2015 SolidCAM HSS User Guide

SolidCAM User Guide:
HSS
iMachining 2D & 3D | 2.5D Milling | HSS | HSM | Indexial Multi-Sided | Simultaneous 5-Axis | Turning & Mill-Turn | Solid Probe
SolidCAM + SolidWorks
The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
SolidCAM 2015
HSS Machining
User Guide
©1995-2015 SolidCAM
All Rights Reserved.

Contents
Contents
1. Introduction................................................................................................................. 1
1.1 Adding an HSS Operation................................................................................................... 6
1.2 HSS operation dialog box.................................................................................................... 7
1.3 The stages of the HSS operation parameters definition................................................. 9
2. CoordSys................................................................................................................... 11
3. Geometry.................................................................................................................... 13
3.1 Geometry.............................................................................................................................. 14
3.1.1 Geometry for the Parallel cuts strategies............................................................ 15
3.1.2 Geometry for the Parallel to curves strategy...................................................... 17
3.1.3 Geometry for the Parallel to surface strategy..................................................... 18
3.1.4 Geometry for the Perpendicular to curve strategy............................................ 21
3.1.5 Geometry for the Morph between two boundary curves strategy................. 22
3.1.6 Geometry for the Morph between two adjacent surfaces strategy................. 23
3.1.7 Geometry for the Projection strategies............................................................... 25
3.2 Area........................................................................................................................................ 28
3.2.1 Full, avoid cuts at exact edges............................................................................... 28
3.2.2 Full, start and end at exact surface edges............................................................ 29
3.2.3 Limit cuts by one or two points........................................................................... 31
3.2.4 Determined by number of cuts............................................................................ 31
3.2.5 Use 2D Boundary................................................................................................... 33
4. Tool............................................................................................................................. 35
4.1 Tool definition...................................................................................................................... 36
4.1.1 Spin definition......................................................................................................... 37
4.1.2 Feed definition........................................................................................................ 37
4.1.3 Offsets ..................................................................................................................... 38
4.1.4 Cutting conditions.................................................................................................. 38
4.1.5 Feed zone control................................................................................................... 39
4.1.6 Feed rate optimization........................................................................................... 39
4.1.7 Rapid motion in G1 mode.................................................................................... 40
i
5. Levels......................................................................................................................... 41
5.1 Regular................................................................................................................................... 42
5.1.1 Clearance area.......................................................................................................... 42
5.1.2 Machining levels...................................................................................................... 45
5.2 Advanced.............................................................................................................................. 47
5.2.1 Arc fit ...................................................................................................................... 47
5.2.2 Angle step for rapid moves................................................................................... 48
5.2.3 Angle step for feed moves.................................................................................... 49
6. Tool path parameters................................................................................................ 51

6.1 Surface quality...................................................................................................................... 52
6.1.1 Cut tolerance........................................................................................................... 52
6.1.2 Step over.................................................................................................................. 53
6.1.3 Synchronize points................................................................................................. 54
6.1.4 Advanced options for surface quality.................................................................. 55
6.2 Sorting................................................................................................................................... 56
6.2.1 Cutting method....................................................................................................... 56
6.2.2 Direction of machining......................................................................................... 59
6.2.3 Cut order.................................................................................................................. 60
6.2.4 Machine by............................................................................................................... 61
6.2.5 Enforce closed contours....................................................................................... 62
6.2.6 Flip step over........................................................................................................... 62
6.2.7 Start point................................................................................................................ 63
6.3 Modify................................................................................................................................... 66
6.3.1 Surface edge merge distance................................................................................. 66
6.3.2 Apply outer sharp corners..................................................................................... 67
6.3.3 3D Tool compensation.......................................................................................... 68
6.3.4 Round corners......................................................................................................... 68
6.3.5 Angle range.............................................................................................................. 69
6.3.6 Extend/Trim........................................................................................................... 70
7. Tool Control................................................................................................................ 73
7.1 Axial Shift............................................................................................................................. 74
7.2 Tool contact point............................................................................................................... 75
ii
Contents
8. Link............................................................................................................................. 79
8.1 Approach/Retract............................................................................................................... 80
8.1.1 First entry................................................................................................................. 80
8.1.2 Last exit.................................................................................................................... 83
8.1.3 Home position........................................................................................................ 85
8.2 Links...................................................................................................................................... 86
8.2.1 Gaps along cut........................................................................................................ 86
8.2.2 Links between slices............................................................................................... 89
8.3 Default Lead-In/Out.......................................................................................................... 93
8.3.1 Type.......................................................................................................................... 93
8.3.2 Approach/retreat parameters (Use the...)........................................................... 96
8.3.3 Height....................................................................................................................... 97
8.3.4 Feed rate................................................................................................................... 97
8.3.5 Same as Lead-In...................................................................................................... 98
9. Gouge Check............................................................................................................. 99
9.1 Gouge checking................................................................................................................. 100
9.1.1 Tool.........................................................................................................................100
9.1.2 Geometry...............................................................................................................101
9.1.3 Strategy...................................................................................................................102
9.2 Clearance data.................................................................................................................... 110
9.2.1 Clearance................................................................................................................110
9.2.2 Report remaining collisions................................................................................112
9.2.3 Check gouge between positions.........................................................................112
9.2.4 Extend tool to infinity.........................................................................................113
9.2.5 Check link motions for collision........................................................................113
10. Roughing and More................................................................................................. 115

10.1 Multi-passes........................................................................................................................ 117
10.2 Depth cuts.......................................................................................................................... 120
10.3 Rotate and Translate..........................................................................................................123
10.4 Stock definition.................................................................................................................. 126
10.5 Plunging.............................................................................................................................. 129
10.6 Morph pocket..................................................................................................................... 130
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10.7 Sorting................................................................................................................................. 133
10.7.1 Reverse order of passes/tool path.....................................................................133
10.7.2 Connect slices by shortest distance....................................................................134
10.8 Links between passes........................................................................................................136
11. Machine control....................................................................................................... 139

11.1 Point interpolation............................................................................................................. 141
11.2 Machine limits.................................................................................................................... 141
11.3 5th Axis............................................................................................................................... 142
12. Misc. parameters..................................................................................................... 143
12.1 Message............................................................................................................................... 144
12.2 Extra parameters................................................................................................................ 144
12.3 Tool center based calculation...........................................................................................145
13. Exercises.................................................................................................................. 147
Exercise #1: Parallel cuts strategy............................................................................................148
Exercise #2: Parallel to curve strategy.....................................................................................150
Exercise #3: Parallel to surface strategy..................................................................................151
Exercise #4: Perpendicular to curve strategy.........................................................................152
Exercise #5: Morph between two boundary curves strategy..............................................153
Exercise #6: Morph between two adjacent surfaces strategy..............................................154
Exercise #7: Projection strategy...............................................................................................155
Exercise #8: General HSS machining.....................................................................................156
Exercise #9: General HSS machining.....................................................................................161
Exercise #10: General HSS machining...................................................................................164
Exercise #11: General HSS machining...................................................................................168
Document number: SCHSSUG1501SP2
iv
Introduction
1
Welcome to the SolidCAM HSS Machining module!
SolidCAM HSS is a High Speed Surface machining module for smooth and powerful machining of
localized surface areas in the part, including undercuts. It provides easy selection of the surfaces to
be machined, with no need to define the boundaries. It supports both standard and shaped tools.
Powerful Surface Machining Strategies for Smooth, Gouge-Free and Optimal

