Hello, all! I've done Okay while machining my parts, but there's a feature of CamBam I'd like to make use of. First, most everything I do in CamBam is with aluminum. Normally, when I machine holes or slots, the tool makes one circuit, stops, then the tool drops in Z in the increments I've set, then another circuit. What I'd like to be able to do is have the tool move continuously, "ramping" down to depth. Basically, I use the "Pocket" feature for doing my holes and slots.
I believe to do what I want is use the "Lead In" feature, but I'm at a total loss when it comes to "Tangent Radius", Spiral Angle", etc, even though I've read the CamBam Help with the program. I use a 1/4" single flute cutter, and the material is 1/8" up to 1/4" thick 6061 or 6063 aluminum.
I've attached a machine photo, a part photo and the CB file for one of my parts. This part takes almost 15 minutes to complete, and I'd like to shorten that considerably. I have a home-made CNC somewhat purchased in a kit, which uses a router, and I'm running about 12,000 RPM. I believe I was somewhat misled as to the machines capabilities... the machine is not as "stiff" as it should be.
Any other info I can provide, let me know. In advance, thanks for your time. John