Deep "V" groove strategy for machining pockets?

[jgaertner]

Hello Forum,

Is there a better strategy than 2D Adaptive for machining a .50" deep  x .875" wide V groove/pocket? I was trying a .25" end mill followed by a .125" end mill. I could not get Fusion to accept my .50" V groove end mill tool. I kept getting an error message, "Tool path not supported for given tool and settings" ? The flat end mills are very slow and require very small step downs if you want any kind of clean side wall.  Appreciate any positive suggestions. Jgaertner

[engineguy]

@jgaertner 

Have you tried running an Engrave Contour to get the angle? Fusion as yet doesn`t have a Proper "V Carve" strategy wher you can rough out with a small end mill and finish with the V Mill, you can try using multiple passes with the V mill but it is a bit "hit and miss" depending on how complex the shapes are !!

If you can upload your file then someone can take a better look at it rather than an image.

Regards

Rob

[jgaertner]

Thanks for your reply and sorry for the delay in getting back to you. Yes, I did try the Engrave operation but get an error message stated.  I am attaching the test file now. This is an effort to learn what is the best strategy/op to do this kind of work? Any helpful suggestions will be appreciate. Thanks. Jgaertner 

[mathew.hutton]

Hi @jgaertner 

You can get a toolpath out using either 2D Contour, or 3D contour using the tapered endmill you have created. I have attached screenshots of each toolpath for your reference. I'd suggest roughing the stock material with a flat endmill and probably finish the flat floor area of the v groove with a flat endmill, then you can use either contour strategy with the tapered endmill depending on your preference. 

Hope this helps

Mat

[jgaertner]

Hello Mat,  Thanks for your help and the jpegs. I will give this a try. Looks like you were using a contour path after roughing out with a regular end mill. I will give this a try in MDF or something. Report back... Jgaertner