or curves. These entities, usually separate from the part, provide Mastercam with
additional information about how you want the tool motion created and will improve the final toolpath results.

Related topics

Mill Toolpaths

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Swept 3D Parameters
Use this tab to enter the toolpath parameters for a swept 3D wireframe toolpath. This toolpath sweeps
and/or blends one or more contours along one or more other contours.

First, select a cutting direction, across the calculated surface or along it, and then enter the step sizes
for each cutting pass.
Then, select a cutting method. This determines the pattern that the tool will follow over the part surface. The 5-
axis cutting methods will work only if 5-axis tool motion is supported in the current machine definition.
Enter other toolpath dimensions and compensation options.

Parameters

Related topics

Cutter Compensation
Swept 3D Toolpaths

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Swept 3D Toolpaths
Use 3D swept toolpaths to simulate a surface with any of the following sets of boundaries:

One across boundary and one along boundary. Unlike 2D swept toolpaths, the geometry does
not need to be confined to a plane.
One across boundary and two along boundaries.

Two across boundaries and one along boundary

These boundaries may consist of any combination of lines, arcs, and splines. The longer of the two
matching boundaries (along or across) is broken into a number of segments based on the user-defined
cut distance. Mastercam then applies this number of segments to the other matching boundary.

The picture below shows sample geometry for a swept 3D toolpath. The magenta profiles are the across contours. The blue
arc is the along contour. The second picture shows the results from sweeping and blending the across contours along the

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blue arc.

Curves for Sweep

Swept Toolpath

Choose Swept 3D from the selected machine's Toolpaths contextual tab to begin creating a swept 3D toolpath.

Mastercam asks for the number of across or along contours, and then prompts you to select the geometry for
each. Use the Swept 3D dialog box to enter the toolpath parameters and complete the toolpath.

Related topics

Swept 2D Toolpaths
Wireframe Toolpaths

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Tangential Arcs and Lines: Gap Settings

Each surface toolpath gap has an entry and exit point. You can place tangential arcs or lines at these points in order to
create smoother tool motion between gaps. These options are not available if you select Follow surfaces gap motion, found
under When motion is smaller than gap size on the Gap Settings dialog box. You can set the radius and angle of these arcs
and/or the line length in the Gap Settings dialog box. The graphic below shows an example of tangential arcs.
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Related topics

Gap Settings
Surface Toolpaths

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Thin Wall Finish Passes

Use the Thin Wall Finish Passes dialog box to configure finish passes for thin wall pockets. The depth of
each pass will be the Maximum rough stepdown value as entered on the Depth Cuts page, divided by the
number of finish passes you enter here in the Z Finish passes per rough depth cut. Select climb or
conventional milling to set the cutting direction for the finish passes.

Parameters

Related topics
Adjusting Finish Passes for Thin Wall Pockets
Surface Rough Pocket Toolpaths

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Toolpath Control
Use the Toolpath Control page to set containment parameters for your 3D High Speed toolpath. Tool containment
boundaries are used to control the tool's position around the boundary of your part. The boundary is a closed set of
wireframe curves which enclose the area to be machined. Mastercam will not create tool motions that violate the
boundary, regardless of the selected cut surfaces. They can be any wireframe curves, not necessarily associated
with the surfaces that are machined. For example, you can create custom guide geometry to precisely limit the tool
movements. The curves do not have to lie on the part; they can be at any Z-height.

For Area Roughing toolpaths with the Stock page enabled, if a boundary was not specified, Mastercam will generate a
minimum/maximum boundary around the selected Machining geometry. This boundary can be adjusted.

Parameters

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

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Model Geometry

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Toolpath/Surface Information
The Toolpath/Surface Information dialog box shows the drive or check geometry of the surface toolpath. It
reports the number of surfaces or solids selected and highlights them in the graphics window.

Related topics

Toolpath/Surface Selection

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Toolpath/Surface Selection
Use the Toolpath/Surface Selection dialog box to select all the geometry needed for a surface toolpath. Each
surface toolpath requires drive geometry selected from the graphics window or from a CAD file. Optionally you
can select check geometry and a tool containment boundary. Geometry selection for surface toolpaths always
defaults to standard selection. You will be able to select a solid model in standard selection. However, if you
need to select parts of the solid model, you will need to use solid selection.

More on check and drive surfaces

The options available in this dialog box change depending on the type of toolpath you are creating.
Additional geometry selection options include a start point, curves, a radial point, or flowline data.

You can prevent this dialog from displaying by deselecting the Show toolpath/surface selection
dialog option on the Toolpaths page of the System Configuration dialog box.

To change the geometry selection after the toolpath has been created, choose the geometry icon for
the toolpath in the Toolpaths Manager.

Parameters

Related topics

Surface Toolpaths
3D High Speed Toolpaths

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Toolpath/Surface Selection: Project

Use the Toolpath/Surface Selection, Project dialog box to select all the geometry needed for a 3D High Speed Project
toolpath. Each toolpath requires drive geometry selected from the graphics window or from a CAD file. Optionally you
can select check geometry, tool containment boundaries, and either curves or points to project onto the drive geometry.

More on check surfaces

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You can prevent this dialog from displaying by deselecting the Show toolpath/surface selection
dialog option on the Toolpaths page of the System Configuration dialog box.

Geometry selection for surface toolpaths always defaults to standard selection. You will be able to select a solid model in
standard selection. However, if you need to select parts of the solid model, you will need to use solid selection.

Icon Function

To enter solid selection, choose the Solid icon from the Selection Bar.

To end geometry selection, choose the End icon or press [Enter].

To change the geometry selection after the toolpath has been created, choose the geometry icon for
the toolpath in the Toolpaths Manager.

Parameters

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

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Toolpath Type: 3D High Speed Toolpaths

Use this page as the starting point for creating a 3D high speed toolpath. Mastercam updates the parameter pages so
that you only see settings for the toolpath type that you selected. Work on other pages by selecting them in the window.

Pages that you have made changes to are marked with a green check mark:

Click OK only after you have finished with all the pages. Do not click OK after working on each separate
page. Mastercam generates the toolpath as soon as you click OK.

You can also change or reselect the drive surfaces, check surfaces, and the tool containment boundary.

Use this page to change an existing toolpath to a different type. For example, you can create a HST roughing operation;
copy it; and change the second toolpath to a finishing operation. This way, you do not need to reselect all of the geometry.

Parameters

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

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Transitions: Area Roughing/Horizontal Area

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Use this page to configure the entry move that the tool will make as it transitions to new Z levels. Profile
ramp follows the contour of the cutting pass for a smoother transition into the cut.

Use the Z clearance to tell Mastercam how far above the previous cut the entry move should begin.
You can also choose whether to apply the regular feed rate, or the plunging rate to these moves.
These rates are specified on the Tool page.
If you choose to create a helical entry and there is not enough room, Mastercam will create a ramp entry instead.

The difference between these entry moves and the approach/retract moves on the Linking parameters
page is that the linking moves connect multiple cuts on the same Z level, while the entry moves control
the transition to a new set of cuts on a different Z level.

Parameters

Related topics

Area Roughing Toolpaths

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Transitions: Dynamic OptiRough

Use this page to configure an entry method for a Dynamic OptiRough toolpath. This defines how and where the tool
enters the part. Other parameters let you further refine the entry moves, and set entry feeds and speeds.

Parameters

Related topics

Dynamic OptiRough Toolpaths

3D High Speed Toolpaths

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Transitions: Pencil, Hybrid, Scallop, Waterline,

Equal Scallop
Use the Transitions page to configure the entry move that the tool will make as it transitions to new Z levels
for Pencil, Hybrid, Scallop, Equal Scallop, and Waterline toolpaths. The difference between these moves
and the approach/retract moves on the Linking Parameters page is that the linking moves connect multiple
cuts on the same Z level, while these moves control the transition to a new set of cuts on a different Z level.

Parameters

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

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Transitions: Raster, Spiral, Radial, Project, Blend

Use the Transitions page to configure the type of transition between raster passes for Raster, Spiral, Radial, Blend, and
Project toolpaths. Select one of the following options:

Smooth: Creates high speed arc moves between each pass. Each transition move consists of an arc
move into and out of the transition, plus a spline curve which approximately follows the boundary.
Straight: Connects each pass with a simple straight line.

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

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Using Contact Areas to Create a Machining Zone

Mastercam's high speed toolpaths include an option to create cutting passes only where the programmed
tool position would actually contact a surface. This is useful for toolpaths where Mastercam might create
cutting passes along unnecessary areas such as the outside border of a drive surface. To use this feature,
select Flute contact in the Steep/Shallow page of the Surface Toolpaths dialog box. To disable it and create
cutting passes along the entire surface and boundary, select Tool assembly contact.

The following picture shows a Waterline toolpath created with the Tool assembly contact option. You can see that
cutting passes have been created along the central boss and the outer boundary. You can see that the passes along
the boundary are only cutting air. To show this more clearly, we did not create cutting passes in the flat areas.

To eliminate the passes along the outer boundary, select Flute contact. Mastercam limits the toolpath to
the boss, where the tool is in contact with the surface, and eliminates the air cutting passes.

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

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Using Surface Angle to Create a Machining Zone

Using Z Limits to Create a Machining Zone

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Using Surface Angle to Create a Machining Zone

Mastercam lets you limit the toolpath to only areas of the drive surfaces that lie between a minimum and maximum
angle that you specify. This lets you limit the toolpath to areas that are best suited to the toolpath type, your part, and
your specific machining application. For example, waterline toolpaths are most effective on steeper surfaces. This is
because the spaces between the passes are calculated from the stepdown value, and on areas of your surfaces
where there is little change in Z height, the spaces between the passes can be too large to produce satisfactory
results. In the following toolpath, the machining zone was limited to surface angles between 30 and 90 degrees:

Enter the desired range of angles on the Steep/Shallow page in the Surface Toolpaths dialog box. Enter values between 0
and 90 only; Mastercam will automatically account for the direction of the surface, so 30 degree and 150 degree angles are
considered the same. The picture below shows how the minimum and maximum angles are applied.

Machining zone
Minimum angle
Maximum angle

NOTE

Surface angle limits are not available for roughing toolpaths or horizontal area toolpaths.

Related topics

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3D High Speed Toolpaths

Using Contact Areas to Create a Machining Zone
Using Z Limits to Create a Machining Zone
Steep/Shallow

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Using Z Limits to Create a Machining Zone

Use the Z depth settings to establish the heights of the highest and lowest cutting passes, regardless of the
drive surface geometry. Select Use Z depths on the Steep/Shallow page of the Surface Toolpaths dialog box to
apply Z limits, then enter the Minimum and Maximum Z depths. You can also click Depth limits to pre-set the
Minimum and Maximum fields with values from the selected drive surfaces, and then edit as necessary. Note
that Minimum refers to the minimum depth — in other words, the highest point in your toolpath.

A. Cutting passes

You can use a maximum Z depth to prevent the tool from falling indefinitely if it moves off the edges of
the surface. In the example below, with a maximum Z depth applied, when the tool moves off the surface,
it continues at the maximum Z depth and falls no further.

You can set your minimum Z depth higher than the highest point on your drive surface to effectively add
extra machining height. You can also set it below the top of your surfaces; for example, when you want
to cut a deep cavity using several separate cutter paths.

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

Using Contact Areas to Create a Machining Zone
Using Surface Angle to Create a Machining Zone
Steep/Shallow

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XY Stepover
Each Z level in a toolpath consists of a surface profile, which is the slice of curves created by the
intersection of the drive geometry (surface, faces, or chains) and the tool plane, plus a series of
concentric offset profiles that let the tool gradually approach the surfaces. Use the XY stepover settings
on the Cut Parameters page to configure the spacing between the passes.

The spacing between each profile is determined by the minimum and maximum XY stepover values. Mastercam will
use the largest value possible, up to the maximum XY stepover, that does not leave unwanted upstands of material
between the passes. However, it will not separate the passes by less than the minimum stepover.

Generally, if each profile is offset by no more than the tool radius, then the whole area will be cleared. In certain cases
where the profile is very smooth, it is possible to offset the profiles by as much as the tool diameter and still clear the area.
Obviously, spacing the profiles by more than the tool diameter will leave many upstands between the passes, looking
somewhat like a maze. Between these two extremes the radius and the diameter there is an ideal stepover where the area
will be cleared leaving no upstands. Mastercam uses an advanced algorithm to find this ideal value.

NOTE

If you are using toolpath corner rounding, make sure that the minimum stepover is greater than the
Offset tolerance value and less than the radius of the tool shaft. The maximum stepover should be
less than twice the minimum stepover.
The XY stepover is a 2D value measured parallel to the tool plane. If you wish, you can use a
Scallop toolpath to maintain a constant stepover measured along the surface.

Related topics

3D High Speed Toolpaths

2D High Speed Mill Toolpaths
Adaptive Stepdown

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Containment
Use this page to establish the 2D or 3D containment boundary for your Multiaxis toolpath. Containment
limits the areas of the part to be cut.

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Parameters

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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3 to 5 Axis Conversion Params

Use this page to establish the collision checking parameters when converting a toolpath to 5 axis motion with Multiaxis.
The collision strategy must be set to Tilt tool / 3 axis to 5 axis conversion.

Parameters

Related topics

3-to-5 Axis Toolpaths

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3-to-5 Axis Toolpaths

Use the Multiaxis 3-to-5 Axis toolpath to convert selected toolpaths to 3, 4, or 5-axis motion.

2D Contour (Before converting) 2D Contour (After converting)

To begin converting a toolpath, select Convert to 5-axis on the Toolpaths contextual tab.You can use
the existing linking motion, or create new linking motion if the previous toolpath linking does not apply.
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Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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4th Axis
Use this page to establish the fourth axis parameters for your Multiaxis toolpath. 4th axis parameters
determine which axis to use for the fourth axis and what angle to lock the fifth axis to.

Parameters

Related topics

Tool Axis Control

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Additional Collision Control Strategies

Use this page to establish additional collision control parameters for your Multiaxis toolpath. Collision control
establishes clearance values and instructs the toolpath how to move the tool to avoid a collision.

Parameters

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Additional Lead Angle

Use this page to establish the additional lead angle settings for your Multiaxis toolpath. Additional lead
angles are set for leading, trailing, and the splitter edge of an impeller. The page is available when Output
format is set to 5 Axis and Tool axis control set to Normal to impeller floor on the Tool Axis Control page.

Parameters

Related topics

Tool Axis Control: Blade Expert

Blade Expert Toolpaths

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Advanced Auto Edge Detection

Use this page to set up edge detection when creating a Multiaxis Deburr toolpath, with Edge definition
set to Auto detect on the Cut Pattern page.

Parameters

Related topics

Deburr Toolpaths
Cut Pattern: Deburr

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Advanced Options for Moving Tool Away

Use this page to establish the parameters for moving the tool away during collision checking for your Multiaxis toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

Collision Control
Multiaxis Toolpaths
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Advanced Options for Retracting Tool Along Tool Axis

Use this page to establish the options for moving the tool away along the tool axis during collision
checking for your Multiaxis toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths
Collision Control

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Advanced Options for Spiral Machining

Use this page to establish the advanced spiral machining parameters for your Multiaxis toolpath. Spiral
machining creates a spiral cut pattern around your part.

Parameters

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Advanced Options for Surface Quality

Use the Advanced Options for Surface Quality page to establish the advanced surface quality parameters for
your multiaxis toolpath. Advanced options provide the ability to fine-tune the surface quality of your toolpath.
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Parameters

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Advanced Options For Surface Quality: Triangular Mesh

Use this page to establish the advanced surface quality parameters for your multiaxis Triangular Mesh
toolpath. Advanced options provide the ability to fine-tune the surface quality of your toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

Triangular Mesh Toolpaths

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Advanced Options for Tilting Relative to

Cutting Direction
Use this page to establish the advanced options for your Multiaxis toolpath when tilting relative to the cutting direction.
Advanced options allow for fine-tuning of the tilting options based on the side tilt selection. The page is available when
Output format is set to 5 Axis and Tool axis control is set to Surface with tilt on the Tool Axis Control page.
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Parameters

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Advanced Options for Up and Down Machining

Use this page to set the parameters for up or down motion in your Multiaxis Triangluar Mesh toolpath. This
page is only available if you select Parallel cuts for the Pattern and Up or Down for the Cutting method.

Parameters

Related topics

Triangular Mesh Toolpaths

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Advanced Options of Surface Paths Pattern

Use this page to establish the advanced pattern options for your Multiaxis Parallel toolpath. Advanced options provide the
ability to fine-tune the pattern of your toolpath. To enable this page, select Surface(s) on the Cut Pattern page.

Parameters
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Related topics

Parallel Toolpaths
Cut Pattern

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Advanced: Triangular Mesh/Roughing

Use this page to establish parameters used for smoothing a Multiaxis Triangular Mesh or Roughing
toolpath. Advanced options allow you to fine tune your toolpath to improve efficiency.

Parameters

Related topics

Roughing Toolpaths
Triangular Mesh Toolpaths

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Along Curve Toolpaths

Use the Multiaxis Along Curve toolpath to machine perpendicular to the selected drive curve.
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What is the difference between the Along Curve, Morph, and Parallel toolpaths?

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths
Morph Toolpaths
Parallel Toolpaths

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Angle Range
Use this page to establish the angle range limits for your multiaxis toolpath. Angle range determines the
machinable areas defined by an axis and two angles.

Parameters

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Area Links / Gaps Along Cut

Use the Area Links page to establish the type of motion the tool should make when moving between
groups or between passes within a group. Use the Gaps Along Cut page to establish the type of motion,
the size, and the calculated values for links between slices (cuts).
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Parameters

Related topics

Linking: Flow, Curve, Multisurface, Port, Rotary, and Swarf

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Blade Expert Toolpaths

Use the Multiaxis Blade Expert toolpath for 5-axis machining, specifically for multi-bladed parts such as
impellers or fans. Blade Expert is best suited for parts with repeating segments (a segment is a portion of
the impeller). It is important to fill out the Number of segments parameter on the Part Definition page.

How do I select geometry for a Blade Expert toolpath?

Related topics

Cut Pattern: Blade Expert

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Box Options
Use the Box Options dialog box to establish the dimensions and location of the box used as the cut
pattern for a Multiaxis Multisurface toolpath

Parameters

Related topics

Multisurface Toolpaths
Cut Pattern: Multisurface
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Chain Options: Curve

Use the Chain Options dialog box to set options for the selected chains for a Multiaxis Curve toolpath.
Chain allows you to align the tool axis vector with the selected chain.

Parameters

Related topics

Curve Toolpaths
Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Chain Options: Flow, Multisurface, Port

Use the Chain Options dialog box to set options for the selected chains for a Multiaxis Flow,
Multisurface, and Port toolpath. Chain allows you to align the tool axis vector with the selected chain.

Parameters

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths
Flow Toolpaths
Multisurface Toolpaths
Port Toolpaths

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Collision Control
Use this page to establish the collision control parameters for your Multiaxis toolpath. Collision control
establishes clearance values and instructs the toolpath how to move the tool to avoid a collision. A single
strategy is usually all that is needed, however you have the ability to set four different strategies if necessary.
Additional collision control strategies can be set on the Additional collision control strategies page.

Parameters

Related topics
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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Collision Control: Curve

Use this page to establish the collision control parameters for your Multiaxis Curve toolpath. Collision control settings
determine tip compensation, establish check and compensation surface behavior, and set gouge process settings.

Parameters

Related topics

Curve Toolpaths

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Collision Control: Flow, Multisurface, Port

Use this page to establish the collision control parameters for your Multiaxis Flow, Multisurface, and Port toolpaths.
Collision control settings determine tip compensation, establish check surface behavior, and set gouge process settings.
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Parameters

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths
Flow Toolpaths
Multisurface Toolpaths
Port Toolpaths

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Collision Control: Port Expert

Use this page to establish the collision control parameters for your Multiaxis Port Expert toolpath. Collision control
settings determine holder and tool clearances from machining surfaces, as well as check surfaces, if selected.

Parameters

Related topics

Cut Pattern: Port Expert

Port Expert Toolpaths

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Collision Control: Rotary

Use this page to establish the collision control parameters for your Multiaxis Rotary toolpath.
Collision control settings establish check surface behavior.
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Parameters

Related topics

Cut Pattern: Rotary

Rotary Toolpaths

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Collision Control: Swarf

Use this page to establish the collision control parameters for your Multiaxis Swarf toolpath. Collision control settings
determine tip compensation, establish check and compensation surface behavior, and set gouge process settings.

Parameters

Related topics

Swarf Toolpaths

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Corners: Swarf Milling

Use this page to establish the corner parameters for your Multiaxis Swarf Milling toolpath. You can set the type of inside and
outside corners necessary to cut your part. You can also set the radius, length, and detection angles, depending on the
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corner type selections you have made.

Parameters

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Swarf Milling Toolpaths

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Curve Toolpaths
Use the Multiaxis Curve toolpath to machine 3D curves or surface edges. Use the Cut Pattern page to
select the 3D curves or surface edges.

Related topics

Cut Pattern: Curve

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Cut Pattern
Use the Cut Pattern page to establish the cut pattern parameters for your Multiaxis toolpath. Cut pattern
settings determine the geometry your tool follows and how it travels along that geometry.

Parameters
Triangular Mesh Parameters

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths
Triangular Mesh Toolpaths

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Cut Pattern: Blade Expert

Use this page to establish the cut pattern parameters for your Multiaxis Blade Expert toolpath. Cut
pattern settings determine the geometry your tool follows and how it travels along that geometry.

Parameters
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Related topics

Blade Expert Toolpaths

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Cut Pattern: Curve

Use this page to establish the cut pattern parameters for a Multiaxis Curve toolpath. Cut pattern
settings determine the geometry your tool follows and how it travels along that geometry.

Parameters

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Curve Toolpaths

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Cut Pattern: Deburr

Use cut pattern settings to determine the geometry that your tool follows and how it travels along that geometry.

Parameters

Related topics

Deburr Toolpaths

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Cut Pattern: Flow

Use the Cut Pattern page to establish the cut pattern parameters for your Multiaxis Flow toolpath. Cut
pattern settings determine the geometry your tool follows and how it travels along that geometry.
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Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths
Flow Toolpaths

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Cut Pattern: Multisurface

Use this page to establish the cut pattern parameters for your Multiaxis Multisurface toolpath. Cut
pattern settings determine the geometry your tool follows and how it travels along that geometry.

Parameters

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths
Multisurface Toolpaths

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Cut Pattern: Port

Use the Cut Pattern page to establish the cut pattern parameters for your Multiaxis Port toolpath. Cut
pattern settings determine the geometry your tool follows and how it travels along that geometry.

Parameters

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths
Port Toolpaths

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Cut Pattern: Port Expert

Use the Cut Pattern page to establish the cut pattern parameters for your Multiaxis Port Expert toolpath.
Cut pattern settings determine the geometry your tool follows and how it travels along that geometry.

Parameters
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Related topics

Port Expert Toolpaths

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Cut Pattern: Rotary

Use this page to establish the cut pattern parameters for your Multiaxis Rotary toolpath. Cut pattern
settings determine the geometry your tool follows and how it travels along that geometry.

Parameters

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Rotary Toolpaths

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Cut Pattern: Rotary Advanced

Use the Cut Pattern page to establish the cut pattern parameters for your Multiaxis Rotary Advanced toolpath. Cut
pattern settings determine the geometry your tool follows and how it travels along that geometry.

Parameters

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Rotary Advanced Toolpaths

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Cut Pattern: Roughing

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Use this page to establish the cut pattern parameters for your Multiaxis Roughing toolpath. Cut pattern
settings determine the geometry your tool follows and how it travels along that geometry.

Parameters

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Roughing Toolpaths

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Cut Pattern: Swarf

Use this page to establish the cut pattern parameters for your Multiaxis Swarf toolpath. Cut pattern
settings determine the geometry your tool follows and how it travels along that geometry.

Parameters

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Swarf Toolpaths

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Cut Pattern: Swarf Milling

Use this page to establish the cut pattern parameters for your Multiaxis Swarf Milling toolpath. Cut
pattern settings determine the geometry your tool follows and how it travels along that geometry.
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Parameters

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Swarf Milling Toolpaths

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Cylinder Options
Use the Cylinder Options dialog box to establish the dimensions and location of the cylinder used as
the cut pattern for a Multiaxis Multisurface toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

Cut Pattern: Multisurface

Multisurface Toolpaths

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Deburr Toolpaths
Use the Multiaxis Deburr toolpath to break edges for 3 to 5 axis, and to remove burrs.
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What tools does Deburr support?

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Default Lead-in/out
Use this page to establish the leads motion for your multiaxis toolpath. Leads determine how the
tool feeds into the material as it approaches the part.

Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Depth Step
Use this page to establish the depth step calculations for your Multiaxis toolpath. Depth step
determines the distance between the Z levels.
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Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Edges: Blade Expert

Use this page to establish the edge parameters for your Multiaxis Blade Expert toolpath. Edge settings determine
how the tool moves when it encounters a leading blade edge or the trailing edge of a blade or splitter.

Parameters

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Blade Expert Toolpaths

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Entry/Exit
Use this page to establish the entry and exit motion for your Multiaxis toolpath. Entry and exit
settings control the tool motion as it makes and breaks contact with the part.
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Parameters

Related topics

Linking: Flow, Curve, Multisurface, Port, Rotary, and Swarf

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Extend / Trim
Use this page to establish the edge handling conditions for your Multiaxis toolpath. Extend and trim
options determine how the tool behaves when it comes to the end of a surface.

Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Feed Control Zone

Use this page to establish a feed control zone for your Multiaxis toolpath. A feed control zone is used to
alter the feed rate within a selected zone. The zone is defined by the surfaces you select from this page.
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Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Filter: Multiaxis
Use this page to establish the filter parameters for your Multiaxis toolpath. Filtering replaces small
moves with a single move using the specified tolerance.

Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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First Entry - Lead In/Last Exit - Lead Out

Use this page to establish the leads motion for entry / exit, gap motion, links between slices, as well as
links between passes. Leads determine how the tool feeds into the material as it approaches the part.
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Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Flow Toolpaths
Use the Multiaxis Flow toolpath to machine the selected surface based on the surface's UV lines. The
tool is compensated on the selected pattern surfaces. This toolpath is best suited on a single surface or
a row of surfaces whose UV lines are oriented in the same manner and direction.

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Gouge Check
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Use this page to establish the gouge and collision checking parameters for your Multiaxis Swarf Milling toolpath.

Parameters

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Swarf Milling Toolpaths

Cut Pattern: Swarf Milling

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Heights
Use this page to establish the height calculations for your Multiaxis toolpath. Heights determine the
area of material to remove from the part.

Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Home/Reference Points: Multiaxis

Use this page to establish the home and reference points for your multiaxis toolpath. Home and reference
points define safe locations for the tool to move to.
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Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Limits: Multiaxis (Pattern), 2D Mill

Use the Limits page to establish axis limits for multiaxis and 2D mill toolpaths listed in the drop-down
below. Limits serve to keep the tool axis within specified angles of a selected axis.

Which toolpaths does this page apply to?

Parameters

Related topics

Swarf Toolpaths
Multisurface Toolpaths
Flow Toolpaths
Curve Toolpaths

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Limits: Morph, Parallel, Along Curve, and Project Curve

Use this page to establish the axis limits for Multiaxis Morph, Parallel, Along Curve, and Project Curve
toolpaths. Limits serve to keep the tool axis within specified angles in a selected plane.

Parameters

Related topics

Parallel Toolpaths
Morph Toolpaths
Along Curve Toolpaths
Project Curve Toolpaths

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Line
Use this page to enter the X, Y, and Z coordinates of the endpoints of a line for your Multiaxis toolpath. Enter the
values directly or click Select to return to the graphics window to select the line. The first column defines the
endpoint of the line based on the chaining direction. The second column defines the start point of the selected line.

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Lines Tool Axis Control

Use the Lines Tool Axis Control dialog box to select lines for use as tool axis control vectors for Multiaxis
toolpaths. Lines allow you to set the tool axis vector in the exact orientation you choose.

Parameters

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Linking: Blade Expert

Use linking settings to determine how the tool moves when it is not cutting material.

Parameters

Related topics

Blade Expert Toolpaths

Cut Pattern: Blade Expert

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Linking: Deburr
Use this page to establish the linking parameters for your Multiaxis Deburr toolpath. Linking settings
determine how the tool moves when it is not cutting material.

Parameters

Related topics

Deburr Toolpaths

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Linking: Flow, Curve, Multisurface, Port, Rotary,

and Swarf
Use this page to establish the linking parameters for your Multiaxis Flow, Curve, Multisurface, Port,
Rotary, Swarf, toolpath. Linking settings determine how the tool moves when it is not cutting material.
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Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Linking: Port Expert

Use this page to establish the linking parameters for your Multiaxis Port Expert toolpath. Linking
settings determine how the tool moves when it is not cutting material.