Tool Paths
The SolidCAM HSS module provides numerous surface machining strategies that produce efficient,
smooth, gouge-free and optimal tool path to finish the selected surfaces.
HSS provides special tool path linking options, generating smooth and tangential lead-ins and lead-
outs. The linking moves between the tool paths can be controlled by the user to avoid holes and
slots, without the need to modify the model’s surface. Retracts can be performed to any major plane.
2
1. Introduction
Total Tool Control to Machine Only the Areas You Choose
HSS is the CAM module that takes your 2.5D machining way beyond profiles, pockets and faces,
providing a 3D machining capability by driving along specific surfaces on prismatic and 3D parts.
The HSS tool path is focused on single or multiple surfaces and excels in creating a flowing tool
path on a group of surfaces that make up a complex 3D shape, e.g. fillets.
Experience total tool control to machine only areas you choose, without the need of constraint
boundaries or construction geometry.
Advanced Gouge Control for Holder, Arbor and Tool
Complete gouge control is available for Holder, Arbor and Tool. Adjoining check surfaces that are
to be avoided can be selected. Several retract strategies are available, under user control.
3
Advanced Linking
Total freedom to control tool entry and tool exit motion, to remove the need for surface
modifications. Tool paths can be extended or trimmed, gaps and holes can be jumped, and you can
choose from multiple lead-in/lead-out options.
Handling Undercut in HSS
Use Tapered, Lollipop, or T-Slot tools for undercuts or difficult to cut geometry.
Important Module for Every Machine Shop
The advantages of the SolidCAM HSS module translate to significantly increased surface quality.
The SolidCAM HSS module is an important add-on for every machine shop for the machining of
all types of parts.
4
1. Introduction
About this book
This book is intended for experienced SolidCAM users. If you are not familiar with the software,
start with the lessons in the Getting Started Manual and then contact your reseller for information
about SolidCAM training classes.
About the Exercises
The CAM-Parts used for this book are attached in a ZIP archive. Extract the content of the
Exercises archive into your hard drive. The SolidWorks files used for exercises were prepared with
SolidWorks 2015.
The contents of this book and exercises can be downloaded from the SolidCAM web site http://
www.solidcam.com.
5
1.1 Adding an HSS Operation
To add an HSS Operation to the CAM-Part, right-click the Operations header in SolidCAM Manager
and choose the HSS command from the Add Milling Operation submenu.
You can also click the HSS icon displayed on the SolidCAM Operations ribbon of Command
Manager.
The HSS Parallel cuts: Linear operation dialog box is displayed.
6
1. Introduction
1.2 HSS operation dialog box
The High Speed Surface machining operation dialog box enables you to define the parameters
of the HSS machining.
Technology
This section enables you to define the type of the operation. SolidCAM provides you with the
following types of the HSS operation:
• Parallel cuts (Linear, Constant Z, Hatch)
• Parallel to Curve(s)
• Parallel to Surface
• Perpendicular to Curve
• Morph between two boundary curves
• Morph between two adjacent surfaces
• Projection (User defined, Radial, Spiral, Offset)
7
Parameter pages
The parameters of the HSS operation are divided into a number of subgroups. The subgroups are
displayed in a tree format on the left side of the HSS machining operation dialog box. When you
click a subgroup name in the tree, the parameters of the selected subgroup appear on the right side
of the dialog box.
• CoordSys
Define the CoordSys Position for the HSS operation.

• Geometry
Choose geometry for machining and define the related parameters.

• Tool
Choose a tool for the operation and define the related parameters such as feed and spin.
• Levels
Define the Clearance area and the machining levels.

• Tool path parameters
Define the machining parameters.

• Tool control
Define the tool control parameters.

• Link
The Link and Default Lead-In/Out pages enable you to define how the HSS cutting passes
are linked to the complete tool path.
• Gouge check
The Gouge check and Clearance data pages enable you to avoid the tool gouging of any
selected drive and check surfaces.
• Roughing and More
Define the parameters of the HSS roughing.

• Machine control
Define the parameters related to the kinematics and special characteristics of your CNC-
machine.
• Misc. parameters
Define a number of miscellaneous parameters and options related to the tool path
calculation.
8
1. Introduction
1.3 The stages of the HSS operation parameters definition
The operation definition is divided into the following stages:
1. CoordSys, Geometry, Tool Path Parameters and Link – generation of the tool path for
the selected faces. Gouge checking is not performed at this stage.
2. Gouge check – avoiding tool and holder collisions.
Tool path generation Gouge check
9
10
CoordSys
2
CoordSys page
On this page, you define the Coordinate System appropriate for the
operation. Choose an existing Coordinate System from the list or click
the Define button to define a new one. The CoordSys Manager dialog
box is displayed. This dialog box enables you to define a new Coordinate
System directly on the solid model.
When the Coordinate System is chosen for the operation, the model is
rotated to the selected CoordSys orientation.
For more information on the Coordinate System definition, refer to the

SolidCAM Milling User Guide.
The CoordSys definition must be the first step in the

operation definition process.
12
Geometry
3
The Geometry page enables you to define the geometry and its related parameters for machining.
3.1 Geometry
This section enables you to define the geometry for the operation. The geometry consists of various
elements (curves and surfaces) that must be defined depending on the machining strategy chosen
from the Technology list.
14
3. Geometry
3.1.1 Geometry for the Parallel cuts strategies
The Parallel cuts strategies create tool path cuts that are parallel to
each other. The cuts can be performed in a Linear, Constant Z or Hatch
manner.
The following geometries must be defined for the Parallel cuts strategies:
• Drive surface
The Drive surface section enables you to define the surface
to be machined in the operation. Choose the appropriate
geometry from the list or define a new one by clicking the
New icon ( ). The Select Faces dialog box is displayed.
This dialog box enables you to select one or several faces of
the SolidWorksmodel. Click on the appropriate model faces.
The selected faces are highlighted.
Click the Define button to open the Color window. You can
choose a color of your choice and click OK. Clicking on the
Find Faces button will then automatically pick up all the
surfaces with the same color.
You can also pick up the surfaces using Pick from Model
button. Click the Pick from Model button and then select a
surface on the part. Find Faces button then automatically
picks up all the surfaces that have the same RGB value.
15
To remove selection, click on the selected face again or right-click the face name in the list
(the face is highlighted) and choose the Unselect option from the menu.
When transferring model files from one CAD system to another, the direction of some of
the surface normals might be reversed. For this reason, SolidCAM provides you with the
capability to display and edit the normals of model surfaces during the geometry selection.
The Show direction for highlighted faces only
check box enables you to display the surface
normals for the specific highlighted faces in
the list.
The Show direction for selected faces check
box enables you to display the normals
direction for all the faces in the list.
SolidCAM enables you to machine surfaces
from the positive direction of the surface
normal. Sometimes surfaces are not oriented
correctly and you have to reverse their normal vectors. The Reverse/Reverse All command
enables you to reverse the direction of the surface normal vectors.
Drive surface offset
The Drive surface offset parameter enables you to define a

machining allowance for the drive surface. The machining is
performed at the specified distance from the drive surface.
Drive surface
offset
The offset is three-dimensional and expands the faces in every direction.
16
3. Geometry
• Define angle by
The Define angle by section enables you to define the
angle of linear and hatch machining. The angle can
be defined by entering its value in the edit box or by
picking a line on the model. The angles entered are
relative to the XY plane.
This option is available only in the Linear and

Hatch modes of the Parallel cuts strategy.
3.1.2 Geometry for the Parallel to curves strategy
The machining is performed along a lead curve. The generated cuts

are parallel to each other. The distance between each two adjacent
passes is determined by the Step over parameter (see topic 6.1.2).
17
The following geometries must be defined for the Parallel to curves strategy:
• Drive surface
The Drive surface section enables you to define the surfaces to be machined in the operation
(see topic 3.1.1).
• Edge curve
The Edge curve section enables you to define the lead curve parallel to which the tool
path passes are performed. Choose the appropriate geometry from the list or define a
new one by clicking the New icon ( ) The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed. This
dialog box enables you to define wireframe geometries by picking edges and vertices on the
SolidWorks model.
You can also use multiple curves for multiple Drive surface
surfaces. Each curve is applied only for the nearest Tool path
surface.
The lead curve must be located exactly

on the surface edge; otherwise, a wrong
tool path can be generated.
Edge
curve
3.1.3 Geometry for the Parallel to surface strategy
This strategy enables you to generate the tool path on the drive
surface parallel to the specified check surface.
18
3. Geometry
The following geometries must be defined for the Parallel to surface strategy:
• Drive surface
The Drive surface section enables you to define the surface to be machined in the operation
(see topic 3.1.1).
• Edge surface
The Edge surface section enables you to define the check surfaces geometry for the tool
path generation.
The drive and check surfaces have

to be adjacent, i.e. they must have
a common edge.
Drive surface
Edge surface
Advanced options
SolidCAM enables you to define a number of advanced options for the Parallel to surface strategy.
Click the Advanced button to display the Advanced Options of Surface Paths Pattern dialog box.
The Generate tool path front side option enables SolidCAM to take into account the normals of
the defined check surface.
When this check box is not selected, the tool path is
generated on the drive surface only - on all sides of the
check surface.
19
When this check box is selected, SolidCAM generates the tool path taking into account the direction
of the check surface normals. The resulting tool path is created only at the front side of the check
surface.
SolidCAM automatically extends the passes tangentially
at the drive surface edges. Using Single edge tool path
tangent angle parameter changes the extension direction.
The option affects only the first pass adjacent to the check
surface; all other passes are extended tangentially.
Single edge tool

path tangent angle
Single edge tool

path tangent angle
20
3. Geometry
3.1.4 Geometry for the Perpendicular to curve strategy
This strategy enables you to generate the tool path orthogonal to

the defined Lead curve.
The following geometries must be defined for the Perpendicular to curve strategy:
• Drive surface
(see topic 3.1.1).
• Lead curve
The lead curve geometry does not have to be located on the surface. During the tool
path calculation, SolidCAM generates in each point of the lead curve virtual points on the
curve. The distance between these points is
Leading curve
determined by the Step over value (see topic
6.1.2). Tool path
SolidCAM projects the virtual points onto

