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DarthBane55
in reply to: crullier

For the depth adjustment, you don't need to copy the toolpath 3 times, but there is some tricks to get the top and bottom of the grooves just right in 1 operation.

Use 2d contour.

-pick the profile to cut at the TOP of the groove.

-Select the bottom of the groove for bottom height.

-For the top height, put this equation in: (-(tool_fluteLength-maximumStepdown))-verticalStockToLeave

-do not click the "take even stepdowns" box for this to work.

-you can adjust the stepdown value to whatever you want.

The rest is as normal.  This method ensures that your tool will hit the top and bottom of the groove exactly. 

If you set a axial finish allowance, it will leave the same amount at the top and bottom of the groove, so you can use this for roughing and for finishing.

 

PS: I recommend making a toolpath template with this equation.  I named my template like this:

"Groove-pick groove at the top for profile to cut-dont touch top height" that helps me remember how it works, because I don't need this very often...