MULTI-SURFACE MACHINING

TUTORIAL

TekSoft, Inc.
An Company
www.teksoft.com
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Copyright ©2001 TekSoft, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

PC17d November, 2001
Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1 GETTING STARTED 1-1
How to Use This Manual................................................................................. 1-2
Installing Learning Files ............................................................................ 1-2
Steps to Generate an NC Program................................................................... 1-3
Step 1 Draw or Open the Part and Create Surfaces .................................. 1-3
Step 2: Change to the Operation Tree....................................................... 1-4
Step 3: Set the Setup Information ............................................................. 1-5
Setup Information Dialog Box ............................................................. 1-5
Changing Setup Information ................................................................ 1-6
Step 4: Define the Operations ................................................................... 1-6
Step 5: Generate the Toolpaths ................................................................. 1-9
Step 6: Post Process the Part ................................................................... 1-11
ProCAM System Flow Chart......................................................................... 1-14
CHAPTER 2 ROUGHING 2-1
Inserting a Rough Cutting Cycle ..................................................................... 2-2
Generating a Rough Cutting Cycle on a Core Part .................................... 2-2
Generating a Rough Cutting Cycle on a Cavity Part ................................. 2-5
Adding and Changing Machining Depths.................................................. 2-7
Automatic Method................................................................................ 2-8
Interactive Method................................................................................ 2-9
Using Machining Depth Processing Options ........................................... 2-10
For More Practice .......................................................................................... 2-15
Exercise Rough1 ...................................................................................... 2-15
Exercise Rough2 ...................................................................................... 2-16
Exercise Rough3 ...................................................................................... 2-17
CHAPTER 3 FINISH CUTTING CYCLES 3-1
Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle........................................................................ 3-2
Planar Slice Cutting an Entire Surface....................................................... 3-2
Cutting a Portion of a Surface.................................................................... 3-3
Using Slice Cut as a Semi-Finish Cycle .................................................... 3-5
Changing Parameters ................................................................................. 3-6
Stock Type............................................................................................ 3-6
Max Deviation ...................................................................................... 3-7
Waterfall Ends ...................................................................................... 3-8
Cut Amount and Scallop Stepover ..................................................... 3-10
Planar Cutting With a Taper Tool............................................................ 3-12
Surface Flowline Cutting ......................................................................... 3-13
Selectively Machining Areas Using Contain and Avoid ......................... 3-17

i
Table of Contents

Single Offset Slice Cutting ...................................................................... 3-18

Generating Toolpaths from an Open Cross Section Entity ................ 3-18
Double Offset Slice Cutting..................................................................... 3-20
Generating Toolpaths with Closed Cross Section Entities................. 3-20
Using Cross Section Entities with a Different Number of Entities .... 3-22
Generating Toolpaths with Open Cross Section Entities ................... 3-24
Pocket/Lace Offset Slice Cutting............................................................. 3-26
Generating Toolpaths for a Pocket with an Island ............................. 3-26
Generating Toolpaths for a Pocket ..................................................... 3-27
Generating Toolpaths for a Pocket with Multiple Islands.................. 3-28
Spiral Slice Cutting .................................................................................. 3-29
Generating a Spiral Slice Cut Cycle................................................... 3-29
Radial Slice Cutting ................................................................................. 3-32
Generating a Radial Slice Cut Cycle .................................................. 3-32
UV Cutting Cycle .......................................................................................... 3-35
Generating Toolpaths on an Entire Surface ............................................. 3-35
Cutting a Portion of a Surface.................................................................. 3-37
UV Cutting Multiple Surfaces ................................................................. 3-38
Generating Toolpaths for Multiple Surfaces ...................................... 3-38
Cutting Multiple Fillet Surfaces as a Continuous Surface ................. 3-41
For More Practice..................................................................................... 3-42
Exercise UV1...................................................................................... 3-42
Exercise UV2...................................................................................... 3-43
Z-Level Cutting Cycle ................................................................................... 3-44
Generating a Z-Level Cut on a Surface of Revolution ............................ 3-44
Transitioning Between Z-level Cuts ........................................................ 3-46
Generating a Z-Level Cycle on a Core and a Cavity ............................... 3-49
For More Practice..................................................................................... 3-54
Exercise Z-Level1 .............................................................................. 3-54
Exercise Z-Level2 .............................................................................. 3-55
Pencil Mill Cutting Cycle .............................................................................. 3-57
Generating a Pencil Mill Cut Cycle ......................................................... 3-57
Using the Combined Pattern .................................................................... 3-59
CHAPTER 4 CONTOUR CUTTING CYCLES 4-1
Curve Cutting .................................................................................................. 4-2
Generating a Curve Cutting Cycle on a Surface Curve ............................. 4-2
Free Form Cutting ........................................................................................... 4-4
Generating a Free Form Cutting Cycle to Engrave Text ........................... 4-4

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 Table of Contents

CHAPTER 5 DRILLING CYCLES 5-1

Drilling............................................................................................................. 5-2
Surface Drilling.......................................................................................... 5-2
Drill Roughing................................................................................................. 5-4
Rough Machining Deep Cavities ............................................................... 5-4
CHAPTER 6 VERIFYING TOOLPATHS 6-1
ProVerify ......................................................................................................... 6-2
Defining the Stock ..................................................................................... 6-2
Comparing Work in process and Design Parts .......................................... 6-3
Design Part Simulation .............................................................................. 6-5
INDEX

iii
Table of Contents

iv
Chapter 1 Getting Started

This manual is designed to introduce you to the features of the ProCAM Multi-surface
Machining system. The information and exercises in this chapter help you understand the
process to generate toolpaths and NC code.
IMPORTANT! The ProCAM II Getting Started Guide explains the basics of working in
ProCAM and the exercises in this manual assume that you have read the Getting Started
Guide and have an understanding of how to use ProCAM.

Getting Started 1-1

How to Use This Manual

How to Use This Manual

IMPORTANT! The ProCAM II Getting Started Guide explains the basics of working in
ProCAM and the exercises in this manual assume that you have read the Getting Started
Guide and have an understanding of how to use ProCAM.
This manual is a tutorial that guides you through the steps to generate an NC program and
introduce you to the features of the ProCAM Multi-surface Machining system.
• The information and exercises in Chapter 1 help you understand the process of creating
an NC program.
• The exercises Chapters 2 through 6 provide an opportunity to learn how to use the
features and functions of the Multi-surface Machining system. Many of the ProCAM
functions are the same whether you are working in 2½ Axis Mill or Multi-surface
Machining, for example, drilling, Free Form cut, verifying parts, using the MCS, editing
toolpaths, etc. Exercises for these functions are provided in the 2½ Axis Mill Tutorial and
are not repeated in this manual.
• If you want more information about a particular feature or function, see the applicable
topics in the online Help system. To open the Multi-surface Machining Help, select Help
on the ProCAM menu bar, then select Surface Machining Help.
Did You Know ...
The Manuals folder on the ProCAM CD contains a complete set of ProCAM manuals.
When you install ProCAM II from the ProCAM CD, the manuals are copied into the
\procad\manuals\ProCAM II folder on your PC. These files are in Adobe Portable
Document Format (PDF) and can be viewed, searched and printed using the Acrobat
Reader. If you do not have the Reader, you can install it from the AcrobatReader folder
on the CD or download it from the Adobe web site.

Installing Learning Files

Sample parts are provided for the exercises in this manual. A generic post processor,
FANTUTM, is also included. This post processor is to be used for learning purposes only.
The NC code it generates is not intended to actually run in your machine. When you ran the
Setup program to install ProCAM, the program automatically created a
\procad\pcii\learn\mill folder containing the learning part files and copied the FANTUTM
controller files to the \procad\ctl folder.
For more information on installing ProCAM, see the ProCAM Installation Guide.

1-2 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

Steps to Generate an NC Program

The following steps are used to generate NC programs in Multi-surface Machining:

1. Draw or open the part and create surfaces.

2. Change to the Operation tree.
3. Select the Controller and set the Setup Information.
4. Define operations.
5. Generate toolpaths.
6. Post process the part.

The next series of exercises show you how to generate finish toolpaths for a surface using a
.25" diameter ball nose cutter. In order to give you a feel for how the Multi-surface
Machining system works, you are asked to accept a number of defaults while you are
defining the operation. This is done to show you the basics of generating a toolpath without
getting into details at this time.

Some of the exercises in this manual are for learning Multi-surface Machining and may not
correspond to actual machining practices.

Step 1 Draw or Open the Part and Create Surfaces

Parts can be drawn in ProCAM or imported from other design systems in a number of
different formats. Surfaces can be created in ProCAM Surfacing or imported in ProCAM 3D
(3d), IGES, Parasolid (x_t, x_b), and VDA file formats. This manual assumes you have gone
through the ProCAM CAD / Surfacing Tutorial and are familiar with the different types of
surfaces.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file UV Cut Contour.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.
This part was drawn in ProCAM
CAD and has a surface created in
ProCAM Surfacing.
2. Position the pointer in the work area
and click the left mouse button.
3. Press the W key on the keyboard,
then press the S key.
These keys are shortcuts for
changing between wire frame and
shaded display.
Use shaded display for this exercise.

Getting Started 1-3

Steps to Generate an NC Program

Step 2: Change to the Operation Tree

EXERCISE 1. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager on the left
side of the window.
The Operation tree displays. The tree provides an outline view of the controller, tools and
operations you set up to machine the part. The graphical display in the tree makes it easy
to define operations and see how the part will be machined. When you right-click on an
operation, the shortcut menu provides a list of applicable commands: New Operation,
Edit Operation, Rerun Current, etc. The Operation tree also contains a controller item that
identifies the current controller and a Tool item that lists the tools that are used in the
operations. Right-clicking the Tool item displays the Mill
Tools dialog box. Initially, the controller item at the top
of the tree indicates that no controller is selected.
2. Right click anywhere in the tree.
When you right click in the tree, a shortcut menu displays
a list of commands.
3. Select the Select Controller command.
The Controller Type dialog box displays a list of post processors.
The list that displays for your system depends on the number of
post processors you have installed.
4. Double-click FANTUTM or select FANTUTM and click OK.
In the exercises in this manual, when you choose a controller type,
select FANTUTM. This is a sample post processor and is not
intended for production use. When you create your own parts, pick
the post processor that will be used to cut the part.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup
Information dialog box displays. This dialog box is explained on
page 1-5. You can click OK to continue.
5. Click the Multi-surface Machining button on the CAD toolbar.
Clicking the Surface Machining button is the manual method to display the Multi-surface
Machining toolbar and you will only use this method occasionally. When you are
defining operations, the toolbar displays automatically.
The Multi-surface Machining toolbar replaces the CAD toolbar. The cutting cycle
commands on this toolbar are also easily accessible from the shortcut menu in the
Operation tree.

1-4 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

Step 3: Set the Setup Information

The Setup Information command on the CAM menu is used for the following:
• to provide information required to generate the NC program. The parameters in this
dialog box are machine-dependent and different parameters may display for your
controller or post processor. The value for a parameter is output in the NC code if the
machine requires it.
• to provide information for the Setup Sheet, a file that is created when the NC program file
is generated. All of the parameters in this dialog box are included in the Setup Sheet. For
more information on this file, see page 1-13.
Setup Information Dialog Box
The Setup Information dialog box
displays automatically when you
Multi-surface Machining (if you have
the Feed and Speed Library installed)
or when you select Setup Information
on the CAM menu.
The parameters shown in the figure are
required for most NC programs.
Additional parameters, such as Part
Name, Part Number, Customer ID, Job
Number and Comment Lines may
display if they are required by the controller or post processor.
Required by Output to Setup
Parameter Description NC Code Sheet
Program This parameter is the program number that is used by the Machine- Yes
Number machine tool controller to register the program into the dependent
memory of the controller. In a Fanuc controller, this is a
four-digit number. You do not need to enter leading zeroes.
For example, for program number 10, you would type 10
and the program number would be output as 0010.
If your machine needs a character string in front of the
number, this is typically done automatically by the post
processor. For the Fanuc post that is being used here, a
letter O will be output in front of the program number by
the post processor, so it does not need to be entered as part
of the program number.
Material Some machines use this information to determine how the Machine- Yes
machine will operate (for example, to determine tonnage). dependent
If you are not sure about your machine, ask your distributor.
Part Some machines do not use this parameter. Machine- Yes
Thickness dependent

Getting Started 1-5

Steps to Generate an NC Program

Changing Setup Information

EXERCISE 1. Click CAM on the menu bar and choose Setup Information on the CAM menu.
2. In the Setup Information dialog box, type 100 for the Program Number and press TAB.
3. Type 1212 for the Material and press TAB.
4. Type 1.5 for the Part Thickness and click OK.

Step 4: Define the Operations

Multi-surface Machining uses operations to define each cutting cycle. If you had a part that
had to be roughed using Rough Cut, finish contoured using UV Cut and engraved using
Curve Cut, you would define three operations.
In this example, you have one operation, a finish contour cut. The operation contains all the
information necessary for finish contouring the surface of the part. During the definition of
this operation, the defaults are used for a number of parameters. All of these parameters are
explained in the online Help.
EXERCISE 1. Right click anywhere in the Operation tree
on the left side of the window, select New
Operation, then select UV in the operation
list.
The Set Operation - UV Cut Properties
dialog box displays. Each operation
contains the cutting information for that
cycle. As you work with different cycles,
the parameters in the Set Operation dialog
box change to reflect the cutting cycle you
are defining.
The Active Tool text box on the Tool tab is
highlighted.
The prompt line reads: ENTER tool number.

1-6 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

In this exercise, you define a .25" diameter ball nose cutter.

2. Click the Active Tools button on the Tool tab.

The Mill Tools dialog box displays. When you define operations, you specify the tools in
the Mill Tools dialog box that will be used to generate the toolpaths. The Turret in the
dialog box represents the tools that will be loaded into the machine tool turret.
For ease of use, the tools in the Turret can be saved in tool files and used for multiple
jobs. In addition, ProCAM allows you to create a tool library, which is a database that can
represent all the tools in your current inventory. Tool libraries are more powerful and
flexible than tool files. You can create a library for all the tools in your shop or for all the
tools for a job.
Tool libraries are created without regard to the number of stations in a turret. Sample tool
libraries (MillToolLibary_Inch.mtl and MillToolLibrary_Metric.mtl) are provided and
can be opened by clicking the Show Library button. For more information on tool
libraries, see the online Help.
3. Double-click the first tool station in the list.
You can also highlight the tool, then click the Edit button.
The Set Tool dialog box
displays.
The Tool Name identifies
the Station # or Record # of
the tool you selected in the
Mill Tools dialog box. If
you are defining a tool in
the Turret, this is the
Station # listed in the Turret section of the Mill Tools dialog box and in the Set Operation
dialog box when you define an operation. This number is the tool number that is output in
the NC program during post processing. If you are defining a tool in the Tool Library, this
is the Record # for the tool in the database.

Getting Started 1-7

Steps to Generate an NC Program

Tool Type Lists the types of tools you can define: end mill, hog nose, ball nose, drill,
taper end mill, taper ball nose, taper hog nose.
Diameter All tools require a diameter.
Corner Radius Only hog nose tools require a corner radius.
Length Refers to the cut length of the tool.
Taper Angle Defines the taper angle of the taper tool. The angle is measured between
the shank of the tool and the taper on the cutting edge of the tool.
Taper Length Defines the distance from the end of the taper tool to where the taper
meets the main diameter of the tool.
Number of The number of teeth or flutes on the tool. Feed and speed calculations are
Teeth partially based on the number of teeth.
Tool Material ProCAM uses the tool material to determine feed and speed values for the
toolpaths created from this operation.
Comment Comment is a 24-character optional field. The comment is for in-line
documentation and clarification only. Comments are typically output as
characters within parentheses (.....) in the output from the post process .txt
file (NC program). The first 11 characters of the comment are also output
in the .set file (Setup Sheet).

4. Define the tool using the following information:

− Tool Type = Ball nose
− Diameter = .25"
− Comment = 0.25" Dia 4 Flute BN
5. Click OK.
This is one way to define tools. In addition, you can use tool files and tool libraries to
eliminate having to define the tools for every part.
6. Click OK to exit the Mill Tools dialog box.
The Tool tab shows 01 as the current tool.
7. In the Set Operation dialog box, set the parameters on the tabs as listed below. You can
use the defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value Description
Tool Operation Finish You can enter up to 24 characters to describe the
Name Cut operation.
UV XYZ 0.0 The amount of material you want left on the part
Allowance after generating the toolpaths.
Rapid Plane .50" The absolute Z location at which the end of the
tool is clear of any material. This is the height in
the Z axis where all rapid moves are executed.

1-8 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

Surface Max. Scallop .002" Results in a finer step-over when finish cutting.
Max .002" The maximum chordal distance the tool can
Deviation deviate from the theoretical surface in the
direction of cut along the surface. The smaller the
value, the greater the number of linear cuts,
resulting in a smoother surface finish.
Leadin/Out Leadin Horizontal
Leadin .375" The length of the leadin line ProCAM uses to feed
Amount the tool along to get to the start of the cutting
cycle. The orientation of the line depends on the
type of Leadin.
Leadout Normal
Leadout .375" The length of the leadout line ProCAM uses at the
Amount end of the cutting cycle to feed the tool along, then
rapid in Z axis to the rapid plane. The orientation
of the line is depends on the type of Leadout.
Options Stock Offset If most of the stock has already been roughed, you
can use Offset to define the stock face as a
distance away from the surface. The leadin rapids
to the Z Clearance above the remaining stock
value, then feeds to depth.
Post Post Checked This parameter determines whether this operation
Operation will be part of the NC program.
8. Click OK to accept the changes.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut (button 2 when done).