Parameters

Related topics

Port Expert Toolpaths

Cut Pattern: Port Expert

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Linking: Swarf Milling, Morph, Parallel, Along Curve,

Triangular Mesh, Roughing, and Project Curves
Use this page to establish the linking parameters for your Multiaxis Swarf Milling, Morph, Parallel, Along Curve,
Triangular Mesh, Roughing, Project Curves toolpath. Linking determines how the tool moves when not cutting material.

Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Linking: Rotary Advanced

Use the Linking page to establish linking parameters for your Multiaxis Rotary Advanced toolpath.
Linking settings determine how the tool moves when it is not cutting material.

Parameters

Related topics

Rotary Advanced Toolpaths

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Links Between
Use the Links Between page to establish how the tool should move between passes.
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Parameters

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths
Linking: Swarf Milling, Morph, Parallel, Along Curve, Triangular Mesh, Roughing, and Project Curves
Linking: Flow, Curve, Multisurface, Port, Rotary, and Swarf

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Machining Direction
Use this page to establish the machining direction for your Multiaxis Triangular Mesh toolpath.
Machining direction determines the initial tool orientation.

Select Top to set the machining direction to the top plane. The initial tool orientation will have the tool
axis aligned with the selected plane's Z axis. Select Other direction enter the XYZ coordinates of a vector
to define the machining direction. Click Select tool plane to open the Select View dialog box. Use the
buttons in the dialog box to select a plane for machining direction.

Related topics

Triangular Mesh Toolpaths

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Margins
Use this page to establish the margins for your Multiaxis toolpath. Margins create additional space so
the toolpath is not starting directly on the surface edge.

Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Misc
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Use this page to control miscellaneous settings for your Multiaxis toolpath. This includes tip
compensation, blade area roughing, and creating a support file.

Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Morph Toolpaths
Use the Multiaxis Morph toolpath to create a cut pattern that blends from one shape to another. That
shape can be either a curve or surface.

What is the difference between the Along Curve, Morph, and Parallel toolpaths?

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths
Parallel Toolpaths
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Along Curve Toolpaths

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Multi Cuts
Use this page to establish the multi cut parameters for your Multiaxis Swarf Milling toolpath. Multi cuts
determine the parameters of the cut patterns, the number of pattern layers, and cut sorting method. The
image below shows a Swarf Milling toolpath with Depth steps set to By number of slices and 5.

Parameters

Related topics

Swarf Milling Toolpaths

Cut Pattern: Swarf Milling

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Multiaxis Linking
Use Multiaxis Link to create multiaxis motion at a safe location between selected operations. The operations be
can 2-through 5-axis. Multiaxis Link is available on the Toolpaths contextual tab, in the Utilities group.

Use the Source Operations page to select the operations you want to link. Then, use the Safety Zone
page to define a safety zone for the motion. The safety zone defines the boundary around the part where
the tool can move safety outside of at a rapid feed rate.

Related topics

Safety Zone
Source Operations

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Multiaxis Toolpaths
Mastercam's Multiaxis toolpaths allow you to machine for 4-axis and 5-axis. The available settings
depend on your current machine setup.

Multiaxis toolpaths are split between two types: Pattern and Application. Pattern toolpaths are general toolpaths that
can be used in a variety of ways to manufacture your part. The toolpaths are very flexible and provide a wide range of
machining options. Application toolpaths are designed to solve particular machining problems while automating
some of the processes. These toolpaths include machining options and strategies specific to the application.

Listed below are the available toolpaths:

Pattern Application
Curve Toolpaths Roughing Toolpaths
Swarf Milling Toolpaths Project Curve Toolpaths
Morph Toolpaths 3-to-5 Axis Toolpaths
Parallel Toolpaths Rotary Toolpaths
Along Curve Toolpaths Swarf Toolpaths
Triangular Mesh Toolpaths Port Expert Toolpaths
Flow Toolpaths Blade Expert Toolpaths
Multisurface Toolpaths Rotary Advanced Toolpaths
Port Toolpaths Deburr Toolpaths

In addition to the toolpaths listed above, there are options to create multiaxis motion with other toolpaths:

2D Drill, Circle Mill, Helix Bore, and Thread Mill toolpaths have 4-axis and 5-axis capabilities. Use the
Tool Axis Control page in the respective toolpath dialog boxes to set these options.
Multiaxis Linking is used to create multiaxis motion as a safe location between selected
operations. The source operations can be 2- through 5-axis. For more information on Multixis
Linking, see the Multiaxis Linking Help topic.

How do I create a Multiaxis toolpath?

Related topics

Toolpath Type: Multiaxis

Mill Toolpaths

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Multisurface Toolpaths
Use the Multiaxis Multisurface toolpath to create an operation based on one of the following patterns:
Surfaces, Cylinder, Sphere, or Box. The tool motion is compensated to the surfaces that define your part.
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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Parallel Toolpaths
Use the Multiaxis Parallel toolpath to create a toolpath that cuts in slices that are parallel to the selected
drive shape which can be either a curve or surface.
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What is the difference between the Along Curve, Morph, and Parallel toolpaths?

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths
Morph Toolpaths
Along Curve Toolpaths

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Parameters for Surface Edge Handling

Use this page to establish the surface edge handling parameters for your Multiaxis toolpath. Surface
edge handling determines how toolpath segments are merged together at gaps in the surfaces.
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Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Parameters for Tilt Tool Away with Maximum Angle

Use this page to establish the maximum tilt angle during collision checking for your Multiaxis
toolpath. The collision strategy must be set to Tilt tool.

Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Part Definition: Rotary Advanced

Use this page to establish the part definition parameters for your Multiaxis Rotary Advanced
toolpath. Part definition allows selection of wall, hub, and shroud geometry.

Parameters
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Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths
Cut Pattern: Rotary Advanced

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Part Definition: Blade Expert

Use this page to establish the part definition parameters for your Multiaxis Blade Expert toolpath. Part
definition allows selection of blade, hub, and shroud geometry. Parameters for gouge check surfaces,
stock definition, cutting of sections, and quality of cut are also available.

Parameters

Related topics

Blade Expert Toolpaths

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Point/Direction/Position
Use this page to enter the X, Y, and Z coordinates of a point or direction vector. The Select button returns you to the
graphics window to select a point or a line. The coordinates are entered into the fields to define the location or direction.

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Port Expert Toolpaths

Use the Multiaxis Port Expert toolpath to machine a port or a tube. This toolpath only supports spherical tools.
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Can I drive the toolpath to machine in a different way?

Related topics

Port Toolpaths
Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Port Toolpaths
Use the Multiaxis Port toolpath to create a roughing or finishing operation for port geometry that is machined from
top to bottom. It is best suited for the machining of tubular surface shapes. The Port toolpath only supports
spherical tools. Port toolpaths project a drive surface onto a selected cut surface, which may include irregularities.

Before creating the toolpath, ensure that there are no issues in the drive surface as it will copy those
irregularities into the toolpath itself.
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Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths
Port Expert Toolpaths

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Project Curve Toolpaths

Use the Multiaxis Project Curve toolpath to project a defined curve or pattern on the selected surface.

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Reference Points: Mill-Turn

Use this page to establish the reference points for your Mill-Turn Multiaxis toolpath. Reference points
define safe locations for the tool to move to.

Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Remaining Collisions
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Use this page to establish parameters for colliding contours and links. This page is only editable
when Strategy and parameters on the Collison Control page is set to Tilt tool.

Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Rest Finishing
Use this page to establish the rest finishing parameters for your Multiaxis Triangular Mesh toolpath.
Rest finishing determines how to machine previously uncut areas based on the roughing tool diameter.

Parameters

Related topics

Triangular Mesh Toolpaths

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Rest Roughing
Use this page to establish the rest roughing parameters for your Multiaxis Triangular Mesh toolpath. Rest
roughing determines how to machine previously uncut areas based on a previous roughing tool diameter.

Parameters

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Triangular Mesh Toolpaths

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Rotary Advanced Toolpaths

Use the Multiaxis Rotary Advanced toolpath to create a 4-axis rotary toolpath that gives more control over tool motion
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through the selection of walls, hubs, and shroud surfaces. Rotary Advanced analyzes the walls and
pockets to create the appropriate toolpath. The Rotary Advanced toolpath uses a constant value
(Distance on the Cut Pattern page) to machine between cuts starting from the top of stock.

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths
Cut Pattern: Rotary Advanced
Rotary Toolpaths

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Rotary Toolpaths
Use the Multiaxis Rotary toolpath to machine along or around the selected rotary axis. Rotary
creates simple patterns around or along an axis and follows the surface topography.
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Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths
Rotary Advanced Toolpaths

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Roughing
Use this page to establish roughing options for your Multiaxis toolpath. Roughing options allow you
to fine tune your toolpath to improve efficiency.

Parameters

Triangular Mesh / Roughing Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Roughing: Curve, Swarf

Use this page to establish the roughing parameters for your Multiaxis Curve or Swarf toolpath. Roughing
provides settings for depth cuts and multi passes within an operation.

Parameters

Related topics

Swarf Toolpaths
Curve Toolpaths
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Roughing: Flow, Multisurface, Port

Use this page to establish the roughing parameters for your Multiaxis Flow, Multisurface, or Port
toolpath. Roughing provides settings for depth cuts within an operation.

Parameters

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths
Flow Toolpaths
Multisurface Toolpaths
Port Toolpaths

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Roughing: Rotary
Use this page to establish the roughing parameters for your Multiaxis Rotary toolpath. Roughing
provides settings for depth cuts, either absolute or incremental, within an operation.

Parameters

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Rotary Toolpaths

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Roughing Toolpaths
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Use the Multiaxis Roughing toolpath to rough out pocket geometry by selecting floor, wall, or
ceiling surfaces to automatically generate a toolpath.

For best results, ensure that the Stock page is set up or that the walls form a closed boundary so that Multiaxis Roughing
can calculate the correct volume of the part. Use Containment on the Cut Pattern page to keep the toolpath in one area or
pocket. For Multiaxis Roughing, the tool axis is always normal to the floor surface when machining.

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Round Corners
Use this page to establish the corner rounding values for your Multiaxis toolpath. Round corners creates fillets in
small, concave radii as well as sharp inner corners. The radius created is the tool radius plus the stock to leave.
The Additional radius value on the page provides a place to increase the created radius even further.

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Safety Zone Function Panel

Use this panel to create a rectangular, cylindrical, or spherical boundary around selected entities in the
graphics window for Multiaxis Linking.

Related topics

Safety Zone
Source Operations

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Safety Zone
Use this page to define the safety zone for your Multiaxis or Multiaxis Link toolpath. A safety zone defines a boundary
around the part outside of which the tool can move safely at a rapid feed rate. An active safety zone can be defined as a
block, sphere, or cylinder. You have complete control over the safety zone's orientation, anchor point, size, and location
relative to the system origin. The safety zone is used within the operation for a Multiaxis toolpath.

NOTE

Use the Hide dialog button to minimize the dialog box for a clear preview of the safety zone. Press
[Esc] to return to the dialog box.
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Safety Zone is also available for Circle Mill, Thread Mill, Helix Bore, and Drill.

Parameters

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Multiaxis Linking
Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Set Edge Direction

Use this dialog to reverse the machining direction of the drive geometry. Multiaxis Curve and Swarf
toolpaths can use a surface edge as drive geometry.

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Setup: Mill-Turn Multiaxis

Use the setup page to define the tool plane, axis combination, spindle origin, and work offset value for a Mill-
Turn Multiaxis operation. You may choose to automatically keep the axes for a generated tool plane aligned
with the machine axes, as well as leave the spindle origin at the location defined in Job setup.

Parameters

Related topics

Stock: Curve, Drill, Flow, Multisurface, Port, Swarf, and Circle Mill
Toolpath Type: Multiaxis

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Silhouette Containment
Use this page to establish the silhouette containment parameters for your Multiaxis Triangular Mesh
toolpath. Silhouette containment determines where the tool containment boundary is created.
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Parameters

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Triangular Mesh Toolpaths

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Smoothing Parameters
Use this page to establish the smoothing parameters for your Multiaxis toolpath. Smoothing parameters
reduce the angular movement of the rotary and side tilt motion.

This page becomes active when the collision strategy is set to Tilt tool and the Smoothing checkbox has been selected.

Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Source Operations
Use the Source Operations page to select the operations to include in a Multiaxis Link toolpath. Select the source
operations in the area to the right using standard control and shift click methods. You can select any combination of
operations that are available on the page. If a toolpath is not eligible for a Multiaxis Link, it will not be listed.

Multiaxis Link is used to generate safe motion between operations. The tool moves to and from the required safety zone
boundary as defined on the Safety Zone page. The rapid motion between operations is generated outside the safety zone.

Related topics
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Multiaxis Linking
Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Sphere Options
Use the Sphere Options dialog box to establish the dimensions and location of the sphere used as
the cut pattern for a Multiaxis Multisurface toolpath.

Parameters

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Multisurface Toolpaths

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Start Point Parameters

Use this page to establish the start point parameters for your Multiaxis toolpath. Start point parameters determine the
position of the initial contact point with the part on the first calculated cut. Options for subsequent cuts are also provided.

Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Stock: Curve, Drill, Flow, Multisurface, Port, Swarf,

and Circle Mill
Use this page to establish the trim to stock parameters for Multiaxis Curve, Drill, Flow, Multisurface,
Port, Swarf, and Circle Mill toolpaths. Trimming to stock allows you to reduce the amount of time the
tool is not in contact with the material.

Parameters

Related topics
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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Stock: Morph, Parallel, Along Curve, Triangular

Mesh, Roughing, Project Curve, Blade Expert,
and Rotary Advanced
Use this page to establish the stock parameters for Multiaxis Morph, Parallel, Along Curve, Triangular Mesh,
Roughing, Project Curve, Blade Expert, and Rotary Advanced toolpaths. Stock settings are designed to trim
tool motion to prevent excess air cutting. These commonly occur with multi passes and depth cuts.

Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Surface Radius Based Feed Rate Optimization

Use this page to adjust the Multiaxis toolpath's feed rate based on the curvature of the surface. Advanced
feed rate control parameters allow you to specify up to four feed rate adjustments for curvatures ranging
from a sharp corner to a flat surface. The surface curvature is determined at the tool contact point for
every position in the toolpath. A linear interpolation is applied for values that fall within ranges. This page
is enabled when Surface radius based feed optimization has been selected on the Utility page.

Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Swarf 4-Axis Deviation

Use the Swarf 4-Axis Deviation dialog box to gauge the 4-axis output quality of a Multiaxis Swarf toolpath.

The first two fields tell you how many tool axis vectors deviate from the part (at the top and bottom rails) by an amount
greater than the Chord height. Mastercam reports this number separately for the top and bottom rail. The Maximum error
tells you the deviation from the part at the farthest point. Mastercam still reports the Maximum error even if all of the
vectors are within tolerance; in this case, the Maximum error should be no greater than the chord height.

While this dialog box is displayed on the screen, the toolpath display in the graphics window highlights
which vectors exceed the chordal tolerance. Tool axis vectors which deviate along the top rail are
highlighted in red. Tool axis vectors which deviate along the bottom rail are highlighted in green. Tool
axis vectors within the chord tolerance are displayed in magenta.

Click the button to toggle the toolpath display between all tool axis vectors and just those that are in error:

Related topics

Swarf Toolpaths

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Swarf Milling Toolpaths

Use the Swarf Milling toolpath to create multiaxis motion that keeps the side of the tool in contact with the selected
surfaces or solids, to create a better surface finish quality. Swarf Milling is an intelligent toolpath that can use the
surface topography to calculate the best contact angle for the tool to follow, and can detect collisions against any
features on the selected surfaces or solids such as a boss. This toolpath can be used for 3, 4, or 5-axis machining
or as a 3-axis Contour toolpath, with the main difference being the ability to select faces.
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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Swarf Toolpaths
Use the Multiaxis Swarf toolpath to create multiaxis motion by machining with the entire length of the
tool when side wall cutting. The Swarf toolpath directly follows the selected chains. You can also derive
the chains by selecting surfaces instead.
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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Tool Axis Control

Use this page to establish the tool axis control parameters for your Multiaxis toolpath. Tool axis control
settings determine the tool's orientation in relation to the geometry being cut.

Parameters

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Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Tool Axis Control: Blade Expert

Use this page to establish the tool axis control parameters for your Multiaxis Blade Expert toolpath.
Tool axis control settings determine the tool's orientation in relation to the geometry being cut.

Parameters

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Blade Expert Toolpaths

Cut Pattern: Blade Expert

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Tool Axis Control: Curve

Use this page to establish the tool axis control parameters for your Multiaxis Curve toolpath. Tool
axis control settings determine the tool's orientation in relation to the geometry being cut.

Parameters

Related topics

Cut Pattern: Curve

Curve Toolpaths
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Tool Axis Control: Deburr

Use tool axis control settings determine the tool's orientation in relation to the geometry being cut.

Parameters

Related topics

Deburr Toolpaths
Cut Pattern: Deburr

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Tool Axis Control: Drill, Circle Mill, Thread Mill,

Helix Bore
NOTE

You must have a Multiaxis license to use this functionality.

Use the Tool Axis Control page to establish the tool axis control parameters for your Drill, Circle Mill, Thread Mill, and
Helix Bore toolpaths. Tool axis control settings determine the tool's orientation in relation to the geometry being cut.

Parameters

Related topics

Drill Toolpaths: Mill/Router

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Tool Axis Control: Flow, Multisurface, Port

Use this page to establish the tool axis control parameters for your Multiaxis Flow, Multisurface, or Port toolpath. Tool
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axis control settings determine the tool's orientation in relation to the geometry being cut.

Parameters

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths
Flow Toolpaths
Multisurface Toolpaths
Port Toolpaths

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Tool Axis Control: Port Expert

Use this page to establish the tool axis control parameters for your Multiaxis Port Expert toolpath.
Tool axis control settings determine the tool's orientation in relation to the geometry being cut.

Parameters

Related topics

Port Expert Toolpaths

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Tool Axis Control: Rotary

Use this page to establish the tool axis control parameters for your Multiaxis Rotary toolpath. Tool
axis control settings determine the tool's orientation in relation to the geometry being cut.

Parameters

Related topics

Rotary Toolpaths

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Tool Axis Control: Swarf

Use this page to refine the tool axis control parameters for your Multiaxis Swarf toolpath. The selected
geometry controls the tool axis for a Swarf toolpath. You have control over such parameters as output
format, fanning, angle increment, and more.

Parameters

Related topics
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Swarf Toolpaths

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Tool Axis Control: Swarf Milling

Use this page to establish the tool axis control parameters for your Swarf Milling Multiaxis toolpath.
Tool axis control settings determine the tool's orientation in relation to the geometry being cut.

Parameters

Related topics

Swarf Milling Toolpaths

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Toolpath to 5-axis
Use this page to establish parameters for a toolpath being converted to 5-axis motion. Set the cut
tolerance and how to process the linking moves.

Parameters

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Toolpath Type: Multiaxis

Use this page to view the type of Multiaxis toolpath you want to create. Toolpath type controls the
options available as you proceed down the tree structure. The options are based on the toolpath you
previously selected, as well as the toolpath family (Pattern or Application).

Parameters
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Click the image of the toolpath type you wish to create. The remaining options in the tree control will be determined by
this selection. If the toolpath type is changed before the toolpath is created, all parameters will be reset to default values

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Triangular Mesh Toolpaths

Use the Triangular Mesh toolpath to machine where the tool is always in contact with the machining
surfaces. The Triangular Mesh toolpath is essentially an entire suite of advanced toolpaths that
allows you to input meshes as well as surfaces and solids.

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Undercuts Machining
Use this page to select and process undercut areas in the specified range of the processing angles for your Multiaxis
toolpaths. The processing range is determined by the maximum tilt angle relative to the defined machining direction.

Parameters

Related topics

Cut Pattern
Multiaxis Toolpaths
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Utility
Use this page to control various utility settings. These settings are used to fine-tune your multiaxis toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

Multiaxis Toolpaths

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Automatically Calculating Entry and Exit Vectors

For Lathe toolpaths, you can select options to Automatically calculate entry vector or Automatically
calculate exit vectorin the Lead In/Out dialog box. Mastercam uses the stock, chuck, and tailstock
information, along with related parameter values, and calculates entry and/or exit vectors that begin
outside the stock boundary and end at the start/finish of the toolpath.

These options are accessible only if you have defined stock in the Stock Setup tab in Machine Group
Properties, selected a tool, and have selected the Update Stock for this Operation or Stock update
parameter found on the Toolpath parameters tab. It is unavailable when creating canned toolpaths.

Whenever the tool is outside of the part, it will be at least the tool clearance distance away from the chuck and tailstock.
Define this distance in the Tool clearance section of the Tool Settings tab.

Related topics

Lead In/Out
Toolpath Parameters: Lathe

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Axis Combination/Spindle Origin

Use the Axis Combination / Spindle Origin dialog box to select an axis combination to use for the operation.
Typically, an axis combination represents the specific spindle and/or turret that you will use for a machining
job. The axis combination defines which machine axes will be used to represent the part coordinate system.
Select the axis combination by clicking on the graphical representation of the spindle and turret combination.
The number of choices in the Axis Combination list depends on the number of turrets defined for the machine.

The Spindle origin group box displays information relevant to the selected axis combination. The
information is not editable in this dialog box for tool planes generated by Mill-Turn job setup. The
information is read from the machine file and displayed for your reference.

Right-click in the Spindle origin list to create a new tool plane or rename a tool plane. You can also
rename a tool plane by double-clicking it in the list.

Parameters
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Related topics

Spindle Move
Spindle Sync

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Calculating Feeds and Speeds from a Material: Lathe

Mastercam will automatically take tool and stock material into consideration when calculating speed and
feed percentages needed for an operation.

The calculations and approaches are taken directly from the Machinist's Handbook (2000: Industrial
Press)and based on the formulas described in the following sections. If you need to adjust these
values (for example, to compensate for a hardened or softened material), or need to create a material
that is not in the library, you can do so in the Material Definition dialog box.

For most lathe operations, the spindle speed is usually programmed using constant surface speed (CSS).
This keeps the cutting speed constant as the tool cuts toward or away from the Z axis. Exceptions are
drilling and threading operations, which are programmed in revolutions per minute (RPM). Feed rates for
threading operations are not included in the material definition and must be defined with the threading tool.
For additional information, please see the Parameters tab (Threading tools).

Calculating spindle and cutting speed values

Calculating plunge rates from material

Related topics

Working with Materials

Material Definition
Parameters: Turning and Boring Tools
Tool Settings: Machine Group Properties
Plunge Cut Parameters

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Edit Common Parameters: Lathe

Use the Edit Common Parameters, Lathe dialog box to set values for one or more toolpath parameters
for several operations at the same time. You can also use it to copy selected values from one operation
to another. All the operations must be in the same machine group.

NOTE

You can only edit toolpath and operation parameters. You cannot edit machine group properties or settings.
When you return to the Toolpaths Manager you may need to regenerate operations whose parameters have changed.

The information in this topic is divided into several sections. Click to read more.

1. Select the operations to edit

2. Select the settings to change

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3. Apply the changes

4. Copying values from one operation to another

Parameters

Related topics

Toolpaths Manager
Working with Toolpath Defaults

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Entry/Exit Arc
Use the Entry/Exit Arc dialog box to create a tangent entry or exit arc to a lathe toolpath. You can combine this
arc with other entry or exit moves. For example, you can extend the contour geometry and add an entry arc to
it. This option is only available for standard turning toolpaths, not quick or canned toolpaths.

Parameters

Related topics

Lead In/Out

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Filter Settings: Lathe

Use the Filter Settings, Lathe dialog box to optimize the toolpath by filtering small toolpath moves. You
can filter most toolpaths as they are being created or after they have been created. We recommend that
you filter toolpaths while they are being created to maintain associativity.

NOTE

The active control definition determines the default values, overall tolerance limits, and the planes in
which arcs can be created.

Parameters

Related topics

Arc: Control Definition Manager

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Inconsistent Operation WCS

Use the Inconsistent Operation WCS dialog box to make changes to existing files in which an operation's work coordinate
system (WCS) does not match the Stock Plane settings in the Stock Setup tab of the current Lathe Machine Group
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Properties shown below.

The Operation WCS Different Than Stock Plane dialog box automatically opens when you load a part file that has
discrepancies between the stock plane and the WCS for any operation in a lathe machine group. Collision
boundaries for the stock, chuck, tailstock center, and steady rest are defined with respect to the Machine Group
Properties Stock Plane, and do not move with the WCS. If a turning operation is not in the same WCS as the stock
plane, tool collisions are reported when the tool does not appear to be anywhere near the stock, and either the
WCS for the toolpath must be changed or the stock must be redefined in the proper stock plane.

In the dialog box, the current machine group, along with its defined stock plane, is displayed with a list
of defined named planes. Choose the plane you want to apply to the machine group and select either:

Yes to update the operation WCS to the stock plane for the current machine group, as well as the
WCS settings for all operations in the machine group.
No to bypass making changes to the machine group. If you select No, no changes are made to the
operations or the stock plane for the machine group. The database is not updated.

NOTE

The Operation WCS Different Than Stock Plane dialog box appears on a per-machine group basis, so
if you have more than one lathe machine group with inconsistencies between the operation WCS and
the machine group stock plane, this dialog appears multiple times.

Related topics

Stock Setup: Machine Group Properties - Lathe

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Lathe Stock Update

Choose this option from the Toolpaths Manager's right-click menu to toggle whether or not lathe
stock updates as you work in an operation. This option is available only when your insert arrow is
placed in a lathe machine group and when stock is defined for the job.

Related topics

Toolpaths Manager Right-click Menu

Toolpath Parameters: Lathe

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Lathe Toolpaths
Mastercam Lathe includes three main categories of toolpaths. Select the drop-downs to learn more.

General turning toolpaths

Part handling operations
C-axis toolpaths
Creating a lathe toolpath
Mill-Turn operations

Related topics

Creating Milling Operations in Mastercam Lathe

Comparing Mill-Turn and Lathe
Part Handling Operations (Lathe)
Canned Toolpaths
Cross-Centerline Turning

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Lead In/Out
Use the Lead In/Out dialog box to control how the tool approaches or retracts from the part for each pass in
the toolpath. This eliminates the need to create extra geometry for this purpose. You can also combine
different types of moves. For example, you can extend a contour and lead in to it with a tangent arc.

The Lead In and Lead Out tabs have identical options for creating entry and exit moves, letting you set
different values for each move.

NOTE

With Grooving toolpaths, the tabs are called 1st Pass Lead In or 2nd Pass Lead In.

Parameters

Related topics

Extending or Shortening the End of a Chained Contour

Adding a Line to the Start or End of the Chained Contour
Automatically Calculating Entry and Exit Vectors
Setting Entry and Exit Vectors

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Lead In/Out: Canned Rough and Pattern Repeat

Use the tabs on this dialog box to control how the tool approaches or retracts from the part. This
eliminates the need to create extra geometry for this purpose. Create the lead in and lead out moves
separately on each tab. Use any of the following techniques:

Extend or shorten the geometry in the chained contour.

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Add a line to the start of the chained contour.

Set the exit length for the lead out move.

You can combine types of moves. For example, you can extend the contour and then create an additional
line at an angle to it.

NOTE

For Chained Groove toolpaths, set these parameters on the Groove shape parameters tab.

Parameters

Related topics

Extending or Shortening the End of a Chained Contour

Adding a Line to the Start or End of the Chained Contour

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Rotary Axis Control: Lathe

Use the Rotary Axis Control dialog box to configure rotary axis motion.

For axis substitution, you need to tell Mastercam more information about how to wrap the geometry. Select the
direction of rotation and the diameter of the cylinder around which to wrap the geometry. Being able to specify these
parameters in this dialog box means you do not have to have the cylinder created as geometry in your part file.

NOTE

Before you can program C-axis or Y-axis motion, your machine definition needs to include the proper C-axis or Y-axis
components. You will only be able to select rotary axis options which are supported by your machine definition.

Parameters

Related topics

Comparing C-axis to Y-axis Toolpaths

Creating Milling Operations in Mastercam Lathe
Rotary Axis Control: Mill/Router

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Setting Entry and Exit Vectors

For Lathe toolpaths, you can select the Use entry vector or Use exit vector options in the Lead In/Out
dialog box to control how the tool approaches or retracts from the part for each pass. The length and
angle of the vector define the distance and direction that the tool moves to the part.

You can choose a fixed direction by selecting tangent or perpendicular, and then entering the vector's
length. Or, you can choose no fixed direction, enter an angle value or use the angle dial to define the
vector's angle, and then enter the vector's length.

If you know the vector's angle relative to the part you can enter the angle, then choose IntelliSet. The system sets the vector
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based on the tool orientation and the angle dial points in the appropriate direction. This option is
available only if you have selected a tool and if you have selected None for the fixed direction.

