Please--Need Input on Mill Toolpaths

[utekcnc]

Attached is a CAM file.  I am wanting to machine the grooves in the vice jaw.  I was going to rough out with a square endmill and then finish with a ballnose.   Could someone please tell me which process I need?  Should I use a 2D contour or a 3D parallel cut?  Thanks!

[LibertyMachine · Accepted solution]

Here you go. I ended up using 3D Adaptive to rough out the slots (although you def. could simply lay out some 2D Contour passes) and finished it with Parallel.

[utekcnc]

Thanks Seth, is there a speed and feed calculator for the adaptive toolpaths?  I know with Volumill we usually change our feeds upward dramatically.

[LibertyMachine]

One of the more accurate calculators on the market: http://hsmadvisor.com/  It's a purchased calculator, but a lot of people swear by it.

If you are looking for free, the one from Helical Tool is a solid choice. The couple of downsides to Helical: Checks for internet connectivity every time you use it, and it also relies on the EDP # of the tool. You can get that from the catalog and just find a comparable tool of your preference .