the drive surface; the direction of the
projection is the normal vector of the curve
at the virtual point. Where the normal vector
intersects with the surface, a virtual surface
point is generated. The passes are generated
through these points, normal to the lead Drive surface
curve.
21
If the cuts cross each other at the surface edge caused by an inappropriate lead curve, you
will not obtain an acceptable result.
The lead curve must be located exactly on or above the drive surface. If the curve is not
located above the surface, no tool path is generated. When only a part of the lead curve is
located above the surface, a tool path is generated only where the normal vector of the lead
curve intersects with the drive surface.
Note that when the selected curve is not a straight line, the cuts are not parallel
to each other.
3.1.5 Geometry for the Morph between two boundary curves strategy
This option creates a morphed tool path between two leading

curves. The generated tool path is evenly spread over the drive
surface.
The following geometries must be defined for the Morph between two boundary curves strategy:
• Drive surface
(see topic 3.1.1).
22
3. Geometry
• Curves
End edge
The Start edge curve and End edge curve Start edge curve curve
sections enable you to define the leading curves
for the morphing using the Geometry Edit
dialog box (see topic 3.1.2).
It is recommended to choose the

drive surface edges as the lead curves
geometry to get better morphing of
the tool path.
Drive surface
3.1.6 Geometry for the Morph between two adjacent surfaces strategy
This strategy enables you to generate the morphed tool path on

a drive surface enclosed by two check surfaces. The tool path is
generated between the check surfaces evenly spaced over the drive
surface.
The following geometries must be defined for the Morph between two adjacent surfaces strategy:
• Drive surface
(see topic 3.1.1).
23
Surfaces
The Start edge surfaces and End edge surfaces sections enable you to define the check
surfaces geometry for the tool path generation.
The drive and check surfaces have to be adjacent, i.e. they must have a common
edge.
Advanced options
SolidCAM enables you to define a number of advanced

options for the Morph between two adjacent surfaces strategy.
Click the Advanced button to display the Advanced Options
of Surface Paths Pattern dialog box.
The Generate tool path front side option enables SolidCAM to take into account the normals of
the defined check surfaces.
When this check box is not selected, the tool path is generated on the
drive surface from all sides of the check surfaces.
When this check box is selected, SolidCAM generates the tool path taking
into account the direction of the check surfaces normals. The resulting
tool path is located between the check surfaces only.
SolidCAM automatically extends the passes tangentially to the drive
surface edges. Using the First surface tool path tangent angle and the
Second surface tool path tangent angle parameters, you can change the
extension direction. The direction can be changed for the first and last
passes; all the internal passes are evenly morphed between them.
Second surface tool

path tangent angle First surface tool
path tangent angle
Second surface tool

path tangent angle
First surface tool

path tangent angle
24
3. Geometry
3.1.7 Geometry for the Projection strategies
The Projection strategies enable you to generate a single tool path

along a curve projected on the drive surface. These strategies can be
used for engraving or creating radial, spiral, offsetted tool path or of
any other shape defined by the user.
Technology
This section enables you to choose a strategy for creating a projection on the drive surface.
User defined
This strategy projects the curve selected in the Projection curves section down onto the
drive surfaces.
Radial
This strategy projects a radial pattern on the surface. It can be particularly effective on
circular shaped components and shallow areas. The Center point section enables you to
define the center point of the radial pattern either by typing its coordinates or picking it
on the model. The cuting area is defined by the Start and End radius and can be limited by
angular span between 0 and 360.
Spiral
This strategy projects a spiral pattern on the surface. It can be particularly effective on
circular shaped components and shallow areas. The Center point section enables you to
define the center point of the radial pattern either by typing its coordinates or picking it on
the model. The cutting area is defined by the Start and End radius. Machining starts from
the inner circle defined by the Start radius cutting spirally in outward direction.
25
Offset
This strategy projects the curve selected in the Projection curves section down onto the
drive surfaces and creates offsets on the Left, Right, or Both sides of the projection curve.
The number of offsets is defined by the Number of cuts parameter.
The following geometries must be defined for the Projection strategy:
• Drive surface
(see topic 3.1.1).
• Direction
This section enables you to specify to which direction the curve is projected.
X, Y, Z: The curve direction is defined as parallel to one of the Coordinate System axes.
Line: The projection vector is defined by a line that you can pick directly on the solid model.
Surface normal: This option projects the curve into the normal direction of the surface
below.
• If the curve/pattern lies exactly on the face, the tool path has the same shape and
position as the curve.
• If the curve/pattern lies above the drive surfaces, the tool path changes. The tool
path is built only on an interval between those normals that intersect the curve.
The projection has to lie within the Max. projection distance to the drive surface.
Otherwise the curves cannot be considered for projecting. The option of Surface
normal is available only in the User defined strategy.
• Projection curves
The Projection curves section enables you to define the curves for the tool path generation.
The option of Projection curves is available only in User defined and Offset
strategies.
26
3. Geometry
Max. projection distance
When the Projection tool path strategy is chosen, the system expects to get projection
curves lying on the drive surfaces.
Due to tolerance issues in CAD systems, sometimes the curves do not lie exactly on the
drive surfaces. This error can be compensated by the Maximal projection distance value.
For example, if the value is 0.1 mm, it allows to have the projection curve 0.1 mm away
from the drive surfaces.
• Center point
This section enables you to define the position of a center point of the virtual circle that
SolidCAM creates to generate radial/spiral passes.
This position can be defined manually by entering the coordinate values in XYZ fields,
picking the point directly on the solid model using the button, or automatically by
selecting the Auto detect option.
• Radius
Start: This option enables you to create a virtual inner circle that starts the tool path from
this inner circle so that the tool does not rub at the converging point where the radius is
zero.
End: This option enables you to to stop the tool path at the extreme end of the virtual
outer circle.
The Auto detect option enables you to detect the required maximum radius to automatically
machine the surface.
• Angle
This section enables you to define an area based on two angles for the tool path calculation.
Start: This parameter defines the starting angle of area definition for the tool path
calculation.
End: This parameter defines the ending angle of area definition for the tool path calculation.
The Angle option is available only in the Radial strategy.
27
3.2 Area
The Area section enables you to define the cutting

area on the drive surface.
The following options are available to define the

area:
• Full, avoid cuts at exact edges
• Full, start and end at exact surface edges
• Determined by number of cuts
• Limit cuts by one or two points
All of these options are unavailable with the Projection strategy.
3.2.1 Full, avoid cuts at exact edges
This option enables you to generate the tool path on the whole drive
surface avoiding the drive surface edges. With this option, the minimal
distance between the edge and the tool path is equal to half of the
Max. step over (see topic 6.1.2).
This option can be used when the boundary of the drive surfaces is not smooth
and has gaps. The half of the Max. step over offset from the surface edge enables
you to compensate these surface defects. In case of large gaps, SolidCAM enables
you to handle them using the Gap along cuts option (see topic 8.2.1).
The image illustrates the use of this option. Note that the Edge
machining does not start at the exact edge of the surface.
Therefore the shape of the upper edge does not influence the
tool path.
Edge
28
3. Geometry
3.2.2 Full, start and end at exact surface edges
With this option, the tool path is generated on the whole surface
starting and finishing exactly at the drive surface edges or at the nearest
possible position.
Make sure that the surface edges are perfectly trimmed. Gaps cause unnecessary
tool air movements during the machining, therefore the Full, avoid cuts at exact
edges option (see topic 3.2.1) is preferable.
Edge
Edge
The number of cuts depends on the Max. step over value. Since the first and the last cuts are
located exactly on the drive surface edges, SolidCAM modifies the specified Max. step over value
(see topic 6.1.2) to achieve equal distance between the cuts. The modified Max. step over used for
the tool path calculation is smaller than the specified one.
Margins
You can define margins for the tool path calculation when working with the following strategies:
Morph between two boundary curves, Parallel to Curve(s), Parallel to Surface and Morph between
two adjacent surfaces.
Click the Margins button.
29
The Margins dialog box is displayed. This dialog box enables you
to define a margin for the drive surface edges. The machining starts
and finishes at the specified distances from the drive surface edges.
Drive Start margin

surface
End margin
Advanced parameter for margins
Tool path strategies that use edge curves and surfaces sometimes encounter difficulties since
CAD systems deliver the drive surfaces and the edge geometry (curves or surfaces) only within
accuracy. If you would like to start the tool path exactly at the zero distance to the edge geometry,
this is problematic, because the geometry can never be exactly aligned. To avoid this problem,
SolidCAMprovides you with the Advanced parameter for margins option.
The option of Margins is not available for the Perpendicular to Curve strategy.
The Additional margin to overcome surface edge inaccuracies parameter enables you to
compensate the inaccuracy of the CAD model edges. For example, to get the tool path at the
5 mm distance from the geometry, set the margin to 4.97 mm and the Additional margin to overcome
surface edge inaccuracies to 0.03.
The Add tool radius to margins option enables you to expand the cutting area, which is defined by
margins, by adding the tool radius distance.
30
3. Geometry
3.2.3 Limit cuts by one or two points
This option enables you to limit the tool path by one or two points.
Click the Points button to define the limiting

points with the Limit cuts between 2 points dialog box.
This dialog box enables you to enter the coordinates of
the limiting points or define them by picking directly
on the solid model.
The defined limiting points

must be located within the
region of the cuts.
Start point End point
3.2.4 Determined by number of cuts
This option enables you to limit the tool path by a number of cuts.
The Number of cuts parameter defines the number of cutting
passes.
1
2
3
31
When the Parallel to curves/Parallel to surface strategy is chosen for the geometry definition, the
Determined by number of cuts option generates the following tool path: the tool starts machining
from the defined curve/surface and performs the number of cuts defined with the corresponding
parameter.
4
3
2
1
3 4
1 2
Parallel to curve Parallel to surface