Step 5: Generate the Toolpaths

EXERCISE 1. Pick the surface anywhere, then
click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: PICK
surface to avoid (button 2 when
done).
2. Click BUTTON 2 (there are no
surfaces to avoid).
The finish contour toolpaths are
generated starting from the corner
and going along the surface flow
direction as specified by the
surface arrow. Machining is done
to exact tolerances as specified by
the operation parameters.

Getting Started 1-9

Steps to Generate an NC Program

3. Choose Save As on the File menu and save the part as Mill1.pcii.
The ProCAM II file extension is .pcii. Additional file format types are supported.
ProCAM includes ProVerify, which allows you to graphically simulate material removal
from stock. You can see the material being removed from the stock as the cutter proceeds
along the toolpath.
4. Click the Verify button on the Multi-surface Machining toolbar.
If your license/security key is not programmed for Sirius Verify ( an optional third party
application that runs as a separate program outside ProCAM), ProVerify starts
automatically.
If your license/security key is programmed for Sirius Verify, the modifier toolbar displays
two buttons to select between running the external Sirius Verify and the integrated
ProVerify.
If the Modifier toolbar displays, click the ProVerify button.
When ProVerify starts:
− The stock part displays as a rendered solid.
− The ProVerify toolbar displays.
5. Make sure the Tool Display button is highlighted.
When the Tool Display button is selected, the tool steps through the part showing each
cut and the stock is updated after each cut.

6. Click the Go to End button on the ProVerify toolbar.

7. Click the Reset to Start button.
8. Click the Tool Display button to turn off the tool.
9. Click the Go to End button.
This time the simulation completes the entire part before the results are displayed. This
allows you to verify the tool cutting quickly without seeing every cut.
10. To exit the simulation, right click in the work area and select Close ProVerify on the
shortcut menu.

1-10 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

Step 6: Post Process the Part

The Post Process command on the Multi-surface Machining toolbar translates generalized
toolpath and operation information into NC code that can be interpreted by a controller.
ProCAM creates NC code for each toolpath in the part in the order the operations are listed
in the tree. The machining sequence can be changed by re-ordering the operations in the tree
using drag and drop.
EXERCISE 1. Click the Post Process button on the Multi-surface Machining toolbar.
The Save Post File dialog box displays.
The \procad\txt folder is provided
for NC program and Setup Sheet
files. You can use this folder or a
different folder.
2. If mill1.txt is not in the File name
text box, type Mill1.
You do not have to type the
extension.
Naming the Post file the same as
the Part file is the most common
way of saving parts and NC
programs. Both files can have the
same name because they have different extensions. Part files have a .pcii extension. Post
files have a default .txt extension or the extension you specify.
Did You Know ...
If you want a different default folder to open in the Save Post File dialog box, select
Folders on the Setup menu and change the default folder globally for all post
processors or individually for each post processor.
If you want a different file name extension for NC program files, you can edit or
create a .pinf file and specify the new extension.
For more information on making these changes, see the Folder Dialog Box and
Creating Post Information Files and Changing Output File Extension topics in the
Customizing ProCAM section of the online Help.

3. Click Save.
The Post Window dialog box and modifier toolbar display.
4. Select only the View Code button. During post processing, ProCAM will display the
code in the Post Window dialog box.
Note that you can decrease posting time significantly by using the Fast Posting modifier
or by turning off the Highlight Cut, Display Cutter and View Code modifiers.

Getting Started 1-11

Steps to Generate an NC Program

5. Click the Run button.

− ProCAM generates the NC program and displays the program in the Post Window
dialog box.
− ProCAM generates two files: MILL1.TXT (the NC program) and MILL1.SET (the
Setup Sheet). The files should look similar to the listing on the next page.
− The .TXT file is the NC program file that contains the CNC commands for the
machine control unit to activate the tool functions and cutting tool movements for the
part. This program contains the commands necessary to make the machine do the
required operations. You can edit the file, if necessary, using a DNC editor, the
control unit edit mode, or a word processor.
− The .SET file is not used to control the machine tool. It is a text file that contains
information the operator can use to set up the machine tool. The information includes:
the machine, the controller, estimated machine time, the part material, and the tool
type and size. This file is located in the same folder as the NC program file. The Setup
Sheet file can be read or printed using a word processor or text editor.

NC Program: MILL1.TXT
O0100
N1 G20
N2 (0.25" Dia 4 Flute BN)
N3 G91 G28 X0 Y0 Z0
N4 T01 M06
N5 S2000 M03
N6 G90 G54 G00 X.033 Y.0397
N7 G43 Z-.6611 H01 M08
N8 G01 Z-.7611 F5.
N9 X.0328 Y.4238 Z-.8889 F10.
N10 X.0326 Y.5528 Z-.9264
N11 X.0322 Y.7362 Z-.9711
N12 X.0316 Y.9226 Z-1.0029
N13 X.0309 Y1.043 Z-1.014
N14 X.0301 Y1.1618 Z-1.0163
N15 X.029 Y1.2792 Z-1.0091
N16 X.0277 Y1.3974 Z-.9916
N17 X.0264 Y1.5181 Z-.9655
N18 X.0239 Y1.7673 Z-.8968
N19 X.0212 Y2.0908 Z-.8073
N20 X.0201 Y2.227 Z-.7786
N21 X.019 Y2.3667 Z-.7588
N22 X.0178 Y2.5102 Z-.7511
N23 X.0164 Y2.6543 Z-.7577
N24 X.015 Y2.7965 Z-.776
N25 X.0129 Y3.0093 Z-.8196
N26 X.0082 Y3.5383 Z-.9565
N27 X.0067 Y3.7184 Z-.991
N28 X.0057 Y3.8343 Z-1.0032
N29 X.0048 Y3.9444 Z-1.0043
.

1-12 Getting Started

 Steps to Generate an NC Program

.
.
N3495 X5.9953 Y.9293 Z-1.2111
N3496 X5.9961 Y.4773 Z-1.1696
N3497 X5.9965 Y.0138 Z-1.1165
N3498 X6.0345
N3499 Z-1.1303 F5.
N3500 X6.0341 Y.5223 Z-1.1881 F10.
N3501 X6.0335 Y.8978 Z-1.2222
N3502 X6.0326 Y1.2737 Z-1.2428
N3503 X6.0318 Y1.5241 Z-1.246
N3504 X6.0308 Y1.7731 Z-1.2379
N3505 X6.0297 Y2.0193 Z-1.2164
N3506 X6.0284 Y2.2487 Z-1.1814
N3507 X6.0276 Y2.3748 Z-1.155
N3508 X6.0267 Y2.4996 Z-1.1233
N3509 X6.0251 Y2.7357 Z-1.0491
N3510 X6.023 Y3.2154 Z-.8761
N3511 X6.0226 Y3.4627 Z-.7969
N3512 X6.0225 Y3.6461 Z-.7506
N3513 X6.0223 Y3.8408 Z-.7171
N3514 X6.022 Y4.0366 Z-.6994
N3515 X6.0216 Y4.24 Z-.6947
N3516 X6.0211 Y4.5013 Z-.7044
N3517 X6.0208 Y4.7616 Z-.7259
N3518 X6.0207 Y5.0131 Z-.7521
N3519 X6.108 Y5.0522 Z-.3895
N3520 G00 Z.5 M09
N3521 G91 G28 Z0
N3522 G28 X0 Y0
N3523 M30

Setup Sheet
MILL1.SET
( PART NAME=MILL1 )
( PROGRAM NUMBER=0100 )
( MACHINE=MILL TUTORIAL )
( CONTROLLER=FANUC TYPE )
( MATERIAL=1212 )
( THICKNESS=1.5 )
( STATION TOOL TYPE X SIZE Y SIZE RADIUS ANGLE DESCRIPTION )
(------------- --------------- --------- --------- ----------- --------- ------------------------)
( 001 BALL_NOSE 00.250 0.25" Dia 4 )

Getting Started 1-13

ProCAM System Flow Chart

ProCAM System Flow Chart

The following flow chart is included to help you understand the procedure to generate
toolpaths and NC code.

Does part need

N Y
a surface?

Draw or import part Draw or import 3D model

Start 2.5 Axis Mill and select controller Start Surfacing

Set Setup Information Create cross section entities

Create toolpath boundaries Create surface(s)

Define operation Start Surface Machining

and select controller

Generate toolpaths
Set Setup Information

Define operation
Define more
Y operations?
Generate toolpaths
N

Define more
Post process N operations? Y

Save file* and exit

Transmit file into CNC *Save frequently. You can

save at any time.

1-14 Getting Started

Chapter 2 Roughing

There are several methods for removing material from rough stock to a surface. Each of these
methods is called a machining or cutting cycle. The Multi-surface Machining system
supports cutting cycles used to define roughing, finishing and contouring operations.
This chapter provides exercises that explain the rough cutting cycle.

Roughing 2-1
Inserting a Rough Cutting Cycle

Inserting a Rough Cutting Cycle

The Rough Cut command is a roughing cycle for removing material from a defined stock by
making a series of parallel cuts across the stock at different Z axis depth levels.
Depending on the cycle type selected, the toolpath retracts and pierces between cuts at each
Z axis level or the toolpath stays down at the Z axis depth level following the 2D contour of
the surface with continuous cutting, then retracts and pierces to the next level of lacing.
The Rough Cut cycle supports end mill, hog nose, ball nose and taper tools.

Generating a Rough Cutting Cycle on a Core Part

In this exercise, you generate the rough cut toolpaths for a core (male) part using the Core
option for Model Type, then you edit the operation and generate toolpaths using different
parameter values.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Rough Cut Core.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

2. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager on the left side of the
window.
The Operation tree displays. The tree provides an outline view of the controller, tools and
operations you set up to machine the part. Initially, the controller item at the top of the
tree indicates that no controller is selected.
3. Right click in the Operation tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut
menu.
4. In the Controller Type dialog box, select FANTUTM and click OK.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.
5. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
Rough in the list of operations.
Did You Know ...
You can eliminate several mouse clicks by skipping steps 3 and 4. When you select
New Operation and pick an operation in the list, if the controller has not been
selected, the Controller Type dialog box displays. After you select the controller, the
Set Operation dialog box displays.
6. In the Set Operation – Rough Properties dialog box, click the Active Tools button on the
Tool tab.
7. In the Mill Tools dialog box, double-click on Station #1.
8. In the Set Tool dialog box, define a 25mm End Mill, then click OK.
9. Click OK to exit the Mill Tools dialog box.

2-2 Roughing
 Inserting a Rough Cutting Cycle

10. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (25mm End Mill)
Operation Name Rough Core
Rough Rapid Plane 12.7mm
Milling Type Climb (Except for the first pass, Milling Type does
not matter when you use Zigzag for the Pattern Type.)
Surface Surface Finish Multiple Cut Amounts
Max. Deviation .0254mm
Z First Cut 6.35mm
Z Sub Cut 6.35mm
Model Type Core
Method Exact (Provides numerous benefits over Grid and is
the default. For more information, see the online
help.)
Pattern Types Pattern Type ZigZag (for bi-directional toolpaths)
Profile No Profile
Lace Cut 12.5mm
Lace Angle 0
Options Rough Options Start Tool Outside Stock
11. Click OK to accept the changes.
The prompt line reads: PICK surfaces for roughing (button 2 when done).
12. Window pick the surface, then click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for stock start.
13. Click the Endpoint button on the Snap toolbar.

Roughing 2-3
Inserting a Rough Cutting Cycle

14. Pick the 0,0,0 corner at the top

left of the stock, then pick the Stock Start
opposite diagonal corner at the
bottom of the stock.
ProCAM generates the Rough
cut cycle toolpaths at the
specified depth levels.
15. Right click the operation in the
tree and select Edit Operation on
the shortcut menu.
16. On the Pattern Types tab, change
the Pattern Type to Pocket Out, Stock End
then click OK.
17. Right click the operation in the
tree, select Rerun Current on the shortcut menu.
The toolpath starts in the center of the part and works toward perimeter.
18. Edit the Rough Cut operation and try different combinations for parameter values, then
rerun the operation.
Change these parameters … Then … Comments
Pattern Pattern Type = Pocket Rerun Toolpath starts on the perimeter of the part and
Types tab In works toward the center.
Surface Z First Cut = 25.4mm Rerun These parameters determine the first cut depth
tab Z Sub Cut = 15.4mm and the depth of subsequent cuts.
Pattern Lace Cut = 25.4mm Rerun Results in a larger stepover. The default is the
Types tab tool radius. Note that some material may be left
if more than the tool radius is used.
Pattern Lace Cut = 6.35mm Rerun Results in a smaller stepover.
Types tab
Pattern Pattern Type = Zigzag Rerun The cut angle will be 90 degrees. Note that this
Types tab Lace Angle = 90 parameter is not used with Pocket In or Out.
Pattern Lace Angle = 45 Rerun The cut angle will be 45 degrees.
Types tab degrees
Pattern Pattern Type = Zig Rerun Creates climb cuts throughout the Rough cycle,
Types tab Profile = Profile After then a profile pass cleans up the scallops. The
Lace Cut = 12.7mm profile pass will leave the XYZ Allowance
Lace Angle = 0 specified on the Rough tab.
degrees
Surface Z First Cut = 6.35mm
tab Z Sub Cut = 6.35mm

2-4 Roughing
 Inserting a Rough Cutting Cycle

Generating a Rough Cutting Cycle on a Cavity Part

In this exercise, you generate the rough cut toolpaths for a cavity (female) part using the
Cavity Below Surface option for the Model Type with the Top of Stock option for the Cut
Start, then you edit the operation and generate toolpaths using the Highest Surface option for
the Cut Start.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Rough Cut Cavity.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

2. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

3. Right click in the Operation tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut
menu.
4. In the Controller Type dialog box, select FANTUTM and click OK.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.
5. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
Rough in the list of operations.
6. In the Set Operation - Rough Properties dialog box, click the Active Tools button on the
Tool tab.
7. In the Mill Tools dialog box, double-click on Station #1.
8. In the Set Tool dialog box, define a .5" End Mill, then click OK.
9. Click OK to exit the Mill Tools dialog box.
10. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (.5" End Mill)
Operation Name Rough Cavity
Rough XYZ Allowance .01" (Leaves material for finishing the part.)
Rapid Plane .5"
Milling Type Climb
Surface Surface Finish Fixed Cut Amount
Max. Deviation .003"
Cut Amount .25"
Model Type Cavity Below Surface (Removes any material above
the surface and in the cavity.)
Run Face Cycle Remove check mark
Method Exact

Roughing 2-5
Inserting a Rough Cutting Cycle

Pattern Types Pattern Type ZigZag

Profile No Profile
Lace Cut .25"
Lace Angle 0
Start/End Cut Start Top of Stock (ProCAM calculates the first cut from
the start of the defined stock.)
Options Rough Options Start Tool On Stock (Use for cavity cut.)
11. Click OK to accept the changes.
The prompt line reads: PICK surfaces for roughing (button 2 when done).
12. Window pick the surfaces, then click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE
coordinate for stock start. Stock Start

13. Click the Endpoint button on

the Snap toolbar.
14. Pick the 0,0,0 corner at the top
left of the stock, then pick the
opposite diagonal corner at the
bottom of the stock.

Stock End

Start on Top
ProCAM starts at the top of the of Stock
stock and generates the Rough
cut cycle toolpaths at the
specified depth levels.
15. Right click the Rough operation
in the tree and select Edit
Operation on the shortcut menu.

2-6 Roughing
 Inserting a Rough Cutting Cycle

16. On the Start/End tab, change the Start on Highest

Cut Start to Highest Surface and Surface
click OK.
17. Right click the Rough operation
in the tree and select Rerun
Current on the shortcut menu.
ProCAM calculates the first cut
from the highest Z value on the
selected surface.
18. Edit the Rough Cut operation
again and try different
combinations for parameter
values, then rerun the operation.

Change these parameters … Then … Comments

Pattern Zig Rerun Some materials can be machined in only
Types tab one direction. This option generates cuts
in only one direction.
Pattern Zigzag Rerun Z First Cut and Z Sub Cut control how
Types tab deep you want to cut for the first cut and
Surface Surface Finish = for subsequent cuts.
tab Multiple Cut Amounts
Z First Cut = .10"
Z Sub Cut = .125"
Pattern Lace Cut = .75" Rerun Large stepover results in islands being
Types tab left. Run ProVerify to see results.
Tool tab Diameter = .75" Rerun Click the Active Tools button and edit the
diameter for the tool in Station #1.
Adding and Changing Machining Depths
ProCAM provides automatic and interactive methods to add extra roughing levels for each
flat area on a part.
• A Hit Flats option automatically adds extra roughing levels for each flat area on a part, so
that you are leaving the proper stock allowance at those levels. This option can be
selected either before or after the initial toolpaths have been generated.
• After the toolpaths have been generated for a Rough Cut operation, the ZLevel Edit tab
displays in the Set Operation - Rough Cut Properties dialog box. The Z Level table shows
the levels and depths that were generated based on the settings for the Z First Cut and Z
Sub Cut parameters on the Surface tab.
You can use this table to add and delete Z levels and/or change the depth of each pass.
When the operation is rerun, the toolpath is updated for the changes in this table.