Related topics

Lead In/Out

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Stock Update Parameters

Use the Stock Update Parameters dialog box to tell Mastercam to regenerate operations that follow the current
operation when you finish editing it. This lets you update those operations to take into account changes in the
stock model caused by the current operation. You can leave this option deselected if the only changes you are
making to the operation do not affect the stock model—for example, changing the feed rate.

You can also use this dialog box to override the stock clearance values from the Machine Group Properties,
and, for cutoff operations, select whether the stock model will be based on the finished part or leftover stock.

Parameters

Related topics

Toolpath Parameters: Lathe

Stock Setup: Machine Group Properties - Lathe

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Tool Clearance Violations

The Tool Clearance Violations dialog box displays when you have defined boundaries, and Mastercam
detects that the tool is approaching the stock, chuck, tailstock, or steady rest closer than the specified
clearance distance. The dialog box gives you three options to recover. You can:

Choose Select New Point. You will return to the graphics window where you can select a new point that
positions the tool outside the boundary. Mastercam will then continue creating the toolpath.
Ignore the warning and create the toolpath anyway.
Quit creating the toolpath. Edit your toolpath parameters or lead in/out moves as necessary.

NOTE

Open the Tool Settings tab in the Machine Group Properties dialog box to enter or change the tool clearance distances.

Related topics

Toolpath Parameters: Lathe

Toolpath Parameters: Mill-Turn
Tool Settings: Machine Group Properties

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Tool Inspection
Use the Tool Inspection dialog box to establish points during operations where the machine can be
programmed to a specific position and stopped to allow you to perform tool inspections. You can
set the conditions on which the tool inspections are performed, such as:

After a number of passes

After a specified cut length
After a specified cut duration

Additional options let you control whether a tool inspection can occur during a pass or near the start or
end of a pass. You can also use reference points to get the tool in and out of the cut, and send the tool
to a selected point or to the home position for the tool inspection position.

Parameters

Related topics

Rough Parameters
Face Parameters: Lathe
Finish Toolpaths
Rough Toolpaths

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Toolpath Parameters: Lathe

Use this tab to select a tool, set feeds and speeds, and set other general toolpath parameters. This tab is similar for most Lathe
toolpaths. Use the large window to select a tool for the operation. Double-click a tool to edit its tool definition or properties.
This includes setting it in a different turret, changing its mounting angle, or using it with a different spindle.

You can select a tool from the library by entering its tool number if you have Search tool library set
in your Machine Group Properties.

As soon as you select a tool, Mastercam inputs default feed rates and spindle speed. To prevent this
behavior for complete toolpaths, select the Lock feedrates option in the Toolpaths page of the System
Configuration dialog box. You can calculate the defaults in either of two ways:

Read them directly from the tool definition.

Dynamically calculate them from the material, operation type, and tool characteristics.

Use the Machine Group Properties to tell Mastercam which type of default you prefer. You can override
any of the defaults by entering different values.

The feed rate and spindle speed that you enter here are typically in effect for the entire operation.
However, you can use the Change at Point feature to change them for specific moves. Use the Feed page
in the control definition to configure the feed rate units, inverse feed rates, or other advanced options. If
a value is out of range, it is displayed in italics until you edit it.

The bottom area of the tab includes many advanced toolpath options. Select the checkbox to activate a
feature, and click the button to set values for this operation. Some options might not be available if
they are not supported by the current control definition.

Parameters
Right-click menu options

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Related topics

Lathe Toolpaths
Stock Setup: Machine Group Properties - Lathe
Machine Groups
Working with Toolpath Defaults
Calculating Feeds and Speeds from a Material: Lathe

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Adding a Line to the Start or End of the

Chained Contour
Use the New Contour Line dialog box or Adjust Contour dialog box to define a line that will be added to the start and/or end of the
chained contour without creating extra geometry. This may be necessary when the geometry that is chained for a toolpath lies
totally within the stock boundary. Adding a line to the contour to extend the chain in a pre-defined direction can help ensure that the
tool does not rapid into the stock at the start of a pass, or rapid along the stock at the end of a pass.

Related topics

New Contour Line

Adjust Contour

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Adjust Contour
Use the Adjust Contour dialog box to modify the contour of a chained groove so you do not have to
create extra geometry to machine the part. You can:

extend or shorten the contour by a specified distance to enter or come off the part tangent to the contour
add a line to the beginning or end of the chained contour

Any changes are applied to either the start or end of the contour, depending on whether you chose
Adjust start of contour or Adjust end of contour to open this dialog box.

Parameters

Related topics

Extending or Shortening the End of a Chained Contour

Adding a Line to the Start or End of the Chained Contour
Groove/Plunge Turn Shape Parameters

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Adjust Stock
Use these options to integrate the contour that you have chained for the toolpath with the stock
boundary, so that the tool will approach and come off the part the way you intend.
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First, select an End to adjust. The top radio button adjusts the start of the toolpath, the bottom
adjusts the end. You can adjust the start and end individually.

Then, for each end of the toolpath, select a stock adjustment method. Each option results in an imaginary
line from the selected end of the toolpath to the stock boundary, in either of the following orientations:

perpendicular to cut direction

parallel to cut direction
parallel to end of chain

The area of remaining stock between the stock boundary and chained contour is highlighted in orange. A yellow
point indicates the start of the chained contour, while a red point indicates the end of the chained contour.

As you select different options, it is reflected in on the screen.

Parameters

Related topics

Using the Stock Boundary as the Groove's Outer Boundary

Defining a Lathe Stock Model
Rough Parameters
Rough Toolpaths

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Allowance Table
Use the Allowance Table dialog box to select thread allowance values from a table instead of manually entering the
numbers. Select an allowance class from the list at the top of the box. Then, select a line from the table, and click OK to
transfer a pre-calculated allowance value to the Thread shape parameters tab. Click a column heading to sort the table.

You can add or edit entries in the allowance table.

Related topics

Editing Allowance Tables

Thread Shape Parameters
Thread Toolpaths

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Backoff Percentage
The backoff percentage for lathe groove toolpaths determines how far the tool backs away from the wall
of the groove before it retracts. For the roughing pass, this value is a percentage of the rough step. For
finish passes, you can enter either a percentage of the tool width or a distance for the backoff. The tool
backs off at a 45-degree angle. It does not back off if it is going to hit the part.

If you are creating a quick groove toolpath, Mastercam uses the Tool clearance values from the Tool
Settings tab in the Machine Group Properties dialog box in place of the backoff percentage.

An example of using a backoff percentage is shown below, marked by the letter A. The dotted lines represent tool

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movement.

Related topics

Groove Toolpaths
Quick Groove Toolpaths

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Canned Finish Parameters

Use this tab to create a finish operation for a canned rough or a pattern repeat toolpath. Choose the
operation to finish from the window, and then enter the other cutting parameters.

NOTE

You must have a canned rough or pattern repeat operation already defined in your Toolpath Group
to create a canned finish operation.

Parameters

Related topics

Canned Finish Toolpaths

Finish Toolpaths
Canned Toolpaths
Toolpath Parameters: Lathe

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Canned Finish Toolpaths

Use Canned Finish to create a finish toolpath for a canned rough or pattern repeat toolpath based on your
machine tool control's canned cycles. In addition, the tool nose radius of the finish tool must match the radius of
the roughing tool. If your part does not meet these requirements, use a standard finish toolpath instead.

For example, a Fanuc-compatible post would typically output a G70 for this toolpath. This results in a
very compact NC program, but you do not have access to all of Mastercam's finish toolpath features.
Some of the features which are not supported include:

Number of passes or step-over (only a single finish pass is enabled)

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Stock to leave for later finishing operation

Cutting direction
Toolpath filtering

In addition, you have fewer options for creating entry and exit passes. Instead of options for lead in/out
moves, corner break, or extending the contour, you can only select approach and retract points.

If you need to use any of these features, consider creating a standard finish toolpath instead.

To create the toolpath, select Canned, Finish from the General gallery of the Lathe, Turning, or Mill-Turn, Turning tab.
Use the Canned finish dialog box to enter the toolpath parameters.

NOTE

Mastercam only displays parameters that are supported by your machine controller's canned cycle programs.
See the Lathe Canned Cycle page in Control Definition to tell Mastercam how your control supports them.

Related topics

Finish Toolpaths
Canned Finish Parameters
Canned Toolpaths
Lathe Toolpaths
Lathe Canned Cycles: Control Definition Manager

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Canned Groove Toolpaths

Use Mastercam's lathe canned groove toolpaths to machine a groove using your machine tool control's canned cycles. For
example, a Fanuc-compatible post would typically output a G75. This will result in a very compact NC program, but you do not
have access to all of Mastercam's groove toolpath features. Some of the features which are not supported include:

Options for refining the shape of the groove or its corners, such as radii, chamfers, or tapered walls
Bi-directional cutting
Dwell times
Smooth wall options

If you need to use any of these features, consider creating a standard groove toolpath instead.

To create the toolpath, select Canned, Groove from the General gallery of the Lathe, Turning, or Mill-Turn, Turning tab.
Use the Canned Groove dialog box to enter the toolpath parameters.

When the Grooving Options dialog box displays, define the geometry that you will use to locate the
groove, and then use the Canned Groove dialog box to complete the toolpath. Your canned groove
toolpath can include roughing passes, finishing passes, or both.

NOTE

Mastercam only displays parameters that are supported by your machine controller's canned cycle programs.
See the Lathe Canned Cycle page in Control Definition to tell Mastercam how your control supports them.

Related topics

Grooving Options
Groove Shape Parameters: Canned Groove

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Canned Toolpaths
Groove Toolpaths
Lathe Toolpaths

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Canned Rough Parameters

Use this tab to create a canned rough toolpath. This produces the same type of cutting action as a standard
roughing toolpath, but the NC code uses your machine tool controller's canned cycles for a more efficient program.

The parameters you see on this tab are a subset of the parameters that are available for a standard roughing
toolpath. Also, these parameters are only available if they are enabled in the current control definition.

Parameters

Related topics

Canned Rough Toolpaths

Lead In/Out: Canned Rough and Pattern Repeat
Using the Stock Boundary as the Groove's Outer Boundary
Toolpath Parameters: Lathe

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Canned Rough Toolpaths

Use canned rough toolpaths to create a roughing toolpath which is based on your machine tool control's canned cycles.
For example, a Fanuc-compatible post would typically output a G71. This will result in a very compact NC program, but you
do not have access to all of Mastercam's roughing features. Some of the features which are not supported include:

Zig-zag cutting (only one-way passes are enabled)

Angled overlap
Semi-finish passes
Toolpath filtering

In addition, you have fewer options for creating entry and exit passes.

If you need to use any of these features, consider creating a standard rough toolpath instead.

To create the toolpath, select Canned, Rough from the General gallery of the Lathe, Turning, or Mill-Turn, Turning tab.
Use the Canned Rough dialog box to enter the toolpath parameters.

NOTE

Mastercam only displays parameters that are supported by your machine controller's canned cycle programs.
See the Lathe Canned Cycle page in Control Definition to tell Mastercam how your control supports them.

Related topics

Canned Toolpaths
Pattern Repeat Toolpaths
Rough Toolpaths

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Lathe Toolpaths

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Canned Text Options for Cutoff Toolpaths

When creating lathe cutoff toolpaths you have additional options for inserting canned text at any radius
value in the cutoff toolpath. Other Mastercam toolpaths only let you place canned text at the beginning.
Mastercam breaks the cutoff move into several separate moves at positions you select, and then inserts
the selected canned text commands at these positions. These options are useful for programming
tailstocks, part catchers, bar feeders, and other tooling used to load and remove parts from the lathe.

To access these options, select Canned text on the Cutoff parameters tab, not the Tool parameters tab.
The Cutoff Canned Text dialog box will appear so you can select the locations for the canned text. If you
select Canned text from the Toolpath parameters tab, you will not be able to select the radius location,
and the canned text will be inserted at the beginning of the toolpath.

Related topics

Canned Text
Cutoff Canned Text
Cutoff Toolpaths

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Canned Toolpaths
Mastercam's canned toolpaths create efficient NC programs by using your CNC machine controller's
canned cycle programs. Typically, the operator can change the toolpath by editing canned cycle
parameters at the control instead of recreating the NC program.

Mastercam Lathe includes four different canned toolpaths:

Rough
Finish
Groove
Pattern repeat

The canned toolpath dialog boxes display only those parameters that are supported by your machine controller's canned
cycle programs. See the Lathe Canned Cycles page in Control Definition to configure which canned cycles will be available
and which toolpath features will generate canned cycle output. If canned cycle output is not enabled, Mastercam will
generate long-hand output, which contains individual G-codes for every positioning and cutting move.

Related topics

Lathe Toolpaths
Canned Rough Toolpaths
Canned Finish Toolpaths
Canned Groove Toolpaths
Pattern Repeat Toolpaths
Lathe Canned Cycles: Control Definition Manager

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Chip Break
Use the Chip Break dialog box to establish when chip breaks can occur. Conditions for chip breaks include the following:

After a specified cut length

After a specified cut duration

Additional options let you control whether a chip break can occur near the start or end of a pass. You
can also set a chip break's dwell time.

Parameters

Related topics

Rough Parameters

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Clearance Cut
Use the Clearance Cut dialog box to create a clearance cut for a cutoff toolpath. Use a clearance cut to:

create clearance for the cutoff tool to plunge into the stock at an angle when creating the cutoff chamfer or radius
reduce the region of contact between the tool and stock when cutting off a large diameter part.

By defining a clearance cut, the tool makes an initial pass into the part, clearing stock and reducing
tool friction for the chamfer, radius, and/or finish cutoff pass.

Parameters

Related topics

Cutoff Toolpaths

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Compute From Formula

Use the Compute From Formula dialog box to determine the thread's major and minor diameters based
on the thread form, lead value, and basic major diameter you enter here. This option is useful if you have
an odd-sized lead and basic major diameter combination.

Parameters

Related topics

Thread Formulas
Thread Form Tables
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Thread Toolpaths
Thread Shape Parameters

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Contour Rough: Lathe Toolpaths

Use Contour Rough toolpaths to quickly remove large amounts of stock in a part where the initial stock
shape is similar to the final part shape, such as using a casting for stock.

Contour Rough calculates passes parallel to the finished part profile. Depending on your defined Minimum cut,
Contour Rough will add, remove, lengthen, or shorten the roughing passes as needed to eliminate air cutting.

Use the Offset parameter to set how far the toolpath is offset from the stock, by either a constant value or XZ axis values.

NOTE

Stock must be defined prior to selecting this toolpath.

Cutter compensation type can only be set to Computer, Wear, Off, and Reverse Wear. Control is not supported.
This toolpath does not support collision detection on the holder.

Related topics

Lathe Toolpaths
Rough Toolpaths

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Contour Rough Parameters

Use this tab to create a lathe contour rough toolpath. This roughing toolpath is designed to take passes
parallel to chained geometry. This toolpath is useful for parts where the initial stock shape is similar to
the final part shape, such as using a casting for stock.

Rough
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Contour Rough

First, select whether the cutting method is one-way or zig-zag, and select a toolpath orientation from
the Rough direction list. Then, use the graphics as a guide for entering the toolpath dimensions.

Use the options on the right side of the tab to select the type of cutter compensation and complete the
toolpath by adding advanced features such as a semi-finish pass, lead in/out moves, and toolpath filtering.

NOTE

Stock must be defined prior to selecting this toolpath.

Cutter compensation type can only be set to Computer, Wear, Reverse Wear, or Off. Control is not supported.
This toolpath does not support collision detection on the holder.

Parameters

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Related topics

Rough Toolpaths
Toolpath Parameters: Lathe

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Corner Break Parameters

Use the Corner Break Parameters dialog box to automatically create radii or chamfers on all outer corners of
Lathe finish toolpaths. You can also set the feed rate when the tool creates the radii or chamfers.

Creating a radius
When creating a radius, the angle of the original corner must fall within the maximum and minimum range that you enter.

Creating a chamfer
When creating a chamfer, the angle of the outer corner must equal 90 degrees. If it does not, you can
compensate for the difference by adjusting the angle tolerance. The angle tolerance determines how
far the corner can vary from 90 degrees and still have a chamfer added. For example, if the angle
tolerance is 5 degrees, the corner can be between 85 and 95 degrees and still have a chamfer added.

Parameters

Related topics

Finish Toolpaths

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Creating Smooth Tapered Walls

It is common for a lathe roughing tool to leave steps, like stairs, on the walls of tapered grooves. If you
try to remove these steps during a finish pass, the tool could chip or break because the shock on the
tool would be inconsistent throughout the toolpath.

Mastercam includes an option which lets you remove these steps during the roughing pass and leave a
smoother wall for the finish tool. When you choose this option, the roughing tool cuts the stock
normally on the roughing pass, and in doing so, creates the steps. It then retracts and cuts the steps.

Activate this option by choosing Groove walls: Smooth in the Groove rough parameters tab. Choose
Parameters to open the Remove Groove Steps dialog box and configure the smoothing cut.

Related topics

Groove Toolpaths
Groove Rough Parameters
Remove Groove Steps

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Cross-Centerline Turning
Mastercam Lathe supports cross-centerline turning. When you create a turning operation and select a tool across
the centerline from the chained geometry, Mastercam detects this and automatically reverses the following settings:

spindle direction
compensation direction
entry and exit directions

In addition, the Stock Recognition function uses the opposite side of the stock.

In order for Mastercam to create the toolpath, all of the toolpath geometry must be on the other side of
the centerline. The toolpath geometry cannot cross the centerline. Also, if a toolpath has more than one
chain, all of the chains must be on the same side of the centerline.

Because face and thread toolpaths do not have chained geometry, those toolpaths include a Cross centerline cut option.

When this option is selected, Mastercam creates the toolpath on the other side of the centerline from the selected tool.

Cross-centerline turning is not supported for the following toolpaths:

Cutoff
Drill
Pinch turn

Related topics

Lathe Toolpaths

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Cutoff Canned Text

Use the Cutoff Canned Text dialog box to insert canned text at specific radius values in a lathe cutoff toolpath.
You can assign canned text commands to the start or end of the toolpath, or to a specific radius value.

Parameters

Related topics

Canned Text
Canned Text Options for Cutoff Toolpaths
Cutoff Toolpaths
Cutoff Parameters

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Cutoff Parameters
Use the Cutoff Parameters dialog box to create a cutoff toolpath. You do not need to create or chain any
geometry for this toolpath. Mastercam will create the toolpath based on the parameters you enter in this
tab and the boundary point you selected.

Use the diagrams on the tab as a guide to entering the cutting parameters and toolpath dimensions. You can create a
radius or chamfer on the corner. Activate advanced toolpath features by selecting checkboxes on the right side of the tab.
These let you create lead in/out moves, plunge in pecks, add canned text at specific radius values, or use toolpath filtering.

Parameters

Related topics

Position: Mill-Turn
Cutoff Toolpaths

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Cutoff/Pickoff/Bar Pull Setup

Use the Cutoff/Pickoff/Bar Pull Setup dialog box to create a part transfer operation from one spindle to the
other and/or a bar pull operation prior to a cutoff toolpath. This dialog box is specifically used for parts cut
from bar stock, not parts cut from slugs, castings, or forgings. You can choose to just create the geometry
without creating any operation, or you can create the geometry and the following types of operations:

Pickoff, Bar pull, Cutoff

Pickoff, Cutoff
Pickoff
Bar pull

Use the controls in the Operations tab to define parameters for each of the operations.

The following conditions must be met to use this function:

The red insert arrow must be in a lathe machine group.

The machine group must have stock defined in a fixed spindle, or both spindles, and the chuck jaws defined for
both spindles. If both spindles can move in Z, the spindle not containing stock is assumed to be the pickoff
spindle. If both spindles contain stock in this case, the right spindle is assumed to be the pickoff spindle.
A cutoff operation must exist in the currently active operation library.

NOTE

This function uses the left and right stock margins defined in the Component Geometry (Cylinder) dialog box.

Parameters

Related topics

Operations: Cutoff/Pickoff/Bar Pull

Duplicate Toolpath Group Name - Cutoff/Pickoff
Defining a Lathe Stock Model
Component Geometry: Cylinder

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Cutoff Toolpaths
Cutoff toolpaths vertically cut off pieces of the part, such as sections of bar stock. You do not need to
chain any geometry for a cutoff toolpath, Mastercam creates the toolpath from the cutoff parameters.
Instead, you select the point where the part is cut off.

An example of a cutoff toolpath is shown below. The red line shows the tool path; you can tell Mastercam
to automatically create a radius or a chamfer, like in this part. The blue dot indicates the boundary point.
Mastercam rapids to this point to start the toolpath. Other entry and exit dimensions, such as lead in/out
moves and chamfers, are measured from the boundary point.

You can also tell Mastercam to cut the groove in multiple pecks, and to insert custom canned text
command at specific diameter values. To create a cutoff toolpath, select Cutoff from the General gallery
on the Lathe, Turning tab. Mastercam prompts you to select a boundary point, and then you will see the
Cutoff parameters tab where you can configure the toolpath.

Related topics
Canned Text Options for Cutoff Toolpaths
Lathe Toolpaths
Cutoff Parameters

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Down Cutting Parameters

Use the Down Cutting Parameters dialog box to detect and finish cut regions of a profile with the optimum
toolpath using a single chain. Walls—referred to as steep, down cut, and faces—are cut in a vertical or
downward direction. Flats—referred to as shallow, non-down cut, and diameters—are cut in a horizontal or
upward direction. The specified transition angle and finish direction define what is considered a wall or flat:

OD, ID: Walls 90 or 270 degrees are considered vertical

Face, Back: Walls 180 or 360 degrees are considered horizontal

Parameters

Related topics

Finish Parameters
Finish Toolpaths

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Duplicate Toolpath Group Name - Cutoff/Pickoff

This dialog appears if you create multiple cutoff/pickoff/bar pull operations using an existing toolpath
group name. Mastercam toolpath groups must have unique names. Enter a unique toolpath group
name or create the toolpaths in the existing toolpath group.

Alternately you can choose to replace existing operations in the group with the new ones
generated. In this case, all previously created operations in the group will be deleted.

NOTE

Selecting Cancel aborts the toolpath generation process.

Related topics

Cutoff/Pickoff/Bar Pull Setup

Operations: Cutoff/Pickoff/Bar Pull
Defining a Lathe Stock Model

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Dynamic Rough: Lathe Toolpaths

Use Dynamic Rough toolpaths to effectively machine parts while using more of the surface of your
insert, extending the tool life, and increasing the cutting speed.

Dynamic motion keeps the tool engaged in the material more consistently without over-engaging the material. The
entry into the cut is easier on the tool as the tool rolls into the cut, minimizing the chance of notching the insert. It
also easier on the machine tool, as there is no abrupt directional changes and all repositioning moves are smooth
arcs. Dynamic Rough determines where the tool is relative to the material that has been removed and what material
remains. Because of these features, Dynamic Rough provides consistent and stable cutting conditions.

NOTE

Define stock prior to selecting this toolpath.

This toolpath supports only button inserts, such as radius or ball.
Set cutter Compensation type to Computer or Off. Control, Wear, and Reverse Wear compensation
types are not supported.

Related topics

Lathe Toolpaths
Rough Toolpaths

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Dynamic Rough Parameters: Lathe Dynamic

Rough Properties
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Use this tab to create a lathe Dynamic Rough toolpath. The toolpath is designed for hard materials cut only
with button inserts, such as a radius or ball. The dynamic motion allows the toolpath to cut gradually, remain
engaged in the material more effectively, and use more of the surface of your insert, extending the tool life
and increasing the cutting speed. See the following graphics for tool motion differences.

Rough

Dynamic

Choose whether the cutting method is one-way or zig-zag, and select a toolpath orientation from the Rough direction list.
Use the graphics as a guide for entering the different toolpath dimensions.

Use the options on the right side of the tab to select the type of cutter compensation and complete the
toolpath by adding advanced features such as a semi-finish pass, lead in/out moves, and toolpath filtering.

NOTE

You must define the stock prior to selecting this toolpath.

This toolpath does not support collision detection on the holder.

Parameters

Advanced toolpath techniques

Related topics

Rough Toolpaths
Toolpath Parameters: Lathe
Cutter Compensation
Cross-Centerline Turning

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Editing Allowance Tables

Mastercam Lathe's allowance table is located in a text file called ALLOWAN.TBL. Because this table contains only a
few of the many allowance classes available, you can edit the allowance table to add allowance classes that you use
the most or delete allowance classes that you use the least. A portion of a common allowance table is shown below.

When you add an allowance combination to the table, you must enter a table name, units, and table
entries. The other elements are for information purposes only and can be left blank.

Allowance table elements

Related topics

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Thread Allowance Tables

Thread Form Tables
Thread Formulas
Thread Toolpaths

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Editing Thread Form Tables

Mastercam's thread table is located in a text file called THREAD.TBL. Because this table contains only a few of
the many thread forms available, you can edit the thread table to add thread forms that you use the most or
delete thread forms that you use the least. A portion of a common thread table is shown below.

When you add a thread combination to the table, you must enter a table name, units, and table entries.
The other elements are for information purposes only and can be left blank.

Thread form table elements

Related topics

Thread Form Tables

Thread Formulas
Thread Allowance Tables
Thread Toolpaths

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Extending or Shortening the End of a Chained Contour

For Lathe toolpaths, you can select the Extend/shorten end of contour option to extend or shorten the end of the chained
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contour so you do not have to modify or create extra geometry to machine the part. Access this option
from the Adjust Contour section of the Lead In/Out dialog box, or from the Adjust Contour when you
are creating grooves from chained geometry.

This option is useful if you want to approach or come off of the part tangent to the first or last move in
the toolpath, without having a separate move for the entry/exit vector. The shorten option is useful if the
stock and the part are the same size. To avoid collision with the chuck, shorten the contour at least the
distance of the chuck, machine most of the part, then turn the part over and machine the other side.

NOTE

The extend/shorten option is not available for groove toolpaths which use chained geometry,
because you can set this parameter on the Groove shape parameters tab.

Related topics

Lead In/Out
Adjust Contour
Groove/Plunge Turn Shape Parameters

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Face Corner: Lathe Face Properties

Use the Face Corner, Lathe Face Properties dialog box to set options for adding a chamfer or radius to
the edge of a part. The chamfer or radius is only allowed on the “leading” corner of the face, which is
the first corner encountered moving in the direction of the toolpath.

Parameters

Related topics

Face Toolpaths: Lathe

Face Parameters: Lathe

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Face Parameters: Lathe

Use this tab to create a facing toolpath without chaining geometry. Mastercam creates the toolpath from
the parameters you enter here.

First you must specify how much stock to remove, using either of the following methods:

Choose Select Points to return to the graphic window and select two points that represent
opposite corners of a rectangle.

Choose Use stock to use the stock boundary. Enter the Z coordinate of the finished face of the part, or
click Finish Z to choose a point in the graphics window. This option is available only if you have
defined the stock boundary in Job Setup.

Then, enter values for the cutting parameters.

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NOTE

Use this toolpath only for qualifying the face of the part. To machine geometry or a contour on the face
of the part, use a C-axis Face toolpath for Lathe toolpaths instead.

Parameters

Related topics

Lead In/Out
Face Contour Toolpaths
Toolpath Parameters: Lathe
Cutter Compensation
Cross-Centerline Turning

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Face Toolpaths: Lathe

Face toolpaths prepare the face of the part for further machining. Once the face of the part is clean,
you can use it to set tools or determine tool offsets.

You do not need to chain any geometry to create the toolpath. Instead, the Face Parameters tab
gives you two ways to specify how much stock to remove:

Choose Select Points to return to the graphic window and select two points which represent
opposite corners of a rectangle.
Choose Use stock to use the stock boundary. Enter the Z coordinate of the finished face of the part or
click Finish Z to choose a point in the graphics window. This option is available only if you have
defined the stock boundary in Job Setup.

If you use the stock model for the start and end positions of each pass and the stock changes, the start
and end positions of each pass are automatically updated when you regenerate the toolpath.

Use the Face Parameters tab to create face toolpaths. An example of a face toolpath is shown below.

NOTE

To machine a contour or chained geometry on the face of the part, use a C-axis Face Contour toolpath.

Related topics

Lathe Toolpaths
Face Parameters: Lathe
C-axis Contour Toolpaths

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Finish Parameters
Use the options on this tab to create a finish toolpath for your part. Unlike canned finish toolpaths, your
part does not need to have a roughing toolpath already created for you to create a toolpath with this tab.

Enter your cutting parameters in the fields, and choose an orientation for the toolpath in the Finish direction
drop-down list. You can also enable the additional options and advanced features on the right side of the tab.

Parameters

Advanced toolpath techniques

Related topics

Finish Toolpaths
Toolpath Parameters: Lathe
Cutter Compensation
Cross-Centerline Turning

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Finish Toolpaths
Use finish toolpaths to have the tool follow the contour of chained geometry. Typically, a finish toolpath follows a roughing
toolpath, but this is not required. You can create a finish toolpath even if no roughing operation has been created.