When the Morph between two adjacent surfaces
strategy is chosen for the geometry definition, the area
between the defined surfaces is divided by the number
of cuts in such a manner that the first cut is performed
at the Start edge surface, and the last cut at the End
edge surface.
1 2 3 4
This option is available only for the Parallel to Curve(s), Parallel to Surface,
Morph between two boundary curves and Morph between two adjacent surfaces
strategies.
32
3. Geometry
Margins
SolidCAM enables you to define a margin, shifting the first and last cut
locations. Click the Margins button to display the Margins dialog box.
Margin
1
2
3
4
5
The location of the first cut is shifted by the distance specified by the Start margin parameter.
The Start margin and End margin options are available only for the Morph between
two adjacent surfaces and Morph between two boundary curves technologies.
Only one Margin parameter is available for Parallel to Curve(s) and Parallel to
Surface technologies.
3.2.5 Use 2D Boundary
SolidCAM provides you with a functionality to limit the machining

to specific model areas. The machining limitation is performed by
a planar boundary that is projected on the model. The projected
boundary is “virtually” trimming the drive surfaces. All the contact
points of the tool and drive surfaces are enclosed by this projected
boundary.
2D Boundary curves
SolidCAM enables you to define a boundary based on a Working area geometry (closed loop of
model edges as well as sketch entities).
For more information on the Working area geometry, refer to the SolidCAM Milling
User Guide book.
The New icon ( ) displays the Geometry Edit dialog box that enables you to define the geometry.
Using the Edit icon ( ), you can edit the geometry in the same dialog box.
33
The Show button enables you to display the already defined boundary directly on the solid model.
Projection direction
When a planar boundary is defined, SolidCAM automatically
projects the geometry onto the solid model. The direction of
the projection is defined by a vector.
2D
SolidCAM enables you to choose an axis of the Coordinate Boundary
System as a projection direction vector or define a vector by Projection
direction axis
an end point (the start point is automatically considered to
be located in the Coordinate System origin).
Working area
34
Tool
4
4.1 Tool definition
The Tool page enables you to choose a tool for the operation from the Part Tool Table.
Click the Select button to display the Part Tool Table and choose a tool for the operation.
For more information on the tool definition, refer to the SolidCAM Milling User Guide book .
36
4. Tool
Click the Data tab to display and define the Spin and Feed parameters.
4.1.1 Spin definition
The Spin section enables you to define the spinning speed of the
tool.
The spin value can be defined in two types of units: S and V. S is
the default that signifies Revolutions per Minute. V signifies material
cutting speed in Meters per Minute in the Metric system or in Feet per
Minute in the Inch system; it is calculated according to the following
formula:
V = (S * PI * Tool Diameter) / 1000
The Spin direction section enables you to choose between the clockwise (CW) or counterclockwise
(CCW) direction.
4.1.2 Feed definition
The Feed section enables you to define the tool feed for the HSS
operation.
The feed value can be defined in two types of units: F and FZ. F is the
default that signifies Units per minute. FZ signifies Units per tooth and
is calculated according to the following formula:
FZ = F/(Number of Flutes * S
The F/FZ buttons enable you to check the parameter values.
37
Cutting feed
This field defines the cutting feed rate of the tool.

Feed Z
This field defines the feed of the tool movements from the safety position to the cutting depth.
For Tap tools, SolidCAM automatically calculates the Feed Z (F and FZ) value
according to the following formulas:
F=Spin Rate * Pitch
FZ=Pitch
The calculated values are displayed in the Feed Z field. These values cannot be
changed.
Retract feed
This field defines the feed of the tool movements from the material to the retract level.
4.1.3 Offsets
The Diameter offset number parameter defines the number of the Diameter Offset Register of the
current tool in the Offset table of the CNC-machine. The Length offset number parameter defines
the number of the Length Offset Register of the current tool in the Offset table of the CNC-
machine.
4.1.4 Cutting conditions
This button enables you to update the cutting conditions defined for use of the current tool on the
chosen CNC-machine according to the parameters set in the Part Tool Table.
38
4. Tool
Click the Feed Control tab to display and define the feed control parameters.
4.1.5 Feed zone control
Sometimes more than required material is left on the surface that needs to be removed with lower
than the actual cutting feed rate. This lower feed rate is required to minimize the chances of tool
breakage or tool wear. The Feed zone control parameter allows you to define a volume to determine
an area in which a higher or lower percentage of the cutting feed rate can be set. Select the check
box. The Feed control zone dialog box is displayed.
Feed Zone
You can choose the appropriate geometry from the list

or define a new one by clicking the New icon ( ).
The Select Faces dialog box is displayed. This dialog
box enables you to define the geometry for feed zone.
Offset
This field enables you to put an additional offset value

on the feed control geometry in order to let the tool
slow down before it enters the actual feed control geometry.
Feed rate percentage
The inside and outside feed rate percentage fields define the feed rate inside and outside of the feed
control geometry as a percentage of the actual cutting feed rate.
4.1.6 Feed rate optimization
You can optimize the feed rate of different segments of the tool path. You define the machining
feed rate, and SolidCAM modifies it according to the surface curvature. The surface curvature is
calculated at each tool path position where the surface contact point of the tool is known.
This option is available only on single surfaces and cannot be used on the stitches
between surfaces.
Select the check box. The Feed Rate Control Optimization
dialog box is displayed. This dialog box enables you to
define the feed rate according to the surface radius. The
feed rate is defined as the percentage of the defined
Feed Rate of the cutting movements.
39
This section enables you to define the feed rate for the Flat tool path segments where
the Curvature radius is Infinite.
This section enables you to define the feed rate for the tool path segments of Large
radius (the radius value can be customized).
This section enables you to define the feed rate for the tool path segments of Small
radius (the radius value can be customized).
This section enables you to define the feed rate for the Sharp Corners of the tool
path where the radius is equal to 0.
4.1.7 Rapid motion in G1 mode
Some CNC-machines do not support synchronization between axis motors when the rapid
movement (G0) is performed. The absence of synchronization causes the deviation between the
calculated path and the real tool movements. SolidCAM enables you to avoid the problems described
above by replacing all rapid movements (G0) with non-rapid ones using a particular feed rate.
The Rapid motion in G1 mode group enables you to control the use of rapid feed (G0).
When the Rapid motion in G1 mode check box is not selected, the resulting GCode contains rapid
movements (G0).
Example:
G0 X-2.942 Y75.567 Z24.402 A-88.436 B-26.482 M116
When the Rapid motion in G1 mode check box is selected, the resulting GCode does not contain
G0 commands. The rapid movements are performed using the feed rate defined by the Rapid feed
rate parameter.
Example:
G1 X-2.942 Y75.567 Z24.402 A-88.436 B-26.482 F9998 M116
First cut feed rate percentage
In some machining cases, the tool load is not uniform along the tool path; the maximum tool load
is reached along the first cutting pass. The First cut feed rate percentage option enables you to
change the feed rate at the first cutting path in order to optimize the cutting process. The feed rate
is changed as a percentage of the defined feed rate (see topic 4.1.2).
40
Levels
5
The Levels page enables you to define the Clearance area and the machining levels.
5.1 Regular
The Regular tab enables you to define the parameters for clearance area and machining levels.
5.1.1 Clearance area
The Clearance area is the area where the tool movements can be performed safely without
contacting the material. The tool movements in the Clearance area are performed with the rapid
feed.
Depending on the drive surface or your machining strategy, you can choose different clearance area
types:
• Plane
• Cylinder
Plane
This option enables you to define the Clearance area by plane. The
tool performs a retract movement to the Clearance area plane, and
then a rapid movement in this plane.
The plane orientation is defined by a vector normal to the plane. With
the In X, In Y and In Z options, SolidCAM enables you to define this
vector as one of the Coordinate System axes (X, Y or Z).
42
5. Levels
The Plane height parameter defines the distance between the appropriate Coordinate System plane
and the Clearance area plane.
Plane height
The User-defined direction option provides you with an additional capability to define the plane by
an arbitrarily-oriented vector.
User-defined vector
This option enables you to define the direction vector by its coordinates
(dX, dY and dZ parameters). Using the icons, you can pick the start and
end points of the vector directly on the solid model, or select the entire
face.
43
Cylinder
This option enables you to define the Clearance area as a cylindrical