Roughing 2-7
Inserting a Rough Cutting Cycle

Automatic Method
EXERCISE In this exercise, you generate the rough cut toolpaths for a part using the Hit Flats option to
automatically insert a Z level cut at .010" above the surface of the cone. Then, you edit the
operation and generate the toolpath without the Hit Flats option.
1. Open the part file Rough Z-Level.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.
2. If the part displays in shaded mode, position the pointer in the work area, click the left
mouse button, then press the W key on the keyboard to change to wire frame.

3. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

4. Right click the Z Level Rough operation in the Operation tree and select Edit Operation
on the shortcut menu.
5. In the Set Operation – Rough Properties dialog box, click the Surface tab.
6. Notice that the Method is set to Exact and the Hit Flats option is checked.
7. Click either OK or Cancel to exit the
dialog box.
The prompt line reads: PICK surfaces for
roughing (button 2 when done).
8. Window pick the entire part, then click
BUTTON 2.

9. Click the Endpoint button on the

Snap toolbar.
10. Pick the corner at the top left of the
surface, then pick the opposite diagonal
corner of the rectangle that represents
the bottom of the stock.
ProCAM generates the toolpaths.

11. Press F2 to change the View to

Front.
When the Hit Flats option is
selected, additional cuts are
inserted in the toolpath at a Z
location equal to the Allowance
above any flat face between the top
and bottom of the surface. These
flat faces may define ledges or
island tops. By default, the Exact method creates a Z cut level at the Allowance above the
top of the surface and the Allowance above the lowest flat face in the surface.

2-8 Roughing
 Inserting a Rough Cutting Cycle

12. Right click the Z Level Rough operation in the Operation tree and select Edit Operation
on the shortcut menu.
13. On the Surface tab, remove the check
mark from the Hit Flats option and
click OK.
14. Right click in the Operation tree and
select Rerun Current.
Notice the difference in the amount of
material remaining above the surface
of the cone.
Interactive Method
When you want more control over the Z levels, you can use the interactive method after the
toolpaths have been generated. The Zlevel Edit tab allows you to add and delete Z levels
and/or change the depth of each pass.
1. Right click the Z Level Rough operation in the Operation tree and select Edit Operation
on the shortcut menu.
2. Click the Zlevel Edit tab.
− Five levels of cuts are listed in the table. The Use Z Level Table option is not checked
indicating that the values for Z First Cut and Z Sub Cut were used to calculate the
levels.
− Notice that the increments are not exactly .3000" as specified for the Z Sub Cut
parameter. After the first cut, ProCAM calculates the number of cuts such that each
cut depth is equal without exceeding the specified Z Sub Cut amount.
3. Click the New button.
− A level is inserted in the table below the cursor location and the Z Depth field for the
new level is highlighted. You can insert a level anywhere in the table. Z levels cannot
be processed out of order and ProCAM automatically sorts the levels.
− The Use Z Level Table option is selected automatically when you make any change in
the table.
4. Click the Z Snap button.
The dialog box is removed temporarily so that you can easily pick geometry on the part.
5. Click the Endpoint button on the Snap toolbar.
6. Zoom up on the top of the cone and pick anywhere on the yellow surface.
− The ZLevel Edit tab in the Set Operation dialog box displays again. The new level is
set at -0.7235 in the table.
− Instead of using Z Snap, you can type the value for the new Z Level. Then, if you
press TAB to move the cursor to the Z Increment field, ProCAM calculates the
increment automatically.

Roughing 2-9
Inserting a Rough Cutting Cycle

− If the new level is not in the correct processing order, the Reorder button is enabled.
Optionally, you can click this button to see how ProCAM sorts the levels; however, as
stated above, ProCAM automatically sorts the levels before recalculating the toolpath.
7. Click OK to exit the Set Operation dialog box.
8. Right click the Rough Cut operation in the Operation tree and select Rerun Current on the
shortcut menu.
ProCAM regenerates the toolpath with the levels of cuts based on the Z Level table.
Notice the new level just above the surface of the cone.
Run ProVerify to simulate the actual material removal from stock:
1. Change the View to 7 ISO 1.

2. Click the Verify button on the Multi-surface Machining toolbar.

When you click the Verify button, ProCAM checks to see if the license/security key is
programmed for the optional Sirius Verify program, which runs as a separate program
outside ProCAM. If the key is not programmed for Sirius Verify, ProVerify starts
automatically.
If you have Sirius Verify installed, the modifier toolbar displays two buttons. Click
the ProVerify button.
3. Run the simulation.
4. When you are finished, right click in the work area and select Close ProVerify.

Using Machining Depth Processing Options

An option on the Surface tab in the Set Operation – Rough Cut dialog box provides a choice
for generating cut levels: Grid or Exact. The Exact method provides numerous benefits over
the Grid method and is the default method:
• For more complex models with smaller machining deviations, the toolpath calculation
time can be significantly less.
• More depth control options are available providing various methods for defining
machining depths and how the depths are processed.
• Additional options are provided to selectively define areas to machine.
• Entry methods have been improved and include spiral entry.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Rough Depth.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

2. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

3. Right click in the Operation tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut
menu.
4. In the Controller Type dialog box, double-click FANTUTM.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.

2-10 Roughing
 Inserting a Rough Cutting Cycle

5. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
Rough in the list of operations.
6. In the Set Operation – Rough Properties dialog box, click the Active Tools button on the
Tool tab.
7. In the Mill Tools dialog box, highlight Station #1 and click the Edit button.
8. In the Set Tool dialog box, define a .125" End Mill, then click OK.
9. Click OK to exit the Mill Tools dialog box.
10. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (.125" End Mill)
Operation Name Depth Processing
Rough XYZ Allowance .01" (Leaves material for finishing the part.)
Clearance Plane 1.10"
Rapid Plane 1.20"
Milling Type Climb
Surface Surface Finish Fixed Cut Amount
Max. Deviation .003"
Cut Amount .25"
Hit Flats Checked (ProCAM adds extra roughing levels for
each flat area on the part, so that the specified Z
amount will be left on all flat areas)
Model Type Cavity to Surface
Run Face Cycle Unchecked (To cut the material above the cavity
within the limits of the cavity silhouette).
Processing Exact
Method
Sorting By Area (ProCAM completely machines an area to
depth before machining the next area)
Pattern Pattern Type ZigZag
Types
Profile Profile Before
Lace Cut .0625"
Lace Angle 0
Start/End Cut Start Position Highest Surface
Cut End Position Lowest Surface
Options Rough Options Start Tool On Stock (Use for cavity cut.)

Roughing 2-11
Inserting a Rough Cutting Cycle

11. Click OK to accept the changes.

The prompt line reads: PICK surfaces for
roughing (button 2 when done). Start on Highest
12. Window pick the surface, then click BUTTON 2. Surface

The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for

stock start.

13. Click the Endpoint button on the Snap

toolbar.
14. Pick the left side of the top line that represents
the stock, then pick the opposite diagonal corner
of the lower line represents the bottom of the
stock.
ProCAM generates the toolpaths.
15. Press W on the keyboard to change the surface
display to wire frame.

Run ProVerify to simulate the actual material removal from stock:

16. Click the Verify button on the Multi-surface Machining toolbar.
ProCAM checks to see if the license/security key is programmed for Sirius Verify, a
separate program that runs outside ProCAM. If the key is not programmed for Sirius
Verify, ProVerify starts automatically.
If Sirius Verify is installed, the modifier toolbar displays. Click the ProVerify button.
17. Make sure the Display Tool button is highlighted.
18. Rotate the part so you can the top of the stock.
19. Run the simulation.
Notice that ProCAM completely machines an area to depth before machining the next
area.
20. When you are finished, right click in the work area and select Close ProVerify.
21. Press F2 to change the View to Front.
Notice that ProCAM added extra roughing levels for each flat area on the part, so that the
specified Z amount will be left on all flat areas (see the figure on the left below).
22. Right click the operation in the tree and select Edit Operation on the shortcut menu.
23. On the Surface tab, remove the check mark from the Hit Flats option and click OK.

2-12 Roughing
 Inserting a Rough Cutting Cycle

24. Right click in the tree and select Rerun Current on the shortcut menu. Notice the
difference in the toolpath.

With Hit Flats Without Hit Flats

25. Change the View back to 7 ISO 1.

26. Right click the operation in the tree and select Edit Operation on the shortcut menu.
27. On the Surface tab, check the Hit Flats option
and change the Sorting option to By Level.
Start on Top
With sorting by level, each pocket area is of Stock
machined at the given Z depth before the next
depth is machined.
28. On the Start/End tab, change the Start to Top of
Stock, then click OK.
This option tells ProCAM there is stock above
the cavity provided the stock definition is above
the cavity.
29. Right click in the tree and select Rerun Current
on the shortcut menu.
30. Run ProVerify to see the difference in
machining the pockets.
31. When you are finished, right click in the work
area and select Close ProVerify.
32. Right click the operation in the tree and select
Edit Operation on the shortcut menu.

Roughing 2-13
Inserting a Rough Cutting Cycle

33. On the Surface tab, check the Run Face

Cycle option and click OK.
34. Right click in the tree and select Rerun
Current on the shortcut menu. Run Face Cycle

When the Face Cycle option is selected,

material above the cavity is cut to the
extents of the stock.

2-14 Roughing
 For More Practice

For More Practice

Exercise Rough1
Machine Skill1.pcii using a Rough Cut cycle.

Skill1.pcii Rough Cut Toolpath

• Open the part file Skill1.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

• Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.
• Select FANTUTM for the Controller Type and set the Setup Information.
• Change layer and color.
• Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation, then select Rough.
• Define the operation parameters using the following information:
− Active Tool = 1 (set up a .25" diameter end mill)
− XYZ Allowance = .01" (this leaves .01" material for finishing the part)
− Rapid Plane = .50"
− Milling Type = Climb
− Z First Cut = .125"
− Z Sub Cut = .20"
− Max. Deviation = .003"
− Model Type = Cavity Below Surface
− Method = Exact
− Run Face Cycle = remove check mark
− Pattern Type = Zigzag (for bi-directional rough cut toolpaths)
− Lace Cut = .125" (use the cutter radius for the stepover between Rough cut toolpaths)

Roughing 2-15
For More Practice

Exercise Rough2
Machine Skill2.pcii using a Rough Cut cycle.

Skill2.pcii Rough Cut Toolpath

• Open the part file Skill2.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

• Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.
• Select FANTUTM for the Controller Type and set the Setup Information.
• Change the layer and color.
• Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation, then select Rough.
• Define the operation parameters using the following information.
− Active Tool = 1 (set up a .25" diameter end mill)
− XYZ Allowance = .01"
− Rapid Plane = .50"
− Milling Type = Climb
− Max. Deviation = .003"
− Z First Cut = .15"
− Z Sub Cut = .15"
− Model Type = Cavity Below Surface
− Method = Exact
− Run Face Cycle = remove check mark
− Pattern Type = Zigzag
− Lace Cut = .125" (use the cutter radius for the stepover between Rough cut toolpaths)

2-16 Roughing
 For More Practice

Exercise Rough3
Machine Skill3.pcii using a Rough Cut cycle:

Skill3.pcii Rough Cut Toolpath

• Open the part file Skill3.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

• Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.
• Select FANTUTM for the Controller Type and set the Setup Information.
• Change layer and color.
• Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation, then select Rough.
• Define the operation parameters using the following information.
− Active Tool = 1 (set up a .375" diameter end mill)
− XYZ Allowance = .01"
− Clearance Plane = 2.00"
− Rapid Plane = 2.00"
− Max. Deviation = .003"
− Milling Type = Climb
− Z First Cut = .25"
− Z Sub Cut = .15"
− Hit Flats = remove check mark
− Model Type = Core
− Method = Exact
− Pattern Type = Zigzag
− Lace Cut = .1875"
− Rough Options = Start Tool Outside Stock (for core cut)

Roughing 2-17
For More Practice

2-18 Roughing
Chapter 3 Finish Cutting Cycles

The finish cycles are Slice, UV Cut, Z-Level Cut and Pencil Mill Cut. This chapter provides
exercises using the Slice Cut, UV Cut, Z-Level Cut and Pencil Mill Cut commands.

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-1

Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

The Slice Cut command is a surface finish contouring cycle that removes material according
to the selected cutting strategy. The Slice cutting strategies are planar, surface flowline,
radial, spiral, single offset, double offset and pocket/lace offset.
Slice cutting has unique characteristics that make it appropriate for semi-finishing parts of
any shape and finishing non-vertical areas.

Planar Slice Cutting an Entire Surface

In this exercise, you generate Slice finish cutting toolpaths for a surface, then you change
some of the operation parameters to see the differences in the toolpaths that are generated.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Slice.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

2. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

3. Right click in the Operation tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut
menu.
4. In the Controller Type dialog box, double-click FANTUTM.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.
5. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
Slice in the list of operations.
6. Click the Active Tools button on the Tool tab in the Set Operation - Slice Cut Properties
dialog box.
7. In the Mill Tools dialog box, highlight Station #1 and click the Edit button.
8. In the Set Tool dialog box, define a .50" Ball Nose, then click OK.
9. Click OK to exit the Mill Tools dialog box.
10. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (.5" Ball Nose)
Operation Name Planar Slice
Slice XYZ Allowance 0.0"
Rapid Plane .50"
Program Point Tool Tip
Surface Surface Finish Cut Amount
Max Deviation .003"
Cut Amount .05"

3-2 Finish Cutting Cycles

 Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

Tab Parameter Value

Pattern Types Cutting Options Planar Cut
Pattern Type ZigZag
3 Point/Angle Angle Definition
Definition
Cut Angle 0 degrees
Leadin/Out Leadin Normal
Leadout Normal
Leadin/Leadout .25"
Amount
Link Types Link Type Horizontal/Vertical
Options Stock Offset
11. Click OK to accept the changes.
The prompt line reads: PICK
surface to cut (button 2 when
done).
12. Pick the surface, then click
BUTTON 2.
− The surface is highlighted.
− The prompt line reads: PICK
surface to avoid (button 2 when
done).
13. Click BUTTON 2 again.
ProCAM generates toolpaths
across the surface in the
specified direction.

Cutting a Portion of a Surface

In the previous exercise, you used Angle Definition to generate the toolpath for the entire
surface. When you use the 3 Point Definition option, you can specify a XY planar direction
vector that identifies how much of the surface is to be cut. The length of the XY planar
direction vector determines the swath of the surface that will be Slice cut.
EXERCISE 1. Click the Oops button on the Utility toolbar to delete the toolpath you generated in
the previous exercise.
2. Right click in the Operation tree and select Edit Operation on the shortcut menu.
3. On the Pattern Types tab in the Set Operation - Slice Cut Properties dialog box, change
the Angle Definition to 3 Point Definition, then click OK.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut (button 2 when done).

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-3

Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

4. Pick the surface, then click BUTTON 2.

5. There is no surface to avoid, so click BUTTON 2 again.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for slice direction start.
6. Click the Endpoint button on the Snap toolbar.
7. Pick the right end of the line.
− The line is the XY planar direction vector.
− The prompt line reads: PICK endpoint for slice direction end.
8. Click the Midpoint button on the Snap toolbar.
9. Pick the line.
− The length of the planar direction vector determines the swath of the surface that will
be Slice cut.
− The prompt line reads: PICK midpoint to indicate cutting depth (or button 2).
10. Click BUTTON 2.
The cutting depth is not the Z
axis depth. It is how much of
the swath (the surface
encompassed by the planar
direction vector length) is to be
cut. When you click BUTTON 2,
ProCAM generates the toolpath
across the portion of the surface
determined by the pick points
on the line.
Note that you can pick points
on the surface to create cutting
cycles; however, the cutter will
stay inside the entities picked.
You can use the cutting depth to determine how much of the surface will be cut. If you pick a
coordinate on the surface, the Slice cut ends when cutting reaches that coordinate location on
the surface.
EXERCISE 1. Click the Oops button on the Utility toolbar to delete the toolpath you generated in
the previous exercise.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut (button 2 when done).
2. Press the W key on the keyboard to change the part display from shaded to wire frame.
3. Pick the surface, then click BUTTON 2.
4. Click BUTTON 2 again.
The prompt line reads: PICK midpoint for slice direction start.

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 Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

5. Click the Endpoint button on the Snap toolbar.

6. Pick the right end of the line.
The prompt line reads: PICK endpoint for slice direction end.
7. Click the Midpoint button on the Snap toolbar.
8. Pick the line.
The prompt line reads: PICK
midpoint to indicate cutting
depth (or button 2).
9. Pick one of the lines in the
middle of the surface.
ProCAM generates the Planar
Slice Cut cycle toolpath
across the portion of the
surface determined by the
pick points on the line. The
toolpath ends at the
coordinate location on the
surface.
10. Click the Oops button on the Utility toolbar to delete the toolpath.

Using Slice Cut as a Semi-Finish Cycle

If you want to use a Slice Cut operation as a semi-finish cycle, you can specify an amount for
the XYZ Allowance parameter. The tool will stay away from the surface by that amount.
Then, you can define another operation to finish the part.
EXERCISE 1. Continue using the part in the work area.
2. Right click the Planar Slice operation in the Operation tree and select Edit Operation on
the shortcut menu.
3. Change the XYZ Allowance to .10" on the Slice tab, then click OK.
4. Pick the surface, then click BUTTON 2.
5. Click BUTTON 2 again.

6. Click the Endpoint button on the Snap toolbar.

7. Pick the right end of the line, then pick the left end of the line.
8. Click BUTTON 2.
ProCAM generates the toolpath across the surface.
9. Select Zoom Views on the View menu.

