[Mini-MillX2]

I recently purchased a 3 axis router/plasma table (should get it next week). I plan on using Corel/Sheetcam/Mach3 for all the cutting shapes out of sheet material. This will be about 95% of what I'll use the machine for. But what if I want to put a block of thick foam on the table and route a shape like half of a egg? Is this considered 3D, or is this still 2.5D since it can be cut with just 3 axis's? What CAD/CAM software do I need to cut a contoured shape like this? I assume Sheetcam cannot handle this on the CAM side, correct?

[Switcher]

But what if I want to put a block of thick foam on the table and route a shape like half of a egg? Is this considered 3D, or is this still 2.5D since it can be cut with just 3 axis's?

It's 2.5D

3D would also involve undercut (4th axis, etc...)


.

[automizer]

There are so many programs out there that can do the 2.5D cutting its all about your price range and what your used to. Look around the zone this topic of "what software package is good for me?" is brought up alot, and tis not a simple answer.

[ger21]

I'd call it 3D, since you'd typically start with a 3D model. However, it could be done with Sheetcam. You draw the profile at every different depth of cut, each on it's own layer. Then cut each profile at the correct depth. Only problem is that there's a lot of calculation involved. The plus side is that it would probably cut quicker than if 3D toolpaths were used.

For inexpensive 3D CAM, look at www.meshcam.com and www.vectric.com (Cut3D)

[Mini-MillX2]

SheetCAM is really 2D with Z axis depth. Correct? Cutting a curved surface like half an egg would require 3D CAD to draw and render but only requires 2.5D CAM.? This is where I start to get confused on the difference between 2.5D, 3D, 3 axis and more than 3 axis and what tool is required to handle the CAD/CAM. My issue really is that I will never cut using more than 3 axis and I understand that is 2.5D. But, can all 2.5D CAD/CAM programs handle and image like my half egg situation? It's really 3D with 3 axis cutting but does that require 3D CAM or only 2.5D CAM?

[ger21]

Like I said, I'd call your example 3D. Read my post again. Different people will use different terminology for the same thing. Bottom line, just make sure the CAM system you choose can do what you need it to. With a lot of 3D CAM software, 4 and 5 axis support is an extra cost option. You can definately use 3D CAM with a 3 axis machine.