surface enclosing the Drive surface. The tool performs a retract
movement to the Clearance cylinder, and then a rapid movement
along the cylinder surface.
The Radius parameter enables you to specify the cylinder radius.
Radius
The Parallel to X, Parallel to Y and Parallel to Z options enable you to define the cylinder axes only
parallel to one of the Coordinate System axes (X, Y or Z).
User-defined The Parallel to user-defined direction option provides you with

vector an additional capability to define the cylinder axis by an arbitrarily-
oriented vector.
It enables you to define the direction vector by its coordinates
(dX, dY and dZ parameters). Using the icons, you can pick the start
and end points of the vector directly on the solid model, or select
the entire face.
By default, the cylinder axis passes through the Coordinate
System origin. You can specify the cylinder axis location either by
clicking the Through point button or by defining the X, Y and Z
coordinates of a point on the cylinder axis.
44
5. Levels
5.1.2 Machining levels
The Levels parameters enable you to define the Retract and Entry/
Exit safety distance to approach and retract from the part.
Retract distance
The tool performs a rapid descent movement from the Clearance

area to the level specified by the Retract distance parameter.
Clearance area
Retract Retract
distance distance
Safety distance
After the descent movement to

the Retract distance level, the tool
starts the approach movement to the
material. The approach movement Clearance area
consists of two segments. The first
segment is performed with rapid feed
up to the Entry safety distance. From
the Entry safety distance level, the
approach movement is performed
with the cutting feed. Upon retraction,
the tool ascends to the Exit safety
distance. Entry Exit
safety safety
distance distance
45
Rapid retract
This option enables you to perform the retract movement with rapid feed.
When this check box is not selected, the tool moves to the Exit safety distance with the feed
defined as the Retract feed parameter (see topic 4.1.2).
Rapid feed
Retract
distance
Retract rate
Safety
distance
When this check box is selected, the retract movement is performed with rapid feed.
Rapid feed
Retract
distance
46
5. Levels
5.2 Advanced
The Advanced tab enables you to define the parameters to control rapid retracts. This tab is visible
only when the Advanced check box is selected.
5.2.1 Arc fit
SolidCAM enables to add tangential arcs for the approaching and retracting link segments. The arc
can be defined for Clearance area, Retract distance, and Safety distance.
The radius value is set in the Arc radius field.
47
5.2.2 Angle step for rapid moves
SolidCAM enables you to approximate by lines the curved rapid movements performed in the
cylindrical clearance area.
Initial motion Approximated motion
The approximation is controlled by the Angle step for rapid moves parameter illustrated below.
Initial motion
Angle step for rapid moves
Approximated motion
Small values of the Angle step for rapid moves parameter cause less deviation between the initial
curve and the approximated path, but may cause some machines to slow down.
Using larger values of the Angle step for rapid moves parameter, you can reduce the number of
approximation lines thus increasing the motion speed; however then collisions are possible, since
the curved motion is simplified (when the Angle step for rapid moves is set to 90° the circular
movement is approximated to a square).
48
5. Levels
5.2.3 Angle step for feed moves
Similar to rapid movements, SolidCAM enables you to approximate by lines the curved feed
movements.
The options of Angle step for rapid moves and Angle step for feed moves are
available only when Cylinder is selected as the Clearance area Type.
49
50
Tool path
parameters 6
The Tool path parameters page enables you to define the parameters of finish machining.
6.1 Surface quality
The Surface quality tab enables you to define the parameters that affect the surface finish quality.
6.1.1 Cut tolerance
The Cut tolerance parameter defines the tool path accuracy:

the chordal deviation between the machined surface and the
tool path; the tool path can deviate from the surface in the
range defined by Cut tolerance.
A smaller Cut tolerance value gives you more tool path points
on the drive surface resulting in more accurately generated tool
path. The result is a better surface quality, but the calculation
time is increased.
A greater Cut tolerance value generates less points on the tool
path. After the machining, the surface finish quality is lower,
but the calculation is much faster.
You can type the value manually or adjust it using the slider.
The fixed values available on the slider are defined in the
SolidCAM settings, under Defaults > Tolerance > HSS.
52
6. Tool path parameters
Distance
The Cut tolerance parameter defines the number of tool path points
on a surface. The distance between these points is not constant and
depends on the surface curvature: there are less points calculated
on flat surfaces and more points on curved surfaces. The Distance
parameter enables you to define the maximal distance between two consecutive tool path points. In
other words, when the Distance option is used and the value is defined, SolidCAM generates tool
path points at least at every specified distance.
The Distance option is not used The Distance option is used

When the Distance option is not used, the number of tool path positions is determined by
the Cut tolerance parameter.
6.1.2 Step over
This option enables you to define the maximum step over and scallop parameters.
Maximum step over
This parameter defines the maximum distance between two

consecutive cuts.
The definition of the Maximum step over parameter is different for each machining strategy:
53
• For the Parallel cuts strategies (see topic 3.1.1), the Maximum step over parameter defines
the distance between the parallel planes.
• For the Parallel to curve/surface strategies (see topics 3.1.3 and 3.1.3), the Maximum step
over defines the distance between two consecutive passes along the drive surface.
• For the Perpendicular to curve strategy (see topic 3.1.7), the Maximum step over is measured
along the curve, perpendicular to which the cutting planes are created.
• For the Morph between two boundary curves/Morph between two adjacent surfaces
strategies (see topics 3.1.5 and 3.1.6), the Maximum step over defines the distance between
two consecutive passes along the drive surface.
• For the User defined technology of the Projection strategy (see topic 3.1.7), the Maximum
step over parameter is not relevant, because the projection curves can be chosen arbitrarily.
For the Spiral and Radial technologies, the Maximum step over defines the distance between
two consecutive passes.
Scallop
The Scallop parameter enables you to define the cusp height of the
machined surface.
The Scallop parameter is available only when a Ball

Nose Mill tool is chosen for the operation.
The Scallop parameter corresponds to the Maximum step

over parameter. When the Scallop is defined, SolidCAM
automatically updates the Maximum step over value according
to the chosen tool diameter and the Scallop; vise versa, when
the Maximum step over is redefined, SolidCAM automatically
recalculates the Scallop value.
6.1.3 Synchronize points
The Synchronize points option enables you to equalize the spacing and number of points on all
contours.
This option is available only when the Distance check box is selected.
54
6.1.4 Advanced options for surface quality
The Chaining tolerance parameter defines the tolerance of the initial grid used for the tool path
calculation. The recommended value is 1 to 10 times the Cut tolerance. In some cases, for simple
untrimmed surfaces, the Chaining tolerance value can be defined up to 100 times the Cut tolerance
and would increase the calculation speed significantly.
The surface contact paths are created while analyzing and slicing the surface patches. If due to
slicing the tool path topology becomes very complex (for example, patches parallel to curve and
surface are very large), sometimes the surface contact paths cannot be constructed safely.
If the Automatic chaining tolerance check box is selected, a finer grid (based on the Maximum step
over value) is applied for initial analysis of surface patches, thus delivering slow but safe results for
surface contact points.
Adaptive cuts
This check box enables you to adjust the step over between tool path passes adaptively, in order to
ensure an acceptable distance between adjacent passes. This option is especially useful in machining
of steep surfaces, molds, and U-shaped parts.
When this check box is not selected, the
tool path passes can be distributed in
such a manner that the distance between
them is varying throughout the tool
path. In certain cases, such distribution
of passes may result in poor quality of
surface machining.
When this check box is selected,
additional lines can be inserted in the
tool path if the distance between two
adjacent passes is considered too large.
As a result, the number of calculated Adaptive cuts check box Adaptive cuts check box
is not selected is selected
cuts is increased.
This option is not available for use with the Parallel cuts, Perpendicular to curve
and Projection strategies.
Note that when this option is used, the calculation time increases.
55
6.2 Sorting
The Sorting tab enables you to define the order and direction of the cuts.
6.2.1 Cutting method
This option enables you to define how the cuts are connected. It has three choices: One Way,
Zigzag, and Spiral.
One way
When the One way option is chosen, all cuts are machined in the
same direction. The tool performs the machining of a cut in the
specified direction, then moves to the start of the next cut and
machines it in the same direction.
One Way
56
Zigzag
When the Zigzag option is chosen, the machining direction changes