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Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

10. Change the View to 2 Front.

11. Click the Order button on
the Utility toolbar.
12. Make sure the Step modifier
is highlighted.
13. Make sure the Display Tool
modifier is highlighted.
14. Click the Move Tool to First
Cut button.
15. Click the Next Move button
XYZ Allowance = .10"
several times.
Notice the tool stays away from the surface by the specified XYZ Allowance.
Changing Parameters
In the following exercises, you change operation parameters to see the effect on the toolpath
that is generated.
Stock Type
You can change the Stock parameter on the Options tab, which is the method for defining the
remaining stock to be removed. This parameter affects only the rapid and leadin/leadout lines
associated with the toolpaths.
EXERCISE 1. Continue using the part in the work area with the View set to 2 Front.
2. Notice the front right corner of the part (the leadin area). With the Stock Type set to
Offset, ProCAM rapids down to the Z Clearance amount, then feeds in (shown in the
figure above).
3. Edit the operation:
On the Slice tab, change the XYZ
Allowance back to 0.
On the Options tab, change the
Stock to Fixed, then click OK.
4. Right click the operation in the
tree and select Rerun Current on
the shortcut menu.
With the Stock Type set to Fixed, Stock Type = Fixed
ProCAM rapids to the Z
Clearance above the Z Face, feeds into the material to the leadin, then cuts.

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 Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

Max Deviation
The Max Deviation parameter is the maximum chordal distance that the tool can deviate
from the theoretical surface in the direction of cut along the surface. In this exercise, you
generate a toolpath on the entire surface, then change the Max. Deviation to see the
difference in the surface that is generated.
EXERCISE 1. Continue using the part in the work area with the View set to 2 Front.
2. Notice how little the toolpath deviates from the original surface. The Max Deviation is set
to .003" (shown in the figure on the previous page).
3. Edit the operation and change
the Max Deviation from .003"
to .10" on the Surface tab.
4. Rerun the operation.
Notice how much the toolpath
deviates from the original
surface.

Max Deviation = .25

Same Direction (Zig) Pattern
In the previous exercises, toolpaths were generated by alternately cutting in opposite
directions across the part. Some materials can be machined in only one direction. You can
change the Pattern Type option to generate cuts in the same direction.
EXERCISE 1. Change the View to 7 ISO 1 and click the All button.
2. Edit the operation and change
the following:
On the Surface tab, change the
Max. Deviation to .003.
On the Pattern Types tab,
change the Pattern Type to
Zig, then click OK.
3. Rerun the operation.
The toolpath runs in the same
direction. When you select
Zig, the Link Type is changed
automatically to Retract.
ProCAM makes a rapid move
up, a rapid move to a position
directly above the start of the
next Slice cut, a rapid move Same Direction
down and a feed move into the start of the next cut.

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Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

Waterfall Ends
In the previous exercises, you generated toolpaths to the edge of the surface. You can select
the Waterfall Ends option if you want the cutter to roll over the edge of the surface a
maximum distance of one tool radius at the beginning and end of the Slice cut.
EXERCISE 1. Continue using the part in the work area with the View set to 7 ISO 1.
2. Notice the toolpath is generated to the edge of the surface (shown in the figure on the
previous page).
3. Edit the operation:
On the Tool tab, click the Active
Tools button and change the tool
to a 1.00" ball nose.
On the Pattern Types tab, check
the Waterfall Ends option and
change the Pattern Type back to
Zigzag.
On the Link Types tab, make
sure the Link Type is set to
Horizontal/Vertical, then click Toolpath rolls
OK. over edge

4. Rerun the operation. Waterfall Ends

The toolpath now extends over the edge of the surface.
High Speed Machining Options
ProCAM includes options that allow you to take advantage of higher spindle speeds and
feedrates.
EXERCISE 1. Continue using the part in the work area with the View set to 7 ISO 1.
2. Right click the Planar Slice operation in the Operation tree and select Edit Operation.
3. On the Surface tab, change the Cut Amount to .10".
4. On the Pattern Types tab, remove the check mark from the Waterfall Ends option.
5. On the Leadin/Out tab, set the Leadin and Leadout to the following:
− NURBS Leadin: The tool rapids in the Z axis from the rapid plane to the clearance
plane, then feeds along creating a smooth transition from the start of the clearance
plane to a point tangent to the surface at the start of the toolpath. The distance from
the start of the leadin to the start of the toolpath is equal to the Leadin Amount and is
tangent to the surface.
− NURBS Leadout: At the end of a toolpath, the tool feeds out tangent to the surface
and creates a smooth transition to the clearance plane, then rapids in the Z axis to the
rapid plane. The distance from the end of the toolpath to the end of the leadout is
equal to the Leadout Amount and is tangent to the surface.

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 Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

6. Set the Leadin Amount and Leadout Amount to 2.00".

7. On the Link Types tab, set the Link Type to Loop.
This link makes a smooth curved
transition between the last cut
and the next cut. The link radius
is approximately the same size as
the distance between the last cut
and the next cut.
8. Set the following parameters,
then click OK.
Leadin Length = .20" (If this
value is greater than 0, ProCAM
makes a tangential lead move
away from the last cut and
another tangential lead into the
next cut).
Angle = 40 (If this value is other than 0 degrees, ProCAM smoothly transitions away
from the part to the link angle where it will start the loop link.)
Trigger Radius = 0.00" (When this threshold value is reached, ProCAM automatically
converts the link to a dog leg to maintain a smooth continuous path.)
Resolution = 30 (Specifies the number of linear moves that will be used to approximate
the spiral when posting. The spiral is generated as a NURBS.)
9. Rerun the operation.
Avoiding Surfaces
When there are surfaces you do not want to cut within an operation, you can specify the
surfaces to avoid and the amount the tool will stay away from the surfaces.
EXERCISE 1. Click the Erase button on the Utility toolbar and delete the toolpath.

2. Click the Layers tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

3. Double-click layer 1 to make it current, turn on layer 2, and turn off all other layers.
4. Change the View to 7 ISO 1.

5. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

6. Right click the Planar Slice operation in the Operation tree and select Edit Operation.
7. On the Tool tab, change the tool to a .50" ball nose.
8. On the Pattern Types tab, change the Avoid Clearance to .10" (this parameter is the
amount the side of the tool will stay away from the surfaces you pick to avoid).
9. Click OK to exit the Set Operation dialog box.

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Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

10. Pick the surface to cut

shown in the figure and Surface to avoid
click BUTTON 2.
11. Pick the surface to avoid
shown in the figure and
click BUTTON 2.
12. Click the Endpoint
button on the Snap toolbar.
13. Pick the right side of the
line, then pick the left side
of the line.
14. Click BUTTON 2.
15. Change the View to 2 Front. Surface to cut
16. Click the Order button
on the Utility toolbar.
Surface to avoid
17. Make sure the Step modifier
is highlighted.
18. Make sure the Display Tool modifier is
highlighted. Avoid Clearance
19. Click the Move Tool to First Cut modifier.
20. Click the Next Move modifier several times.
Notice the tool stayed away from the surface by the
specified Avoid Clearance.
21. Click a blank button on a toolbar to exit the Order Tool Stays Away From Surface by
utility. Avoid Clearance Amount

Cut Amount and Scallop Stepover

A Surface Finish option on the Surface tab determines the type of stepover between passes.
Cut Amount is a fixed stepover amount. Scallop adjusts the stepover amount up to the
maximum scallop you specify.
EXERCISE 1. Click the Layers tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.
2. Double-click layer 22.
Double-clicking a layer is a shortcut to turn the layer on and make it current.
3. Right click in the tree and select All Off on the shortcut menu.
4. Make sure the View is 7 ISO 1.

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 Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

5. If the part displays in wire frame, left click in the work area, then press the S key on the
keyboard to change to shaded.

6. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

7. Right click in the tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select Slice in the
list of operations.
8. Click the Active Tools button on the Tool tab.
9. In the Mill Tools dialog box, highlight Station #2 and click the Edit button.
10. In the Set Tool dialog box, define a .25" Ball Nose, then click OK.
11. Click OK to exit the Mill Tools dialog box.
12. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 2 (.25" Ball Nose)
Operation Name Slice Cut 2
Slice XYZ Allowance 0.00"
Rapid Plane .50"
Surface Surface Finish Cut Amount
Max Deviation .003"
Cut Amount .05"
Pattern Types Cutting Options Planar Cut
3 Point/Angle 3 Point Definition
Definition
Pattern Type ZigZag
Options Stock Offset
13. Click OK to accept the changes.
14. Follow the prompts to generate the toolpath.
Use the endpoints of the line to define the start
and end direction.
15. Notice that the distance between passes is
constant (shown in the figure on the right).
16. Edit the operation and change the Cut Amount
to .125".
17. Rerun the operation and notice the change in
the distance between passes.

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Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

18. Edit the operation and change the Surface Finish

to Scallop.
19. Change the Max Scallop parameter to .5".
20. Rerun the operation and notice the change in the
stepover (shown in the figure on the right).
With the Scallop option, ProCAM adjusts the
stepover and maintains a stepover that is less
than the amount specified for the Max Scallop
parameter.

Planar Cutting With a Taper Tool

In Slice cutting, taper tools are supported only for the Planar cutting strategy.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Taper Slice.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

2. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

A Slice operation has already been defined.
3. Right click the operation in the tree and select Edit Operation on the
shortcut menu.
4. On the Tool tab, notice that the tool is a taper ball nose. A large taper
angle is used to make it easy to view the toolpath.
5. Click OK to exit the dialog box.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut (button 2 when done).
6. Window pick all the surfaces, then click BUTTON 2.
7. Click BUTTON 2 again.
Notice that the taper tool is
automatically accounted for in the
toolpath.
8. Right click the operation in the tree
and select Edit Operation.
9. On the Slice tab, change the
Clearance Plane to .50" and the Rapid
Plane to .60".

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 Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

10. On the Leadin/Out tab, set the Leadin and Leadout to NURBS and use the default .50" for
the Leadin and Leadout Amounts.
NURBS Leadin and Leadout are explained on page 3-8.
11. Click the Link Types tab and change the Link Type to Loop.
This link makes a smooth curved
transition between the last cut and
the next cut. The link radius is
approximately the same size as the
distance between the last cut and
the next cut.
12. Leave the Angle set to 30.
13. Click OK.
14. Right click the operation in the
tree and select Rerun Current.
Notice that the leads are now
smooth transitions to the start and
end of the toolpath and the
toolpath is generated with high speed links.

Surface Flowline Cutting

In the previous exercises, you used the Planar Cut Type to cut the surface along a plane. In
this exercise, you create geometry to produce a surface flowline cut. A surface flowline is a
surface above or below the surface to be cut. The cutter will go in the direction of the surface
arrow on the second surface.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Slice.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.
Do not save the changes to the part in the work area.

2. Click the Layers tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

3. Double-click layer 4 to make it the Current Layer.
Insert a line .50" above the surface starting at the midpoint of the top of the surface:
4. Make sure the Cplane is 1 Top and the part display is wire frame (press W).

5. Click the InfoBar tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

6. Set the Depth to .50" and change the 2D/3D Mode to 2D.
7. Click the Line button on the CAD toolbar.

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Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

8. Click the Midpoint button on the Digitize location

Snap toolbar.
9. Pick a line on the surface.
10. Change the View to 1 Top.
11. Click the Digitize button on the
Snap toolbar.
12. Pick a location a little past the right top
corner of the part.
You could pick any corner of the part to
position the line. Make sure the line
extends a little past the corner of the
part.
13. Click BUTTON 2.
Insert a 1.00" vertical line from the endpoint of the line you just inserted:
14. Change the View to 7 ISO 1 and the Cplane to 2 Front.
15. On the InfoBar tab, change the 2D/3D Mode back to 3D.

16. Click the Vertical modifier.

17. Click the Length modifier, type 1 and press ENTER.
18. Click the Endpoint Entity to Pick endpoint
button on the Snap keep
toolbar.
19. Pick the end of the first
line you inserted.
The prompt line reads:
PICK entity to keep.
20. Pick the lower segment of
the line.

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 Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

EXERCISE Create the flowline surface from the geometry you inserted:

1. Click the Surf button on

the CAD toolbar.
2. Change the Cplane to 1 Top.
3. Put a cross section
entity on the first line
pointing to the outside of the
part.

Apply a 360-degree surface of revolution to the cross section entity:

4. Click the Surface of Revolution button on the Surf toolbar.
5. Pick the cross section for the surface.
6. Click the Endpoint button on the Snap toolbar.
The prompt line reads: PICK endpoint for revolution axis start.
7. Pick near the top of the
vertical line.
The prompt line reads: PICK
endpoint for revolution axis
end.
8. Pick near the bottom of the
vertical line.
The prompt line reads:
ENTER angle of rotation.
9. Type 360 and press ENTER.
The prompt line reads:
ENTER number of patches in
primary direction. Surface arrow
defines cut
10. Press ENTER to accept the
default 5.

EXERCISE Slice Cut the part. The cut will be defined by the flowline surface based on the surface arrow
location and direction.
1. Change the color.

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Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

2. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

3. Right click in the Operation tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut
menu.
4. In the Controller Type dialog box, double-click FANTUTM.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.
5. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
Slice in the list of operations.
6. Define the operation parameters using the following information. Use the defaults for all
other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (set up a .25" Ball Nose)
Operation Name Surface Flowline
Slice XYZ Allowance 0.0"
Rapid Plane .50"
Surface Surface Finish Cut Amount
Max Deviation .01"
Cut Amount .10"
Pattern Types Cutting Options Surface Flowline Cut
Pattern Type ZigZag
Options Stock Offset
7. Click OK.
8. Follow the prompts to generate
the toolpath.
Notice that the cutter is cutting
from the inside out. The corner
of the surface arrow
determines whether the cutter
starts cutting from the inside
out or the outside in. To cut
from the outside in, you can
edit the surface arrow and put
it on the outside corner.
The arrow direction also
affects the cut. You can edit
the arrow direction and see the
difference.

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 Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

Selectively Machining Areas Using Contain and Avoid

Options on the Contain/Avoid tab in the Set Operation – Slice Cut dialog box allow you to
identify areas to contain the toolpath and areas that the toolpath should avoid. The Contain
and Avoid options can be used to selectively machine within specified areas for re-machining
or other purposes. In this exercise, Contain and Avoid options can be used to cut the area of
the surface contained within the circle and the B.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Slice Contain Avoid.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.
2. Change the View to 7 ISO 1 to see the part, then change back to the Top View.

3. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

A Rough operation has been defined and the layer is turned off to remove the toolpath
display.
4. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
Slice in the list of operations.
5. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (click the Active Tools button and define a
.2126" Ball Nose)
Operation Name Contain - Avoid
Slice XYZ Allowance 0.0"
Clearance Plane 2.50"
Rapid Plane 2.75"
Milling Type Climb
Program Point Tool Tip
Surface Surface Finish Cut Amount
Max Deviation .001"
Cut Amount .10"
Pattern Types Cutting Options Planar Cut
Pattern Type ZigZag
3 Point/Angle Angle Definition
Definition
Angle 0
Leadin/Out Leadin Plunge
Leadout Vertical
Contain/Avoid Contain Stay Inside
Avoid Stay Outside
Options Stock Fixed

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Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

6. Click OK to accept the changes.

The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut
(button 2 when done).
7. Window pick the surface, then click
BUTTON 2.
The surface is highlighted and the prompt
line reads: PICK cross section to contain the
tool (button 2 when done).
8. Pick the cross sections on the perimeter of
the B and the circle, then click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: PICK cross section
to avoid.
9. Pick the cross sections forming the inner part of the B, then click BUTTON 2.
ProCAM generates the toolpaths.
10. Click the Verify button on the Multi-surface Machining toolbar.
11. If the modifier toolbar displays, click the ProVerify button.
12. Run the simulation.
13. When you are finished, right click in the work area and select Close ProVerify.

Single Offset Slice Cutting

Generating Toolpaths from an Open Cross Section Entity
In this exercise, you generate Slice finish cutting toolpaths for a surface using an open cross
section entity with the Single Offset cutting strategy. The first toolpath is generated on a
portion of the surface, then you edit the operation and generate a toolpath to the extents of the
surface.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Slice Single.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.
2. If the part displays in shaded mode, position the pointer in the work area and click, then
press W on the keyboard to change to wire frame.

3. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

4. Right click in the Operation tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut
menu.
5. In the Controller Type dialog box, select FANTUTM and click OK.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.
6. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
Slice in the list of operations.

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 Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

7. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (click the Active Tools button and define a
.5" Ball Nose)
Operation Name Single Offset
Slice XYZ Allowance 0.0"
Rapid Plane .50"
Milling Type Climb
Program Point Tool Tip
Surface Surface Finish Cut Amount
Max Deviation .003"
Cut Amount .10"
Pattern Types Cutting Options Single Offset Cut
Pattern Type ZigZag
Start on Inside/Start on Start on Inside
Outside
Make a Number of Make a Number of Cuts
Cuts/Cut to Extents
Number of Cuts 20
Leadin/Out Leadin Plunge
Leadout Vertical
Options Stock Offset

8. Click OK to accept the changes.

The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut (button 2 when done).
9. Pick the surface, then click BUTTON 2.
The surface is highlighted and the prompt line reads: PICK surface to avoid (button 2 when
done).
10. Click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: PICK cross section for flowline.
11. Pick the cross section entity above the surface.
Two circles display at the end of the cross section entity and
the prompt line reads: PICK a highlighted circle to indicate
which side.
12. Pick the circle on the top of the cross section entity to cut to
the back of the surface.