Mastercam supports finish toolpaths for OD, ID, face, and back face applications. You can also
automatically break corners with either a radius or chamfer. In addition to standard finish toolpaths,
which let you access all of Mastercam's finish toolpath capabilities, Mastercam also includes canned
finish toolpaths, which finish canned rough or pattern repeat toolpaths.

Choose Finish from the General gallery of the Lathe or Mill-Turn Turning tabs to begin a finish toolpath.
After selecting the geometry for the toolpath, you will see the Finish Parameters tab.

Related topics

Finish Parameters
Canned Finish Toolpaths
Lathe Toolpaths

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Groove/Cutoff Chamfer
Use the Groove/Cutoff Chamfer dialog box to automatically create a chamfer on a corner of a groove. You can set a
different chamfer for each corner. Use one of the following techniques to tell Mastercam the chamfer dimensions:

Specify the width and angle.

Specify the height and angle.
If the chamfer geometry is displayed on the screen, choose Select chamfer line to return to the
graphics window and pick the proper line. Mastercam will fill in the dimensions for you.

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In addition, you can create a fillet between the chamfer and groove corner by entering the desired radius values.

This feature is also available for cutoff toolpaths. It is not available if you are cutting a groove from chained geometry.

Parameters

Related topics

Cutoff Toolpaths
Groove Toolpaths
Groove/Plunge Turn Shape Parameters

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Groove Depth
Use the Groove Depth dialog box to cut the groove using multiple depth cuts. Use these options when
cutting deep grooves or very hard material.

You can either tell Mastercam how many cutting passes to make and let it calculate the depth of each pass, or
set the depth and let Mastercam calculate the number of passes. For standard groove toolpaths, but not
canned toolpaths, you have additional options for controlling the tool movement between depth cuts.

Parameters

Related topics

Groove Toolpaths
Canned Groove Toolpaths
Groove Rough Parameters

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Groove Finish Parameters

Use this tab to create the finish passes for a groove toolpath. Select the Finish checkbox to activate the options on
this tab and create finish passes. Deselect this checkbox if you only want to create a roughing operation.

Use the pictures on the tab as a guide to entering your finishing parameters. Select options on the right
side of the tab to enable advanced grooving features, such as lead in/out moves and toolpath filtering.

NOTE

With groove finish passes, if you set compensation in control to automatic, Mastercam changes the
compensation in control direction for the clockwise and counterclockwise cut directions.

Parameters

Advanced toolpath techniques

Other groove toolpath parameters

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Related topics

Groove Finish Passes

Groove Toolpaths

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Groove Finish Passes

Select Finish on the Groove finish parameters tab for standard or canned grooves to tell Mastercam to
create a finish pass for the groove.

The following picture shows the tool motion for a typical groove finish toolpath. The dotted line represents tool movement.

With the first pass of a finish toolpath, the tool cuts down one wall of the groove to the groove floor and then retracts out
of the groove. If there is a value other than zero for Distance from 1st corner, the tool cuts across the floor by this amount
before retracting out of the groove. On the second pass, the tool cuts down the opposite wall of the groove to the groove
floor, moves across the groove floor to the point where the first pass ended plus any overlap amount, and then retracts.

NOTE

If you set compensation in control to Auto, Mastercam automatically changes the compensation in
control direction to the appropriate side.

Related topics

Creating Smooth Tapered Walls

Groove Toolpaths

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Groove Rough Parameters

Use this tab to create the roughing cuts for a groove toolpath. Select Rough to activate the options on this
tab and create a roughing pass. Deselect this checkbox if you only want to create a finish operation.

Use the pictures on the tab as a guide to entering your roughing parameters. Select options on the right
side of the tab to enable advanced grooving features, such as pecking, depth cuts, and toolpath filtering.
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There are no tool compensation options for groove roughing. Tool compensation in computer is always
on, and Mastercam determines the direction. When cutting a face, Mastercam calculates the optimal
plunge point so that each side of the tool removes the same amount of material, balancing tool wear.

Parameters

Advanced toolpath techniques

Other groove toolpath parameters

Related topics

Backoff Percentage
Creating Smooth Tapered Walls
Groove Toolpaths

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Groove Rough Parameters: Canned Groove

Use this tab to create a roughing pass for a canned groove toolpath. Select Rough to enable the roughing pass,
and then enter your desired values. If you do not select this checkbox, a roughing pass will not be created.

The options you see on this tab are a subset of the options which are available for a standard groove
toolpath. The only options that will be available to you are those which have been enabled in the
current control definition; options which have not been enabled will be grayed out.

Choose OK only when you have completed all the tabs.

Parameters

Related topics

Canned Groove Toolpaths

Groove Shape Parameters: Canned Groove
Groove Toolpaths
Canned Toolpaths

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Groove/Plunge Turn Shape Parameters

Use this tab to tell Mastercam about the shape and orientation of the grooves in groove and plunge turn
toolpaths. Mastercam does not need chained geometry to create these toolpaths; use the options on this tab to
specify the groove boundaries. The settings you enter here will apply to all the grooves in the toolpath.

Outer boundary
By default, the outer boundary of the groove will be a straight line between the outer corners. You can
choose to use the stock boundary instead (if a stock model has been defined).

Groove angle
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Use these settings to tell Mastercam how the groove is oriented on the part. Click a button to select a
standard orientation or drag the dial to the desired angle.

Groove dimensions
Depending on how many points you selected to identify the groove locations, you might need to enter
the height and width. You can also define radius and/or chamfer dimensions for each corner individually.
The colored datum points represent the points you chose to identify the groove location.

Parameters

Techniques for defining groove shapes

Other groove toolpath parameters

Related topics

Groove Toolpaths
Plunge Turn Toolpaths
Cross-Centerline Turning

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Groove Shape Parameters: Canned Groove

Use this tab to establish how the groove will be oriented on the part for a canned groove toolpath. To
have access to all of Mastercam's groove shape functions, create a standard groove toolpath instead.

Parameters

Related topics

Canned Groove Toolpaths

Groove Rough Parameters: Canned Groove
Saving the Groove Geometry
Groove Toolpaths
Canned Toolpaths

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Groove Tool Inspection

Use the Groove Tool Inspection dialog box to establish points at which the machine can be programmed to stop for
tool inspection during grooving cycles. You can also set these programmed stops to perform other tasks such as
clear chips and gauge your part. You can set the conditions on which the tool inspections are performed, such as:

Between grooves
After the first plunge
After each depth cut
After specified number of plunges

You can use reference points to safely get the tool in and out of the cut, and then send the tool to either a selected point or

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to the home position for the tool inspection.

Parameters

Related topics

Groove Rough Parameters

Groove Toolpaths

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Groove Toolpaths
Groove toolpaths are useful for machining indented or recessed areas that are not otherwise
machinable by roughing toolpaths or tools. Mastercam can machine many types of grooves based on
the location of one or more corner points, without requiring you to create or chain geometry. You can
also use chained geometry if you prefer, or to specify intricate groove contours.

You can machine several grooves in a single operation, even if their geometry never connects. Mastercam
also integrates roughing and finishing passes, each with separate parameters, in a single operation.

Groove toolpaths are typically created in several stages:

Use the Grooving Options dialog box to tell Mastercam how the grooves will be identified (corner
point, chained geometry, etc.).
Then, use the Lathe Groove dialog box to select a tool and enter the toolpath parameters. Separate
tabs let you define the following:
Shape, angle, and orientation (for example, ID, OD, face) of the groove, including automatic
chamfers/radii on corners
Roughing parameters, including options for pecking and depth cuts. You can choose to omit the
roughing pass and just create a finishing operation.
Finishing parameters. You can choose to omit the finishing pass and just create a roughing operation.

In addition to the standard groove toolpaths, which include all the grooving capabilities described
above, Mastercam also includes canned groove toolpaths for less-demanding applications.

To begin creating a groove toolpath, choose Lathe, Turning, General, Groove.

Related topics

Grooving Options
Groove/Plunge Turn Shape Parameters
Canned Groove Toolpaths
Saving the Groove Geometry
DIN Relief Grooves

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Grooving Options
Use the Grooving Options dialog box to tell Mastercam how you will identify the grooves for a Groove
toolpath. You can identify grooves by one or both corner points, by three rectangular lines, or, for
standard groove toolpaths, you can select a non-rectangular chain of curves.

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Parameters

Related topics

Groove Toolpaths
Groove/Plunge Turn Shape Parameters
Canned Groove Toolpaths
Groove Shape Parameters: Canned Groove

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Lathe Drill Cycle Parameters

Use this tab to create a drill toolpath along the part's centerline. You do not need to create or chain any
geometry to create the toolpath. First, define the dimensions of the hole, using the picture as a guide.
Then, select a drill cycle and enter the drilling parameters.

NOTE

The exact name that appears on this tab is the title of the drill cycle that you select. The specific cycles
which are available to you are defined in your control definition.

Parameters

Related topics

Customizing Drilling Operations

Lathe Drill Toolpaths
Custom Drill Parameters
Toolpath Parameters: Lathe

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Lathe Drill Toolpaths

Mastercam Lathe offers several different types of drill cycles for drill toolpaths. Lathe drill toolpaths typically
drill into the face of the part along the centerline. To drill off-center, in the side of the part, or in a different
plane, use one of Mastercam's C-axis toolpaths. You do not need to have any geometry or drill points in the
graphics window to create a drill toolpath. Mastercam creates the toolpath from parameters which you specify.

Mastercam typically offers the following standard drill cycles:

Drill/Counterbore (long)
Peck drill (long)
Chip break (long)
Tap
Bore #1 and #2
Misc #1 and #2
Custom cycle 9 - 20

The exact list of cycles available to the operator will vary depending on the active control definition.
Use the Control Definition Manager to define and name custom drill cycles and add them to this list, or
to customize any of the standard cycles.

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You can also use the Control Definition Manager to create and name custom drill parameters. These are
then available on an additional tab in the Lathe Drill dialog box.

To create a drill toolpath, choose Drill from the General gallery on the Lathe Turning contextual tab to open the Lathe
Drill Cycle parameters tab. The exact name displayed on this tab changes depending on which drill cycle is selected.

Related topics

Customizing Drilling Operations

C-axis Drill Toolpaths
Lathe Toolpaths
Control Definition Manager

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Lathe Point Toolpath

Use the Lathe Point Toolpath dialog box to create or edit a lathe point toolpath. When you start the toolpath, you are
prompted to select the first point to which the tool will rapid from the home position. For each point, first choose the
motion mode, and then click the desired location in the graphics window. Press [Esc] when you have finished selecting
points. The Toolpath parameters tab, where you can select tool, coolant, stock, and other toolpath options, displays.

The dialog box contains the following options:

Icon Option Description

None. Move type Specifies the move type, either Rapid, Rapid break, or Feed rate.
Deletes the current point and moves back a point. This button is available only when
Backup you are creating a new toolpath.
Edit move
Edits the type of motion applied to a particular point. First select the button for the
desired type of motion. Then, click this button and click the point to change. You can
type
select more than one point. Press [Enter] when you have selected all the points.
Adds a point. After clicking this button, click the point immediately before the point
Add you wish to add, and then click the location of the new point.
Moves a point. Click, select a point to move, and click the new location. Click the button
Move again to move a new point.

Removes a point. Click, and then select one or more points to delete. Press [Enter] when done.
Remove

Related topics
Point Toolpath

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Lathe Point Toolpaths

There are times when it may be necessary to position the tool at a specific point or have it follow a series of
specific points to avoid a fixture or clamp, or to get the tool into or out of a tight area or awkward shape. Point
toolpaths let you place points around the part geometry that define where you want the tool to move.

You can program the following types of tool movement to each point in the toolpath:

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Rapid: The tool rapids to the new point in a straight line interpolated in multiple axes.
Rapid break: The tool rapids to the new point, but each axis is interpolated separately. For example,
first the Z-axis component of the move is performed, then the X-axis move is performed. The
actual order of the axes depends on the tool orientation and the direction of movement.

Feed rate: The tool moves to the new points at the programmed feed rate.

A typical use of point toolpaths would be to position the tool between cutting operations. To achieve
the desired tool motion, you might need to disable the reference point feature by deselecting
Reference point in the Tooplath parameters tab.

To create a point toolpath, choose Lathe, Turning, General, Point. You will be prompted to select the first point in
the toolpath, to which the tool will rapid from the home position. Then use the Lathe Point Toolpath dialog box to
select the next points. Choose OK to close the dialog box and enter the other toolpath parameters.

To edit a point toolpath, choose the Geometry icon for a point toolpath in the Toolpaths Manager.
Use the Lathe Point Toolpath dialog box to edit the desired points or add new ones.

Related topics

Lathe Toolpaths
Home Positions and Reference Points

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Multi Start Thread Parameters

Use the Mulit Start Thread Parameters dialog box to tell Mastercam how to calculate the start positions
for multi-start or multiple lead threads.

Enter how many thread starts to create. For example, for a triple lead thread, enter 3.
Indicate whether the first start point will be closest to the part or farthest away. In other words,
whether the tool will step away from the part for each successive thread, or towards it.
Indicate from which point to measure the clearance distance entered on the Thread cut parameters tab. The
red guides on the dialog box update as you select different options so you can see their effect.

Parameters

Related topics

Thread Toolpaths
Thread Cut Parameters

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Multiple Plunge Parameters

Use this dialog box to create a multiple plunge strategy for a groove toolpath. This roughs out the groove with rib cuts.
This can be a useful technique when you are concerned about tool deflection.
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NOTE

Mastercam treats all of the groove plunges in multiple plunge cutting as first plunges. This means that if
you have enabled any of the First Plunge Feed Rate options on the Groove rough parameters tab, they
will be applied to all of the groove plunges.

Parameters

Related topics

Groove Toolpaths
Groove Rough Parameters

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NC Code Format for Threading Operations

The NC code format determines how stock is removed when machining a thread in Mastercam Lathe. It also
determines how much flexibility you want in setting the amount of stock to be removed per pass. The G-code
that displays in the NC file depends upon the format you choose. NC code formats are described below.

Canned: Generates one or two lines of NC code for the entire toolpath. The machine control calculates how much area
needs to be removed to create the thread and removes this area in equal amounts per pass. If you select this option,
you can edit only the cutting depth of the first cut. The post processor code is G76 for most machine controls.
Longhand: Generates one or more lines of NC code for every pass that the tool takes to create the
thread. The post processor code is G32 for most machine controls.
Box: Choosing this option is similar to longhand in that it generates one or more lines of NC code for every
pass that the tool takes to create the thread. With box threading however, the tool in-feed direction is
perpendicular to the axis of the thread. The post processor code is G92 for most machine controls.
Alternating: Choosing this option is similar to longhand in that it generates one or more lines of NC code for every pass that the
tool takes to create the thread. The in-feed moves are computed so that the side of the insert making the cut is reversed on
every pass. For example, with the first pass the left side of the insert makes the cut and with the second pass the right side
of the insert makes the cut, etc. The post processor code is G32 for most machine controls.

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NOTE

Your control must be capable of supporting the NC format that you choose. Use the Lathe Canned
Cycles section of the control definition to tell Mastercam how your control supports thread toolpaths.
Some post processors require you to use Miscellaneous Values to define a chamfer.

Related topics

Thread Toolpaths
Lathe Canned Cycles: Control Definition Manager
Miscellaneous Values

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New Contour Line

Use the New Contour Line dialog box to add a line to the beginning or end of the chained contour. You
can define a line either of two ways:

Enter a length and angle in the proper fields.

Click Define to return to the graphics window where you select the first and last points.

If you access this dialog box from the Lead In tab, you add a line to the beginning of the contour. If you
access this dialog box from the Lead Out tab, you add a line to the end of the contour. If you are creating
a groove, you can add a line on either the first or second pass, or both.

NOTE

The Add Line option is not available in the Lead In dialog box for chained groove toolpaths,
because you set this parameter on the Groove shape parameters tab.

Parameters

Related topics
Adding a Line to the Start or End of the Chained Contour
Lead In/Out

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Non-cutting Region
Use the Non-cutting Region dialog box to specify the non-cutting portion of a round insert when the
Prevent up-cutting option is active in Lathe Dynamic Rough parameters.
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For example, in the first image above, you can see the tool shank crashing into the material as it tries to
cut the toolpath. When Prevent up cutting is selected, and Angle is set to 0 degrees, Mastercam
generates a toolpath that cuts only with the lower portion of the tool insert.

Parameters

Related topics

Dynamic Rough Parameters: Lathe Dynamic Rough Properties

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Pattern Repeat Parameters

Use the options on this tab to create a pattern repeat toolpath for roughing applications. Each cutting
pass will offset the part contour according to the dimensions that you enter here.

This toolpath typically produces canned cycle output if your control supports it. You can select PERMANENTLY
change to longhand to change the NC output to individual position moves instead of the canned cycles.

Parameters

Related topics

Pattern Repeat Toolpaths

Rough Toolpaths
Lead In/Out
Using Stock Recognition
Toolpath Parameters: Lathe

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Pattern Repeat Toolpaths

Use a pattern repeat toolpath to create a roughing toolpath in which the cutting passes follow the part contour.
Each cutting pass offsets the contour by a stepover percentage which you control. Use this toolpath when the
stock to be removed is similar to the shape of the part contour, where a regular roughing pass would be
cutting mostly air. The code produced by this toolpath is based on your machine tool control's canned cycles,
so it creates a very compact NC program. For example, a Fanuc-compatible post would typically output a G73.

Because this toolpath is based on a canned cycle, you do not have access to Mastercam's more sophisticated roughing
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options. If you need to use any of these features, consider creating a standard rough toolpath instead.

Mastercam only displays parameters that are supported by your machine controller's canned cycle programs. Use the Lathe
Canned Cycles page in the control definition to set how your control supports the parameters for this type of toolpath.

Related topics

Pattern Repeat Parameters

Canned Toolpaths
Rough Toolpaths
Lathe Toolpaths
Lathe Canned Cycles: Control Definition Manager

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Peck Parameters
Use the Peck Parameters dialog box to have the tool plunge to the groove depth or centerline in pecks instead of all in one
plunge move. This option is available for both groove and cutoff toolpaths. Pecking lets the tool remove stock in smaller
amounts so that chips do not get stuck inside of the groove. You can either set the number of pecks and let Mastercam
calculate the depth of each peck, or tell Mastercam the desired depth of each peck and let it calculate how many.

For groove toolpaths, you can combine pecking and depth cuts; in this case, each depth cut will be
divided into the number of pecks specified here.

For standard groove toolpaths, you can also select options for first pecks, retract moves, and dwell times.

Canned groove toolpaths will only display some of these options.

Parameters

Related topics

Cutoff Toolpaths
Groove Toolpaths
Canned Groove Toolpaths
Groove Rough Parameters

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Plunge Cut Parameters

Use the Plunge Cut Parameters dialog box to determine how you want the tool to handle undercuts along
the toolpath. You can choose to plunge into undercuts in either X, Z, or both axes.

If you activate any of the plunge methods, use the other options to tell Mastercam how to begin the
plunge move. Choose the options that fit best with your tool and part geometry.

Parameters

Related topics

Rough Parameters
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Rough Toolpaths

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Plunge Turn Finish Parameters

Use this tab to create the finish passes for a plunge turn toolpath. Select Finish groove to activate the options on
this tab and create finish passes using the pictures on the tab as a guide. Use the parameters on the right side of
the tab to enable advanced grooving features, such as retraction moves, cut direction, and plunge dwelling.

Deselect this option if you only want to create a roughing operation.

NOTE

With plunge turn finish passes, there is no option for cutter compensation in control option. Cutter
compensation is always set to computer and the compensation direction is set automatically.

Parameters

Related topics

Plunge Turn Toolpaths

Plunge Turn Rough Parameters
Groove/Plunge Turn Shape Parameters

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Plunge Turn Rough Parameters

Use this tab to create the roughing cuts for a plunge turn toolpath. Select Rough to activate the options on this
tab and create a roughing pass using the pictures on the tab as a guide. Select options on the right side of the
tab to enable advanced features, such as retraction moves, cut direction, and wide step cleaning.

Deselect this option if you only want to create a finish operation.

NOTE

There are no cutter compensation options for plunge turn roughing. Cutter compensation in
computer is always on and Mastercam determines the direction.
With plunge turn rough passes, there is no option for cutter compensation in control option. Cutter
compensation is always on and Mastercam determines the direction.

Parameters

Related topics

Groove Toolpaths
Plunge Turn Toolpaths
Groove/Plunge Turn Shape Parameters
Plunge Turn Finish Parameters

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© 2019 by CNC Software, Inc.

Plunge Turn Toolpaths

Plunge turn toolpaths are designed for special plunge turn tools only—specifically, the ISCAR plunge and
turn inserts. The purpose of the toolpaths is to add lateral movement to groove-style toolpaths. To do
this, the plunge turn toolpaths compensate for the change in cutting depth caused by the insert's
deflection when transitioning from a plunge move to a lateral move.

To begin creating a plunge turn toolpath, choose Lathe, Turning, General, Plunge for a Lathe machine,
or choose Plunge Turn from the General gallery of the Turning tab for a Mill-Turn machine.

Related topics

Plunge Turn Rough Parameters

Plunge Turn Finish Parameters
Groove Toolpaths

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Remove Groove Steps

Use the Remove Groove Steps dialog box on tapered grooves to create a second cut after the roughing pass, which
smooths out steps left on the walls of the groove. This leaves a smoother wall which will make it easier for the finish tool.

Parameters

Related topics

Creating Smooth Tapered Walls

Groove Rough Parameters

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Rough Overlap Parameters

Use the Rough Overlap Parameters dialog box to determine how much the tool overlaps the previous cut
before making the next cut. The minimum overlap angle is one in which Mastercam will start overlapping
cuts. The angle can be described as absolute or incremental as shown below.

Absolute
Incremental

Parameters
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Related topics

Rough Parameters
Rough Toolpaths

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Rough Parameters
Use this tab to create a Lathe Rough toolpath. Compared to other types of Lathe roughing toolpaths, this
tab offers you the most complete set of roughing options.

Enter your cutting parameters in the fields, and choose a cutting direction and select an orientation for
the toolpath in the Rough direction/angle drop-down list. Use the pictures as a guide for entering the
toolpath dimensions. You can also select cutter compensation and enable advanced features such as a
semi-finish pass, lead in/out moves, and toolpath filtering on the right side of the tab.

Parameters

Advanced toolpath techniques

Related topics

Rough Toolpaths
Toolpath Parameters: Lathe
Cutter Compensation
Cross-Centerline Turning

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Rough Toolpaths
Use rough toolpaths to quickly remove large amounts of stock in preparation for a finish pass. Roughing
passes are typically straight cuts parallel to the Z-axis; however, you can set options for plunging into
undercut areas. Standard rough toolpaths also include a semi-finish option, in which the roughing tool
makes a final pass which follows the part contour, like a finish pass.

Mastercam includes several types of roughing toolpaths:

Standard rough toolpaths, which let you access all of Mastercam's roughing options
Canned Rough toolpaths, which use your machine tool's canned cycles to create the most efficient
code (however, these do not offer as many options as the standard rough toolpaths)
Canned Pattern Repeat toolpaths, which create roughing passes in the shape of the part contour,
rather than cutting parallel to the Z-axis
Dynamic Rough toolpaths, which remain engaged in the material more effectively, and use more of
the surface of your insert, extending the tool life and increasing the cutting speed
Contour Rough toolpaths, which are useful for parts where the initial stock shape is similar to the
final part shape, such as using a casting for stock

To create a rough toolpath, choose Lathe, Turning, General, Rough for a Lathe machine, or choose
Mill-Turn, Turning, General, Rough for a Mill-Turn machine.

Related topics

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Lathe Toolpaths
Canned Rough Toolpaths
Pattern Repeat Toolpaths
Dynamic Rough: Lathe Toolpaths
Contour Rough: Lathe Toolpaths

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Roughing Angle
Use the Roughing Angle dialog box to set the roughing angle. This is the angle that the tool cuts into the
part, and is relative to the rough direction (OD, ID, Face, Back). There are four ways to choose a rough
angle, see Parameters for more information.

NOTE

The angle value you enter is also reflected in the Angle field on the Rough parameters tab.

Parameters

Related topics

Rough Parameters
Rough Toolpaths

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Saving the Groove Geometry

For many lathe groove toolpaths, you do not need to have the complete groove geometry already drawn; you can
create the toolpath by selecting corner points and use groove shape parameters and dimensions to define the
groove profile. Mastercam includes an option which lets you save the geometry for the groove profile that it creates.
Choose Show Geometry in the Groove shape parameters tabs for either standard or canned grooves to see the
geometry displayed in the graphics window. Choose Yes when prompted if you wish to save the geometry.

Related topics

Groove Toolpaths
Groove/Plunge Turn Shape Parameters
Groove Shape Parameters: Canned Groove

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Second Feed Rate/Spindle Speed

Use the Second Feed Rate/Spindle Speed dialog box to change the feed rate and spindle speed at a given
diameter of the face cut. This function is useful to keep the machine from accelerating to its maximum speed.

Parameters
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Related topics

Face Parameters: Lathe

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Section Turning
Use the Section Turning dialog box to break your Lathe Rough toolpath into different sections, based on the
selected option. Below is an example of a Rough toolpath that has been sectioned, with Number set to 3.

Section Turning (Off) Section Turning (On)

Parameters

Related topics

Rough Toolpaths
Lathe Toolpaths

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Semi Finish Parameters

Use the Semi Finish Parameters dialog box to create a semi-finish pass at the end of the roughing
operation. This pass follows the contour of the part with the roughing tool at the roughing feed rate. Use it
when you do not need to create a separate finishing operation, or as preparation for a true finish operation.

Parameters

Related topics

Rough Parameters
Rough Toolpaths

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Setting the Groove Angle

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The groove angle determines the orientation of the groove. You can set the groove angles in the Groove
shape parameters tab for both standard and canned groove toolpaths. To set the groove angle, click on
the angle dial (shown below) and rotate it in the desired direction.

Alternatively, you can choose one of the buttons for preset options such as OD (90 degrees), ID (-90 degrees),
Face (0 degrees), or Back (180 degrees), depending upon where the groove is located in relation to the Z axis.

When you select a lathe tool, Mastercam analyzes the tool, chooses which angle is most likely to be correct,
and sets this as the default. Therefore, you may want to select the tool before choosing a groove angle.

NOTE

The angle options that are available to you depend on the type of groove toolpath you have selected.
Other options will be disabled.

Related topics

Groove Toolpaths
Groove Shape Parameters: Canned Groove

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Thread Allowance Tables

When you program a thread in Mastercam Lathe, there must be enough clearance between the thread
and what it is screwed into or onto to ensure a proper fit. This clearance is referred to as an allowance.

Allowances differ based on their class or type, and there are several allowance classes from which to
choose. Each class has several different standard allowance values that can be used. Mastercam
provides these classes, and their standard allowances, in a table to make it easy for you to choose the
one you need. There are 14 different allowance classes supplied with the software.

For each standard basic major diameter/lead combination there is an allowance on the major diameter and an allowance on
the minor diameter. This allowance, along with the thread type, produces a thread that fits the desired result.

Use the Allowance Table dialog box to select thread allowance values from a table.

Related topics

Editing Allowance Tables

Thread Form Tables
Thread Toolpaths

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Thread Cut Parameters

Use the Thread Cut Parameters dialog box to enter toolpath and cutting parameters for a thread toolpath.
Use the picture on the tab to learn about the specific fields.

NOTE

This tab only displays the options that are supported by the current control. Use the Lathe Canned
Cycles section of the control definition to tell Mastercam which features your control supports.

Parameters

Related topics

NC Code Format for Threading Operations

Thread Shape Parameters
Thread Toolpaths
Toolpath Parameters: Lathe
Lathe Canned Cycles: Control Definition Manager

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Thread Form Tables

A thread form determines the shape of the thread, and different thread forms are used for different
applications. Since there are numerous applications for threads, there are many different thread forms.
Different thread forms have different basic major diameters, leads, thread angles, and included angles.
These parameters determine what a thread looks like and how it will perform.

Mastercam supplies a thread table so you can choose from standard combinations of common thread
forms. These combinations include common basic major diameter and lead values. There are 11 different
thread forms supplied with the software.

When you choose a thread form from this table, the system takes the selected thread form's lead value
and the spindle speed to calculate the feed rate. For each basic major diameter/lead combination there is
a major diameter and minor diameter that produces a thread with the maximum material condition. The
maximum material condition is the shape of the thread before you apply any allowance or tolerance.

For an ID thread (nut), the maximum material condition is the minimum major diameter and the minimum
minor diameter. For an OD thread (bolt), the maximum material condition is the maximum major diameter
and maximum minor diameter. The system enters the major and minor diameter values, the thread angle,
included angle, lead in angle, and taper angle when you make a selection from the thread table.

Use the Thread Table dialog box to select a thread form from a table.