from cut to cut. The tool performs the machining of a cut in the
specified direction, then moves to the next cut and machines it in the
opposite direction.
Spiral
With the Spiral option, SolidCAM generates a spiral tool path around
the drive surface according to the chosen pattern.
Zigzag
Step over
Spiral
The spiral pitch is defined by the Max. step over parameter.
This cutting method is available for use with all the machining strategies except for
the Projection strategy (see topic 3.1.7).
The Advanced button displays the Advanced options for spiral machining dialog box.
57
• Perform spiral
When the Full option is chosen, the cuts are performed in constant spiral motions.
When the Blend along distance option is selected, every slice except for the last one is
trimmed by a certain distance. The trimmed slice is connected with the following slice by a
blend spline. The value in the corresponding edit box defines the trimming distance for the
slice in case the Blend along distance option is chosen.
Distance
Full spiral Blend along distance
• Close
When the First contour check box is selected, machining of the first slice is performed in a
closed contour. The spiral machining motions start with the second slice.
When this check box is not selected, the spiral machining motions start with the first
slice. Likewise, when the Last contour check box is selected, machining of the last slice is
performed in a closed contour.
First contour Last contour
58
6.2.2 Direction of machining
When the One way or Spiral options are chosen for Cutting method,
SolidCAM enables you to define the following directions of cuts.
• The CCW for closed cuts option enables you to perform the
machining in the counterclockwise direction.
• The CW for closed cuts option enables you to perform the
machining in the clockwise direction.
Clockwise Counterclockwise
The options of CCW for closed cuts and CW for closed cuts are not available in
Projectionstrategies.
• The Climb option enables you to perform climb milling, which is preferred when milling
heat treated alloys. Otherwise, chipping may result when milling hot rolled materials due to
the hardened layer on the surface.
• The Conventional option enables you to perform the conventional milling, which is
preferred for milling of castings or forgings with very rough surfaces.
Tool rotation
Tool rotation
Tool movement Tool movement

direction direction
Conventional milling Climb milling
59
6.2.3 Cut order
The Cut order option enables you to define the sequence of the cuts when the One way or Zigzag
options are chosen for Cutting method. The following options are available:
• With the Standard option, SolidCAM performs the
machining from one side of the drive surface and continues
to the other side.
• With the From center away option, the machining starts

from the center of the drive surface and continues outwards.
60
• With the From outside to center option, the machining

starts from the drive surface edges and continues inwards.
6.2.4 Machine by
SolidCAM enables you to define the machining order for the operation.
The Machine by list enables you to choose the order of machining of
certain areas; it defines whether the surface will be machined by Lanes
or by Regions.
The generated tool path usually has a topology of multiple contours
(lanes) on the drive surfaces. When the tool path is generated in many
zones, it might be preferable to machine all the regions independently.
6 3
2
3
4
5
3
1 2
2 2 3
1 1
1 1
2
3
Lanes Regions
61
6.2.5 Enforce closed contours
When the geometry is not completely closed, the Enforce closed

contours option enables you to close the geometry and perform the
machining of closed contours.
Enforce closed contours Enforce closed contours

option is not selected option is selected
This option is available only with the CCW for closed cuts and CW for
closed cuts options chosen for Direction of machining (see topic 6.2.2).
6.2.6 Flip step over
When the Standard option is chosen for the Cut order, the Flip step over parameter enables you to
change the order of the cuts.
62
With the Standard step over option With the Flip step over option machining is
machining starts from the model’s top reversed and starts from the edge inwards.
inwards.
6.2.7 Start point
The Start point option enables you to define a new

position of the start point of the first cut. The Updated
Start point
position is defined along a cut. The start points of
the next cuts are determined automatically, taking
Default
into account the start point location, the cutting Start point
strategy and the Rotate by parameter.
The Start point button displays the Start Point Parameters dialog box.
63
Start point by
This section enables you to choose the method of

start point definition.
• Position
This option enables you to define the

Start point position by specifying its
coordinates. The coordinates of the
selected point are displayed in the X, Y
and Z edit boxes.
• Surface normal direction
When this option is chosen, the start point is located at the intersection of the tool
path with the vector specified by user-defined XYZ coordinates. Vector coordinates
can be set by numeric values, or the direction can be picked on the model using
the button.
The selected start point is applied to the first cut. For the
subsequent cuts, you can define the start point using one of
Value
the following options:
• Shift by value
This option enables you to start the next cut at a

specified distance from the previous start point. The
distance defined in related edit box is measured along
the path.
Start point
• Rotate by
This option enables you to rotate the start

position of the cuts relative to the start
position of the first cut. The Rotate by value
defines the rotation angle for start positions
for subsequent cuts.
Start point
64
• Minimize surface normal change
With this option, SolidCAM automatically chooses the start points for passes in such way
that the change of the direction between surface normals at the start points is minimal.
Normals
Start point
If the defined start point position is not located on the drive surface,
SolidCAM automatically determines the closest point on the drive surface and
uses it as the start point.
Reverse
The Reverse parameter changes the start point of the tool. When
the Reverse check box is selected, the tool starts from outside and
moves towards the center. If this check box is not selected, the tool
moves from inside towards outside.
This parameter is available only in the Projection

(Radial) strategy.
Cutting side
This parameter enables you to position the tool at the Center, Left
or Right side of the tool path.
This option is available for use only with the

Projection (User definedand Offset) strategy.
65
6.3 Modify
The Modify tab enables you to define the parameters that affect the tool path in various ways. This
tab is visible only when the Advanced check box is selected. This tab is unavailable for Projection
strategies.
6.3.1 Surface edge merge distance
SolidCAM generates first tool path passes for individual surfaces. Then they are merged together
to form the complete tool path.
The decision about merging is based on the Surface edge merge distance parameter. If all surface
paths on a tool path slice are merged, SolidCAM checks if a closed surface path can be built by
connecting the start to the end. This decision is made based on the Surface edge merge distance
parameter.
The Surface edge merge distance can be defined either as a numeric value (the As value option)
or as a percentage of the tool diameter (the As % of tool diameter option). In both cases, this limit
value must be greater than or equal to the Cut tolerance value.
66
6.3.2 Apply outer sharp corners

This option enables you to perform machining of adjacent outer edges of the model in such a
manner that the sharpness of the corners is preserved. Instead of rolling around the edge that results
in rounding of the corner, the tool path is extended for both edge surfaces, and the extensions are
connected with a loop, resulting in an absolutely sharp machined corner.
When this check box is selected, you can define the parameters and conditions for corner looping.
The Outer Angle along pass parameter defines the maximal value of the angle between two normals
to the surfaces of the corner to enable looping; for angles greater than defined, loops will not be
performed.
The Loops radius value defines the radius of the loop to be performed.
Surface
normals
Outer angle
along pass
Loop radius
Note that when the Loops radius is smaller than the radius of the tool, loops will
not be performed.
67
6.3.3 3D Tool compensation
When this check box is selected, the tool compensation options of

the CNC-controller are used in the GCode. The output tool path is
recalculated according to the following formula:
C = T + R * N,
where C is a new coordinate of tool center, T is the coordinate of tool tip, R is the corner radius of
the tool, and N is the tool vector.
When the Tool tip option is chosen, the
tool path is calculated according to the tool
tip, and the type_offset_3D:tool_
tip command is output to the GCode under
@compensation_3d.
When the Tool center option is chosen, the tool path

is calculated according to the tool center and the
type_offset_3D:tool_center command is
output to the GCode under @compensation_3d. Tool tip Tool center
This option is available only when

the tool of the Ball nose mill or Bull nose mill type is chosen for the operation.
The location of the Tool center is assumed at the corner radius center point level.
6.3.4 Round corners
In some cases, the HSS tool path contains unnecessary fish tail
movements in sharp corners or in small radius areas.
Using the Round corners option, you can avoid such movements and generate a smoother tool
path.
68
The Round corners button displays the Round corners by tool radius dialog box. This dialog box
enables you to define the rounding of the tool path.
The rounding is performed in the direction of passes with a

radius equal to the sum of the tool corner radius and the specified Additional radius value.
6.3.5 Angle range
SolidCAM enables you to define the cutting area by the surface

inclination angle.
The Angle range button displays the Parameters to Define Shallow
and Steep Areas dialog box. This dialog box enables you to define
parameters determining the steep/shallow area to be machined.
69
View direction
SolidCAM enables you to define Area outside slope angles

a vector from where the slope
Area between slope angles
angle start and end are referenced.
SolidCAM enables you to choose
one of the Coordinate System Slope end angle
axes (X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis)
Slope start angle
or define a vector by an end point
(the start point is automatically
considered to be located in the
Coordinate System origin). View direction axis
Slope angles
The Slope angle start and Slope angle end parameters define the limit angles around the View
direction vector.
Machining areas
This option enables you to determine the area to be machined.