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Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

ProCAM creates a toolpath by

generating 20 cuts from the cross
section entity toward the back of the
surface.
13. Click the Oops button on the
Utility toolbar to delete the toolpath.
14. Right click the Slice Cut operation in
the Operation tree and select Edit
Operation on the shortcut menu.
Make a Number of Cuts

15. On the Pattern Types tab, change

Make a Number of Cuts to Cut to
Extents and click OK.
16. Follow the prompts and generate the
toolpath again.
ProCAM creates a toolpath by
generating cuts from the cross section
entity to the extents of the surface.
17. Edit the operation and change some
of the Slice parameters, then rerun the
operation to see how the changes
affect the resulting toolpath. Cut to Extents
For example, on the Slice tab, change
the Milling Type from Climb to Conventional.
On the Pattern Types tab, change the Start on Inside option to Start on Outside.

Double Offset Slice Cutting

In these exercises, you generate Slice cut toolpaths for surfaces using the Double Offset
cutting strategy.
Generating Toolpaths with Closed Cross Section Entities
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Slice Offset Closed.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

2. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

3. Right click in the Operation tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut
menu.
4. In the Controller Type dialog box, select FANTUTM and click OK.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.

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 Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

5. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation, then select Slice.
6. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (click the Active Tools button and define a .5"
Ball Nose)
Operation Name Double Offset
Slice XYZ Allowance 0.0"
Rapid Plane .50"
Milling Type Climb
Program Point Tool Tip
Surface Surface Finish Cut Amount
Max Deviation .003"
Cut Amount .25"
Pattern Types Cutting Options Double Offset Cut
Pattern Type ZigZag
Cut Along/Across Cut Along Cross Section
Cross Section
Leadin/Out Leadin Plunge
Leadout Vertical
Options Stock Fixed
7. Click OK to accept the changes.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut (button 2 when done).
8. Pick the surface, then click BUTTON 2.
The surface is highlighted and the prompt line reads: PICK surface to avoid (button 2 when
done).
9. Click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: PICK the 1st cross section for flowline.
10. Pick one of the cross section entities above the surface.
The prompt line reads: PICK the 2nd cross section for flowline.
11. Pick the second cross section entity.

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Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

ProCAM creates a toolpath by

generating multiple offsets of the cross
section entity from the first cross section
entity to the second cross section entity
gradually transitioning from the first
cross section entity to the second cross
section entity.
12. Press F9 to change to the top view to see
the toolpath.
13. Right click the Slice Cut operation in the Cut Along Cross Section
Operation tree and select Edit Operation
on the shortcut menu.
14. On the Pattern Types tab, change Cut Along Cross Section to Cut Across Cross Section,
then click OK.
15. Rerun the operation and notice the
difference in the toolpath.
A toolpath is created between the first
closed cross section entity and second
closed cross section entity.
The two cross section entities have the
same number of entities, so the toolpath
is synchronized to the toolpath ends.
This means that the toolpath starts on
every entity endpoint of the first cross Cut Across Cross Section
section entity and ends on the
corresponding endpoint of the second cross section entity.
Using Cross Section Entities with a Different Number of Entities
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Slice Double.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

2. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

3. Right click in the Operation tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut
menu.
4. In the Controller Type dialog box, select FANTUTM and click OK.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.
5. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
Slice in the list of operations.

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 Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

6. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (click the Active Tools button and
define a .5" Ball Nose)
Operation Name Double Offset
Slice XYZ Allowance 0.0"
Rapid Plane .50"
Milling Type Climb
Program Point Tool Tip
Surface Surface Finish Cut Amount
Max Deviation .003"
Cut Amount .25"
Pattern Types Cutting Options Double Offset Cut
Pattern Type ZigZag
Cut Along/Across Cut Across Cross Section
Cross Section
Leadin/Out Leadin Plunge
Leadout Vertical
Options Stock Fixed
7. Click OK to accept the changes.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut (button 2 when done).
8. Pick the surface, then click BUTTON 2.
The surface is highlighted and the prompt line reads: PICK surface to avoid (button 2 when
done).
9. Click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: PICK the 1st cross section for flowline.
10. Pick one of the cross section entities above the surface.
The prompt line reads: PICK the 2nd cross section for flowline.
11. Pick the second cross section entity.
When the closed cross section entities have a different number of entities, ProCAM
subdivides the outer cross section entity based on the Cut Amount, then subdivides the
inner cross section entity into an equal number of segments. This does not synchronize
the toolpath to the entity endpoints. The first sync point is the start location of each cross
section entity.

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-23

Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

12. Change to top view to see the toolpath.

Aligned cross section

entity start locations

Did You Know ...

Depending on the start location of the cross section entities, ProCAM may produce a
toolpath that is not desirable for machining. If this occurs, delete one or both of the
cross section entities and insert them with aligned start locations as shown in the
above figure.
Generating Toolpaths with Open Cross Section Entities
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Slice Double.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.
Do not save the changes to the part if it is open in the work area.

2. Click the Layers tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

3. Turn on layers 23 and 24 and make layer 23 the current layer.
4. Turn off layers 2 and 5.

5. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

6. Right click in the Operation tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut
menu.
7. In the Controller Type dialog box, select FANTUTM and click OK.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.
8. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation, then select Slice.
9. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (click the Active Tools button and define a
.50" Ball Nose)
Operation Name Double Offset

3-24 Finish Cutting Cycles

 Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

Slice XYZ Allowance 0.0"

Rapid Plane .50"
Milling Type Climb
Program Point Tool Tip
Surface Surface Finish Cut Amount
Max Deviation .003"
Cut Amount .25"
Pattern Types Cutting Options Double Offset Cut
Pattern Type ZigZag
Cut Along/Across Cut Along Cross Section
Cross Section
Leadin/Out Leadin Plunge
Leadout Vertical
Options Stock Fixed

10. Click OK to accept the changes.

The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut (button 2 when done).
11. Pick the surface, then click BUTTON 2.
The surface is highlighted and the prompt line reads: PICK surface to avoid (button 2 when
done).
12. Click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: PICK the 1st cross section for flowline.
13. Pick one of the cross section entities above the surface.
The prompt line reads: PICK the 2nd cross section for flowline.
14. Pick the second cross section entity.
For open cross section entities, ProCAM creates a
transitional toolpath that is parallel to each cross
section entity.
15. Press F9 to change to top view to see the toolpath.
16. Right click the Slice Cut operation in the Operation
tree and select Edit Operation on the shortcut
menu.

Cut Along Cross Section

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-25

Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

17. On the Pattern Types tab, change Cut Along Cross

Section to Cut Across Cross Section, then click
OK.
18. Rerun the operation and notice the difference in the
toolpath.
For open cross section entities, a toolpath is created
between the two cross section entities.
The Cut Across option uses the Cut Amount to
determine the number of segments on the longer of
the 2 cross section entities. The shorter cross
section entity is divided into the same number of
segments, resulting in a smaller cut amount on the
shorter segment. Cut Across Cross Section

Pocket/Lace Offset Slice Cutting

In these exercises, you generate Slice cut toolpaths for a surface using the Pocket/Lace Offset
cutting strategy.
Generating Toolpaths for a Pocket with an Island
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Slice Offset Closed.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

2. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

3. Right click in the Operation tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut
menu.
4. In the Controller Type dialog box, select FANTUTM and click OK.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.
5. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
Slice in the list of operations.
6. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (click the Active Tools button and define a .50"
Ball Nose)
Operation Name Pocket Offset
Slice XYZ Allowance 0.0"
Rapid Plane .50"
Surface Surface Finish Cut Amount
Cut Amount .30"

3-26 Finish Cutting Cycles

 Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

Pattern Types Cutting Options Pocket/Lace Offset

Pattern Type Pocket Out
Leadin/Out Leadin Plunge
Leadout Vertical
Options Stock Fixed
7. Click OK to accept the changes.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut (button 2 when done).
8. Pick the surface, then click BUTTON 2.
The surface is highlighted and the prompt line reads: PICK surface to avoid (button 2 when
done).
9. Click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: PICK cross sections for flowline (button 2 when done).
10. Window pick both cross section
entities above the surface, then click
BUTTON 2.
ProCAM creates a toolpath similar to
the toolpath that would be generated
by a 2D pocketing routine. The
toolpath removes all material inside the
perimeter cross section entity and
outside the inner cross section entity
creating an island.
11. Edit the operation and change some of
the Slice cut parameters, then rerun the
operation to see how each parameter
affects the resulting toolpath.
− For example, on the Surface tab, change the Cut Amount.
− On the Pattern Types tab, change the Pattern Type to Pocket In. This will remove
material from the outside in.
Generating Toolpaths for a Pocket
EXERCISE 1. Erase the toolpath from the previous exercise.
2. Right click the operation in the Operation tree and select Insert Toolpath on the shortcut
menu.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut (button 2 when done).
3. Pick the surface, then click BUTTON 2.
The surface is highlighted and the prompt line reads: PICK surface to avoid (button 2 when
done).

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-27

Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

4. Click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: PICK cross
sections for flowline (button 2 when done).
5. Pick the perimeter cross section entity
above the surface, then click BUTTON 2.
The toolpath removes all material inside
the perimeter cross section entity.
Because you picked only the perimeter
cross section entity, ProCAM ignores
the inside cross section entity and cuts
the entire surface under the perimeter
cross section entity.
Generating Toolpaths for a Pocket with Multiple Islands
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Slice Profile.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

2. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

3. Right click in the Operation tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut
menu.
4. In the Controller Type dialog box, select FANTUTM and click OK.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.
5. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
Slice in the list of operations.
6. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (click the Active Tools button and define
a .25" Ball Nose)
Operation Name Pocket Offset
Slice XYZ Allowance 0.0"
Rapid Plane 1.4"
Program Point Tool Tip
Surface Surface Finish Cut Amount
Max Deviation .003"
Cut Amount .125"
Pattern Types Cutting Options Pocket/Lace Offset
Pattern Type Pocket In
Cut Direction Counterclockwise

3-28 Finish Cutting Cycles

 Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

Leadin/Out Leadin Plunge

Leadout Vertical
Options Stock Offset
Z Face 1.25"
7. Click OK to accept the changes.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut (button 2 when done).
8. Pick the surface, then click BUTTON 2.
The surface is highlighted and the prompt line reads: PICK surface to avoid (button 2 when
done).
9. Click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: PICK cross
sections for flowline (button 2 when
done).
10. Window pick the cross section
entities above the surface, then click
BUTTON 2.
ProCAM generates a toolpath
similar to a 2D pocketing routine
that follows the contour of the
surface. The toolpath removes all
material inside the perimeter cross
section entity and outside the inner cross
section entities.
11. Click the Verify button on the
Multi-surface Machining toolbar.
12. If you have Sirius Verify installed,
the modifier toolbar displays two
buttons. Click the ProVerify button.
13. Click the Display Tool button to
select it.
14. Run the simulation.
15. When you are finished, right click in the work area and select Close ProVerify.

Spiral Slice Cutting

Generating a Spiral Slice Cut Cycle
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Slice Circular.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

2. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-29

Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

3. Right click in the Operation tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut
menu.
4. In the Controller Type dialog box, select FANTUTM and click OK.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.
5. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
Slice in the list of operations.
6. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (click the Active Tools button and define a .25"
Ball Nose)
Operation Name Spiral Slice
Slice XYZ Allowance 0.0"
Rapid Plane 1.00"
Milling Type Climb
Program Point Tool Tip
Surface Surface Finish Cut Amount
Max Deviation .003"
Cut Amount .20"
Pattern Types Cutting Options Spiral Cut
Cut Inside/Out or Cut Inside/Out
Cut Outside/In
Inside Radius 0
Outside Radius 5.00"
Leadin/Out Leadin Plunge
Leadout Vertical
Options Stock Fixed
7. Click OK to accept the changes.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut (button 2 when done).
8. Pick the surface, then click BUTTON 2.
The surface is highlighted and the prompt line reads: PICK surface to avoid (button 2 when
done).
9. Click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for spiral center.

3-30 Finish Cutting Cycles

 Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

10. Click the Keyboard button on the Snap

toolbar.
11. Press ENTER three times to accept the 0.00
default for X, Y and Z.
ProCAM generates a spiral toolpath that
starts in the center of the part and spirals to
the extents.

After you generate toolpaths, you can use the Order Utility to view the tool moving through
the toolpath:
1. Click the Order button on the Utility toolbar.
2. Make sure the Display Tool modifier is highlighted.
3. Make sure the Step Through Cutting Movements modifier is highlighted.
4. Click the Move Tool to 1st Cut button.
5. Click the Next Move button.
The tool starts at the inside of the surface and moves one cut in a clockwise (climb
milling) direction.

6. Continue clicking the Next Move button to move through the toolpath.
EXERCISE Edit the operation and see how changing parameters affect the toolpath.
1. Right click the operation in the Operation tree and select Edit Operation on the shortcut
menu.
2. On the Slice tab, change the Milling Type to Conventional, then click OK.
3. Rerun the operation.

4. Run the Order Utility as explained above.

Notice that the tool starts at the inside of the surface and moves in a counterclockwise
(conventional milling) direction.
5. Edit the operation:
− On the Pattern Types tab, change the Inside Radius from 0 to 1" and the Outside
Radius from 5" to 4". This allows you to cut only a portion of the surface.
− Change the direction from Inside/Out to Outside/In.

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-31

Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

6. Rerun the operation.

The toolpath starts on the outside of the
surface and cuts inward on the portion of the
surface between the specified Outside Radius
and Inside Radius.

Radial Slice Cutting

Generating a Radial Slice Cut Cycle
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Slice Circular.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

2. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

3. Right click in the Operation tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut
menu.
4. In the Controller Type dialog box, select FANTUTM and click OK.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.
5. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
Slice in the list of operations.
6. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (click the Active Tools button and define a
.25" Ball Nose)
Operation Name Radial Slice
Slice XYZ Allowance 0.0"
Rapid Plane 1.00"
Milling Type Climb
Program Point Tool Tip
Surface Surface Finish Cut Amount
Max Deviation .005"
Cut Amount .20"

3-32 Finish Cutting Cycles

 Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

Pattern Types Cutting Options Radial Cut

Pattern Type ZigZag
Cut From Start to End Cut From Start to End Angle
Angle/Cut All from
Start Angle
Direction Start on Inside
Radius 10.00"
Start Angle 0
End Angle 360
Angular Cut 2 (specifies increment in degrees for each pass)
Leadin/Out Leadin Plunge
Leadout Vertical
Options Stock Fixed
7. Click OK to accept the changes.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut (button 2 when done).
8. Pick the surface, then click BUTTON 2.
The surface is highlighted and the prompt line reads: PICK surface to avoid (button 2 when
done).
9. Click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate
for radial center.

10. Click the Keyboard button on the Snap

toolbar.
Press ENTER three times to accept the
default 0.00 for X, Y and Z.
ProCAM generates a radial toolpath that
starts in the center of the part and cuts outward to the extents.
EXERCISE After you generate toolpaths, you can use the Order Utility to view the tool moving through
the toolpath:
1. Click the Order button on the Utility toolbar.
2. Make sure the Display Tool modifier is highlighted.
3. Make sure the Step Through Cutting Movements modifier is highlighted.
4. Click the Move Tool to 1st Cut button.
5. Click the Next Move button repeatedly to move through the toolpath.
The tool starts at the inside of the surface and moves in a clockwise (climb milling)
direction.

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-33

Inserting a Slice Cutting Cycle

EXERCISE Edit the operation and see how changing parameters affects the toolpath.
1. On the Pattern Types tab, change the
Radius from 10 to 4, then rerun the
operation.
The toolpath is generated only on the
inside portion of the surface.

2. Change the following parameters on the

Pattern Types tab, then rerun the
operation:
− Radius = 10.00"
− Start Angle = 45 degrees
− End Angle = 225 degrees
The toolpath is generated on only a
segment of the part.

3. On the Slice tab, change the Milling Type to Conventional.

This reverses the direction of the toolpath.
4. On the Pattern Types tab, change the direction from Start on Inside to Start on Outside,
then rerun the operation.
5. On the Slice tab, change the Milling Type to Climb, then rerun.
The direction of the toolpath is reversed.

3-34 Finish Cutting Cycles

 UV Cutting Cycle

UV Cutting Cycle
The UV Cut command is a surface finish contouring cycle. This cycle removes material by
making a series of cuts along the flow directions of the surface. The U and V flow directions
are identified by the patch lines that make up the surface.

Generating Toolpaths on an Entire Surface

EXERCISE In this exercise, you generate UV cutting toolpaths for a surface, then you change some of
the operation parameters to see the differences in the toolpaths that are generated.
1. Open the part file UV Cut Contour.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.
2. If the part displays in shaded mode, position the pointer in the work area and click the left
mouse button, then press W on the keyboard to change to wire frame.

3. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

4. Right click in the tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut menu.
5. In the Controller Type dialog box, select FANTUTM and click OK.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.
6. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
UV in the list of operations.
7. In the Set Operation - UV Cut Properties dialog box, define the operation parameters
using the following information. You can use the defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (click the Active Tools button and define a .5"
Ball Nose)
Operation Name UV Cut
UV XYZ Allowance 0.0" (finish the part to size)
Rapid Plane .50"
Program Point Tool Tip
Surface Max. Scallop .01"
Max Deviation .003"
Cutting Type Network
Pattern Types Pattern Type ZigZag
Leadin/Out Leadin Normal
Leadin Amount .375"
Leadout Normal
Leadout Amount .375"
Options Stock Offset

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-35

UV Cutting Cycle

8. Click OK to accept the changes.

The prompt line reads: PICK
surface to cut (button 2 when
done).
9. Pick the surface, then click
BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: PICK
surface to avoid (button 2 when
done).
10. Click BUTTON 2.
ProCAM generates the UV cut
cycle toolpath.