Related topics

Editing Thread Form Tables

Thread Allowance Tables
Thread Formulas
Thread Toolpaths

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Thread Formulas
Thread formulas are standard mathematical computations that use the thread form, lead value, and basic
major diameter that you enter to determine the major and minor diameters, which produce the thread's
maximum material condition. When you are in the Compute From Formula dialog box, Mastercam uses
these formulas to calculate the major and minor diameters. It is useful to have Mastercam calculate these
values if you have an odd sized lead and basic major diameter combination.

Click here for a list of formulas

Related topics

Thread Toolpaths
Compute From Formula

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Thread Shape Parameters

Use the Thread Shape Parameters dialog box to tell Mastercam the shape of the thread that you want to
cut. There are three main parts to this information:

Geometry of the thread form. Mastercam gives you three ways to enter the dimensions. You can
select the dimensions from a thread form table; compute them from a formula, or enter the values
directly into the fields. Use the picture as a guide.
Orientation of the thread. You can program threads on the ID, OD, or face/back. You can also enter a
taper value, or cut threads from the other side of the X-axis by selecting the proper options. The
guide pictures update as you make different selections.
Thread allowance values. You can choose allowance values from a table, or enter the values directly.

Choose Draw Thread to preview the thread geometry in the graphics window. Choose Yes when
prompted to save it with your part, or No to return to this tab without saving it.

Why does my threaded part look flat?

Parameters

Related topics

Thread Form Tables

Thread Formulas
Thread Allowance Tables
Thread Cut Parameters
Thread Toolpaths
Toolpath Parameters: Lathe
Cross-Centerline Turning

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Thread Table
Use the Thread Table dialog box to select lathe thread form dimensions from a table instead of manually entering the
numbers. First, select the general thread class from the list at the top of the box; then, select the specific thread
dimensions from the pre-populated table. When you select a thread and choose OK, you will return to the Thread
Shape parameters tab with the thread dimensions filled in. Click a column heading to sort the table.

NOTE

You can add or edit entries in the thread form table.

Related topics

Thread Formulas
Thread Form Tables
Editing Thread Form Tables
Thread Shape Parameters
Thread Toolpaths

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Thread Toolpaths
Thread toolpaths give you options to create spiral shapes on a part to make a screw, bolt, or nut. You can program straight
or tapered threads on the outside, inside, or face of a part. You can also automatically program multiple lead threads.

Many threading cycles are very control-specific. Use the Lathe Canned Cycles page in the control
definition to tell Mastercam precisely which types of threading cycles are available on your control and
the features they contain. Specific options and parameters on the toolpath parameter tabs for thread
toolpaths are enabled or disabled depending on the control definition settings.

A threading toolpath is typically the last toolpath performed on a lathe part because of the need for accuracy. A threaded
part has to fit precisely into another part. You can program threads on the OD or ID to secure parts to each other.

Mastercam makes it easy to create a thread by providing several thread tables with hundreds of pre-defined thread sizes.
You can also calculate your own thread sizes for non-standard diameters using pre-defined thread formulas.

You do not need to select geometry to create a thread toolpath. It is created entirely from the thread parameters you enter.

To create the toolpath, select Lathe, Turning, General, Thread. Then, use the Thread shape parameters
tab and the Thread cut parameters tab to define the thread shape and enter the cutting parameters.

Why does my threaded part look flat?

NOTE

Thread toolpaths are part of Mastercam Lathe. If you are using a milling machine or running
Mastercam Mill, you can either create a thread mill toolpath or a drill toolpath with a tap cycle.

Related topics

Thread Allowance Tables

Thread Formulas
Thread Form Tables
Lathe Toolpaths

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Lathe Canned Cycles: Control Definition Manager

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Tool Angle
Use the Tool Angle dialog box to adjust the tool angle for an individual operation. You can set both the
angle of the tool axis and the angle of the tool as it swivels about its long axis.

First, enter the angle of the tool. You can either enter the angle directly in the field, or select a line
parallel to the Feed direction or Plunge direction by clicking the appropriate button. Click on whichever
direction is easier for you to select. In most applications, this will be a B-axis rotation.

Then, enter the rotation angle of the tool about its axis. You can select 0 or 180 directly, since those are the most common
options, or select Other and type the desired angle directly in the field. In most applications, this will be an A-axis rotation.

NOTE

You can also store a tool angle in the tool definition. Typically, this is done to support lathes without a B-axis, to
create tools that are at an angle to the primary axes. Users whose lathes have true B-axis capability will typically
enter a tool angle of 0 in the tool definition, so that the tool is parallel to the axis for compatibility with a tool
changer, and use the Tool Angle dialog box to set the desired tool angle for each operation.

The angle entered here will be measured relative to any tool angle stored in the tool definition, it will not
simply replace or overwrite it.

The Tool Angle dialog box is only available if the appropriate rotary axes have been defined in the
active machine definition.

Parameters

Related topics

Lathe Tool Setup

Toolpath Parameters: Lathe
Creating Milling Operations in Mastercam Lathe

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Toolpath Parameters: Lathe Plunge Turn

and PrimeTurning™
Use this tab to select a tool and set general Plunge Turn and PrimeTurning toolpath parameters. Click
on a sub-topic to learn more about this tab.

Selecting a tool

Feeds and speeds

The bottom area of the tab includes many advanced toolpath options. Select the checkbox to activate a
feature, and click the button to set values for this operation. Some options might not be available if
they are not supported by the current control definition.

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Parameters

Right-click menu options

Related topics

Calculating Feeds and Speeds from a Material: Lathe

Plunge Turn Toolpaths
PrimeTurning™ Toolpaths

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Using Stock Recognition

Stock Recognition lets you choose from three options that control how the stock boundary is used for
computing the toolpath. These options are available only if all of the following conditions are true:

Only one contour is chained

Stock for the current active spindle is defined in the Stock Setup
The chained contour lies at least partially within the stock boundary

There are several options which let you decide how Mastercam will use the stock boundary to compute the toolpath:

Use stock for outer boundary: The stock is used as the outer boundary for roughing. If the ends of
the chained contour lie within the stock, the chain is linearly extended to the stock using the
parameters set on the Adjust Stock dialog box. This eliminates the need to create the (usually
vertical) line added to the end of the inner-chained boundary to indicate the height of the stock.
Extend contour to stock only: The chained contour is linearly extended to the stock using the
parameters set using the Adjust Stock dialog box if the endpoints are inside the stock boundary.
Remaining stock: Uses only stock remaining from previous operations.
Disable stock recognition: The roughing toolpath is computed as if the stock does not exist. You
must chain the outer boundary for roughing between boundaries.

The first two options eliminate the need to chain the outer boundary for roughing between boundaries
since Mastercam determines the stock to be removed.

You should select Extend contour to stock only for zigzag roughing of pocket/groove geometry. If you
are using zigzag rough to remove stock, you should select Use stock for outer boundary.

When stock recognition is enabled, the following things happen:

The chained contour is linearly extended to the stock boundary using the methods selected on
the Adjust Stock dialog box.
If no entry amount is set and no lead-in parameters are defined, the chained contour is extended
past the stock boundary by the entry/exit tool clearance defined in Stock Setup. Mastercam also
adds the tool nose radius to this amount if it is required.
When roughing a depression, such as in zigzag roughing, and no lead-in parameters are defined and extend contour is
disabled for the lead out, the chained contour is extended past the stock boundary by the entry/exit tool clearance
defined in Stock Setup. The software also adds the tool nose radius to this amount if it is required.

NOTE

For Finish toolpaths, Canned Rough and Pattern Repeat toolpaths, the only option is Extend contour to stock.

Related topics

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Rough Toolpaths
Adjust Stock
Stock Setup: Machine Group Properties - Lathe

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Using the Stock Boundary as the Groove's

Outer Boundary
To establish the outer boundary of a groove, Mastercam by default uses an imaginary line connecting the outer groove
corners. However, if you have defined a stock boundary in the Machine Group Properties, you can choose to use the stock
boundary instead. Do this by selecting Use Stock for Outer Boundary on the Groove Shape Parameters tab.

Mastercam also lets you extend the ends of the groove to the stock boundary. You can extend the
geometry either parallel to the groove angle or tangent to the groove walls.

NOTE

If you do not use Use Stock for Outer Boundary, the outer boundary of the groove will be a straight
line between the outer corners. The stock amount is added to this line.
If a chain is used to define the groove's outer boundary, Use Stock for Outer Boundary is disabled.

Related topics

Groove Toolpaths
Stock Setup: Machine Group Properties - Lathe
Groove/Plunge Turn Shape Parameters

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C-axis Contour Toolpaths

Use Mastercam Lathe's C-axis contour toolpaths to cut geometry which wraps around a cylinder. A
typical application would be to cut text on a round part. Mastercam sets the tool plane (Tplane) and
construction plane (Cplane), to Top. This way, the tool is placed perpendicular to the spindle axis, which
is the axis of rotation. Choosing this toolpath also sets the default cutter compensation to Off so that the
center of the tool follows the chained geometry. You can override this setting if necessary.

The following picture shows a C-axis contour toolpath. It is used to cut the numbers around the part with a ball end mill.
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C-axis contour toolpaths set the rotation type to Axis substitution around the Z axis, which is found in the Rotary Axis
Control property page. This gives you the choice of chaining either flat geometry which will be rolled around the cylinder,
or geometry which is already properly positioned in 3D space. If the geometry is already properly positioned, select the
Unroll option. If the geometry is flat, deselect Unroll. Flat geometry should be in the Top Cplane at a Z depth of 0.

Follow these steps to create a C-axis contour toolpath.

Related topics

Creating Milling Operations in Mastercam Lathe

Rotary Axis Control: Lathe

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C-axis Drill Toolpaths

Use the Lathe C-axis Drill toolpath to drill holes perpendicular to the part's spindle axis, as when drilling
holes in a cylinder. You can choose points which are already in their correct 3D positions around the Z
axis, or you can choose points which are in the top construction plane and let Mastercam roll them
around the axis of rotation. Mastercam creates the toolpath by converting the X coordinate of each point
in the top Cplane to an angle about the Z axis. The position is determined by the rotary axis diameter
entered in the Rotary Axis Control property page. The resulting toolpath displays in its rolled state.

If the points are already in their correct 3D positions, you must deselect Unroll. Even if the points lie in different planes,
you can select all the points that you want to drill at the same time without having to specify the tool plane for every hole.

C-axis Drill toolpaths are similar to Cross Drill toolpaths. The difference is how they produce the rotary motion.

NOTE

You can only select point or arc geometry for this toolpath.

Related topics

Comparing C-axis to Y-axis Toolpaths

Rotary Axis Control: Lathe
Creating Milling Operations in Mastercam Lathe

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Comparing C-axis Drill and Cross-drill Toolpaths

C-axis drill toolpaths and cross drill toolpaths are both used to drill perpendicular to the axis of
rotation in Mastercam Lathe, but they each use different rotary axis parameters.

To create a cross-drill toolpath click Lathe, Turning tab, C-axis, Cross Drill, and use the side Tplane. Then, select a rotary
axis in the Rotary Axis Control property page to create the rotary axis motion; either Y-axis or C-axis is allowed:

To create a C-axis Drill toolpath, select C-axis Drill from the C-axis gallery on the Lathe Turning contextual tab.

Create the toolpath in the top Tplane and choose Axis substitution in the Rotary Axis Control property page:

Axis substitution gives you the flexibility to either select points which are properly positioned in 3D space around the
rotation axis, or which lie in the top plane. Select Unroll if the drill points are properly oriented, or deselect it if the points

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are in the top plane.

Related topics

Rotary Axis Control: Lathe

Creating Milling Operations in Mastercam Lathe
C-axis Drill Toolpaths
Cross Drill Toolpaths

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Comparing C-axis to Y-axis Toolpaths

Milling operations in Lathe come in two styles: C-axis and Y-axis.

C-axis operations, which is more common, have linear motion in the X and Z axes and rotary motion around the C
axis. The C-axis motion is provided by controlled rotation and positioning of the spindle that holds the part.
Y-axis operations support the C-axis motion and use an additional linear axis that allows the
milling tool to move above and below the spindle's center line.

For Mastercam Lathe C-Axis toolpaths (Lathe Turning, C-Axis) and many Mill toolpaths in Lathe (Lathe
Milling), use the Rotary Axis Control property page to select the axis of rotation.

The following sample part has examples of cross-contour toolpaths with both C-axis and Y-axis rotation.
The first cross-contour toolpath uses Y-axis rotation to cut the flats on the hexagon, across the
centerline. The second uses C-axis rotation to cut the slots parallel to the centerline.

Y-axis rotation
C-axis rotation

The following sample part has examples of cross-drill toolpaths with both C-axis and Y-axis rotation. The C-
axis rotation is used to drill towards the part centerline, and the Y-axis rotation to drill off the centerline.

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Y-axis drilling
C-axis drilling

With Y-axis drilling, Mastercam automatically sets the Tplane to the plane of the arc. Because of this,
you cannot select points for your drill locations, only arcs. However, with C-axis drilling, because the
drill axis is automatically perpendicular to the centerline, you can select either points or arcs.

Related topics

Creating Milling Operations in Mastercam Lathe

Cross Contour Toolpaths
Cross Drill Toolpaths
Lathe Toolpaths

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Cross Drill Toolpaths

Use Lathe Cross Drill toolpaths to drill holes perpendicular to the part's spindle axis, as when drilling
holes in a cylinder, or to drill off-center. Mastercam uses the side tool plane (Tplane), and construction
plane (Cplane), so that the tool axis will be perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

You choose arcs instead of points to identify the drill points when drilling off-center and Mastercam will
use the plane of the arc as the Tplane. When you select arcs, the drill point is the arc center point and
the drilling direction is the arc normal.

Cross Drill toolpaths are similar to C-axis Drill toolpaths. The difference is how they produce the rotary motion.

NOTE

You can only select point or arc geometry for this toolpath.

Related topics

Comparing C-axis Drill and Cross-drill Toolpaths

Creating Milling Operations in Mastercam Lathe
Comparing C-axis to Y-axis Toolpaths
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Cross Contour Toolpaths

Use Mastercam Lathe cross contour toolpaths to cut parallel to the axis of rotation. These toolpaths are
most often used to cut slots. Mastercam sets the tool plane (Tplane), and construction plane (Cplane),
so that the tool is placed perpendicular to the axis of rotation, which is typically the part spindle.

Choosing this toolpath also sets the default cutter compensation to Off, so that the center of the tool
follows the chained geometry.

Follow these steps to create a cross contour toolpath.

Related topics
Comparing C-axis Drill and Cross-drill Toolpaths
Comparing C-axis to Y-axis Toolpaths

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Face Contour Toolpaths

Mastercam Lathe face contour toolpaths create a toolpath on the face of the part with the tool parallel to
the axis of rotation. Mastercam automatically sets the tool plane (Tplane) and construction plane (Cplane)
to the side so that the tool is placed perpendicular to the face of the part.

The following picture shows a face contour toolpath. The dotted line represents tool movement.

Set the rotation type to C-axis in the Rotary Axis Control property page to produce polar-conversion
output for a C-axis lathe, or select Y-axis rotation to produce X-Y-Z coordinate output.

Follow these steps to create a face contour toolpath.

Related topics

Creating Milling Operations in Mastercam Lathe

Rotary Axis Control: Lathe

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Face Drill Toolpaths

Use the Lathe Face Drill toolpath to drill holes in the face of the part. Because this toolpath uses live
tooling on a stationary part, you can use it to drill holes that are not on the centerline. Depending on
how your post is configured, this toolpath typically outputs a mill drill cycle such as G81, whereas a
regular lathe drill toolpath outputs a lathe drill cycle such as G99.

When selected, Mastercam sets the tool plane (Tplane) and construction plane (Cplane) to the side so
that the tool is placed perpendicular to the face of the part.

NOTE

You can only select point or arc geometry for this toolpath.

Related topics

Creating Milling Operations in Mastercam Lathe

Lathe Drill Toolpaths

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Custom Parameters
Use the Custom Parameters dialog box to enter values for any custom parameters that have been defined for a
part handling operation. You can create up to 10 parameters which take integer values and 10 parameters which
take floating point or real values. You can create separate sets of parameters for each different part handling
operation, so this dialog box might display different sets of fields depending on the operation you access it from.

The parameter names or labels display in this dialog box are stored in the post processor as part of the control definition.
Use the Text, Lathe Part Handling page in the control definition to view, create, and edit them.

Related topics

Customizing Part Handling Operations

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Customizing Part Handling Operations

Mastercam gives you two main ways to customize or enhance the output generated by a part handling operation.

First, the Toolpath parameters tab for each operation has a Canned text option, which lets you select and add canned text
commands to the operation. These commands are associated with the tool change blocks for the operation.
Second, you can define Customizing Part Handling Operations custom parameters or variables for
each type of operation. For each type of part handling operation, you can define up to 10 integer
and 10 real, decimal or floating point variables. These are similar to the miscellaneous integer and
real variables available to other toolpaths. Set values for these custom parameters by clicking the
Custom parameters button on the Parameters tab for each operation.
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Use the Text pages in the Control Definition Manager to define both canned text and custom
parameters. Each part handling operation can have its own specific custom parameters.

NOTE

This topic applies to Mastercam Lathe part handling operations only. Mill-Turn part handling operations
do not use these techniques.

Related topics

Toolpath Parameters: Part Handling Operations

Working with Post Text
Canned Text
Custom Parameters

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Lathe Chuck
Use this tab to create a lathe chuck operation to clamp, unclamp, and reposition the chuck. This lets you
take advantage of the automatic clamping and unclamping features on your machine as well as use
Mastercam's collision avoidance features so that the tool will not make a move into the chuck.

If your machine has two spindles, select the active spindle for the operation.
Select the type of operation: clamp, unclamp, or move the chuck.
Enter the original and final positions of the chuck, or choose Select to pick the locations from the graphics window.

To create a chuck operation, you need to first define the chuck in the Stock Setup tab. Also, the proper
components must exist in the machine definition.

Parameters

Related topics

Adding Lathe Stock, Chucks, and Peripherals to Your Machine

Defining a Lathe Stock Model
Toolpath Parameters: Lathe
Part Handling Operations (Lathe)
Customizing Part Handling Operations

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Lathe Steady Rest

Use the Lathe Steady Rest dialog box to create an operation to reposition the steady rest. Steady rest
operations allow you to use the automatic steady rest repositioning features on the machine, as well as
use Mastercam's collision avoidance feature, so that the tool will not make a move into the steady rest.

Enter the original and destination positions for a reference point on the steady rest, or you can click Select to return to the graphics
window and select the locations. The points you choose can be any convenient reference points on the steady rest.

To create a steady rest operation, you need to have first defined a steady rest in the machine
definition, and created a collision avoidance boundary in the Stock Setup tab.

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Parameters

Related topics

Adding a Steady Rest

Defining a Collision Avoidance Boundary for a Steady Rest
Part Handling Operations (Lathe)
Adding Lathe Stock, Chucks, and Peripherals to Your Machine
Customizing Part Handling Operations

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Lathe Stock Advance

Use the Lathe Stock Advance dialog box to create a stock advance operation to reposition the stock
in the spindle or to control a bar feeder.

NOTE

Before programming a stock advance operation, you need to have defined the stock and chuck
boundaries in the Stock Setup tab.

Stock advance operations have the following general components:

Selecting a tool

Moving the stock

Handling the geometry

Parameters

NOTE

This operation is only used in Mastercam Lathe. Mastercam Mill-Turn uses Bar Feed instead.

Related topics

Defining a Lathe Stock Model

Adding a Chuck to Your Lathe
Part Handling Operations (Lathe)
Adding Lathe Stock, Chucks, and Peripherals to Your Machine
Toolpath Parameters: Lathe

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Lathe Stock Flip

Use the Lathe Stock Flip dialog box to create a stock flip operation. This lets you program operations on the
opposite side or back of a lathe part in the same Mastercam file. Stock flip operations output a comment and
program stop in the NC code, which lets the operator manually remove the stock and reposition it in the chuck.

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NOTE

Before programming a stock flip operation, you need to have defined the stock and chuck boundaries
in the Stock Setup tab.

Stock flip operations have the following general components:

Moving the stock

Moving the chuck

Handling the geometry

Parameters

Related topics

Defining a Lathe Stock Model

Adding a Chuck to Your Lathe
Part Handling Operations (Lathe)
Adding Lathe Stock, Chucks, and Peripherals to Your Machine
Customizing Part Handling Operations

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Lathe Tailstock
Use this tab to create an operation to reposition the tailstock.

Select the type of operation. Tell Mastercam whether you are moving the tailstock towards the part or
pulling it away. Mastercam automatically advances or retracts the quill based on this selection.
Enter the original and destination positions of a reference point on the tailstock, or click Select to pick
the locations from the graphics window.

NOTE

To create a tailstock operation, you need to have first defined a tailstock in the Stock Setup tab.
Also, the proper components must exist in the machine definition.

Parameters

Related topics

Adding Lathe Stock, Chucks, and Peripherals to Your Machine

Adding a Tailstock
Toolpath Parameters: Lathe
Part Handling Operations (Lathe)
Customizing Part Handling Operations

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Lathe Stock Transfer

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Use the Lathe Stock Transfer dialog box to create an operation which transfers the stock to a chuck on
the other spindle. This lets you program operations on the opposite side or back of a part in the same
Mastercam file. Stock transfer operations have the following general components:

Handling the geometry

Locating the stock

Controlling the chucks

NOTE

Before programming a stock transfer operation, you need to define the stock and chuck boundaries
in the Stock Setup tab. Make sure you only define stock for a single spindle; Mastercam will not
create the operation if stock has been defined for both spindles.
The sub-spindle does not have to be defined in Stock Setup, but if it is not, you will not see it
simulated on the screen.

Parameters

Related topics

Defining a Lathe Stock Model

Adding a Chuck to Your Lathe
Adding Lathe Stock, Chucks, and Peripherals to Your Machine
Toolpath Parameters: Lathe
Part Handling Operations (Lathe)

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Operations: Cutoff/Pickoff/Bar Pull

Use the Operations, Cutoff/Pickoff/Bar Pull dialog box tab to define the following parameters for each
of the operations you create in the Cutoff/Pickoff/Bar Pull Setup tab:

Toolpath group name

Comment for operation
Operation included in post
Custom parameters for operation
Approach clearance (for applicable operations)

Parameters

Related topics

Cutoff/Pickoff/Bar Pull Setup

Duplicate Toolpath Group Name - Cutoff/Pickoff
Defining a Lathe Stock Model

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Part Handling Operations (Lathe)

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Use part handling operations to manipulate the stock and reposition chucks, tailstocks, and steady rests. Operations can
output just a comment and program stop in the NC code to let the operator manually reposition stock or a peripheral, or you
can use them to output the codes to automatically control peripherals. You can further customize the output with canned text
and custom parameters. Mastercam Lathe currently supports the following part handling operations:

Lathe Stock Flip (reposition stock on the same spindle)

Lathe Stock Transfer(reposition stock to a different spindle)
Lathe Stock Advance (program a bar feeder)
Lathe Chuck (clamp/unclamp and reposition)
Lathe Tailstock (advance/retract, reposition)
Lathe Steady Rest (reposition)

Before programming the stock or peripheral, you must define it in the Stock Setup tab. Once defined there,
Mastercam simulates stock and peripheral movements on the screen. Also, the machine and control
definition must support the peripherals that you are programming. For tailstock and steady rest
operations, a component group with the proper component needs to be included in the machine definition.

Part handling operations are associative and are listed in the Toolpaths Manager. You can edit part handling
operations by selecting their Parameter or Geometry icons in the Toolpaths Manager. However, you cannot copy,
transform, or save the operations to a library. If you try to do this, the operation is ignored and a warning displays.

If you edit a part handling operation, you can regenerate any subsequent operations that use chains
made from transferred geometry without editing them. However, some toolpaths which create their own
geometry from toolpath parameters cannot be regenerated and have to be edited separately. These are:

Drilling operations: Drill point, retract and clearance heights

Facing operations: Final Z position (using stock) or corner points (not using stock)
Threading operations: Start and end positions for threading cycle
Grooving operations (other than chained): Points defining the groove position

In these cases, you must first regenerate the part handling operation, edit the parameters for any
of these subsequent operations shown above, then regenerate those operations.

NOTE

Toolpath operations done prior to a part handling operation are blanked on the screen to avoid
confusion when stock is moved by the part handling operation.

To create a part handling operation, choose a Lathe machine and select an operation type from
the Lathe Turning contextual tab.

NOTE

This topic applies to Mastercam Lathe, not Mill-Turn. Part handling operations for Mastercam Mill-Turn
are different. See Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn) to learn more.

Related topics

Customizing Part Handling Operations

Adding Lathe Stock, Chucks, and Peripherals to Your Machine
Lathe Toolpaths

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Job Setup: Pickoff

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Use this page to set the parameters for your pickoff operation and optional cutoff operation. Enter the
distance from the chuck face for the pickoff spindle to clamp on the part. The Cutoff group box is
available when your Stock Type - Part Handling selection includes cutoff.

Parameters

Related topics

Performing a Mill-Turn Job Setup

Setting Up the Pickoff Operation: Mill-Turn Job Setup
Creating a Pickoff/Cutoff Operation: Mill-Turn

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Right-To-Left Pickoff Setup

Use the Right-To-Left Pickoff Setup dialog box to translate geometry and create a series of operations to
transfer the part from the sub spindle to the main spindle. This dialog box is specifically used for parts
cut from slugs, castings, or forgings. You can choose to just create the geometry without creating any
operation, or you can create the geometry and the operation.

The following conditions must be met to use this function:

The red insert arrow must be in a Lathe machine group.

The machine group must have stock defined in a fixed spindle, or both spindles, and the chuck jaws
defined for both spindles.
A cutoff operation must exist in the currently active operation library.

Parameters

Related topics

Operations: Cutoff/Pickoff/Bar Pull

Defining a Lathe Stock Model

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Toolpath Parameters: Part Handling Operations

Use this tab to associate comments or canned text with a part handling operation. Type comments directly in
the box. Click Canned text to select canned text commands that have been defined for the current control.
Canned text commands need to be defined in the active control definition to be available here.

Use the Files tab of the Machine Group Properties dialog box to choose whether or not the
comments get output to the NC program. If they do not, they appear here for your reference.
Use canned text to include additional commands or codes in the operation so that a single part
handling operation can perform multiple or complex actions.
Select To batch to automatically post the operation as part of a batch job. This option is not
available for all part handling operation types.

Types of part handling operations

Related topics

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Part Handling Operations (Lathe)

Customizing Part Handling Operations
Toolpaths Manager
Canned Text Overview

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Creating Milling Operations in Mastercam Lathe

Mastercam Lathe includes two main techniques for creating milling toolpaths:

Use the Lathe C-axis toolpaths that are included with Mastercam Lathe for the most common contour and
drill applications. These are available to anyone with a Lathe license and do not require a separate Mill
license. When you select one of these toolpaths, Mastercam automatically sets the Tplane and Cplane to
the appropriate settings for the selected application. These toolpaths also support Y-axis rotation and
axis substitution. Choose the desired toolpath from the C-axis gallery on the Lathe Turning contextual
tab. Your machine definition must include the appropriate rotary axis components.
If your workstation is licensed for both Mastercam Mill and Mastercam Lathe, you can also create Mill toolpaths.
Use Mill toolpaths to machine in planes or orientations not available with the standard Lathe C-axis toolpaths,
or to create toolpaths other than contour or drill toolpaths—for example, pocket toolpaths. You can set the
Tplane to any view available in your part, or use the CView utility as a guide. Choose Mill from the Machine
tab, and select the desired toolpath. The toolpaths that are available to you depend on the level of Mill license
and the capabilities of your machine definition. Users with Mill 3D or Multiaxis licenses and multiple rotary
axes can access Mastercam's most sophisticated and powerful toolpaths.

NOTE

Tool collision, stock, and other boundaries are not used for Mill toolpaths. However, machining jobs often use
turning toolpaths to remove most the material before the milling operations are programmed. Since the turning
toolpaths can use tool boundaries, you should set them up even if you will be creating milling toolpaths later on.
Mastercam' Mill-Turn product is an add-in which runs on top of Lathe. It provides Mastercam's most
complete support for mill-turn applications. See Comparing Mill-Turn and Lathe to learn more.

Contour toolpaths
Drill toolpaths

Related topics

Comparing C-axis Drill and Cross-drill Toolpaths

Comparing C-axis to Y-axis Toolpaths
Lathe Toolpaths
Mill Toolpaths
CView

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Comparing Mill-Turn and Lathe

Mastercam has always supported multi-function lathes that are capable of milling operations. Different
levels of support are available depending on which product licenses you have purchased:

The Mastercam Lathe license includes access to a variety of C-axis and Y-axis toolpaths. These let
you create simple milling operations with standard part setups.
Mastercam Lathe users can purchase an additional Mastercam Mill license that lets them use Mill toolpaths directly.
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These include many more options than Lathe's C-axis and Y-axis toolpaths. Lathe users can
purchase Mill 3D or Multiaxis licenses for complete access to all of Mastercam Mill's capabilities.
Mastercam Mill-Turn is an add-on which runs on top of your existing Mastercam Lathe and Mill
licenses. It provides Mastercam's most complete support for multi-function lathes.