When the Machine between slope angles option is chosen, the machining is performed only at
surfaces with inclination angles within the range defined by Slope start and Slope end angles.
When the Machine outside slope angles option is chosen, the machining is performed only at
surfaces with inclination angles outside the range defined by Slope start and Slope end angles.
Note that the cutting area calculation is purely based on surface contact
points. In other words, some portions of the surface geometry are
virtually trimmed in order to split the part into shallow and steep regions.
6.3.6 Extend/Trim
SolidCAM enables you to extend or trim the tool path tangentially

along cuts. SolidCAM virtually extends or trims the drive surface
tangentially and generates the tool path for it. In case of extending
tool path, the tool moves to the specified distance beyond the end
of the surface. In case of tool path trimming, the tool stops at the
specified distance before the surface boundary and moves to the
next cut.
70
The Extend/Trim button displays the Extend/Trim dialog box. This dialog box enables you to define
the extending/trimming distances.
Extend
• The Start section enables you to define the extending/
trimming distance for the start of the cutting passes.
• The End section enables you to define the extending/ Trim
trimming distance for the end of the cutting passes.
The distances can be defined either by values or by the percentage of the tool diameter. A positive
value means extending of the passes; a negative value means trimming of the passes.
Note that with the Zigzag

option (see topic 6.2.1) the
direction of the machining
is changed for each cutting
pass, so the start and the end
of the passes are reversed
for each pass. Therefore,
to obtain the correct tool
path, it is recommended Extension distance
to use the One way option.
With this option, the start
Trimming distance
points of the passes are on
one side of the drive surface
and the end points are on
the other side, providing
you with the possibility of
correct extending/trimming.
71
Extend/trim gaps
Selecting this check box enables you to apply the defined extending/trimming to all gaps detected
along cutting passes during the tool path linking. In the gap area, the drive surface is virtually
extended or trimmed tangentially by the distance specified in the Start/End sections. When the
distance value is positive, the drive surface is extended; in case of a negative value it is trimmed.
• When extending is applied to the
detected gaps, the tool continues its
move to the specified distance beyond
the end of the surface, then performs
linking in the gap area according to
the parameters set in the Gaps along
cut section of the Link page (see topic
8.2.1), then continues the machining of
the current cut at the specified distance
before the second edge of the gap. As a
result, the tool path is extended over the
gap area at both sides. Extension
distance
• When trimming is applied to the

detected gaps, the tool stops at the
specified distance before the gap
edge, performs linking in the gap area
according to the parameters set in the
Gaps along cut section of the Link
page, and continues the machining of
the current cut at the specified distance
after the second edge of the gap. As
a result, the tool path is trimmed over
the gap area at both sides.
Trimming
distance
72
Tool Control
7
The Tool control page enables you to define the parameters that control the tool contact point with
respect to the workpiece/part.
7.1 Axial Shift
SolidCAM enables you to offset the tool along the tool axis.
You can choose one of the following options:
• Constant for each contour
The offset value does not change along the axis. The value is
set in the To field.
• Gradual for all cuts
The contact point between the tool and work piece gradually shifts along the axis with each
consecutive cut. The offset increases from the value set in the From field up to the value
set in the To field.
• Gradual for each contour
The contact point between the tool and work piece slides gradually for each cut. The offset
increases from the value set in the From field up to the value set in the To field.
74
7. Tool Control
Damp
This option enables you to smooth the tool path in such a manner that vertical jumps will be
avoided.
When this check box is not selected, the resulting tool path exactly follows the defined edge curve.
When this check box is selected, the tool path is smoothed, and therefore does not contain sharp
jumps.
Damp check box Damp check box

7.2 Tool contact point
The Tool contact point section enables you to define the point on the
tool surface that contacts with the drive surfaces during the machining.
Auto
SolidCAM automatically defines the tool contact point. The Move direction
tool contact point moves from the tool tip to tool center
maintaining tangency between the tool and a XY-plane level.
Contact
points
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At Center
The tool contact point is located at the tool center (tool

tip). Center
Move
Note that with this option the tool is not located tangentially direction
to the drive surface. Use the Gouge checking options (see
chapter 9) to avoid possible gouges.
Tool center
At Radius
The tool contact point is automatically

determined at the tool corner radius area; the
Tool radius Move direction
tool tip is not in contact with the drive surface. area
Tool path
Tool radius
At Front
The tool contact point is located at the beginning

of the tool corner radius (for bull nosed tools) in the Front Move direction
direction of the tool movement. It is recommended to
use the Gouge checking options (see chapter 9) to avoid
possible gouges.
Tool front
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7. Tool Control
At user-defined point
SolidCAM enables you to define the contact point

between tool and drive surface by the tool center
shifting; the shifting is defined by two parameters: Contact point
Center
• Front shift
This parameter enables you to define the Move

shift of the contact point at the tool motion direction
direction. With a positive value specified, the
Front shift
contact point moves from tool center in the
tool motion direction.
Side shift
Tool
motion
Front shift
• Side shift
This parameter enables you to define the shift of the

contact point in the direction perpendicular to that of
the tool motion. With a positive value specified, the tool
center moves to the right side (relative to the tool motion
direction) and the contact point moves from the tool Tool
motion
center to the left side.
Side shift
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78
Link
8
The Link page enables you to define the approach/retract of the tool and linking of HSS passes
into the complete tool path.
8.1 Approach/Retract
This tab enables you to define the parameters of tool approach and retraction performed in the
HSS operation.
8.1.1 First entry
The First entry section enables you to define the first approach of the tool to the cutting area.
SolidCAM enables you to specify the level from which the approach movement is started. The
following options are available:
• Direct
When this option is chosen, the machining is

started directly in the first point of the tool
path. No approach movement is performed.
80
8. Link
• From clearance area
The approach movement is performed from the specified Clearance area (see topic 5.1.1),
through the Retract distance and Safety distance levels (see topic 5.1.2).
Clearance area
Retract
distance
Safety
distance
• Use retract distance
The approach movement is performed from the Retract distance level.
Retract
distance
Safety
distance
• Use safety distance
The approach movement is performed from the Entry safety distance level.
Entry
safety
distance
81
SolidCAM enables you to use the defined Lead In options (see topic 8.3) for the first entry definition.
Start from home position
SolidCAM enables you to define the Home position for tool path linking that can be applied to the
first entry links. Home position is a point from which the first rapid movement of the tool starts
during the approach.
When the Start from home position check box is selected, the machining is performed as follows:
The tool is positioned at the specified Home position, then it performs its initial rapid movement to
the Clearance area/Retract distance/Safety distance level or to the start point of the first cutting
pass (depending on the First entry setting). From that point it performs the approach movement to
the drive surface (or directly starts machining the surface if the Direct option was chosen for First
entry).
Home position
Clearance area
Retract distance
Safety distance
82
8. Link
8.1.2 Last exit
The Last exit section enables you to define the last retreat of the tool from the cutting area after
the machining.
SolidCAM enables you to specify the level to which the retreat movement is performed. The
following options are available:
• Direct
When this option is chosen, the machining is finished directly in the last point of the tool
path. No retreat movement is performed.
• Back to clearance area
The retreat movement is performed back to the specified Clearance area (see topic 5.1.1),
through the Retract distance and Exit safety distance levels (see topic 5.1.2).
Clearance area
Retract
distance
Exit
safety
distance
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• Use retract distance
The retreat movement is performed to the Retract distance level.
Retract
distance
Safety
distance
• Use safety distance
The retreat movement is performed to the Exit safety distance level.
Exit
safety
distance
• Back to clearance through tube center
This option is useful in case of port and tubular parts

machining. The idea is to enable the tool to exit from the
machined part through the tube center outwards.
When this option is chosen, the tool retreats from the
interior of the machined tubular part through its center up
to the clearance area level.
SolidCAM enables you to use the defined Lead Out options (see
topic 8.3) for the last exit definition.
84
8. Link
Return to home position
SolidCAM enables you to define the Home position for tool path linking that can be applied to the
last exit links. Home position is a point to which the tool eventually returns after the retreat.
When the Return to home position check box is selected, the machining is performed as follows:
after the last cutting pass, the tool returns to the Clearance area/Retract distance/Exit safety
distance level (depending on the Last exit setting) or directly to the Home position (in case of the
Direct option chosen for Last exit).
Home position
Clearance area
Retract distance
Safety distance
8.1.3 Home position
This section enables you to define the coordinates of the home position.
This section is available when the Start from home position and/or the Return to
home position check box is selected.
85
8.2 Links
This tab enables you to define the parameters of tool path linking performed in the
HSS operation.
8.2.1 Gaps along cut
During the tool path linking, SolidCAM detects gaps along the cutting passes. The Gaps along cut
section enables you to define how the tool moves in such gap areas.
SolidCAM enables you to define different ways of movements in gap areas of different sizes.
Depending on the size of the gap, it is possible to choose two different options for large and
small gap areas. The maximum size for gaps to be considered as small can be specified either as
a percentage of the tool diameter using the Small gap size in % of tool diameter parameter or by
a Value.
The following types of movements are available, both for small
gaps and for large gaps:
• Direct
The tool moves in the shortest way to the other side