11. Press F9 to change the View to 1

Top and notice that the toolpath
follows the contour of the surface.

12. Change the View back to 7 ISO 1.

13. Click the Edit button on the Utility toolbar.
14. Pick the surface.
15. Click the Change Arrow Direction modifier button.
Did You Know ...
The direction of the surface arrows controls the direction of the toolpath.

3-36 Finish Cutting Cycles

 UV Cutting Cycle

16. Rerun the operation.

Notice the cut follows the
surface arrow direction as
shown in the figure.
17. Edit the surface arrow and
change the arrow corner.
18. Rerun the operation.
The cutting starts in the corner
where the surface arrow is
positioned and goes in the
arrow direction.

Arrow Direction Determines Toolpath Direction

Edit the UV Cut operation and try different combinations for parameter values, then rerun the
operation.
Change these parameters … Then … Comments
UV tab Program Point = Tool Rerun The toolpath is generated from the center
Center of the tool.
UV tab Program Point = Tool Rerun Edit the operation and try the other
Tip leadins and leadouts.
Leadin/Out Leadin = Tangent
tab Leadout = Horizontal
Surface tab Max Scallop = .10" Rerun Large stepover results in less desirable
surface finish.
Surface tab Max Scallop = .01" Rerun Produces a better surface finish.

Cutting a Portion of a Surface

A surface is comprised of one or more surface patches that follow the U and V flow
directions across the part. You can use the Patch Cut option to UV Cut a portion of a surface
by selecting 2 patch points that are located at the intersection of the U and V flow direction
lines.
EXERCISE Patch cut a portion of the surface:
1. Continue using the part in the work area.

2. Erase the toolpaths that were generated in the previous exercises.

3. If the part is shaded, press W on the keyboard to change to wire frame.
4. Edit the operation and select the Patch Cut parameter on the Options tab.
5. Click OK to exit the Set Operation – UV Cut Properties dialog box.

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-37

UV Cutting Cycle

6. Right click the operation in the Operation tree and select Insert Toolpath on the shortcut
menu.
− Do not rerun the operation.
− The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut (button 2 when done).
7. Pick the surface, then click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: PICK 1st location on surface for patch cut.
8. Pick the intersection of a U
and V flow line (the figure
shows an example).
The intersection selected is
identified by a point.
The prompt line reads: PICK
2nd location on surface for
patch cut.
Selection of the patch points
should be the diagonal
corners of the rectangular 1st location
patch or series of patches to for patch cut
be cut. 2nd
9. Pick the intersection of a U location
Patch Cut Toolpath
and V flow line located in a
diagonal from the first location.
ProCAM generates the UV Cut toolpaths on the portion of the surface you selected. The
toolpath on your part may look different depending on the current arrow location and
direction.

UV Cutting Multiple Surfaces

Generating Toolpaths for Multiple Surfaces
In this exercise, you generate UV cutting toolpaths for multiple surfaces. The direction of the
surface arrows is important because the arrow direction controls the direction of the toolpath.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file UV Cut Snake.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

2. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

3. Right click in the Operation tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut
menu.
4. In the Controller Type dialog box, select FANTUTM and click OK.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.

3-38 Finish Cutting Cycles

 UV Cutting Cycle

5. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
UV in the list of operations.
The Set Operation - UV Cut Properties dialog box displays.
6. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (click the Active Tools button and define a .125"
Ball Nose)
Operation Name UV Cut
UV XYZ Allowance 0.0"
Rapid Plane .50"
Program Point Tool Tip
Surface Max. Scallop .01"
Max Deviation .002"
Cutting Type Network
Pattern Types Pattern Type ZigZag
Leadin/Out Leadin Normal
Leadin Amount .375"
Leadout Normal
Leadout Amount .375"
Options Stock Offset
7. Click OK to accept the changes.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut (button 2 when done).
8. Pick the surfaces in the
order you want them cut.
9. Click BUTTON 2 twice.
The UV Cut toolpaths
are generated.
Note that the direction of
the surface arrows
controls the start position
and direction of the
toolpath.

Toolpaths Follow Surface Arrow Direction

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-39

UV Cutting Cycle

10. Edit the operation:

On the Pattern Type tab,
change the Pattern Type
to Zig (same direction).
On the Leadin/Out tab,
change the Leadin to
Plunge and the Leadout to
Vertical, then click OK.
11. Rerun the operation.
12. Click the Oops
button to delete the
toolpath.
13. Click the Edit button Toolpaths with Zig Option
on the Utility toolbar.
14. Pick the surface on one end of the part.
15. Click the Change Arrow Direction modifier button, then click BUTTON 2.
16. Continue picking surfaces in order and changing the surface arrow direction.

17. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.
18. Edit the operation and
change the Pattern Type
to Zigzag on the Pattern
Types tab, then click OK.
19. Widow pick the surfaces.
20. Click BUTTON 2 twice.
The UV Cut toolpaths are
generated. Notice the
direction the toolpaths are
inserted.

Toolpaths Inserted in Different Direction

3-40 Finish Cutting Cycles

 UV Cutting Cycle

Cutting Multiple Fillet Surfaces as a Continuous Surface

The UV Cut cycle cuts each surface individually; however, multiple fillet surfaces with the
same radius and width can be cut as if they were one continuous surface. When the Fillet
cutting strategy is used, the UV cut is along the fillets. The corner of the direction arrow on
the first surface selected determines the start of the toolpath.
Several restrictions apply to using the Fillet cutting strategy:
• The surfaces must have the same radius and width.
• The surfaces must share a common edge and there can be no gaps between the surfaces.

EXERCISE 1. Continue using the part in the work area.

2. Change the color.

3. Click the Layers tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

4. Right click in the Layers tab and select Create New on the shortcut menu.
5. Define a new layer, 3 – Fillet Cut, and make it the current layer.
6. Turn off layer 2, then click OK.

7. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

8. Right click on the UV Cut
operation in the tree and
select Copy on the shortcut
menu.
A second operation is listed
in the tree.
9. Right click the second
operation and select Edit
Operation.
10. Change the Operation
Name to Fillet.
11. Click the Surface tab and
change the Cutting Type to
Fillet, then click OK.
12. Pick each surface.
13. Click BUTTON 2 twice.
The UV Cut toolpaths are generated. Notice the surfaces are cut as one continuous
surface.

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-41

UV Cutting Cycle

For More Practice

Exercise UV1
Machine Skill1.pcii using a UV Cut finish cutting cycle:

Skill1.pcii UV Cut Toolpath

• Open the part file Skill1.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

• Change the layer and color.
• Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.
• Right click in the Operation tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut
menu.
• In the Controller Type dialog box, select FANTUTM and click OK.
• Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
UV in the list of operations.
• Define the operation parameters using the following information:
− Active Tool = 1 (define a .25" diameter ball nose cutter)
− XYZ Allowance = 0.0 (finish the part to size)
− Rapid Plane = .50"
− Program Point = Tool Tip
− Max. Scallop = .003"
− Max. Deviation = .003"
− Cutting Type = Network
− Pattern Type = Zigzag
− Leadin & Leadout = Normal
− Leadin & Leadout Amount = .10"

3-42 Finish Cutting Cycles

 UV Cutting Cycle

Exercise UV2
Machine Skill2.pcii using a UV Cut finish cutting cycle.

Skill2.pcii UV Cut Toolpath

• Open the part file Skill2.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

• Change the layer and color.
• Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.
• Right click in the Operation tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut
menu.
• In the Controller Type dialog box, select FANTUTM and click OK.
• Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
UV in the list of operations.
• Define the operation parameters using the following information:
− Active Tool = 1 (define a .25" diameter ball nose cutter)
− XYZ Allowance = 0.0" (finish the part to size)
− Rapid Plane = .50"
− Program Point = Tool Tip
− Max. Scallop = .003"
− Max. Deviation = .003"
− Cutting Type = Network
− Pattern Type = Zigzag
− Leadin = Normal
− Leadin Amount = .10"
− Leadout = Normal
− Leadout Amount = .10"

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-43

Z-Level Cutting Cycle

Z-Level Cutting Cycle

The Z-Level Cut command is a surface finish contouring cycle that removes material by
making a series of horizontal planar cuts around the surface of the part. The Z-Level cuts
follow the contour of the surface at the different levels based on the Cut Type you specify.
Cutting starts from the highest location of the surface and works down to the lowest contour
of the surface.
Generating a Z-Level Cut on a Surface of Revolution
In this exercise, you generate Z-Level finish cutting toolpaths for a single surface of
revolution. Z-level Cut.pcii has a semi-sphere surface of revolution of 2.00" radius. Using a
.50" diameter ball nose cutter, you finish cut the surface.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Z-level Cut.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

2. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

3. Right click in the Operation tree and choose the Select Controller command on the
shortcut menu.
4. In the Controller Type dialog box, double-click FANTUTM.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.

5. Click the Layers tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

6. Right click in the Layers tab and select Create New.
7. Define a new layer, 4 – Z-Level Cut, make it current, then click OK.
8. Change the color for the toolpath.
9. Select Options on the menu bar, then select System Options.
10. In the System Options dialog box, make sure the Design Part Deviation is set to .001" and
click OK.
The Design Part Deviation is an important value for determining the quality of the
toolpaths that the multi-surface cutting will produce. Before generating toolpaths,
ProCAM approximates surfaces with triangular facets that are generated within the
specified Design Part Deviation value. The smaller the Design Part Deviation, the more
triangles ProCAM uses to approximate the surfaces and consequently the smoother the
surface finish will be.
When you machine a part, toolpaths are approximated to within a tolerance of the
surfaces. The Max. Deviation parameter for each operation works in conjunction with the
Design Part Deviation to determine the final deviation between the actual part and the
resulting toolpath. The Design Part Deviation should be the smallest tolerance that any of
the multi-surface cutting routines will need. Generally, this will be the Max. Deviation
specified in the operation for the final finishing cycle.

3-44 Finish Cutting Cycles

 Z-Level Cutting Cycle

11. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.
12. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
Z-Level in the list of operations.
13. In the Set Operation - Z-Level Cut Properties dialog box, click the Active Tools button on
the Tool tab.
14. In the Mill Tools dialog box, highlight Station #1 and click the Edit button.
15. In the Set Tool dialog box, define a .50" Ball Nose, then click OK.
16. Click OK to exit the Mill Tools dialog box.
17. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (.50" Ball Nose)
Operation Name Z-Level Cut
Z-Level XYZ Allowance 0.0"
Minimum Z -2.5"
Rapid Plane .50"
Program Point Tool Tip
Surface Surface Finish Scallop
Max. Scallop .003"
Max Deviation .001"
Model Type Core
Leadin/Out Leadin Plunge
Leadout Vertical
Options Stock Fixed
18. Click OK to accept the changes.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut (button 2 when done).
19. Pick the surface of revolution, then click BUTTON 2.
− The surface is highlighted.
− The prompt line reads: PICK surface to avoid (button 2 when done).
Did You Know ...
The Z-Level Cut cycle allows you to pick a single surface, multiple surfaces and/or
composite surfaces to generate Z-Level Cut cycle toolpaths.
20. Click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for contour cutting start (or button 2).

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-45

Z-Level Cutting Cycle

21. Click the Endpoint button on the Snap toolbar.

The prompt line reads: PICK endpoint for contour cutting start (or button 2).
ProCAM is looking for a coordinate in the Z axis where Z-Level cutting starts and the
level Z-Level cutting ends. If you do
not specify coordinates by clicking
button 2, ProCAM uses the extents of
the surfaces.
22. Pick the endpoint of one of the vertical
lines of the rough stock at the top
endpoint of the line.
The prompt line reads: PICK endpoint
for contour cutting end.
23. Pick the endpoint of the same vertical
line of the rough stock at the bottom
endpoint of the line.
ProCAM generates the Z-Level Cut
cycle toolpaths around the surface of
revolution cutting from the top down.

Transitioning Between Z-level Cuts

In Z-level cutting, the link is the connection from the end of one Z-level cut to the start of the
next Z-level cut. ProCAM provides a choice of links, including options for high-speed
machining when there must be a smooth transition between cuts with no sharp or abrupt
corners.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Z-level Links.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

2. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

3. Right click in the Operation tree and choose the Select Controller command.
4. In the Controller Type dialog box, double-click FANTUTM.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.
5. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
Z-Level in the list of operations.
6. In the Set Operation - Z-Level Cut Properties dialog box, click the Active Tools button on
the Tool tab.
7. In the Mill Tools dialog box, highlight Station #1 and click the Edit button.
8. In the Set Tool dialog box, define a 20mm Hog Nose with a 5mm Corner Radius, then
click OK.
9. Click OK to exit the Mill Tools dialog box.

3-46 Finish Cutting Cycles

 Z-Level Cutting Cycle

10. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (20mm Hog Nose)
Operation Name Z-Level Links
Z-Level XYZ Allowance 0.0mm
Clearance Plane 50.00mm
Rapid Plane 55.00mm
Milling Type Conventional
Program Point Tool Tip
Surface Surface Finish Cut Amount
Cut Amount 20.00mm
Max Deviation .01mm
Model Type Core
Leadin/Out Leadin Arc
Leadout Arc
Links Types Link Type Follow
Rapid To Rapid Plane
Options Stock Fixed
11. Click OK to accept the changes.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut (button 2 when done).
12. Pick the surface, then click BUTTON 2.
− The surface is highlighted.
− The prompt line reads: PICK surface to avoid (button 2 when done).
13. Click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for contour cutting start (or button
2).
14. Click BUTTON 2.
The toolpath follows the contour of the part when transitioning from one
level to the next. A single leadin and leadout move is made for the toolpath.
15. Right click the operation in the tree and select Edit Operation.

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-47

Z-Level Cutting Cycle

16. On the Links Type tab, change the Link Type to Horizontal/Vertical, then click OK.
17. Right click in the tree and select Rerun Current.
This toolpath makes a stair step transition from one level to the next. The tool moves
away horizontally from the last move on the previous level to a position above the next
level's start point and then moves down in Z. A single leadin and leadout move is made
for the toolpath.
18. Edit the operation, change the Link Type to Retract and rerun the operation.
When a leadin and/or leadout is specified, a leadin and/or leadout is applied to each Z
level. After the leadout move, the tool retracts according to the specified Z Value.
19. Edit the operation and change the Rapid To option to Incremental.
With this option selected, the tool retracts an incremental distance above the current Z
level equal to the amount specified for the Z Value.
20. Change the Z Value to 5.00mm, then click OK.
21. Rerun the operation.
The tool retracts the incremental distance between each Z level.
Horizontal/vertical Link Type Retract to Rapid Plane Retract Incremental Amount

22. Edit the operation and change the Link Type to Spiral.
23. Set the Radius to 10mm.
24. Leave the Spiral Segments set to 30 and click OK.
The Spiral Segments parameter approximates the spiral when posting. The spiral is
generated as a NURBS and future releases will allow this to be posted as a G06 or line
segments.
25. Rerun the operation.
The toolpath makes a spiral transition from one level to the next. The tool moves tangent
to the end of the last Z level until tangent to the start of the next Z level.

3-48 Finish Cutting Cycles

 Z-Level Cutting Cycle

Generating a Z-Level Cycle on a Core and a Cavity

In the following exercises, you insert two surfaces of revolution on the cross section entity to
create a core and a cavity, then generate Z-Level Cutting cycles to cut the bottle.
EXERCISE Insert a 180 degree surface of revolution on the cross section entity for the core:
1. Open the part file Bottle.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.
The cross section entities have already been inserted.

2. Click the Layers tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

3. Double-click layer 2 to turn it on and make it current.
4. Click the Surfacing button on the CAD toolbar.
5. Select Options on the menu bar, then select Surface Display.
6. In the Surface Display dialog box, make sure the Shade Color is set to Use Surface Color
and click OK.
7. Click the Surface of Revolution button on the Surf toolbar.
The prompt line reads: PICK cross section for surface.
8. Pick the cross section entity.
Revolution axis start
9. Click the Endpoint button on the
Snap toolbar.
The prompt line reads: PICK endpoint
for revolution axis start.
10. Pick the end of the line near the top of
bottle.
The prompt line reads: PICK endpoint
Revolution axis end
for revolution axis end.
11. Pick the end of the line near the
bottom of the bottle.
The prompt line reads: ENTER angle
of rotation.
12. Type 180 and press ENTER.
13. Press ENTER to accept the default 5
for the number of patches.
A surface of revolution for the core
is inserted around the cross section
entity.

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-49

Z-Level Cutting Cycle

EXERCISE Put a 180 degree surface of revolution on the cross section entity for the cavity:

1. Click the Layers tab at the bottom of the Part Manager and change the layers:
− Double-click layer 3 to turn it on and make it current.
− Turn off layer 2.
2. Change the color.
3. Pick the cross section entity.
4. Make sure the Endpoint button is still highlighted on the Snap toolbar.
The prompt line reads: PICK endpoint for revolution axis start.
5. Pick the end of the line near the bottom of bottle.
The prompt line reads: PICK endpoint for revolution axis end.
6. Pick the end of the line near the top
of the bottle.
7. Press ENTER to accept 180 for the
angle of rotation.
8. Press ENTER to accept the default 5
for the number of patches.
A surface of revolution for the cavity
is inserted around the cross section
entity.