Mastercam Mill-Turn is based on .machine files which include posts written in Mastercam's new
MP.NET language. The Mill-Turn platform provides a number of benefits to Lathe users:

Robust job setup module tailored to your specific machine.

Simplified workflow for programming milling operations.
Full simulation.
New functions for loading and simulating tools.
Enhanced support for multi-stream machines including syncing and multi-tasking.

It is important to understand that Mastercam Lathe users without a Mill-Turn license can also program multi-stream
machines with multiple rotary axes (such as Mazak Integrex and Okuma Multus) so long as the post is written
properly and they have an appropriate Mill license. However, without a Mill-Turn license they will not have access to
Simulation and the many other features and enhancements that are only available with the Mill-Turn product.

What toolpaths are available to Mill-Turn users?

What is the difference between Mill-Turn and Lathe machine definitions?
Are Mill-Turn part handling operations different from Lathe part handling operations?
Can I use .machine files in Mastercam Lathe?
What .machine files are installed with Mastercam?

Related topics

Understanding Mill-Turn Licenses

Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn)
Lathe Toolpaths
Creating Milling Operations in Mastercam Lathe

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Creating a Mill-Turn Toolpath

Mastercam Mill-Turn offers a streamlined work flow for creating toolpaths. The following procedure is
a general work flow that must be adapted to your specific needs.

Select a machine from the Mill-Turn drop-down on Mastercam's Machine tab. Mastercam creates a
machine group for the selected machine.

Complete the job setup process as described in Performing a Mill-Turn Job Setup.
Select a toolpath from the Turning or Milling tab.
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For most toolpaths, you will be asked to select or chain the geometry.
Mastercam displays a dialog box where you can select a tool and enter the other toolpath settings.
When you finished entering your settings, the toolpath appears in the Toolpaths Manager.

NOTE

You can edit your toolpath settings by clicking the Parameters icon for the toolpath in the Toolpath Manager.

Related topics

Performing a Mill-Turn Job Setup

Chaining
Toolpaths: System Configuration
Comparing Mill-Turn and Lathe

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Understanding Mill-Turn Licenses

Mastercam Mill-Turn is an add-on which runs on top of Lathe. It uses licenses differently than other
Mastercam products. Mill-Turn requires both a license for the product, and a license for each
individual .machine file. This is different than Mastercam Mill and Lathe, which only require a product license.

A typical Mill-Turn installation therefore requires the following licenses:

Mastercam Lathe
Mastercam Mill-Turn
One or more Mastercam Mill licenses for the desired level of Mill functionality: Mill, Mill 3D, Multiaxis
A license for each individual .machine file

One exception to these requirements is that Mastercam's generic Fanuc .machine files do not require a separate license.
Generic .machine files are available for a number of standard machine configurations:

Single-stream two-spindle
Single-stream single-spindle
Multi-stream twin-turret
Multi-stream turret + B-axis head
Single-spindle + tailstock

Another exception is that beginning with Mastercam 2019, Lathe users can use Mill-Turn .machine files for
single-stream machines with no more than one rotary axis. When a Lathe user loads one of these machines,
they get access to the entire Mill-Turn product (subject to the capabilities of the specific machine) without
needing to purchase a Mill-Turn license. A Mill license is also typically required to create milling operations.

Related topics

Comparing Mill-Turn and Lathe

Lathe Toolpaths

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Performing a Mill-Turn Job Setup

The first step in programming your Mill-Turn part is completing the job setup process. This tells Mastercam about how

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you want to configure your machine and part-handling application. It also lets you identify the part model
that will be used in Simulation.

The following steps summarize the workflow for the job setup process. All steps may not be required.

Select a machine from the Machine, Mill-Turn drop-down. Mastercam creates a machine group for
the selected machine and loads the .machine file.
Mastercam displays the Job Setup tab automatically when you load a .machine file.
If the machine group has already been created, you can display the Job Setup tab by clicking
Job setup in the machine group's Properties.
If your desired machine is not listed in the Machine, Mill-Turn drop-down, see Machine
Definition Menu Management.
Select and configure the chucks and jaws for your part. (See Selecting Chucks and Jaws: Mill-Turn Job Setup.)
Configure the setup type options. (See Specifying the Setup Type: Mill-Turn Job Setup.)
Specify the group name and WCS. (See Specifying the WCS and Machine Group Name: Mill-Turn Job Setup.)
Select the part model. (See Selecting Part Geometry: Mill-Turn Job Setup .)
Define the stock model. (See Defining the Stock Model: Mill-Turn Job Setup.)
Set the part stick-out distance. (See Setting Stick-out Distance and Tool Plane Origin: Mill-Turn Job Setup.)
Enter settings for the pickoff operation. (See Setting Up the Pickoff Operation: Mill-Turn Job Setup.)

Related topics

Machine Configuration: Job Setup

Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn)

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Selecting Chucks and Jaws: Mill-Turn Job Setup

The first step in your Mill-Turn Job Setup is selecting the chucks and jaws that you want to use on each spindle.

When you first launch Job Setup, Mastercam displays the default chucks and jaws that have been saved
with your .machine file. If you wish, you can select different chucks or jaws from either the component
library in your .machine file or any other component library that is available to you.

1. In the Toolpaths Manager, open the properties for the desired machine group.

Click the Job setup tab. The Machine Group Properties dialog box displays.
Choose Machine Configuration.

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4. Right-click on a jaws or chuck component to remove it, replace it, or edit its properties.

Choosing Select new chuck or Select new chuck jaws displays the Select Component dialog box. It displays all of the
chucks or jaws—whichever type of component you right-clicked on—in the current component library.

Select the desired component from the list. Or, click the Select a library button to open a
different component library.
Click OK when you are done. Mastercam returns you to the Machine Configuration page.
For each spindle, enter the following settings.
Enter the Minimum spindle speed and Maximum spindle speed for the chucks and jaws that you have selected.
Enter the angular orientation of the jaws in the Chuck jaw angle about C axis field. This is only used
by simulation to display the jaws properly; it does not result in a C-axis rotation in your code.
Enter a clearance distance between the jaws and your part in the Jaw clearance distance field. Use this value
to prevent undesired collision reports in simulation when the jaws clamp or approach the part.

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This field is linked to the settings for your chuck. It is only enabled when the following
settings have non-zero values.

Related topics

Default Chucks And Jaws

Adding Chuck Jaws (Mill-Turn)
Machine Configuration: Job Setup

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Specifying the Setup Type: Mill-Turn Job Setup

Use the Setup Type page to tell Mastercam on which spindle you will start machining and the type of
stock. Mastercam uses this information to filter the options that are available to you later in the
programming process and streamline your workflow.

1. In the Toolpaths Manager, open the properties for the desired machine group.
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Click Job setup. The Machine Group Properties dialog box displays.
Choose Setup Type.

4. Select the spindle (left or right) where you will begin machining.

5. Select the appropriate Stock Type – Part Handling option for the job.

Related topics

Creating a Mill-Turn Toolpath

Performing a Mill-Turn Job Setup
Setup Type: Job Setup

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Specifying the WCS and Machine Group Name:

Mill-Turn Job Setup
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Use the WCS page to specify the name of the machine group and its initial work coordinate system (WCS).

1. In the Toolpaths Manager, open the properties for the desired machine group.

Click Job setup. The Machine Group Properties dialog box displays.
Choose WCS.
Enter the desired Group name. This will be used in the Toolpaths Manager in Mastercam as well
as in the Sync Manager:

Select the work coordinate system (WCS) for your part.

The WCS is usually Top if your part model is drawn in the proper position and orientation for machining.

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If your part is not drawn in the proper orientation, click the Align to Z button. This lets you either create a
new WCS based on the orientation of your part model, or transform the model to a different plane.
Click the Select New Plane button to select any other plane as the WCS.

Related topics

Creating a Mill-Turn Toolpath

Performing a Mill-Turn Job Setup
Job Setup: WCS

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Selecting Part Geometry: Mill-Turn Job Setup

As part of the job setup process, you need to select your part model. The geometry that you select here is used in two ways:

This is the model that will represent your part in Simulation. This is usually a solid model of the completed part.
If you wish, the geometry that you select here can be copied to the other spindle to facilitate creating toolpaths there.

Selecting the model for Simulation is a separate process from selecting geometry for your toolpaths.
When you create toolpaths, you can use the model that you select here or you can use any other
geometry that is required for a particular toolpath.

1. In the Toolpaths Manager, open the properties for the desired machine group.

Click Job setup. The Machine Group Properties dialog box displays.
Choose Part Geometry and click the selection arrow.
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In the graphics window, select the model that you would like displayed in Simulation, and press [Enter].
If you want Mastercam to create a copy of the selected geometry for the other spindle, select Create
Right Spindle Geometry.

This option is not present if the selected Stock Type - Part Handling option does not support two spindles.

Use the Level Options to tell Mastercam on which level to place the new geometry.
Keep the same: Select to use the same level as the original geometry.
Copy to level: Select to place the new geometry on a different level, and enter the number of the desired level.
Offset by: Select to place the new geometry on a level that is offset from the existing level by a
specified number. For example, if you have selected left-spindle geometry on levels 1, 3, and 7, and
enter a value of 100 for Offset by, the right-spindle geometry will be on levels 101, 103, and 107.
Select Create turn profile(s) to create a wireframe profile of the solid model that you selected in step 2.
← This can be useful for creating turning toolpaths that are based on chained wireframe
geometry, such as roughing or finishing operations.
← You can create a profile based on a cross-section slice of the part or a profile that represents the extent of the
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part as it rotates around the spindle.

Use the Color, Level, and Attributes controls to specify what the turned profile will look like.

Related topics

Creating a Mill-Turn Toolpath

Performing a Mill-Turn Job Setup
Job Setup: Part Geometry

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Defining the Stock Model: Mill-Turn Job Setup

Use the options on this page to define a stock model for your part. You can define the stock in three ways:

Define bar stock by entering its dimensions on this page.

Create a stock model by revolving a wireframe profile.
Select an existing model. You can select either a solid body or STL model.

The options for the type of stock model that you can define are limited by the Stock Type – Part
Handling on the Setup Type page. For example, if you have selected one of the Continuous bar stock
options, the only option available to you on this page is Bar Stock.

Begin by selecting the type of stock model from the Geometry drop-down list. Then refer to the
appropriate section in this topic to learn more.

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Defining Bar Stock

Defining Stock From a Revolved Profile
Using an Existing Model for Your Stock

Related topics

Creating a Mill-Turn Toolpath

Performing a Mill-Turn Job Setup
Bar/Revolved/Solid Stock

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Setting Stick-out Distance and Tool Plane Origin:

Mill-Turn Job Setup
After setting up your stock in the Job Setup tab of the Machine Group Properties, define the stick-out
distance and tool plane origin.

1. Click Job setup for your machine group in the Toolpaths Manager.

2. Select Toolplane Origin Z in the tree.

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Choose whether you want the zero position of your tool plane to be on the left or right face of the part.
You can also choose Manual to use a different position as the origin.
For each spindle, enter the Work offset number that you want to use for operations on each spindle.
For the most common applications, the first spindle will use offset 0 (G54 or the first available
offset) and the second spindle will use 1 (G55 or second available offset).
Select the StickOut page for the desired spindle.

Set the stickout distance in either of the following ways:

Click the target button and select a point on the part. Mastercam locates the part by mating this point with
the reference point on the chuck jaws that you selected on the Machine Configuration page.
NOTE

If your stock model includes extra stock on the back of your part, you may need to adjust the stickout
value manually by the amount of extra stock to ensure that the part is clamped as intended.

Enter the stickout distance directly in either the Chuck face or Jaws field. The two fields are
linked so that you can enter either dimension.

Related topics

Creating a Mill-Turn Toolpath

Performing a Mill-Turn Job Setup

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Job Setup: Tool plane Origin Z

Job Setup: Part Stickout

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Setting Up the Pickoff Operation: Mill-Turn Job Setup

The final job setup task is to provide some part dimensions that Mastercam needs to pickoff the part.

1. Click Job setup for your machine group in the Toolpaths Manager.

2. Select Pickoff.
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Click the Select pickoff Z position button and select the point on the part where you want the pickoff
spindle to clamp. You can also enter the coordinate manually in the Distance from chuck face field.
Use the Cutoff section to tell Mastercam about the cutoff tool that you will be using. Mastercam uses
the width of the cutoff tool to properly calculate how much stock to transfer to the other spindle.
You can specify the cutoff width in three different ways:
Click the Select a tool for the cutoff operation button and select a cutoff tool from a tool library.

Click the Use tool from cutoff operation button to tell Mastercam to get the width of the tool used in
the cutoff operation that is referenced in the part handling strategy for the .machine file.
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Enter a value directly in the Cutoff width field.

Click OK. Mastercam completes the job setup process.

Related topics

Creating a Mill-Turn Toolpath

Performing a Mill-Turn Job Setup
Job Setup: Pickoff
Creating a Pickoff/Cutoff Operation: Mill-Turn

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Job Setup: Part Stickout

Use this page to position the part in the chuck.

Parameters

Related topics
Setting Stick-out Distance and Tool Plane Origin: Mill-Turn Job Setup

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Job Setup: Part Geometry

Use this page to select your part geometry, create opposing spindle geometry, and create turn profile
geometry. The option for creating geometry in the opposing spindle is unavailable if your part handling
option is set to Single pieces of stock - no pickoff on the Setup type page.

Parameters

Related topics

Selecting Part Geometry: Mill-Turn Job Setup

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Job Setup: WCS

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Use this page to change the name of the machine group and to set the initial WCS for the machine group.

Parameters

Related topics

Specifying the WCS and Machine Group Name: Mill-Turn Job Setup

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Lathe Drill Cycle Parameters: Mill-Turn

Use this tab to create a lathe drill toolpath along the part's centerline. You do not need to create or chain
any geometry to create the toolpath. First, define the dimensions of the hole, using the picture as a guide.
Then, select a drill cycle and enter the drilling parameters.

The exact name that appears on this tab is the title of the drill cycle that you select. The specific cycles
which are available to you are defined in your .machine file.

Parameters

Related topics

Lathe Drill Toolpaths

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Machine Configuration: Job Setup

Use this page to select the chucks and jaws that you will use for your part. Right-click on a chuck or jaws
component in the Machine Configuration window to replace it, edit its properties, or remove it from the tree.

Parameters

Related topics

Selecting Chucks and Jaws: Mill-Turn Job Setup

Default Chucks And Jaws
Performing a Mill-Turn Job Setup

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Position: Mill-Turn
Use this page to position the tool for a cutoff operation on a Mill-Turn machine. The resulting operation
is a Lathe point toolpath. Enter the X and Z coordinates for the tool position. Alternatively, select the X
and Z positions from the graphics window, and set the Z position equal to the cutoff operations Z value.

Parameters
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Related topics

Cutoff Parameters
Lathe Point Toolpaths
Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn)

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Toolpath Parameters: Mill-Turn

Use this tab to select a tool, set feeds and speeds, and set other general toolpath parameters. This
tab is very similar for most Mill-Turn Turning toolpaths. Click on a sub-topic below to learn more.

Selecting a tool

Feeds and speeds

The bottom area of the tab includes many advanced toolpath options. Select the checkbox to activate a
feature, and click the button to set values for this operation. Some options might not be available if
they are not supported by the current control definition.

Parameters

Right-click menu options

Related topics

Creating a Mill-Turn Toolpath

Performing a Mill-Turn Job Setup
Calculating Feeds and Speeds from a Material: Lathe
Tool: Control Definition Manager
Tool Settings: Machine Group Properties

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Feed Rate: Finish PrimeTurning™

Use the Feed Rate dialog box to set the feed rates for the finish passes for PrimeTurning toolpaths. You
can set up different feed rates for cutting.

Parameters

Related topics

Feed Rate: Rough PrimeTurning™

PrimeTurning™ Parameters
Toolpath Parameters: Lathe Plunge Turn and PrimeTurning™
PrimeTurning™ Toolpaths

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Feed Rate: Rough PrimeTurning™

Use the Feed Rate dialog box to set the feed rates for the roughing passes for PrimeTurning toolpaths. You can
set up different feed rates for cutting and plunging, as well as set vertical and horizontal strategies that determine
how to apply feed rates to vertical and horizontal passes. The options are broken into groups as follows:

Cutting feed rate: Used with horizontal or vertical passes.

Plunge feed rate: Used on moves that plunge into the material, usually at the start of a horizontal or vertical pass.
Secondary feed rate/spindle speed: Used to slow the feed rate and/or spindle speed at a point along the pass.
Vertical strategy: Used to define where along the pass the secondary feed rate and spindle
speed are used. For vertical passes only.
Horizontal strategy: Used to define where along the pass the secondary feed rate and spindle
speed are used. For horizontal passes only.

Parameters

Related topics

Feed Rate: Finish PrimeTurning™

PrimeTurning™ Parameters
Toolpath Parameters: Lathe Plunge Turn and PrimeTurning™
PrimeTurning™ Toolpaths

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Finish Parameters: PrimeTurning™

Use the options on this tab to create a finish PrimeTurning toolpath for your part. Enter your cutting
parameters in the fields, and choose an orientation for the toolpath in the Cut direction drop-down list.
You can also enable the additional options and advanced features on the right side of the tab.

Parameters

Related topics

PrimeTurning™ Parameters
Rough Parameters: PrimeTurning™
Feed Rate: Finish PrimeTurning™
PrimeTurning™ Toolpaths

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Pinch Turn
Use this tab to create a pinch turn toolpath based on and associated to, a roughing toolpath. You must
create the roughing operation first. This operation contains all of the parameters found in a normal
roughing operation until the associated pinch turn operation is created.

This is what the original roughing operation looks like in Toolpaths Manager.

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This is what the pinch turn operations look like in the Toolpaths Manager. The original roughing operation is
renamed from Lathe Rough to Pinch Turn Main, and the pinch turn operation is named Pinch Turn Associated.

The normal roughing can be converted to main pinch turn operations at any time by adding an associated pinch turn
operation. Main pinch turning operations can be converted to normal roughing operations by deleting the associated pinch
turn operation. Also, if the main pinch turn operation is deleted then the associated operation will also be deleted.

Use the pictures and options on the tab to set your pinch turn parameters. The feeds and speeds are defined in the Pinch
Turn Main (original roughing) operation, and are not available as editable options in the associated pinch turn operation.

NOTE

The associated pinch turn operation is placed immediately after the main operation, because both
operations use the same initial stock boundary.
If either pinch turn operation is dragged/dropped to a new location in the Toolpaths Manager
list, then both operations will move to the new location.
The tools used in the two operations must be located on different turrets.
The two pinch turn operations are automatically synced together, by adding syncs and dwells at
the start of each pass.

Parameters

Related topics

Rough Toolpaths
Plunge Turn Toolpaths
Toolpath Parameters: Pinch Turn

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PrimeTurning™ Toolpaths

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Mastercam has partnered with Sandvik Coromant to develop and support of their innovative PrimeTurning™ strategies and
tooling. With these tools and methods, Mastercam allows you to turn in conventional turning and PrimeTurning directions.
When combined with either CoroTurn® Prime A-type or B-type inserts (shown below), PrimeTurning provides superior
metal removal rate, productivity gains of over 50%, and increased tool life in a variety of materials.

What makes PrimeTurning different from conventional turning strategies?

What is important to know when creating a PrimeTurning toolpath?

What tool inserts are used for PrimeTurning?

Related topics

Toolpath Parameters: Lathe Plunge Turn and PrimeTurning™

PrimeTurning™ Parameters

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PrimeTurning™ Parameters
Refer to these parameter guidelines when creating a PrimeTurning toolpath.

Metric (Inch) for A-Type

PrimeTurning™ Conventional
Cutter Example Parameter
Longitudinal Face Cutting Longitudinal Face Cutting
Fn min 0.2 (.008) 0.2 (.008) 0.1 (.004) 0.1 (.004)
Fn suggested 0.4 (.0157) 0.4 (.0157) 0.2 (.008) 0.2 (.008)
Fn max 0.5 (.0197) 0.5 (.0197) 0.25 (.010) 0.25 (.010)
Ap min 0.25 (.010) 0.25 (.010) 0.25 (.010) 0.25 (.010)
Ap suggested 1.5 (.059) 1.5 (.059) 1.0 (.039) 1.0 (.039)
Ap max 3.0 (.118) 2.5 (.098) 1.5 (.059) 1.5 (.059)
KAPR 30° 25° 115° 120°
RMPX 15° 10° 15° 10°
Dmin N/A 30mm N/A 0mm
ISO P (m/min) 250-350 m/min (825-1150 SFM)250-350 m/min (825-1150 SFM)
ISO M (m/min)100-250 m/min (325-825 SFM) 100-250 m/min (325-825 SFM)
ISO S (m/min) 40-120 m/min (130-395 SFM) 40-120 m/min (130-395 SFM)
Metric (Inch) for B-Type
PrimeTurning™ Conventional
Cutter Example Parameter
Longitudinal Face Cutting Longitudinal Face Cutting
Fn min 0.3 (.012) 0.3 (.012) 0.2 (.079) 0.2 (.079)
Fn suggested 0.6 (.024) 0.6 (.024) 0.35 (.014) 0.3 (.012)
Fn max 1.2 (.0472) 1.2 (.0472) 0.6 (.024) 0.6 (.024)
Ap min 0.5 (.020) 0.5 (.020) 0.5 (.020) 0.5 (.020)
Ap suggested 2.0 (.079) 1.0 (.039) 2.0 (.079) 2.0 (.079)
Ap max 4.0 (.157) 4.0 (.157) 3.0 (.118) 3.0 (.118)
KAPR 25° 25° 95° 95°
RMPX 23° 23° 23° 23°
Dmin N/A 40mm N/A 0mm
ISO P (m/min) 250-350 m/min (825-1150 SFM)250-350 m/min (825-1150 SFM)
ISO M (m/min)100-250 m/min (325-825 SFM) 100-250 m/min (325-825 SFM)
ISO S (m/min) 40-120 m/min (130-395 SFM) 40-120 m/min (130-395 SFM)
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Related topics

PrimeTurning™ Toolpaths
Rough Parameters: PrimeTurning™
Finish Parameters: PrimeTurning™
Feed Rate: Rough PrimeTurning™
Feed Rate: Finish PrimeTurning™

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Rough Parameters: PrimeTurning™

Use this tab to create a rough PrimeTurning toolpath. Enter your cutting parameters in the fields, using the
picture as a guide for the toolpath dimensions. You can also select cutter compensation and enable
advanced features such as lead in/out moves, toolpath filtering, and chip break on the right side of the tab.

Parameters

Related topics

PrimeTurning™ Parameters
Feed Rate: Rough PrimeTurning™
Finish Parameters: PrimeTurning™
PrimeTurning™ Toolpaths

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Toolpath Parameters: Pinch Turn

Use the Toolpath Parameters, Pinch Turn dialog box tab to select a tool and set general pinch turn toolpath parameters.
This tab is specific to Mastercam's Mill-Turn functionality.

Pinch turn operations use two independent tools, located on two independent turrets in order to remove material more
efficiently. With pinch turning, both tools cut the same curve. One tool cuts above the axis of rotation and the other cuts
below, mimicking or imitating the part being “pinched.” The feeds and speeds are defined in the Pinch Turn Main, original
roughing operation, and automatically applied to the associated pinch turn operation. For more details on the differences
and similarities between Pinch Turn Main and Pinch Turn Associated toolpaths, see Pinch turn tab.

Parameters

Right-click menu options

Related topics

Pinch Turn
Rough Toolpaths
Plunge Turn Toolpaths

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Bar Feed
Use this dialog box to configure a bar feed operation. Create bar feed operations as stand-alone
operations; they are not created as part of part-handling strategies.

Parameters

NOTE

You can only create a bar feed operation if the chuck component for the desired spindle has the Allow
through stock option enabled. This option is set in the machine definition.

This operation is only available for Mastercam Mill-Turn. Mastercam Lathe users should create a
Stock Advance operation for bar feed applications.

Related topics

Lathe Stock Advance

Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn)

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Center Point
Use these parameters to insert a lathe center into your machine's turret.

Parameters

Right-click menu options

Related topics

Tailstock Operations
Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn)

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Chuck Clamp
Use this page to clamp or unclamp the chuck, or to transfer or eject the part on a Mill-Turn machine.
Choose the data stream in which to place the operation, and then specify the dwell time.

Parameters
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Related topics

Chuck to Clearance
Chuck Grip
Chuck Position
Chuck Retract
Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn)

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Chuck Grip
Use this page to control the feed rate used as the chuck approaches the material. Set the feed rate to
ensure a safe approach speed. The grip position is defined in Job Setup.

Parameters

Related topics

Chuck Clamp
Chuck to Clearance
Chuck Position
Chuck Retract
Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn)

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Chuck Position
Use the Chuck Position dialog box to reposition the chuck during a stock advance operation.

Parameters

Related topics

Chuck Clamp
Chuck to Clearance
Chuck Grip
Chuck Retract
Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn)

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Chuck Retract
Use this page to retract the chuck to a home position on a Mill-Turn machine. The retract move can be
applied to the main or sub-spindle, depending on your machine's capabilities.

Parameters
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Related topics

Chuck Clamp
Chuck to Clearance
Chuck Grip
Chuck Position
Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn)

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Creating a Pickoff/Cutoff Operation: Mill-Turn

1. From the Mill-Turn Turning tab, select Pickoff/Cutoff. The Pickoff, Stock Pull, Cutoff dialog box displays.

Select the Upper Turret or Lower Turret strategy. The strategy you choose determines the default
events shown in the Operations list. You need to make changes to the default events listed.

Choose Pre-position cutoff tool in the event list, and click = Cutoff Z. Mastercam Mill-Turn calculates
the correct pre-position value.
Choose the next item in the list of operations, setting parameters as necessary. Repeat until
you have set all parameters for all operations.
Click OK to close the dialog box. Mastercam creates the required operations and displays them in
the Toolpaths Manager.

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NOTE

To ensure a successful part transfer, the order of the operations cannot be changed. Mastercam locks the
event sequence to prevent modification. You can, however, modify event parameters. To do this, expand the
event to edit, click its Parameters entry, and, in the dialog box that displays, set the options as needed.

Related topics

Setting Up the Pickoff Operation: Mill-Turn Job Setup

Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn)

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Cutoff
Use this page to set parameters for a cutoff operation on a Mill-Turn machine. From the library, select a cutoff operation to
apply to the current part. Then choose to use the tool from the selected library operation or select a different tool from a
tool library. Cutoff toolpaths make vertical cuts through the part, such as when dividing sections of bar stock. Mastercam
generates a Lathe Cutoff operation from this page after completion of the Pickoff, Cutoff operation.

Parameters

Advanced toolpath techniques

Related topics

Cutoff Toolpaths
Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn)

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Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn)

Part handling operations are used to control spindles, chucks, tailstocks, and turrets. You can
create part handling operations in two ways:
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Select a pre-defined strategy. These are created by your machine developer and result in a sequence of part handling
operations that model a complete part handling application: for example, a pickoff/cutoff/transfer, or a tailstock
advance/engage/retract. Mastercam automatically creates a separate toolpath group to store the operations.

Pre-defined strategies are made up of the following individual operations or events:

Chuck Clamp
Chuck to Clearance
Chuck Grip
Chuck Position
Chuck Retract
Position: Mill-Turn
Spindle Sync: Align Spindles
Stock Pull
Tailstock Operations
Turret Park: Motion and Destination
Create an individual operation for whatever reason you wish. These can be placed in any toolpath
group with your other toolpaths. Bar feed operations are a good example of such an operation.

Mill-Turn users can choose from the following part handling operations:

Spindle clamp
Spindle move
Spindle sync
Turret park
Bar feed
Tailstock
Center point

Related topics

Creating a Pickoff/Cutoff Operation: Mill-Turn

Lathe Toolpaths
Part Handling Operations (Lathe)

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Spindle Clamping
Use the Spindle Clamping dialog box to clamp or unclamp the selected spindle. Available settings
allow you to set the operation to transfer or eject stock. Additionally, you have the ability to control to
which data stream the operation is output.

Parameters

Related topics

Turret Park
Spindle Move
Spindle Sync
Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn)

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Spindle Move
Use the Spindle Move dialog box to move the active spindle. The options vary based on the selected
active spindle, the selected move type, and the machine configuration. Additionally, you have the ability
to control to which data stream the operation is output.

