topic Re: How to Engrave Text on Solidworks in HSM Forum

How to Engrave Text on Solidworks

Anonymous — Fri, 19 May 2017 10:46:36 GMT

I am trying to engrave lettering on a 1/2 mm sheet of brass. I need to create a CAM simulation in Solidwork using the HSM platform; however I am getting an error saying my tool cannot be used to perform the engraving. Is there any hints as to what may be the issue?

-Eldridge

Re: How to Engrave Text on Solidworks

Steinwerks — Fri, 19 May 2017 12:08:14 GMT

Try changing the tool type to a Chamfer Mill.

Re: How to Engrave Text on Solidworks

Anonymous — Sat, 20 May 2017 10:31:28 GMT

Why exactly do we need to use a chamfer mill for engraving? Lots of folks say running a small ball end mill is the way to go, but HSM Works won't let you use one for an engraving op.

Re: How to Engrave Text on Solidworks

Steinwerks — Sat, 20 May 2017 16:12:11 GMT

You can use a ball mill in the 3D toolpaths though (like Pencil) or for Trace. The Engraving toolpath is a V-carve operation, which would require an appropriate cutter in corners. It could probably be changed to support a ball mill but I don't know if I'd expect that to happen, and it might look a little funny too if applied to that sort of toolpath.

FWIW in HSMWorks I use a ball mill and Trace with a single line font.

Re: How to Engrave Text on Solidworks

Anonymous — Tue, 23 May 2017 03:17:58 GMT

@Steinwerks wrote:
Try changing the tool type to a Chamfer Mill.

Thanks. This seems to work. The tool I have for my CNC mill is a v-cutter. I believe the included angle from the centerline is 90 degrees. So far I haven't tried any sample engravings to ensure my feed rates are all correct.