EXERCISE Cut the core:

1. Click the Layers tab at the bottom of the Part Manager and change the layers:
− Double-click layer 4 to turn it on and make it current.
− Right click in the Layers tab and select All Off on the shortcut menu, then turn on
layer 2.
2. Change the color.

3. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

4. Right click in the Operation tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut
menu.
5. In the Controller Type dialog box, select FANTUTM and click OK.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.
6. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
Z-Level in the list of operations.

3-50 Finish Cutting Cycles

 Z-Level Cutting Cycle

7. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (click the Active Tools button and define a .25"
Ball Nose)
Operation Name Z-Level Core
Z-Level XYZ Allowance 0.0"
Clearance Plane 3.50"
Rapid Plane 5.00"
Milling Type Climb
Program Point Tool Tip
Surface Surface Finish Scallop
Max. Scallop .02"
Max Deviation .001"
Model Type Core
Leadin/Out Leadin Plunge
Leadout Vertical
Link Types Link Type Follow (the toolpath follows the contour of the part
when transitioning from one level to the next)
Options Stock Offset
8. Click OK to accept the changes.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface
to cut.
9. Pick the surface and click BUTTON
2.
10. Click BUTTON 2 again.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE
coordinate for contour cutting start (or
button 2).
11.Click BUTTON 2.
The toolpaths are generated for the
core.
EXERCISE Cut the cavity:
1. Click the Layers tab at the bottom of the Part Manager and change layers:
− Double-click layer 5 to turn it on and make it current.
− Right click in the Layers tab and select All Off on the shortcut menu, then turn on
layer 3.

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-51

Z-Level Cutting Cycle

2. Change the color.

3. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

4. Right click the Z-Level Core operation in the Operation tree and select Copy on the
shortcut menu.
Instead of defining a new operation for the cavity, you can copy the core operation and
edit the operation to cut the cavity.
5. Right click the second operation in
the Operation tree and select Edit
Operation on the shortcut menu.
6. On the Tool tab, change the
Operation Name to Z-Level Cavity.
7. On the Surface tab, change the Model
Type to Cavity and click OK.
8. Follow the prompts to generate the
toolpath.
Notice that the tool retracts to the
specified Rapid Plane between each Z
level cut.
9. Right click the Z Level Cavity operation in the tree and select Edit Operation on the
shortcut menu.
10. On the Link Types tab, set the Max Link Dist to .05", then click OK.
When the Link Type is set to Follow or
Horizontal/Vertical, this parameter defines the
maximum distance before the tool will retract to
the specified Rapid Plane location. The distance
is measured along the curvature of the part
between each Z level.
11. Right click the operation in the tree and select
Rerun Current on the shortcut menu.
12. Press W on the keyboard to change to wire frame
display.
13. Rotate and zoom the part so that you can see that the tool stays down between each Z
level.
14. Right click the Z Level Cavity operation in the tree and select Edit Operation.

3-52 Finish Cutting Cycles

 Z-Level Cutting Cycle

15. On the Link Types tab, set the Max Link Dist to .05".
16. For the Rapid To option, select Incremental.
When this option is selected, the tool retracts an
incremental distance above the current Z level
equal to the amount specified for the Z Value.
17. Set the Z Value to .25" and click OK.
18. Right click the operation in the tree and select
Rerun Current on the shortcut menu.
The tool retracts an incremental distance
between each Z level.

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-53

Z-Level Cutting Cycle

For More Practice

Exercise Z-Level1
Machine Skill3.pcii using a Z-Level Cut finish cutting cycle around the core surface:

Skill3.pcii Z-Level Cut Toolpath

• Open the part file Skill3.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.
• Change layer and color.
• Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.
• Right click in the Operation tree and select the Select Controller command, then double-
click FANTUTM.
• Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation, then select Z-Level.
• Define the operation parameters using the following information:
− Active Tool = 1 (define a .25" diameter ball nose cutter)
− XYZ Allowance = 0.0" (finish the part to size)
− Rapid Plane = 2.50"
− Program Point = Tool Tip
− Surface Finish = Scallop
− Max. Scallop = .002"
− Max. Deviation = .001"
− Model Type = Core
− Leadin = Plunge
− Leadout = Vertical
− Link Type = Follow
− Stock = Offset
− Z Face = 1.7"

3-54 Finish Cutting Cycles

 Z-Level Cutting Cycle

Exercise Z-Level2
The following operations have already been defined in the part used in this exercise:
• Roughing operation using a taper hog nose tool to rough out the cavity of the part.
• 2½ Axis Mill Pocket operation to finish the bottom.
• Z-level Cut operation using a taper tool to finish the walls.

Z-level Taper Tool.pcii ProVerify Simulation

Generate the toolpaths and simulate the material removal:

• Open the part file Z-level Taper Tool.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.
• Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.
• Right click the Rough operation in the tree.
On the Tool tab, a hog nose taper tool is selected.
Click the Surface tab and notice that Exact is selected for the
Processing Method. Taper tools are supported for the Exact
method only.
• Exit the dialog box and generate the toolpath.
For the stock start and end, use the Endpoint Snap and pick the
corner at the top left of the surface, then pick the opposite
diagonal corner at the bottom of the surface.
• Click the Layers tab at the bottom of the Part Manager. Double-
click the Finish Bottom layer and turn off the Rough TP layer.
• Change the color.
• Right click the Pocket operation in the tree and select Insert Toolpath on the shortcut
menu.
• Pick the cross section entity at the bottom of the pocket and click BUTTON 2.

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-55

Z-Level Cutting Cycle

• Click the Layers tab at the bottom of the Part Manager. Double-click the Z-Level Fin TP
layer and turn off the Finish Bottom layer.
• Change the color.
• Right click the Z-level operation in the tree and select Edit Operation.
On the Tool tab, a ball nose taper tool is selected.
• Exit the dialog box and window pick all the surfaces, then click BUTTON
2.
• Click BUTTON 2 twice.
• Edit the operation and change the Link Type to Follow on the Link
Types tab, then rerun the operation.
• Run ProVerify and view the simulation.

3-56 Finish Cutting Cycles

 Pencil Mill Cutting Cycle

Pencil Mill Cutting Cycle

The Pencil Mill Cycle command is a surface finish contouring cycle that removes material
left by a previous cycle.
Generally, a Pencil Mill cycle is used to calculate and generate toolpaths to cut the material
left by a larger tool in a previous cycle. The Pencil Mill cycle creates toolpaths using a
smaller ball nose tool to remove only the remaining material. There are four pattern types in
pencil machining: lace, lace parallel, combined and trace.

Generating a Pencil Mill Cut Cycle

In these exercises, you generate Pencil Mill cycles for a part using the different Pattern
Types.
EXERCISE Generate a Pencil Mill Cycle using the Lace option.
1. Open the part file Pencil Mill.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.
Rough Cut and Slice Cut toolpaths have been generated for this part. The Slice Cut cycle
used a .25" ball nose tool with a .01" XYZ Allowance, which left material around the
inner section of the plane and the dome that can be removed by a Pencil Mill cycle.

2. Click the Layers tab at the bottom of the Part Manager and turn off layers 3 and 4.

3. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

4. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation, then select Pencil.
5. Click the Active Tools button on the Tool tab in the Set Operation dialog box.
6. In the Mill Tools dialog box, highlight Station #3 and click the Edit button.
7. In the Set Tool dialog box, define a .18" Ball Nose, then click OK.
8. Click OK to exit the Mill Tools dialog box.
9. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 3 (.18" Ball Nose)
Operation Name Pencil Mill
Pencil XYZ Allowance 0.0"
Clearance Plane 1.1"
Rapid Plane 1.2"
Milling Type Climb
Tool Diameter .25" (diameter of the tool used for the Slice Cut). For
best results, the value entered here should be less than
twice the diameter of the tool you are using for the
pencil mill cycle.

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-57

Pencil Mill Cutting Cycle

Allowance .01" (XYZ Allowance in the Slice Cut cycle)

Surface Max Deviation .005"
Cut Amount .045"
Pattern Types Pattern Type Lace (creates toolpaths using a zigzag pattern across
the area to be cut in a lace pattern)
Pattern Strategy ZigZag
Leadin/Out Leadin/Leadout Plunge
10. Click OK to accept the changes.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut (button 2 when done).
11. Window pick both surfaces, then click BUTTON 2.
ProCAM calculates where the
remaining material would be from the
previous cycle. The toolpath zigzags
across the area to be cut removing the
remaining material.
With Plunge Leadin and Leadout
selected, the tool rapids in Z axis from
the Rapid Plane to the depth of the
surface face at the start of the cut plus
the incremental Clearance Plane
amount, then feeds in Z axis to the
surface. At the end of the cycle, the
tool rapids in Z axis from the surface
of the part to the rapid plane.
12. Right click the Pencil Mill operation in the Operation tree and select Edit Operation on
the shortcut menu.
13. On the Leadin/Out tab, change the Leadin/Leadout to Arc.
14. Use .25" for the Arc Radius and 90 for the Arc Angle, then click OK.
15. Rerun the operation and notice the difference in the leadin and leadout.
With Arc selected, a linear move is made to an arc, and an arc move leads into the part
before the toolpath start. To end the toolpath, an arc move leads away from the part and a
linear move is made away from the arc before retracting out of the part.
16. Click the Verify button on the Multi-surface Machining toolbar.
17. If you have Sirius Verify installed, the modifier toolbar displays two buttons. Click
the ProVerify button.
18. Run the simulation.
19. When you are finished, right click in the work area and select Close ProVerify.

3-58 Finish Cutting Cycles

 Pencil Mill Cutting Cycle

EXERCISE Edit the operation and generate a Pencil Mill Cycle using the Lace Parallel option:
1. Continue using the part in the work area.
2. Right click the Pencil Mill operation in the Operation tree and select Edit Operation on
the shortcut menu.
3. On the Pattern Types tab, change the Pattern Type to Lace Parallel.
This option creates toolpaths using multiple passes parallel to the area to be cut.
4. Change the Cutting Option to Cut Outside/In.
5. On the Leadin/Out tab, change the Leadin/Leadout to Plunge, then click OK.
6. Rerun the operation.
The toolpath starts outside on the plane and cuts to the dome making multiple passes
parallel to the area to be cut.
7. Edit the operation and change the Cutting Option to Cut Inside/Out.
8. Rerun the operation. Notice that the toolpath starts at the dome and cuts to the outside.
Edit the operation and generate a Pencil Mill Cycle using the Trace option:
EXERCISE 1. Right click the Pencil Mill operation in the Operation tree and select Edit Operation on
the shortcut menu.
2. On the Pattern Types tab, change the Pattern Type to Trace, then click OK.
This option creates toolpaths using one pass parallel to the area to be cut that removes all
the leftover material. In order to remove all of the material using the Trace option, the
tool must be the same size as the fillets and corners you are trying to finish.
3. Rerun the operation.
The toolpath makes a single pass parallel to the area to be cut.

Using the Combined Pattern

In this exercise, you create Lace and Lace Parallel toolpaths using the Combined pattern. The
areas that are machined by each pattern are determined by the setting of the Slope angle.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Pencil Mill Combined.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.
Rough Cut and Z-Level Cut toolpaths have been generated for this part and the layers
containing the toolpaths are turned off. The Z-Level Cut cycle used a .375" ball nose tool
with a 0.0 XYZ Allowance.

2. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

3. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
Pencil Mill in the list of operations.

Finish Cutting Cycles 3-59

Pencil Mill Cutting Cycle

4. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 2 (click the Active Tools button and define a .20"
ball nose)
Operation Name Combined
Pencil XYZ Allowance 0.0"
Clearance Plane .10"
Rapid Plane .50"
Milling Type Conventional
Tool Diameter .375" (the diameter of the tool used in the Z-Level
Cut cycle)
Allowance 0.0 (the XYZ Allowance in the Z-Level Cut cycle)
Surface Max Deviation .002"
Cut Amount .02"
Pattern Types Pattern Type Combined
This option creates toolpaths using Lace and Lace
Parallel patterns. The areas that are machined by each
pattern are determined by the setting of the Slope
angle.
Slope Angle 45
The slope angle restricts the areas that are machined
and allows you to generate Pencil Mill toolpaths
selectively in steep or flat areas.
Areas that are larger than the specified angle are
considered steep and are machined with a Lace
pattern.
Areas that are less than the specified angle are
considered flat and are machined with a Lace Parallel
pattern.
Pattern Strategy ZigZag
Leadin/Out Leadin/Leadout Plunge
5. Click OK to accept the changes.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut (button 2 when done).
6. Window pick the surfaces, then click BUTTON 2.
The steep areas are machined using a Lace pattern.
The flat areas are machined using a Lace Parallel pattern.

3-60 Finish Cutting Cycles

Chapter 4 Contour Cutting Cycles

The contour cutting cycles are Curve Cut and Free Form Cut. This chapter provides
exercises using the Curve Cut and Free Form Cut commands.

Contour Cutting Cycles 4-1

Curve Cutting

Curve Cutting
The Curve Cut command is used to profile cut surface curves along a surface or to engrave
text on a surface. A surface curve is a spline that is created at the intersection of two
surfaces, along a surface edge, on a parting line, or by projecting a line, arc, circle, spline,
cross section entities or text onto a surface.

Generating a Curve Cutting Cycle on a Surface Curve

In this exercise, you generate a Curve Cut finish profile toolpath with the tool cutting edge
set to tool side. The part has a surface trimmed to an opening defined by a surface curve.
Using a .50" diameter ball nose cutter, you finish profile the surface curve.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Curve Cut.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.
2. If the part is shaded, position the pointer in the work area and click the left mouse button,
then press W on the keyboard to change to wire frame display.

3. Click the Layers tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

4. Double click layer 4 – Toolpaths to make it the current layer.

5. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

6. Right click in the Operation tree and select the Select Controller command.
7. In the Controller Type dialog box, double-click FANTUTM.
If the Setup Information dialog box displays, you can click OK to continue.
8. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation, then select Curve Cut.
9. In the Set Operation - Curve Cut Properties dialog box, click the Active Tools button on
the Tool tab.
10. In the Mill Tools dialog box, highlight Station #1 and click the Edit button.
11. In the Set Tool dialog box, define a .50" Ball Nose, then click OK.
12. Click OK to exit the Mill Tools dialog box.
13. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (.50" Ball Nose)
Operation Name Curve Cut
Curve Cut Z Face -1.0"
Cut Amount 0.0" (to cut right on the surface)
Clearance Plane .10"
No. of Cuts 1
Rapid Plane .25"
Program Point Tool Tip

4-2 Contour Cutting Cycles

 Curve Cutting

Surface Max Deviation .002"

Contact Location Tool Side
Did You Know ...
The FANTUTM post processor does not support 4 or 5 axis cutting, so the options
for 3, 4, 5 axis cutting are grayed out. The default is 3 axis simultaneous X, Y and Z
cutting with the tool vertical.
14. Click OK to accept the changes.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface to cut.
15. Pick the surface anywhere.
The surface is highlighted briefly.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface splines to cut (button 2 when done).
16. Pick the surface curve at
the edge of the trimmed
opening.
The surface curve is
highlighted.
17. Click BUTTON 2.
ProCAM generates the
Curve Cut finish profile
toolpath along the surface
curve and tangent to the
surface. The tool side is
the tool contact location.

Contour Cutting Cycles 4-3

Free Form Cutting

Free Form Cutting

The Free Form Cut command is used to cut entities in 3D space. This cycle can be used to
cut lines, arcs, circles, splines, text, and cross section entities.
Note that the 2½ Axis Mill Tutorial contains an exercise for generating Free Form Cut
toolpaths.

Generating a Free Form Cutting Cycle to Engrave Text

In this exercise, you generate a Free Form Cut cycle to generate toolpaths to engrave
projected text. The part depicts projected text entities in 3D space. You use a .125" diameter
ball nose cutter to generate an engraving centerline toolpath .01" below the text with tool tip
coordinate output.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Free Form Engrave.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

2. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

A Slice toolpath has already been generated and the layer turned off.
3. Right click in the Operation tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select
Free Form in the list of operations.
The Set Operation - Free Form Cut Properties dialog box displays.
4. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 2 (click the Active Tools button and define a
.125" Ball Nose)
Operation Name Free Form Cut
Free Form Cut Amount .01" (for the engraving depth)
No. of Cuts 1
Rapid Plane .25"
Program Point Tool Tip
Surface Max Deviation .002"

4-4 Contour Cutting Cycles

 Free Form Cutting

5. Click OK to accept the

changes.
The prompt line reads:
PICK curves for contour
milling (button 2 when done).
6. Window pick the projected
text spline entities.
The entities are
highlighted.
7. Click BUTTON 2.
ProCAM generates the
Free Form contour
toolpaths along the text
spline entities with the tool
tip centerline cutting .01"
below the text.
8. Click the Verify
button on the Multi-surface
Machining toolbar.
9. If the modifier toolbar
displays, click the
ProVerify button.
10. Run the simulation to see
the engraving.
11. Right click in the work area
and select Close ProVerify
to exit the simulation.
12. Delete the toolpath.
13. Edit the Free Form Cut operation:
− Change the Cut Amount parameter value to .02".
− Change the No. of Cuts to 3.
This option can be used when you want to take multiple cuts in the Z axis rather than
one single cut to depth. When this option is selected, ProCAM makes the specified
number of cuts in the X,Y plane stepping down in the Z axis.
14. Generate the toolpath and compare the results.