Parameters

Related topics

Turret Park
Spindle Clamping
Spindle Sync
Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn)

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Spindle Sync
Use the Spindle Sync dialog box to sync or align the spindles of your machine. Sync locks the spindles
together so they turn in unison. Align matches a selected angle on one spindle with a selected angle on the
other spindle. Additionally, you have the ability to control to which data stream the operation is output.

Parameters

Related topics

Turret Park
Spindle Clamping
Spindle Move
Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn)

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Spindle Sync: Align Spindles

Use this page to sync or align the spindles of your machine. Syncing locks the spindles together so they turn in unison.
Aligning matches a selected angle on one spindle with a selected angle on the other spindle.

Parameters

Related topics

Spindle Sync
Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn)

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Tailstock
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Use the Tailstock dialog box to manually create tailstock operations. You can choose from a list of
actions that includes the following:

Load Center tool

Unload Center tool
Tailstock Retract
Tailstock Advance
Quill Retract
Quill Advance
Move to stock clearance
Linear position

Parameters

Related topics

Tailstock Operations
Center Point

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Tailstock Operations
A tailstock operation is a set of sub-operations based on a specified strategy. When you choose a tailstock strategy,
Mastercam adds predefined sub-operations to the Operations list. You can then refine the sub-operations as needed
by selecting them one at a time and entering settings in the box to the right of the Operations list. When you click OK,
Mastercam adds your defined tailstock operations to Toolpaths Manager, as shown below.

Parameters

Related topics

Tailstock
Center Point
Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn)

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Turret Park
Use the Turret Park dialog box to control the motion of a turret or B-axis head when moving to a park position. A
turret park operation is useful for moving the turret away from the part. This may be necessary for tool inspection,
moving the part to another spindle, or part inspection, among other things. The turret moves to the selected location
using the motion described in the dialog box. Set the parameters to match your needs and your machine's
capabilities. Additionally you have the ability to control to which data stream the operation is output.

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Parameters

Related topics

Spindle Clamping
Spindle Move
Spindle Sync
Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn)

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Turret Park: Motion and Destination

Use this page to enter settings for a turret park operation. A turret park operation is useful for moving the
turret away from the part. This may be necessary for tool inspection, moving the part to another spindle, or
part inspection, among other things. The turret moves to the selected location using the motion described in
the dialog box. Set the parameters to match your needs and your machine's capabilities.

NOTE

In Mastercam, a turret park operation can also be used to park a B-axis head or tool spindle.

Parameters

Related topics

Turret Park
Part Handling Operations (Mill-Turn)

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Setup: Mill-Turn 2D/3D

Use this page to define the Mill type, tool plane, axis combination, spindle origin, and work offset value
for the operation. You may choose to automatically keep the axes for a generated tool plane aligned with
the machine axes, as well as leave the spindle origin at the location defined in Job setup.

Parameters

Related topics

Job Setup: Tool plane Origin Z

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Job Setup: Tool plane Origin Z

Use the Toolplane Origin Z page to set the tool plane origin Z value for your operations. Instruct Mastercam to calculate the
value from the part geometry or manually enter the value yourself. You can also set a work offset number on this page.
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Parameters

Related topics

Performing a Mill-Turn Job Setup

Setting Stick-out Distance and Tool Plane Origin: Mill-Turn Job Setup

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4 Axis
Use this page to establish 4-axis wirepath settings such as the linear arc move format,
trimming options, and synchronization of the lower (XY) and upper (UV) contours.

If you have chosen to synchronize the contours, you can also set the linearization tolerance, used when
converting 3D arcs and 2D or 3D splines in the chained geometry from curves to lines. If you have chosen not
to synchronize the upper and lower contours, Mastercam Wire places points on the wirepath so the wire can
follow the chain. If sync is set to By branch and there are no branch points in the 4-axis geometry, Mastercam
Wire will not create the 4-axis wirepath. Use the Step size field to specify how far apart the points are placed.

You can also use this page to set the Z depth for rapid moves, locations of upper and lower wire
guides, and the XY and UV heights and trim planes.

Parameters

Related topics

Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

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4-axis Wirepaths
4-axis wirepaths have geometry in both the XY plane (the lower contour) and UV plane (the upper contour).

Where a contour wirepath derives a second contour from the geometry, a 4-axis wirepath can have completely different
geometry in the two planes, resulting in different wire movement in the XY and UV planes. The examples below show a 4-
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axis wirepath with different geometry in the XY and UV planes.

Plane Toolpath (Isometric View) Toolpath (Side View)

UV plane

XY plane

UV geometry does not lie in a single plane, but part can be machined using the 3D tracking option.

You can also create multiple 4-axis wirepaths from the same operation. Click the drop-down below for
guidelines on how to do this.

Creating multiple 4-axis wirepaths from the same operation

When 3D tracking is supported by the wire EDM machine and the control, you can use the 3D tracking
option to enable Mastercam Wire to include variable Z depths for geometry that does not lie
completely in a single plane. This option is located on the 4 Axis page.

The 4-axis Direct wirepath accommodates more types of geometry and creates smoother motion. The
following features apply to 4-axis Direct wirepaths:

Support for splines, broken into linear moves by the linearization tolerance.
Support for line/arc motion pairs, broken into 4-axis Direct linear moves by the linearization tolerance.
If a clockwise arc is paired with a counterclockwise arc, this section of the toolpath will be output in
4-axis Direct linear moves so any wire machine can handle it. Most wire machines will not handle a
clockwise move in one plane paired with a counterclockwise move in the other plane.
Chained geometry does not require the same number of entities between branch lines. If there are a
different number of entities between branch lines in the XY and UV motion, the toolpath breaks up
both the XY and UV into the same number of linear moves. The toolpath also always hits the
endpoints of all entities and stays within the linearization tolerance of the arc/spline geometry.

Click here to view an example part incorporating of these features.

Related topics

Wirepath Type

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About Subprograms in Mastercam Wire

Mastercam Wire provides the capability to include subprograms in an operation. A subprogram is an NC program that is

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called from the main NC program. It is used to repeat code (XY moves) within an operation. Using
subprograms creates a shorter NC program.

Both contour and 4-axis wirepaths can use subprograms. In 4-axis wirepaths, subprograms are used to
repeat passes that are the same. For contour wirepaths, subprograms are used to repeat passes that
are the same, and also to create copies of the same part. All contours use the same subprogram.

NOTE

Use the Subprogram page of the wirepath dialog box to create and set parameters for wirepath subprograms.
You can use subprograms on a multi-contour operation where the contours are not identical. In this
case, Mastercam Wire gives each contour its own subprogram numbers.

Related topics

Subprograms: Wirepaths
Wirepath Subprograms for Identical Contours
Subprograms: Control Definition Manager

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About Wire Compensation

Wire compensation offsets the wire from the geometry. When cutting the part in the chaining direction,
wire compensation can follow the center line of the geometry or be offset to the right or the left to
compensate for the wire diameter. This offset may be generated by Mastercam Wire (Computer), by the
NC control (Control), or a combination of both (Both and Reverse both).

To determine the chaining direction on an existing wirepath, click Geometry in the Toolpaths
Manager to display the chains, including their chaining direction, and open the Chain Manager. You
can use the right-click menu in the Chain Manager to change the chaining direction.

Wire compensation can be set in the Compensation type drop-down on the Compensation page for contour
and 4-axis wirepaths and on the Finish page for no core wirepaths. Depending on the type of wirepath
generated, the Compensation type drop-down may contain three or more of the following choices:

Computer

Control

Both

Reverse Both

Off

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Compensation direction
Where the Compensation type drop-down is accompanied by Compensation direction, you can set the wire to
offset to the right or left of the wirepath. The Auto setting offsets the wire to either the right or left depending
on the location of the thread point entity inside or outside of the contour. When selecting multiple contours to
be cut in a single operation, using Auto ensures that the wire is offset on the correct side of each contour.

Related topics

Chaining Wirepaths
Compensation
Cutter Compensation: Control Definition Manager

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About Wire Positions

Mastercam Wire has the following four wire positions that you can set:

Icon Description
Start is the home position of the operation.
Thread is the point where the machine threads the wire, usually a pre-drilled hole in the material. The wire cuts
from the thread position to the start of the chain based on the settings for lead ins and lead outs.
Cut is the point where the wire machine cuts the wire before moving to the next thread point.
Work origin is a reference point for wirepath creation and is set to the system origin by default.
Changing the work origin offsets the coordinates for the wirepath.

Methods for setting wire positions

You can create thread and cut style points that are chained with the contour for the wirepath. Mastercam
Wire assigns the thread and cut positions to the point and overrides any other set thread and cut positions.

Because the positions are attached to a point entity, a move or other change to the point entity is associated to the
operation. Using point entities for thread and cut positions is the most efficient method for assigning thread and cut
positions in an operation with multiple contours, but it can also be used with single contours, and no core wirepaths.

For added efficiency on contour and 4-axis wirepaths, set Compensation direction to Auto on the
Compensation page, which sets the direction based on the position of the point entities.

The method that you use to set the wire positions for an operation depends on whether the operation
has one or multiple contours, or whether you are using point entities to set thread and cut positions.
The following are wire position setting methods:

Setting start positions

Setting the work origin

Setting thread and cut positions

Related topics

Chaining Wirepaths
Start Position

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Leads
Planes: Wirepaths

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AgieReg
The AgieReg add-in provides a way to enter information for the Agievision control. The selections in this dialog are
made from NC Parameters, where they are passed to the SBL file to set the corner type and punch-to-die clearance.

Sector information can be added in the "change at point" option when you select Geometry in the Toolpaths Manager.
When using the dialog with "change at point," you must set the checkbox for those entries that you want changed.

This add-in is launched automatically when you click Registers in the NC Parameters page or when
you select Control settings in Change at Point.

Sector support is provided in the SBL file for 2D wirepaths as listed:

The possible sector output is listed below:

Position: Rapid G-code (zero) activates the sector. Feed rate is used for rate.
Taper: Examine the wirepath where the wire taper (wt) is different than the setting from NC
parameters to activate. Immediate change must be used.
Conic: Examine the wirepath where the Conic type (wc) is different than the setting from NC parameters to activate.
External Corner Type: Register 1 is examined for a non-zero value different than that set in NC parameters Register
If zero is set in Register 1 then the default or last NC parameter value from "def_ecrnt" is used.
Fixed radius change does not trigger the sector.
Internal Corner Type: Register 3 is examined for a non-zero value different than that set in NC parameters Register
If zero is set in Register 3, then the default or last NC parameter value from "def_icrnt" is used.
Fixed radius change does not trigger the sector.
Clearance: Register 5 is examined for a non-zero value different than that set in the variable 'b3_w_clpd' to
activate. Clearance is active at the selected point, not along the move to the set point.

NOTE

Register 5 entry in the NC parameters is ignored. Zero is set to the value in "b3_w_clpd."

Related topics

Using Sectors and Events with Agievision

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Agievision Overview
Mastercam provides an Agievision interface for those of you using Agievision controllers. The wirepaths and related
dialog boxes are intentionally designed as close to the actual Agievision interface for a familiar look and ease of use.

The Agievision interface includes a complete set of machine definition/control definition/post processor files:

AGIE GENERIC AGIEVISION_AWF 4X WIRE.mcam-wmd

AGIE GENERIC AGIEVISION_AWF 4X WIRE MM.mcam-wmd
AGIE GENERIC AGIEVISION_AWF 4X WIRE.mcam-control
Agie Generic Agievision_AWF 4X Wire.pst
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To use the Agievision interface, you must use these specific files. Select the AGIE GENERIC
AGIEVISION_AWF 4X WIRE (or MM) machine definition from the Files tab of the Machine Group
Properties dialog box to automatically enable the Agievision interface.

The Mastercam Agievision interface is not compatible with existing parts that have been created with the Agie add-in.

Details concerning Agie add-in

Related topics

Technology Database: Agie

Piece Setup: Machine Group Properties - Agievision
Piece Details: Machine Group Properties - Agievision

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Attributes: Agie
Use this property page to set the wirepath cutting method according to the level of complexity and
difficulty of the wirepath. Use the buttons on the property page to select the cutting method you want to
use. You can also set the trim cut security level (clearance for the wire overburn) on this page.

For detailed, machine control-specific information, please refer to your Agievision manufacturer's documentation.

Parameters

Related topics

Agievision Overview
Technology Database: Agie

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Aux. Registers
Use this page to set values that correspond to registers in the machine control. A register holds a
variable used to give special instructions to the post processor. Certain CNC controls require registers
to be set on entry and at various points in the wirepath. Each Wire library lets you enter up to 10 real
values that set registers on the control. Registers can be set per pass or per point.

By default, the power settings library file, including the register settings, is associated (dynamically linked) with the
operation as an external file. Therefore, you cannot edit the options on this page unless you have disassociated the
wirepath from the power settings library by deselecting Associate to library on the Wire/Power page.
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When you deselect Associate to library, the register settings you change on the Aux. Registers page will
be applied only to the current wirepath, not saved back to your power library. To edit the register settings
in a library, click Open on the Wire/Power page to work in the Edit Library dialog box.

Parameters

Related topics

Wire Reverse Cuts Auxiliary: Control Definition Manager

Edit Library

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Canned Cycle
Use this page to establish the parameters for the canned cycle. Custom canned cycles are defined in
the post processor to control functions specific to the control and wire EDM machine.

Parameters

Related topics

Defining Canned Cycles: Wire

Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview
Cycle Custom Parameters

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Canned Wirepaths
Use Canned Wirepaths to select points and send them to the post processor with custom cycles and/or custom parameters.
You can set up the canned cycles in the Canned Cycle page of the Wirepath dialog box.

A canned cycle is an area in your post processor where you can assign special commands, cycles, or
parameters to points or entities. For example, canned parameters can be used to support custom
features on the wire EDM machine, such as a positioning routine that centers the wire in a drill hole.

Mastercam Wire provides many parameters to create a wirepath. However, for some specialized
industries, you must set unique parameters to get certain results. Because of this, Mastercam also
provides customizable canned parameters that you can make exclusive to your particular work.

Custom canned parameters provide additional parameters for use by the post processor to control functions specific to the
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wire EDM control and machine. You can set the parameters for the custom canned cycles in the Cycle
Custom Parameters page in the Wirepath dialog box.

NOTE

You can make changes to points in a canned wirepath, such as adding, deleting, or changing the
order of canned points in the Toolpath Hole Definition function panel.
The coordinates of all points and/or entities selected are relative to the current Cplane.
The start point of the canned wirepath is marked by a red point.
Mastercam Wire uses the endpoints of the selected entities, if they are not points, as canned wirepath points.

Related topics

Defining Canned Cycles: Wire

Canned Cycle
Cycle Custom Parameters

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Chaining a Wirepath With Multiple Contours

A common method of setting up an operation to cut multiple contours requires that you set chaining
options and create a point entity for the thread/cut point for each contour.

Create the contours to be cut. Both closed and open contours can be part of the same operation.
Create a thread point inside or outside of each contour. When window chaining contours, which you will do later in this
procedure, Mastercam Wire automatically uses each point entity for the thread position for each contour.
Because the lead in should be perpendicular to the wirepath and because Mastercam Wire starts a wirepath
only at an entity endpoint, select the Break closest entity to thread point chaining option in the Chaining
Options dialog box. When you chain the contours, Mastercam Wire automatically breaks the entity that is
closest to the thread point and creates a break that is perpendicular to the thread point. This provides an
entity endpoint for the start of contour that is perpendicular to the lead in.

Using the Window chaining method, select the contours and points, used for the thread points, in a single window.
You can change the default search order (next closest) by choosing different Nested chain options
from the Chaining Options dialog box.

Make parameter selections for each of the dialog box pages. The parameter selections are
applied to all of the contours in the operation.
To have the point entity serve as both a cut and thread point, use one of the following methods:
Select Auto position cut point on the Leads page.
Leave the Lead distance set to 0 (zero) on the Lead Distance page. Mastercam Wire will use the point
entity as the thread position. Entering a value for thread distance moves the thread points.
Choose OK to generate the wirepath.

NOTE

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You can set non-vertical thread/cut positions for each contour of the operation on the Tapered Thread
page. Mastercam Wire uses the thread/cut position of the first contour to set up a non-vertical
thread/cut. It then uses the same non-vertical thread/cut for the remaining contours.

Related topics

Window Chaining
Leads
Lead Distance
Tapered Thread

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Chaining Wirepaths
Wirepath chaining differs slightly from chaining for Mill or Lathe toolpaths. When chaining a wirepath,
you must establish thread and cut positions before you chain the geometry. If you do not set these
positions before chaining, you will receive a message as follows:

If you create a wirepath using the Window chaining method, Mastercam sets the order of items to be chained.
However, if you manually select items to be chained, you must select them in the following order:

Thread
Chain
Cut

NOTE

The start positions default to the same position as the thread position. To set the start position
different from the thread position, you must deselect Set start position to thread point on the
Leads page. You can then set the start position in the Start Position page.
If you set a thread position but not a separate cut position, Mastercam automatically uses the thread position as
both the thread and cut positions. You can also select Auto position cut pointon the Leads page to have
Mastercam automatically set your cut positions to the most efficient cut point for each contour.
When chaining multiple contours, you can set one start position, and then set thread and cut positions for each
contour. The start position can be the same as the thread point on the first contour to be chained.

Related topics

About Wire Positions

Mastercam Wire Overview
Window Chaining Wirepath Geometry with Relief Cuts.

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Change at Point: Wire

Use the Change at Point, Wire dialog box to make associative changes to a contour wirepath. You can assign taper, corner
types, and wire parameters to entity endpoints on the geometry. Change at Point is available only on contour wirepaths.

NOTE

Changes made with Change at Point remain in effect if you change the geometry. However,
Mastercam Wire erases the point changes if you rechain the geometry.
When selecting entity endpoints, the endpoints of two adjacent entities may lie at the same location and appear to be
the same point in the graphics window. However, when using wire compensation to the outside of the geometry,
these two endpoints actually correspond to different locations on the contour because the wirepath has corner arcs.

Use the following procedures to make changes using Change At Point:

Assign canned text to a point

Change control flags

Change control settings

Make associative parameter changes to a point in a wirepath

Parameters

Related topics

Contour Wirepaths
Edit Wirepath
Corner and Arc Types: Contour Wirepaths

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Collar: Agie
Use this property page to choose the type of collar wirepath you want to use (buttons titled below),
and to establish the quality for each of the collar levels in the chosen wirepath.

For detailed, machine control-specific information, please refer to your Agievision manufacturer's documentation.

Parameters

Related topics

Agievision Overview
Technology Database: Agie

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Compensation
Use this page to:

Set the compensation method by which Mastercam offsets the wire from the wirepath.
Choose to offset the wire to the right or left of the wirepath.
Eliminate arcs in the wirepath that are less than or equal to the radius of the wire.
Insert arc moves around corners in the wirepath.
Set Mastercam to check for and eliminate unwanted intersections in the wirepath.

Parameters

Related topics

Cut Parameters: Wirepaths

Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

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Contour Wirepaths
Contour wirepaths have the same general shape in both the XY plane (the lower contour) and the UV
plane (the upper contour). Contour wirepaths can taper inward or outward, and you can specify the
location of the land, the point at which the taper begins. You can further modify the shape of the
contour wirepath by specifying how Mastercam handles sharp and smooth corners. A contour wirepath
can also be based on an open boundary and used for cutting off or trimming a part.

Contour wirepaths support associative point-based editing called Change at Point. The Change at Point
function makes changes at points on the geometry, which links the changes to the operation. Using
Change at Point requires the wirepath to be regenerated.

Related topics

Change at Point

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Control Flags
Use the Control Flags dialog box to assign control flags to a point in a wirepath A control flag triggers
machine events such as stops, glue stops, threading the wire, cutting the wire, or setting the water flush.

To change a control flag, check the box next to the setting and edit the settings.

Parameters

NOTE

You can assign multiple flags to a single point.

In a multi-contour operation, the endpoints must be on the same contour.
When you access the Control Flags dialog box from the Change At Point dialog box, the flag is applied to the pass
selected in the Pass field of the Control Flags dialog box When you access the Control Flags dialog box from the
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Edit Point dialog box, the flag is applied to the point and pass selected in the Point and Pass
fields on the Edit Wirepath dialog box.

Related topics

Contour Wirepaths
Change at Point: Wire
Edit Wirepath
Edit Point: Wire

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Control Settings
Use the Control Settings dialog box to change the wirepath control settings on a point-by-point basis. A
control setting initiates a mode or state in the control by generating a G1010 code (wire condition change).
It also overrides auxiliary register settings entered in the Aux. Registers page of the wirepath dialog box.

To change a control setting, check the box next to the setting and enter a value.

Parameters

NOTE

In a multi-contour operation, the endpoints defining the chain being changed must be on the same contour.
New register values override values entered in the Aux. Registers page of the wirepath dialog
box. The register values stay in effect until new values are entered.
When you access the Control Settings dialog box from the Change At Point dialog box, the setting is
applied to the pass selected in the Pass field of the Control Settings dialog box. When you access
the Control Settings dialog box from the Edit Point dialog box, the setting is applied to the point
and pass selected in the Point and Pass fields on the Edit Wirepath dialog box.

Related topics

Contour Wirepaths
Change at Point: Wire
Edit Wirepath
Edit Point: Wire

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Coolant/Options
Use the Coolant/Options dialog box to make edits to coolant or options settings. This dialog box
changes depending on which Mastercam product you are using. Mill and Lathe provide coolant
options and Router provides options to control peripheral devices.

The precise effect achieved by your selections varies depending on how you accessed this dialog:

If you have reached this dialog from the Toolpath parameters tab or while creating or editing a
toolpath, the options you select apply to the entire toolpath.
If you have reached this dialog while editing a specific point or from the Change at Point dialog box in Lathe, the
coolant options you select apply to that point (or from that point forward, depending on your selection).
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If you have reached this dialog while creating a tool definition, Mastercam uses the selection as the
default whenever that tool is selected for an operation.

The coolant options that are available to you are defined in the active machine definition. For each type of
coolant, you can set a maximum of two states:

Whether to turn the coolant on, off, or to maintain the current state (as set by a previous operation or point)
Whether to apply the change at the current location/block, before it, or after it

NOTE

Your machine definition might not allow all possible states. For example, you might be limited to a simple On/Off toggle.

Generally, you can turn different coolant options off individually; however, for some machines, the first coolant
off code turns off all coolant. The coolant section of the machine definition contains this setting.
As part of the machine definition, you can also set the name of this dialog box and its button, so that
when you run Mastercam you might see this dialog box (and its button) named something other than
Coolant. Depending on the capabilities of your machine tool and how your control definition and post
are set up, this dialog box might be configured to support other options besides coolant.

Related topics

Flushing Commands: Wire

Coolant Commands: General Machine Parameters

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Corner and Arc Types: Contour Wirepaths

Corner and arc types are defined in the Corner type and radius and Arc type and radius sections of the
Corners page of the wirepath dialog box. These settings control how the wire cuts the corners in the
offset contour (the contour that creates the taper).

When a sharp corner (135 degrees or less) is encountered in the geometry, selections made in the Corner
type and radius section define the shape of the tapered contour. When an arc is encountered in the
geometry, selections made in the Arc type and radius section define the shape of the tapered contour.

NOTE

When Compensation type is set to Computer and Roll around corners is set to All or Sharp, some sharp
corners may become arcs. In this case, Arc type and radius will define the shape of the tapered contour.
These options are located on the Compensation page.

The following graphic shows corner and arc types:

Corner type

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UV (upper) contour
XY (lower) contour
Conical corner

Arc type

UV (upper) contour
XY (lower) contour
Conical arc

The Compensation type drop-down option also affects cornering. When you select Control, Mastercam Wire uses
cornering based on the offset shape of the part geometry. When you select either Computer or Both, Mastercam Wire uses
cornering based on the shape of the wirepath, and the wirepath shape may differ from the part geometry shape.

You can also set different corner types for clockwise and counterclockwise corners. The corner direction is determined by
whether the wire rounds the corner in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction based on the chaining direction and is
relative to the corner. The following picture shows a counterclockwise (CCW) wire direction with clockwise corners.
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Below is a list of corner and arc types found in the Corners page of the wirepath dialog box.

Click on a corner/arc type below to view an example. In each example, the geometry is in the XY plane
and the corner and arc types are shown in the UV contour. Also, Roll around corners is set to None, and
each sample wirepath has a 5-degree taper angle.

NOTE

In each example, the UV (upper) contour is represented by the label A, the XY (lower) contour is
represented by the label B, and the Geometry in the XY plane is represented by the label C.

Conical

Sharp

Constant

Other

Fixed

FishTail

Related topics

Contour Wirepaths
Corners: Agie
Compensation

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Corners
Use this page to control the shape of the clockwise and counterclockwise sharp and smooth corners.
The settings in the Wire Corner page of the Control Definition Manager establishes the types of corners
available in the drop-down fields of this page.

When you choose Other as an arc or corner type, Mastercam allows you to specify a radius for a custom
arc/corner defined in the post processor. However, because Mastercam Wire cannot anticipate what type
of arc/corner the post processor will specify, the wirepath will always be displayed with sharp corners in
the Mastercam graphics window, regardless of how the actual wirepath arcs and corners will be cut.

Parameters

Related topics

Taper: Wirepaths
Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview
Corner and Arc Types: Contour Wirepaths

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Corners: Agie
Use this property page to set the type of radius on corners of an entity. You can set values for both the
internal and external corners of the wirepath.

For detailed, machine control-specific information, please refer to your Agievision manufacturer's documentation.

Parameters

Related topics

Agievision Overview
Technology Database: Agie

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Creating a 4-axis Wirepath From a Solid Using

Autosync Rails
This procedure describes how to use Mastercam's Autosync Rails feature to create upper and lower rails
as contours to use when creating a 4-axis wirepath. The first procedure shows how to create rails on a
solid, and the subsequent procedure shows to create a 4-axis wirepath with the created rails.

Creating Autosync rails on a solid

Creating a 4-axis wirepath

Related topics

4-axis Wirepaths

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Cut Parameters: Agie

Use this property page to establish the punch or die cut parameters, including the cut separation and
clearance, the minimum radius for the last cut, and the option for a reverse cut. For 4-axis wirepaths, you
can also set the wirepath 4-axis output format, sync option, linearization tolerance, and the step size.

If you have chosen to synchronize the contours, you can also set the linearization tolerance, used when
converting 3D arcs and 2D or 3D splines in the chained geometry from curves to lines. If you have chosen not
to synchronize the upper and lower contours, Mastercam Wire places points on the wirepath so the wire can
follow the chain. If sync is set to By branch and there are no branch points in the 4-axis geometry, Mastercam
Wire will not create the 4-axis wirepath. Use the Step size field to specify how far apart the points are placed.

For detailed, machine control-specific information, please refer to your Agievision manufacturer's documentation.

Parameters

Related topics
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Agievision Overview
Technology Database: Agie

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Cut Parameters: Wirepaths

Use this page to:

Define the type and number of cuts you will make in the wirepath.
Optionally divide the cuts into separate operations.
Suppress thread or cut flags.
Control stop codes.

Mastercam supports three main categories of cuts: rough and skim cuts before the tab, tab cuts, and skim cuts after the tab.
The Cut Parameters page lists the programmed cuts and indicates their grouping as operations.

Contour Parameters

4 Axis Parameters

Related topics

Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

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Cycle Custom Parameters

Use this page to set up the custom canned cycles, which determine the information that the post
processor needs to perform the canned cycle.

Custom canned cycles are defined in the post processor to control functions specific to the control and wire EDM machine.

Parameters

Related topics

Canned Cycle
Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

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Defining Canned Cycles: Wire

A canned cycle is a set of operations preset in the machine tool and started with a single command. When you are
working in Wire, choose Canned from the Wirepathscontextual tab. to assign canned cycles or canned parameters
to points or entities. If a wirepath has already been generated, you can access it through the Toolpaths Manager.

The format of all wirepath canned cycles is configured by the post processor customization file. Each post processor (.pst)
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file may contain a different set of canned cycle definitions. The following is what occurs if you assign a
canned cycle to a wirepath.

The canned cycle parameter text is set up in the Text page of the Control Definition Manager.
The selected point positions are written to the NCI file along with the values entered in the Canned
Cycle and Cycle Custom Parameters pages of the Wire Canned dialog box.
The post processor reads the NCI file and assigns the values to variables.
The variables are formatted by the post processor.
The procedures defined within the post processor format the NC output.

Canned cycles are initialized at the first point procedure corresponding to the cycle number selected (cycle #1 = pcan1,
cycle #2 = pcan2, cycle #3 = pcan3, and so on.). Additional points are formatted and written by the secondary canned cycle
procedures (cycle #1 = pcan1_2, cycle #2 = pcan2_2, cycle #3 = pcan3_2, etc.). These secondary procedures may output a
list of coordinates, another initialization statement, or both. The code is written to the NC file.

Related topics

Canned Wirepaths

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Edit Library
Use the Edit Library dialog box to either choose a new Wire power settings library for the current operations
or to edit any or all of the parameters of the 24 passes set up in the current power settings library.

