How to Engrave Text on Solidworks

[Anonymous]

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

[Steinwerks]

Try changing the tool type to a Chamfer Mill.

[Anonymous]

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.

[Steinwerks]

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.

[Anonymous]

@Steinwerks wrote:

Try changing the tool type to a Chamfer Mill.

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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.