ModuleWorks 3-Axis Machining Component

3-Axis Machining Strategies include:

• Roughing using a concentric clearance toolpath for maximum efficiency
• Rest Roughing to remove only material inaccessible by the previous roughing tool.
• Lace Finishing with parallel passes projected on to the finish component
• Waterline or Z-Level finishing with a series of slices taken through the model
• Projection finishing by the projection of radial, spiral or any other custom 2D pattern on to the model
• Flowline using a toolpath that follows the natural shape of the component to give excellent surface finish
• Flatland machining, where flat areas are automatically detected and a concentric finishing toolpath applied
• Undercut machining for use with Lollipop or T-Slot cutters

Toolpaths can be controlled using an angle parameter to limit the toolpath to specific areas of the model, such as steep and shallow areas. By this method, highly efficient finishing toolpaths can be achieved by applying lace finishing to shallow areas of the model and Waterline to steeper areas.

ModuleWorks 3-Axis machining also includes collision detection and avoidance options for the tool and holder form

Used in conjunction with our 5-Axis technology, 3-Axis toolpaths can easily be converted to 5-Axis toolpaths for optimum efficiency and surface finish. This approach can be used to maintain the optimum contact point and also allow shorter series cutters to be using on deep components as the tool holder can be tilted away from the model to avoid collision