You can also display a text list of all the passes and related parameter settings by clicking List library.

NOTE

Changes made to a library will be applied to all operations in the current part file associated with that library. Those
edits will also be applied to any previously saved part files where operations are associated with the edited library.
Operations in the current part file that are associated with an edited wire power settings library will be
marked dirty and need to be regenerated. Associated operations in previously created part files will
be marked dirty as soon as the part file is opened and will require regeneration at that time.

Parameters

Related topics

Tool Libraries

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Edit Point: Wire

Use the Edit Point, Wire dialog box to change the point parameters of a wirepath. This gives you control over the
motion in a wirepath on a point-by-point basis. For example, you can use this dialog box to add taper to a single point
or a series of points, assign control flags for machine events such as flush or power, or change corner type.

Rapid move is unavailable for arcs and Feed rate is disabled for rapid moves.

Parameters
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Related topics

Editing Wirepaths
Change at Point: Wire

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Edit Wirepath
Use the Edit Wirepath dialog box to modify an existing wirepath. You can also view information associated with the
selected wirepath point position, including the G-code, canned text settings, feed rate, and endpoint coordinates.

Listed below are procedures on deleting or adding to a wirepath using the Edit Wirepath dialog box, accessed
by using the right-click menu in the Toolpaths Manager. Select the drop-downs below to view a procedure.

Be sure to make all other changes to the wirepath, such as wire or parameter changes, before
performing this procedure. Because these edits are written directly to the NCI file, not to the geometry,
Mastercam locks the wirepath and prevents regeneration.

Deleting a pass from a wirepath

Deleting a point from a wirepath

Deleting a section from a wirepath

Adding a point to a wirepath

Moving a point in a wirepath

Editing a point in a wirepath

Change control flags in a wirepath

Change control settings in a wirepath

Parameters

Related topics

Edit Point: Wire

Change at Point: Wire
Guidelines for Editing Wirepaths
Control Flags

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Editing Wirepaths
Mastercam provides two methods for changing wirepaths : Parameter editing and point-based editing.

Parameter editing
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To change wirepath parameters, lead ins, lead outs, and tabs, click Parameters for the operation in
Toolpaths Manager to open the wirepath dialog box.

Point-based editing
Mastercam provides two methods for point-based editing of wirepaths.

For contour wirepaths, you can use the Change At Point dialog box to change a parameter, control
setting, control flag, or canned text at a point. Change at Point changes are made to the geometry and
prompt wirepath regeneration if the geometry or parameters change in the future.

For 4-axis, no core, or contour wirepaths, use the Edit Wirepath dialog box. You can use this dialog box and associated
dialog boxes to make changes to the wire motion. Unlike the Change at Point changes, these edits are written directly to
the NCI file, not to the geometry. To preserve these NCI changes, Mastercam locks the NCI file and prevents further
regeneration of the wirepath. If you manually unlock the NCI file, the previous parameter settings will prevail.

Related topics

Edit Wirepath
Change at Point: Wire
Edit Library

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Entry: Agie
Use this property page to set the following:

Location of entry for start point (beginning, middle, or end of entity)

Angle of entry (free, perpendicular, or tangential)
Distances between entry points and other wirepath cut points on entities
Deviation distances between the start point and the contour in both the X and Y directions

For detailed, machine control-specific information, please refer to your Agievision manufacturer's documentation.

Parameters

Related topics

Agievision Overview
Technology Database: Agie

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Exit: Agie
Use this property page to set the following:

Angle of exit (free, perpendicular, or tangential)

Distance of the exit commutation point from the exit
Deviation distances from the contour exit points (open contour only)

For detailed, machine control-specific information, please refer to your Agievision manufacturer's documentation.
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Parameters

Related topics

Agievision Overview
Technology Database: Agie

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Filter: Wirepaths
Use this page to optimize toolpaths by replacing many small moves, within a specified tolerance value, with single moves.
You can control the following variables:

The tolerance for replacing multiple linear moves with a single move.
The number of points Mastercam will look ahead when filtering the wirepath.
An option for one-way filtering. This filters a wirepath in one direction, usually for a finish wirepath,
to avoid small polygonal patterns on the finish that can happen with zigzag filtering.
Replacement of linear moves with arcs. The active control definition specifies the planes in
which arcs can be created.

You can filter Contour, No Core, and 4 Axis wirepaths as they are being created. You can also filter these
wirepaths after generation through the Toolpaths Manager, or filter any NCI file using your preferred
editor. To maintain associativity, we recommend that you filter wirepaths while they are being created.

Parameters

Related topics

Cut Parameters: Wirepaths

Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

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Finish: Agie
Use this property page to enable the finish cut of a No Core wirepath. Just as in the No Core rough wirepaths, you can set:

The machining name (optional, but recommended).

The quality of the cut.
The wire type (material and diameter).
The machining priority.

For detailed, machine control-specific information, please refer to your Agievision manufacturer's documentation.

Parameters

Related topics

Agievision Overview
Technology Database: Agie

Do you have a specific question?

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Finish: Wirepaths
Use this page to create and set up finish passes on No Core wirepaths.

You can:

Define the number of finish passes, finish pass cut amounts, and wire compensation.
Set the start point of the finish pass.
Set the roughing and finishing order in which multiple wirepaths are cut.
Eliminate arcs in the wirepath.
Add a finish contour operation.

Finish passes smooth edges left by the roughing pass and also remove additional material. The roughing pass,
created on the Rough page, is the portion of the no core wirepath that removes almost all of the material.

Parameters

Related topics

No Core
Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

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Group: Agie
Use this property page to set/edit the following group settings for Collar and No Core wirepaths:

The group name.

The wire type.
The priority assigned to the group.
The origin for this operation in relation to the part origin.

You can also use this page to set the technological height, priority, and distance between the
piece and the machine reference point.

For detailed, machine control-specific information, please refer to your Agievision manufacturer's documentation.

Parameters

Related topics

Agievision Overview
Technology Database: Agie

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Guidelines for Change at Point

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When you first create a Contour wirepath, Mastercam Wire provides access to the Change At Point dialog box
before generating the wirepath. After the wirepath is created, you can access the Change At Point dialog box
by clicking Geometry to open the Chain Manager dialog box. Right-click on the chain on which you are
working, and choose Change at point. You can then select the entity endpoint to change.

NOTE

Select the point by clicking on the line next to it, not on the point itself.
Where lines converge, more than one endpoint can exist at the same location.
If you have selected Multi-select in the Chain Manager right-click menu, you can choose as many points on the
active chain as you want. When you are done, press the [Esc] key to open the Change At Point dialog box. If you
deselected Multi-select, as soon as you click the wirepath, the Change At Point dialog box opens.

Related topics
Guidelines for Editing Wirepaths
Change at Point: Wire

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Guidelines for Editing Wirepaths

The following are guidelines to keep in mind when editing wirepaths using Edit Wirepath and related dialogs. For
information regarding Mastercam Wire's change at point editing functions, please see Guidelines for Change at Point.

Be sure to make all other changes to the wirepath, such as wire or parameter changes, before using the Edit
Wirepath dialog box and related dialog boxes. Because these edits are written directly to the NCI file, not to the
geometry, Mastercam locks the wirepath and prevents regeneration. Locked wirepaths, identified in the
Toolpaths Manager by the locked icon, are not updated by Mastercam. To further modify a locked wirepath,
you must manually unlock it by clicking Toggle locking on selected operations in Toolpaths Manager. If the
wirepath is regenerated after editing, any previous mofications to the NCI will be overwritten.
The Edit Wirepath dialog box is not available for manual entry wirepaths. This function provides the
only method of changing point characteristics on the lead ins and lead outs because they are
machine moves generated from parameters, not geometry.
Because changes made through the Edit Wirepath dialog box are made to the machine motion, not
the geometry, they are not associative.
If the wirepath includes multiple passes, you can also choose to delete a pass in that point position.
When selecting points or passes, use one of the following selection methods:
Click the up and down scroll arrows
Click in the field and use the mouse wheel or arrow keys to scroll.
Enter a number directly in the field.
Click a position in the graphics window.
The selected position appears highlighted in the graphics window wirepath display. The display changes as you
use other Wirepath Editor options to move, edit, or delete the selected wirepath point or pass.
Pass is available only if multiple passes are used in the wirepath.
Use the options in the Show section of the Edit Wirepath dialog box to set wirepath display options
in the graphics window. Select Pass to view only the pass you choose in the corresponding
Position field. Select All to view all passes in the wirepath.

Delete Section lets you remove a defined section of the wirepath, based on the starting and ending
point positions you choose.

Related topics

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Editing Wirepaths
Edit Point: Wire
Edit Wirepath

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How Stock to Leave is Applied in Wire

The Stock to leave values, established on the Wire/Power page in the wirepaths dialog boxes, set the
amount of stock to leave for all passes.

All Stock to leave options are only available for Contour and 4-Axis wirepaths. Stock to leave offsets the
wire in the direction specified by the Compensation direction on the Compensation page.

The Program coordinates and Machine offset register determine how it is applied to a wirepath. The defaults for these
options are set in the Stock to leave application section of the Cutter compensation page in the Control Definition.

When Program coordinates is selected

When Machine offset register is selected

In any case where Stock to leave values are applied, if the Compensation direction is set to Auto, Mastercam recognizes
either a defined or implied start point, allowing it to determine to which side to apply the Stock to leave.

Related topics

Edit Library

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Lead Distance
The Lead Distance dialog box property page applies to Contour and 4 Axis wirepaths. Use this page to
override the thread point and establish a lead in distance and position. The options on this page are
unavailable unless Lead distance (overrides thread/cut point) is selected.

Parameters

Related topics

Leads
Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

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Lead Ins and Outs

Lead ins and lead outs determine the moves the wire makes when it enters and exits the part. Contour,
No core, and 4-axis wirepaths all support lead ins and lead outs. Using lead ins and lead outs helps
prevent burrs on the part caused from the wire entering the material straight on.

Mastercam generates the lead in and lead out for each pass around the wirepath. Tab cuts and finish cuts (skim cuts after
tab) can have lead ins and outs of their own and can have settings different from the contour lead ins and lead outs.

Because Mastercam creates lead ins and lead outs as part of the wirepath, they do not require additional
geometry. You can edit the wire motion of the lead in and lead out using the Wirepath Editor.

Lead ins, lead outs, and tabs have settings that are interrelated. For example, on the Leads page, Tab cuts (no dropout
method) disables Auto position cut point and all the settings for Tab cut leads and finish leads on the Tab finish leads page.

Related topics

Leads
Tab/Finish Leads

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Leads
Use the Leads page to set the wire motion when entering or exiting a part with a Contour or 4 Axis wirepath
when making a rough or skim cut before a tab, a tab cut, or a skim cut after a tab cut. Use this page to set the
wire motion when entering or exiting a part, allow Mastercam to determine the cut points, and automatically
move the start point to the thread point of the first contour when creating a No Core wirepath.

You can also enable/disable tab and finish cut lead settings, allow Mastercam to determine
the cut points, and automatically move the start point to the thread point of the first contour.

Parameters

Related topics

4-axis Wirepaths
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Contour Wirepaths

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Machining / Rough: Agie

Use the Machining page for Contour and 4-Axis Agie wirepaths, or the Rough page for No Core Agie
wirepaths to set/edit the following:

The machining name.

The quality of the cut.
The wire type.
The machining strategy to be used.

You can also use these pages to set the technological height, priority, and distance between the
piece and the machine reference point.

NOTE

The wire type, quality, and strategy defaults are established on the Details tab of the Machine Group Properties dialog box.

For detailed, machine control-specific information, please refer to your Agievision manufacturer's documentation.

Parameters

Related topics

Agievision Overview
Technology Database: Agie

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Mastercam Wire Overview

Wire creates toolpaths, referred to as wirepaths, for EDM machines, offering advanced tapering in both 2-axis and 4-
axis wirepaths, automatic corner filleting, and skim cut definition, synchronization, and tab creation. Mastercam
Wire displays a wirepath in both wireframe and solid simulation so that you can check it for accuracy.

A wirepath requires chained geometry. Chaining gathers the entities to be included in the wirepath and
sets the cutting direction. Upon completion of chaining, a multi-page dialog box appears that requires the
selection of a wire power settings library, part height, wire guide locations, lead ins and outs, and tabs.
Once generated, the wirepath is associative. Associativity allows you to make geometry and parameter
changes, and in contour wirepaths, point-based changes, such as taper and corner type.

Click the following links for more information on different types of wirepaths:

Canned Wirepaths
Contour Wirepaths
4-axis Wirepaths
No Core Wirepaths
Point Wirepaths Overview

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Misc. Values: Wirepaths

Use this page to enter values for custom parameters that have been defined for the current post
processor. You can set values for up to 20 miscellaneous values: 10 reals (mr1-mr10) and 10 integers
(mi1-mi10). The default values, the text labels, and how the post processor formats and uses these
values is unique to each post processor. The default values and text are set in the control definition.

NOTE

Mastercam writes the miscellaneous values to the NCI file at the beginning of each operation and links
each value to the appropriate variable when you run the post processor.
Use the Misc Int/Real page in the Control Definition Manager to manage the default values and behavior. The
exact appearance of this dialog and the fields that it displays vary depending on the selected machine.

Parameters

Related topics

Wire/Power: POWER
Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

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No Core
Use this page to establish the No Core wirepath settings such as the Z depth of a rapid move, the positions of the upper and
lower wire guides, and the UV and XY plane heights, which are (usually the upper and lower contour of the geometry.

You can also set the linearization tolerance and enable/disable the wirepath start and end positions to
automatically start and end at the thread and cut points.

Parameters

Related topics

Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

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No Core Wirepaths
No core wirepaths pocket out areas of material without producing a slug. The wirepath typically starts at a pre-
drilled hole in the material, and zigzags or spirals outward until all material within the chained geometry is removed.
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No Core wirepaths require closed chains. You can have more than one chain for each no core wirepath, where chains are
located within an outer chain. The inner chains represent areas on the part where material has already been removed in a
previous machining operation. Mastercam Wire looks at the inner chains as areas that are already machined.

The no core wirepath pockets out material within a closed boundary. A roughing pass is the portion of the no core
wirepath that removes almost all of the material. A finish pass can be used to smooth out rough edges left by the no
core roughing pass. The finish pass can also take off additional material as specified by the finish pass spacing.
Mastercam Wire offsets the roughing pass by the amount of material to be removed by the finish pass.

No Core Cutting Methods

The roughing pass is the portion of a no core wirepath that removes almost all of the material. Roughing parameters
include the cutting method used to remove the material and the direction of wire movement. The cutting method options
are patterns that Mastercam Wire uses to clean out the no core part. Listed are the available cutting methods for No Core:

Zigzag

Constant Overlap Spiral

Parallel Spiral

Parallel Spiral, Clean Corners

Morph Spiral

True Spiral

Related topics

Wirepath Type

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Non-vertical Thread Cuts

Use the options in the Tapered Thread page to specify an XY location in the UV plane for the thread
or cut position, creating a non-vertical thread cut as shown below.
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UV contour
XY contour
Non-vertical thread cut position.
Original thread/cut position.

Mastercam pairs the UV plane coordinates with the XY plane coordinates to allow threading or
cutting the wire on an angle.

It is recommended that you create a point entity at the Z depth of the location where you want the non-vertical thread/cut
position. Having a point entity simplifies entering the point coordinate because you can select it from the graphics window.

You can set the thread/cut position to a non-vertical position when you first generate the wirepath or
modify an existing operation through the Toolpaths Manager.

Related topics

Taper: Wirepaths
Tapered Thread
Setting a Non-vertical Thread Cut

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Planes: Wirepaths
Use this page to set the planes in which your wirepath will be created. You can set the Work
Coordinate System (WCS) and the work plane origin.

Set the X, Y, and Z offsets for the WCS origin in the Working coordinate system section of this page. These coordinates are
relative to the plane you have set as the WCS. You can also select a named plane as the new WCS and have Mastercam set
the work plane relative to it. In this case, Mastercam will use the work offset that is stored with the WCS.

In the Work Plane section, set the X, Y, and Z offsets for the work origin in this section. These offsets
are relative to the WCS.

Parameters

Related topics

Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

Views, Planes, and Coordinate Systems
Work Offset Numbers

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Point: Wirepaths
Use this page to establish the point wirepath settings such as the Z depth of a rapid move, the
positions of the upper and lower wire guides, and the UV and XY heights.

Parameters

Related topics

Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

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Point Wirepaths Overview

Point wirepaths create rapid moves that can be used to avoid a clamp or fixture on the wire EDM machine.
A rapid move is a non-cutting move made at the machine's top speed, and at a specified height so that
the wire guides clear the clamp or fixture.

You create a point wirepath by choosing Point on the Wire Wirepaths contextual tab, using the Point Toolpath dialog box
options to create the point wirepath, and then the pages of the Wirepath - Point dialog box to set the point wirepath
parameters. Point wirepaths are associative and can be edited by clicking on the geometry icon in the Toolpaths Manager.

Related topics

Change at Point: Wire

Guidelines for Change at Point
Point Toolpath

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Rough/Method: Wirepaths/Agie
Use this page to create and set up rough passes on No Core wirepaths.

The roughing pass is the portion of the No Core wirepath that removes most of the material. Finish passes, that are
set up on the Finish page, smooth edges left by the roughing pass and also remove additional material.

Parameters

Related topics

No Core Wirepaths
Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

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Setting a Non-vertical Thread Cut

Follow these steps to specify one non-vertical position to be used for the thread position, the cut position, or both:

After creating part geometry, choose a wire machine from the Machine tab.
Select a toolpath from the Wirepaths contextual tab.
Chain the geometry and choose OK.
You can access the wire parameters on an existing wirepath by clicking Parameters in the Toolpaths Manager.
In the wirepath dialog box, select the Tapered Thread page.
Select the Tapered threading checkbox to activate the options.
Enter the location for the non-vertical thread/cut position in one of the following ways:
Choose Select and pick a point in the graphics window.
Enter the XYZ coordinates for the position.
Enable the position for the thread, the cut, or both.
Choose Apply to apply the change and edit a different page in the dialog box, or choose OK to apply
the change and exit the dialog box.

Related topics

Tapered Thread
Non-vertical Thread Cuts

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Start Point: Agie

Use this property page to set the start point parameters, including the name, XYZ coordinates, and the
diameter of the start point.

For detailed, machine control-specific information, please refer to your Agievision manufacturer's documentation.

Parameters

Related topics

Agievision Overview
Technology Database: Agie

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Start Position
Use this page to override a wirepath's default start position To override the start position using this
page, specify the new start position in one of three ways:

Enter coordinate positions directly in the X, Y, and Z fields. Enter coordinate values relative to the
current Tplane and Tplane origin.
Choose From machine to read the start position established in the Start position section of
the Machine axis combinations dialog box (Wire).
Choose Select to return to the graphics window and select a point. Mastercam will automatically
enter the point's coordinates in this dialog box.

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For Contour, No Core, and 4 Axis wirepaths, this page will be disabled if Set start position to thread point in the Leads page
is selected. For canned cycles, this checkbox is located on the Canned Cycle page. If Set start position to thread point is
selected, the disabled icon is displayed next to Start position and the options in the page will not be available.

The source of the default start position is specified in the Start/Leads, Wire page of the control
definition. It can also come from the machine definition or the wirepath defaults file. Regardless of where
the default value comes from, you can use this page to override it for any operation.

Related topics

Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

Wire Start/Leads: Control Definition Manager

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Stops
Use this page to create optional stops (M01) or program stops (M00) in a wirepath. For contour
wirepaths, you have the options to apply the stops before and/or after tabs.

This page is disabled unless you select Tabs on the Cut Parameters page.

Parameters

Related topics

Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

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Subprograms: Wirepaths
Use this page to use subprograms to repeat XY moves in wirepaths.

Parameters

Related topics

Subprograms
Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

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Tab/Finish Leads
Use this page to set the wire motion when entering or exiting a part when making tab cuts (Tab cut leads
section) and skim cuts after a tab cut (Finish leads section).

This page is disabled unless you do the following:

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Deselect Tab cuts (no dropout method) on the Leads page.

Select Tabs on the Cut Parameters page.

If either of these conditions is not met, the disabled icon is displayed next to Tab/Finish Leads in the
Tree View list of pages, and the options in the page will not be available.

Parameters

Related topics

Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

Leads
Cut Parameters: Wirepaths

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Taper: Agie
Use this page to control the type, direction, and angle of tapered wirepath cuts.

For detailed, machine control-specific information, please refer to your Agievision manufacturer's documentation.

Parameters

Related topics

Agievision Overview
Technology Database: Agie

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Taper: Wirepaths
Use this page to taper the contour wirepath inward or outward and specify the location of the land, the
point at which the taper begins. You can also select how to apply the taper to passes and specify the
tilt direction of the taper to the left or right of wirepath.

You can also use this page to set the following taper heights:

Z height of the upper wire guide for rapid moves

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Location of the upper wire guide (UV Trim Plane) and the lower wire guide (XY Trim Plane)
Height of the part (the upper contour of the wirepath)
Plane at which the wire pivots to the taper angle (available only for land up or land down taper styles)
Location of the XY plane (the lower contour of the wirepath)

Parameters

Related topics

Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

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Tapered Thread
Use this page to specify an XY location in the UV plane for the thread or cut position, to create a tapered thread.

You can specify one tapered thread/cut position for the thread position, the cut position, or both. In an
operation of multiple contours, Mastercam uses the thread/cut position of the first contour to set up a
tapered thread/cut. It then uses the same relative tapered thread/cut for the remaining contours.

Parameters

Related topics

Taper: Wirepaths
Non-vertical Thread Cuts
Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

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Technology Database
Use the Technology Database dialog box to switch to another TECH power library and/or select the options to set the
power, offset, feed, and register values for the current operation. These values populate the Primary cut and Taper cut
tables on the Wire/Power page (TECH power libraries) dialog box and post out to your NC file for the wirepath operation.

For the primary cut, click Browse in the upper right corner of the dialog box to select a different TECH power library.
For the taper cut, Browse is not available because the taper cut must use the same library as the primary cut.

Some fields in this dialog box are display-only and cannot be edited. Other fields may or may not be available if you
enter the dialog box from the Taper cut Tech button. This is because once you have chosen a TECH power library
for the primary cut, the Technology Database dialog box is only used to refine some values for the taper cut.

Parameters

Related topics

Wire/Power: TECH

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Technology Database: Agie

Use the Technology Database, Agie dialog box to create or edit Agievision technologies used in creating Agie wirepaths.

For detailed, machine control-specific information, please refer to your Agievision manufacturer's documentation.

Parameters

Related topics

Agievision Overview

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Threading: Agie
Use this property page to set the threading location and start hole diameter for the wirepath start point.

For detailed, machine control-specific information, please refer to your Agievision manufacturer's

documentation. Parameters

Related topics

Agievision Overview
Technology Database: Agie

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Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

Many Mastercam toolpath and wirepath dialog boxes have three distinct areas: Tree View, Page, and Quick View Settings.
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For details on each of these areas, click the following drop-downs:

1) Tree View area

2) Page area

3) Quick View Settings area

Related topics

Wirepath Type
Toolpath Type: Mill/Router

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Using Sectors and Events with Agievision

Below is an example of change at point with the Agiereg add-in. Miscellaneous settings mi2 and/or mi3
are output when the events are found in the wire path. Here is an example of immediate taper changes at
the right and upper positions of the rectangle. Gradual tapers should not be set with this method. The 2D
to 4-axis wire path conversion option should be used because the control does not support these events.
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From the Toolpaths Manager, click Geometry.

The Chain Manager dialog appears. Right click Chain 1, and select Change at point from the list.

Select the point to change from the screen geometry. The Change At Point dialog appears. Here you can change the
taper as shown in the dialog. From the Change At Point dialog, check Control settings, and select the button.
 In the Control Settings dialog, select AgieVision.
Make changes in the Agreg dialog box to control specific features in the machine control.

Related topics

AgieReg
Window Chaining Wirepath Geometry with Relief Cuts
Mastercam supports window chaining of relief cuts in your material workpiece. As shown in the
following example, Mastercam recognizes these single lines as relief cuts and chains them as such.
The wire travels up those lines and back down and continues on around the closed geometry.

Several conditions must be met in order for Mastercam to recognize these relief lines when window chaining:

The part must be a closed contour; open chains are not supported.
You must create a Contour wirepath.
The relief lines have to be single line, arc, or spline entities placed at the endpoints of the entities in the
closed chain. If a single relief line is placed at a midpoint, it will be recognized as a separate chain.

NOTE

You should deselect Infinite look ahead on the Compensation page or the relief moves will be filtered out of the wirepath.

Related topics

Chaining Wirepaths
About Wire Positions
Mastercam Wire Overview

Wire/Power: POWER
Mastercam Wire uses two types of power settings libraries. This topic covers the type of libraries
with the .POWER extension. For information on the .TECH power libraries, see Wire/Power: TECH.

Use this page to choose a wire power settings library file and use its values for the wirepath operation. By default, the

power settings library file is associated with the operation as an external file. The settings that display
in this page reflect the most recent version of the associated power library file in its saved location.

You can also set the pass number to use for the first pass of the wirepath, and specify the settings for a single pass. Each
pass can have unique settings. Up to 24 passes can be stored in a single wire library file. In Mastercam Wire, pass refers to
a single path made by the wire around a contour. Pass is synonymous with cut. Each pass can be saved with unique power
settings needed to cut a certain material type on a certain wire EDM machine. For example, Pass 1 in the library may
correspond to a rough cut, Pass 2 a tab cut, and Passes 3 - 5 finish cuts, also known as skim cuts.
NOTE

Because the power settings library file is associated with the operation as an external file, the fields you use to
edit the power settings for each pass are unavailable unless you have disassociated the wirepath from the
power settings library by deselecting Associate to library. Using this method allows you to create unique
power library settings that are saved only with the wirepath operation in the Mastercam part file.
Stock to leave and Apply additional offset to apply to the entire operation rather than a single pass. Therefore,
these two options will always be available, whether or not you have selected Associate to library .
Applying Stock to leave settings may require post customization.
To convert a power library from a previous version of Mastercam, simply change the file
extension to .power in Windows Explorer before accessing it from Mastercam.

Parameters

Related topics

Edit Library
How Stock to Leave is Applied in Wire
Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview

Wire/Power: TECH
Mastercam Wire uses two types of power settings libraries. This topic covers the .TECH power libraries.
For information on power libraries with the .POWER extension, see Wire/Power: POWER.

Use this page to choose a wire TECH power settings library file and use its values for the wirepath
operation. This page pertains to any machine group based on a machine definition where the controller
uses a TECH library, such as Makino or Mitsubishi.

A TECH library is usually organized into 9 passes. In Mastercam Wire, pass refers to a single path made by
the wire around a contour. Pass is synonymous with cut. The first pass is usually the rough pass, and the
rest are finish passes. The exception is contour wirepaths that have a taper cut with a land. These types of
wirepaths can have up to 18 passes; nine for the primary cut, and nine for the tapered cut.

TECH power libraries are not associated to wirepaths. When first creating a wirepath, Mastercam Wire
reads the power settings from the library but allows them to be changed for the current operation. When
editing the wirepath, Mastercam Wire retains the power settings that you set. Default TECH libraries are
set up in the Files and Control Model pages of the Control Definition Manager.

Use the Wire/Power, TECH dialog box to:

Choose a different TECH power library for the current operation or edit some of the current library
settings by using the TECH buttons to open the Technology database.
Edit power library values in the tables for both the primary cut and taper cuts.
Establish the starting pass for the operation.

Apply wire, power, and coolant options.

Set the stock to leave value for the wirepath.

Parameters

Related topics

How Stock to Leave is Applied in Wire

Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview
Technology Database

Wirepath Subprograms for Identical Contours

The All contours use same subprogram option in the Subprograms page replicates the wirepath
information from the first contour to create each consecutive contour in the file. Choosing this
checkbox causes Mastercam to use the same subprogram on all chained contours in the operation.

These restrictions apply:

 You cannot use this option on non-identical contours.
When using subprograms on identical contours, the contours must be oriented the same way
and have the same relative distance from the thread position to the start of contour.
You must individually chain each contour and start, thread, and cut position that you want to
include in the subprogram.

The NCI file contains all of the parameter information for each contour. However, the amount of information that is
contained in the NC file is minimized by creating and using a subprogram to machine the same contour.

NOTE

When you backplot a file that contains subprograms, each contour is backplotted and displayed in the graphics window.

Related topics

Subprograms
About Subprograms in Mastercam Wire
Subprograms: Control Definition Manager
Wirepath Type
Use this page to view the type of wirepath you are creating or editing. You can also add, edit, and delete
comments for the wirepath. Comments help identify the operation in the Toolpaths Manager as shown below.

Comments can be output in the NC file when you post if you select the proper option in the Files tab of
the Machine Group Properties dialog box.

Related topics

Toolpath/Wirepath Dialog Boxes Overview