Contour Cutting Cycles 4-5

Free Form Cutting

4-6 Contour Cutting Cycles

Chapter 5 Drilling Cycles

The Drill command is used to insert drill toolpaths on points and circles. This command
allows you to define a single drill toolpath or multiple operations for each drill location.
This chapter provides exercises for Surface Drilling and Drill Roughing.

Drilling Cycles 5-1

Drilling

Drilling
The Drill command is used to insert drill toolpaths on points or circles. The Single Drill
function allows you to insert a single drill toolpath. The Combination Drill function allows
you to define a set of locations for multiple operations. Exercises for Single and
Combination Drilling are in the 2½ Axis Mill Tutorial.
The Drill command also supports Surface Drilling as explained in the exercise below.

Surface Drilling
ProCAM supports 3D projection surface drilling. When you define the parameters for a Drill
cycle, you use a surface to define the Z face and specify the absolute Z depth. When you pick
a surface for the Z face, ProCAM projects points onto the surface to generate the toolpaths
and drills to the specified Z Depth.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Surface Drilling.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

2. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

3. Right click in the tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut menu.
4. In the Controller Type dialog box, double-click FANTUTM and click OK.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.
5. Right click in the tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select Drill in the
list of operations.
The Set Operation - Drill Properties dialog box displays.
6. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (.25" drill)
Operation Name Surface Drill
Drill Cycle Type Drilling
Retract Type Rapid Plane
Clearance Plane .25"
Rapid Plane .50"
Z Face Surface is Face
Z Depth -1.00"

7. Click OK to accept the changes.

The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for drill hole location.
8. Click the Window Pick Drill Locations modifier button.

5-2 Drilling Cycles

 Drilling

9. Press ENTER twice to accept the .25 minimum and maximum diameters.
The prompt line reads: PICK entities for drill hole location (button 2 when done).
10. Window pick the points projected above the surface and click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: PICK surface to project onto.
11. Pick anywhere on the surface.
ProCAM generates the toolpaths.

Drilling Cycles 5-3

Drill Roughing

Drill Roughing
Rough Machining Deep Cavities
Drill Roughing allows you to rough machine deep cavities by making a series of overlapping
plunges into the material. Optionally, ProCAM can calculate and identify predrill areas.
Predrills can be added in a separate operation.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file Drill Rough.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.

2. Click the Operations tab at the bottom of the Part Manager.

3. Right click in the tree and select the Select Controller command on the shortcut menu.
4. In the Controller Type dialog box, select FANTUTM and click OK.
If you have the Feed and Speed Library installed, the Setup Information dialog box
displays. You can click OK to continue.
5. Right click in the tree, select New Operation on the shortcut menu, then select Drill
Roughing in the list of operations.
The Set Operation - Drill Roughing Properties dialog box displays.
6. Define the operation parameters using the following information. You can use the
defaults for all other parameters.
Tab Parameter Value
Tool Active Tool 1 (.75" end mill)
Operation Name Drill Rough
Drill Cycle Type Drilling
Retract Type Clearance Plane
Clearance Plane .10"
Rapid Plane .25"
Z Face 0.00"
Finish Mode Type Cavity to Surface
Cut Amount .25"
Generate Predrills unchecked
7. Click OK to accept the changes.
The prompt line reads: PICK surfaces for roughing (button 2 when done).
8. Window pick the entire part and click BUTTON 2.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate for stock start.
9. Click the Endpoint button on the Snap toolbar.

5-4 Drilling Cycles

 Drill Roughing

10. Pick the 0,0,0 corner at the top left of the stock, then pick the opposite diagonal corner at
the bottom of the stock.
ProCAM generates the drill roughing cycle toolpaths.
11. Click the Verify button on the Multi-surface Machining toolbar.
− If the license/security key is not programmed for Sirius Verify, ProVerify starts
automatically.
− If you have Sirius Verify installed, the modifier toolbar displays two buttons.
Click the ProVerify button.
12. Run the simulation.

Drilling Cycles 5-5

Drill Roughing

5-6 Drilling Cycles

Chapter 6 Verifying Toolpaths

ProVerify, which is completely integrated into ProCAM, graphically simulates actual

material removal from stock. You can see the material being removed from the stock as the
cutter proceeds along the toolpaths.
The Define Stock command on the Mill toolbar allows you to define rectangular, cylindrical
or extruded stock. In this release, this command is used only in ProVerify to provide a
representation of the stock for accurate simulation.
The 2½ Axis Mill Tutorial explains the Define Stock command and the basics of using
ProVerify. This chapter explains the additional functions that are available when verifying
Surface Machining parts.

Verifying Toolpaths 6-1

ProVerify

ProVerify
ProVerify enables NC programmers to visually verify NC programs before releasing them
to the shop floor. ProVerify also helps eliminate scrapped parts and broken tools by
comparing the "work in process" (stock as it currently exists) with the design part to detect
undercuts, overcuts and rapid-feed crashes.
The 2½ Axis Mill Tutorial explains the basics of using ProVerify. The following exercises
describe the additional functions that are available when verifying Multi-surface Machining
parts.

Defining the Stock

ProVerify graphically simulates actual material removal from stock. The stock can be
defined using the Define Stock command on the Mill toolbar. If you do not define stock,
ProVerify uses the minimum and maximum extents of the toolpath minus the rapids plus the
radius of the largest tool used.
EXERCISE 1. Open the part file ProVerify.pcii in the \procad\pcii\learn\mill folder.
This part has rough and finish toolpaths. The rectangular stock that will be used for
machining the part is identified by the blue lines. Notice the size of this stock.
2. Click the Multi-surface Machining button on the CAD toolbar.
3. Click the Verify button on the Mill toolbar.
When you click the Verify button, ProCAM checks to see if the license/security key is
programmed for the optional Sirius Verify, which is a separate program outside ProCAM.
− If the key is not programmed for Sirius Verify, ProVerify starts automatically.
− If the key is programmed for Sirius Verify, the modifier toolbar displays buttons to
select between running the external Sirius Verify and the integrated ProVerify.
4. If the modifier toolbar displays, click
the ProVerify button.
The stock part displays as a rendered solid.
This is called the work in process part.
Notice the size of the stock. ProVerify is
basing the stock size on the stock defined
for the roughing cycle, not the stock that
will be used for machining. You need to
identify the actual stock using the Define
Stock command.

Stock Part Based on Roughing Stock

6-2 Verifying Toolpaths

 ProVerify

5. Click the Define Stock button.

The modifier toolbar displays.
6. Click the Rectangular Stock button.
Additional modifiers display.
7. Click the 3-Point Definition modifier
button.
The prompt line reads: DIGITIZE coordinate
for box start.

8. Click the Endpoint button on the Snap

toolbar.
9. Following the prompts, pick one of the blue
lines at corners 1, 2 and 3.
This defines the stock by picking two
opposite corners and a bottom corner of the
stock. Using this method, stock sides are
created parallel to the X and Y axis.
Stock Inserted on Rectangular Box
The stock is inserted on top of the
rectangular box.
Did You Know ...
If the stock does not display, select System Options on the Options menu and make
sure the Stock Display On option is checked.

Comparing Work in process and Design Parts

EXERCISE In this exercise, you compare the work in process part with the design part to see the material
remaining after the Slice cut operation, then view the gouges on the part.
1. Click the Verify button on the Mill toolbar.
2. If the Modifier toolbar displays, click the ProVerify button.

Verifying Toolpaths 6-3

ProVerify

When the ProVerify starts, the stock part displays

as a rendered solid that is based on the stock you
just defined in the previous exercise, not the stock
for the roughing cycle.
3. Select System Options on the Options menu.
4. In the ProVerify section, select Deviation for the
Verify Deviation Type and set the Maximum
Deviation to .003, then click OK.
− When you select Deviation, ProVerify facets
the part creating as many facets as necessary
to stay within the Maximum Deviation. The
Maximum Deviation value specifies the
maximum distance between any triangle and
the surface. The smaller the value, the more
triangles ProCAM uses to approximate the
surfaces and the more accurate the simulation will be.
− This option should be selected if you want to use the Compare function or if you need
more control over the accuracy of the simulation since you can specify the deviation
amount.
5. On the ProVerify toolbar, set the End condition to End and click the Go to End button.
6. Click the Compare Part button on the ProVerify toolbar.
7. In the Compare dialog box, set the Compare Tolerance to .001.
8. Remove the check marks from the Find Gouges and Find Crashes options, check the Find
Remaining Material option, then click OK.
9. Click the Go to End button.
− ProVerify compares the work in process part with the design part. The material
remaining after the Slice cut displays in blue on the part and the Compare Summary
dialog box lists the areas with remaining material.
− There is still a small amount of material around the edges and several miscellaneous
spots on the part. The material around the edges is the result of not using the Waterfall
Ends option in slice cutting.
10. In the Errors column, click the word "Material" for the first listing.
A small arrow points to the left corner of the part to identify the area of the part where the
selected error is located.
11. Click Cancel.
12. Click the Compare Part button again.

6-4 Verifying Toolpaths

 ProVerify

13. Remove the check mark

from the Find Remaining
Material option, check the
Find Gouges option, then
click OK.
ProVerify compares the
work in process part with
the design part and displays
the gouges on the part. The
colors that display for the
gouge areas on the part are
based on the colors for the
tolerances shown in the
Compare dialog box.
The Compare Summary
dialog box lists the areas
with gouges. Notice that the
gouged areas that are listed
are extremely small and are
due to rounding error.
14. In the Errors column, click the "Gouge" for the first listing.
A small arrow points to the corresponding area on the part.
15. Click the Depth button in the dialog box.
− The list of gouges is reordered from the deepest to the shallowest gouge.
− The listing can be reordered by clicking any of the buttons at the top of a column.
16. Click Cancel to close the dialog box.

Design Part Simulation

EXERCISE In this exercise, you run the simulation using the design part to view the toolpaths. Note that
this function can be used only with Surface Machining parts.
1. Continue using the part in the work area.
2. Click the Reset to Start button.

3. Click the Design Part button.

− The display changes to the design part.
− Note that the Design Part display works for Multi-surface Machining parts only, not
2½ Axis Mill parts.
4. Make sure the Tool Display button is highlighted.
Using the Tool Display with the Design Part allows you to view the centerline toolpaths
on top of the design part.

Verifying Toolpaths 6-5

ProVerify

5. Click the Forward by Step Increment button.

The first 100 toolpaths cuts display.
6. Click the Forward by Step Increment button again.
The next 100 toolpath cuts are displayed.
7. Click the Go to End button to show the remaining toolpaths.
8. Click the Reset to Start button.
9. Change the End condition from End to Next Operation.
10. Click the Go to End button.
The toolpaths for the first operation (the rough cut) display.
11. Click the Go to End button again.
The toolpaths for the next operation (slice cut) display.
12. When you are finished, right click in the work area and select Close ProVerify on the
shortcut menu.
Note that you can also close ProVerify by clicking the X button on the menu bar on the
right side of the ProCAM window.

6-6 Verifying Toolpaths

 Index

Index
.pcii, ProCAM II file extension 1-10 Multi-surface Machining toolbar 1-4
.pdf, file extension for manuals 1-2 Curve Cut 4-2
.pinf, post info file extension 1-11 Define Stock 6-2
.set, Setup file extension 1-12 Drill 5-2
.txt, NC program file extension 1-12 Free Form Cut 4-4
Pencil Mill Cut 3-57
A/C Post Process 1-11
Avoid Clearance (Pattern Types tab) 3-9 Rough Cut 2-2
Compare dialog box 6-4 Slice Cut 3-2
Compare Summary dialog box 6-5 UV Cut 1-6, 3-35
contour cutting cycles Verify 6-2
Curve Cut 4-2 Z-level Cut 3-44
Free Form Cut 4-4
N/O
Controller Type dialog box 1-4
controller, changing 1-4 NC program
Curve cutting cycle 4-2 changing default file extension 1-11
Cut Amount, Slice cutting cycle 3-10 changing default output folder 1-11
flow chart for generating 1-14
D sample file 1-12
define stock for ProVerify 6-2 steps to generate 1-3
Design Part Deviation 3-44 verifying 1-10, 6-2
Double Offset Slice cutting 3-20 operation
Drill cycle, surface drilling 5-2 defining 1-6
Drill roughing cutting cycle 5-4 editing 2-4
E/F generating toolpaths 1-9
engraving 4-4 rerunning 2-4
FANTUTM, tutorial post processor 1-2, 1-4 selecting new 1-6
files Operation tree 1-4
installing parts for exercises 1-2 Operations tab 1-4
NC program 1-12 Order utility 3-10
opening/importing 1-3 Order Utility 3-31, 3-33
setup sheet 1-12, 1-13 P
finish cutting cycles Part Manager, Operation tree 1-4
Pencil Mill Cut 3-57 parts used in exercises
Slice Cut 3-2 Bottle.pcii 3-49
UV Cut 1-6, 3-35 Curve Cut.pcii 4-2
Z-level Cut 3-44 Drill Rough.pcii 5-4
Free Form cutting cycle, engraving 4-4 Free Form Engrave.pcii 4-4
H/L Pencil Mill Combined.pcii 3-59
high speed machining options 3-8, 3-13, 3-46 Pencil Mill.pcii 3-57
Layers tab 3-10 ProVerify.pcii 6-2
Loop link, Slice cutting cycle 3-9 Rough Cut Cavity.pcii 2-5
M Rough Cut Core.pcii 2-2
Max. Deviation (Surface tab) 3-7 Rough Depth.pcii 2-10
Mill Tools dialog box 1-7 Rough Z-level.pcii 2-8

i
Index

Skill1.pcii 2-15, 3-42 S

Skill2.pcii 2-16, 3-43 Save Post File dialog box 1-11
Skill3.pcii 2-17, 3-54 Scallop, Slice cutting cycle 3-10
Slice Circular.pcii 3-29, 3-32 Select Controller command 1-4
Slice Contain Avoid.pcii 3-17 Set Tool dialog box 1-7
Slice Double.pcii 3-22, 3-24 Setup Information dialog box 1-5
Slice Offset Closed.pcii 3-20, 3-26 setup sheet 1-8
Slice Profile.pcii 3-28 file 1-12
Slice Single.pcii 3-18 sample file 1-13
Slice.pcii 3-2, 3-13 shortcut keys 1-3
Surface Drilling.pcii 5-2 simulation See Order Utility. See ProVerify
Taper Slice.pcii 3-12 Single Offset Slice cutting 3-18
UV Cut Contour.pcii 1-3, 3-35 Sirius Verify, external verificiation program 6-2
UV Cut Snake.pcii 3-38 skill builder exercises
Z-level Cut.pcii 3-44 Rough1 2-15
Z-level Links.pcii 3-46 Rough2 2-16
Z-level Taper Tool.pcii 3-55 Rough3 2-17
parts, installing for exercises 1-2 UV1 3-42
Patch Cut option, UV Cut cycle 3-37 UV2 3-43
Pencil Mill cutting cycle 3-57 Z-Level1 3-54
Planar Slice cutting 3-2 Z-Level2 3-55
Pocket/Lace Offset Slice cutting 3-26 Slice cutting cycle 3-2
post process 1-11 contain/avoid options 3-17
changing default file extension 1-11 cutting portion of surface 3-3
changing default output folder 1-11 double offset strategy 3-20
NC program file 1-12 links 3-9, 3-13
setup sheet 1-8, 1-12, 1-13 NURBS leadin/leadout 3-8, 3-13
Post Window dialog box 1-11 planar strategy 3-2
ProCAM system flow chart 1-14 planar with taper tool 3-12
program number 1-5 pocket/lace offset strategy 3-26
ProVerify radial strategy 3-32
closing 6-6 single offset strategy 3-18
compare part 6-3 spiral strategy 3-29
define stock 6-2 stepover between passes 3-10
design part simulation 6-5 surface flowline strategy 3-13
stock part simulation 1-10, 6-3 using as semi-finish cycle 3-5
R Waterfall Ends 3-8
Radial Slice cutting 3-32 Spiral Slice cutting 3-29
Resolution 3-9 Start Surface Machining 1-4
Rough cutting cycle 2-2 steps to generate NC program 1-3
changing Z levels 2-8 Stock parameter (Options tab) 3-6
Exact and Grid options 2-10 stock, defining for ProVerify 6-2
generating on cavity part 2-5 surface drilling 5-2
generating on core part 2-2 Surface Flowline Slice cutting 3-13
Hit Flats option 2-8 surfaces, picking to avoid 3-9
using taper tool 3-55 System Options dialog box 3-44
Zlevel Edit tab 2-9

ii
 Index

T
tool
defining 1-7
Mill Tools dialog box 1-7
Set Tool dialog box 1-7
taper 3-12, 3-55
toolpath
generating 1-9
generating for multiple surfaces 3-38
generating for portion of surface 3-3, 3-37
reviewing cutting order 3-31, 3-33
verifying 1-10, 6-1
Trigger Radius 3-9
U/V
UV cutting cycle 1-6, 3-35
multiple fillet surfaces 3-41
multiple surfaces 3-38
patch cutting 3-37
verifying NC programs 6-2
W/Z
Waterfall Ends (Pattern Types tab) 3-8
Z Level Editor, rough cutting cycle 2-8
Z levels, changing for Rough cutting cycle 2-7
Z Snap button 2-7, 2-9
Zig pattern (same direction) 3-7
Z-level cutting cycle 3-44
generating on cavity 3-49
generating on core 3-49
generating on surface of revolution 3-44
links 3-46, 3-52
using taper tool 3-55

iii
Index

iv