of the gap, without any retracting movements. The tool
path in the gap area is performed by a straight line; the
tool moves with the cutting feed rate.
86
8. Link
• Safety distance
When the gap area is detected, the tool performs

a retract movement in the tool axis direction to the Safety
distance. From this point the tool moves directly to the
Safety distance of the next segment of the pass. All the
tool movements are performed with a cutting feed rate.
• Clearance area
When the gap area is detected, a link movement between

the pass segments is performed through the Clearance
area. All the movements above the Safety distance are
performed with the rapid feed rate. All the movements
below the Safety distance are performed with the
specified cutting feed rate.
• Follow surfaces
In the gap area, the tool follows the drive surface geometry.
Along the connection movement, SolidCAM tries to
maintain tangency between the pass segments; when it is
not possible, SolidCAM maintains tangency only for the
first pass segment.
• Blend spline
SolidCAM connects the pass segments with a spline

tangential to both segments.
87
• Safety distance and rapid
When the gap area is detected, the tool performs

a retract movement in the tool axis direction to the Retract
distance. From this point the tool moves directly to the
Retract distance of the next segment of the pass. All the
tool movements below the Safety distance are performed
with a cutting feed rate. All the movements above the Safety
distance are performed with the rapid feed rate.
• Follow Stock
When a gap area is detected, the tool performs a retract

movement to the stock upper level and makes a link at the
upper level height.
SolidCAM enables you to use pre-defined Lead-In/Lead-Out
strategies (see topic 8.3) to perform the movements between
segments of a pass divided by a gap.
• Use Lead-In
SolidCAM performs the approach movement to the drive

surface after the gap using the specified Lead-In options.
• Use Lead-Out
When a gap is detected, SolidCAM performs the retreat

movement using the specified Lead-Out options.
• Use Lead-In/Out

surface after the gap using the specified Lead-In options
and performs the retreat movement using the specified
Lead-Out options.
88
8. Link
8.2.2 Links between slices
The Links between slices option enables you to define how the tool moves between cutting slices.
Machining is performed in slices when all the roughing and finishing offsets of the
current cutting level are performed before moving to the next cutting level.
SolidCAM enables you to define different ways of movements between slices spaced with different
Maximum step over (see topic 6.1.2). Depending on the Maximum step over value, it is possible to
choose two different options for large and small movements between slices. The maximum size for
movement to be considered as small can be specified either as a percentage of the Maximum step
over using the Small move as size in % of step over parameter or by a Value.
The following types of movements are available both for small and large movements:
• Direct
The tool moves in the shortest way to the next slice, without
any retracting movements. The linking is performed by a
straight line; the tool moves with the cutting feed rate.
89
• Safety distance
The tool performs a retract movement in the tool axis

direction to the Safety distance. From this point the tool
moves directly to the Safety distance of the next slice.
All the tool movements are performed with the cutting
feed rate.
• Clearance area
The link movement between slices is performed through the

Clearance area. All the movements above the Safety distance
are performed with the rapid feed rate. All the movements
below the Safety distance are performed with the specified
cutting feed rate.
• Follow surfaces
The tool follows the drive surface geometry.
• Blend spline
SolidCAM connects the slices with a spline tangential to both

of them.
90
8. Link
The tool performs a retract movement in the tool axis

direction to the Retract distance. From this point the tool
moves directly to the Retract distance of the next slice. All
the tool movements below the Safety distance are performed
with the cutting feed rate. All the movements above the
Safety distance are performed with the rapid feed rate.
• Follow Stock
When a gap area is detected, the tool performs a retract

movement to the stock upper level and makes a link at the upper level height.
SolidCAM enables you to use pre-defined Lead-In/Lead-Out strategies (see topic 8.3) to perform
the movements between slices.
• Use Lead-In

surface after the gap using the specified Lead-In options.
• Use Lead-Out
When a gap is detected, SolidCAM performs the retreat

movement using the specified Lead-Out options.
91
• Use Lead-In/Out

surface after the gap using the specified Lead-In options
and performs the retreat movement using the specified
Lead-Out options.
• Don’t use Lead-In/Out
When this option is chosen, no links are applied.
92
8. Link
8.3 Default Lead-In/Out
The Lead-In/Out parameters sections of the Default Lead-In/Out page enable you to define the
parameters used for the approach/retreat movements.
8.3.1 Type
SolidCAM enables you to choose one of the following types for the
approach/retreat movements:
• Tangential arc
The approach/retreat movement is performed with an arc

tangential to the drive surface. The approach/retreat arc is
generated in the plane orthogonal to the tool axis.
• Reverse tangential arc
The approach/retreat movement is performed with an

arc tangential to the drive surface, like the Tangential arc
option, but with the direction of the approach/retreat
arc reversed. The approach/retreat arc is generated in
the plane orthogonal to the tool axis.
93
• Vertical tangential arc
SolidCAM performs the approach/retreat movement with an

arc tangential to the drive surface located in the plane of the
tool axis.
• Reverse vertical tangential arc

tool axis, similar to the Vertical tangential arc option, but the
direction of the approach/retreat arc is reversed.
• Horizontal tangential arc

cutting movement.
• Orthogonal arc
SolidCAM performs the approach/retreat movement

with an arc orthogonal to the cutting pass located in the
plane perpendicular to the tool axis.
94
8. Link
• Tangential line
SolidCAM performs the approach/retreat movement with a line

tangential to the cutting pass.
• Reverse tangential line
SolidCAM performs the approach/retreat movement with a line

tangential to the cutting pass similar to the Tangential line option,
but the direction of the approach/retreat line is reversed.
• Orthogonal line
SolidCAM performs the approach/retreat movement with a

line orthogonal to the cutting pass.
• Vertical profile ramp
SolidCAM allows the lead to follow the tool path contour

shape till it reaches a specified length and height. The ramp
direction is along the cutting direction.
• Reverse vertical profile ramp
SolidCAM allows the lead follow the tool path contour shape till it reaches a specified
length and height. The ramp direction is opposite to the cutting direction.
95
Flip
This option is useful when regular approach/retreat by arc is obstructed by part or fixture geometry
and therefore will result in a collision between the tool and the machined workpiece. The defined
approach/retreat arc can be flipped to ensure unobstructed access to the drive surface (and/or
unobstructed exit in the end of machining).
When this check box is selected, the lead move is flipped to the opposite side from its initial
orientation, as if it was mirrored relative to the tool path.
Flip check box is not selected Flip check box is selected
8.3.2 Approach/retreat parameters (Use the...)

This section enables you to define the dimensions of the approach/retreat arc or line.
Width/Length
In this section, SolidCAM enables you to define the approach/retreat arc

or line by the width and length parameters.
The Width and Length parameters define the bounding rectangle
surrounding the arc. The defined arc has a 90° sweep.
Width
Length
Arc sweep/Arc diameter
SolidCAM enables you to specify the diameter of the approach/retreat

arc using the percentage of the Arc diameter to the Tool diameter.
96
8. Link
For example, when a tool with the diameter of 10 mm is used and the percentage parameter is set
to 200%, the resulting approach/retreat arc diameter is 20 mm.
Arc diameter
The Arc sweep parameter enables you to define the angle of the approach/retreat arc segment.
Fillet/Length
In this section, SolidCAM enables you to create a fillet with a specified radius between the line and
the contour.
This option is available only if the chosen approach/retreat type is Tangential line,
Reverse tang. line, Orthogonal line, Vertical profile ramp, and Reverse vertical
profile ramp.
8.3.3 Height
This parameter enables you to define the incremental

height of the first point of the approach/retreat
movement. When the approach movement is
performed with a line, the Height parameter enables
you to perform inclined ramp approach. When the
approach movement is performed with an arc, the
Height parameter enables you to perform an helical
approach.
Height
8.3.4 Feed rate
This parameter enables you to define the feed rate (see topic 4.1.2) for the approach/retreat
movement.
97
8.3.5 Same as Lead-In
The Same as Lead-In option enables you to use the defined Lead-In strategy for the Lead-Out
definition.
98
Gouge Check
9
The Gouge check page enables you to automatically detect and avoid the possible collisions
between the tool (with the tool holder) and the workpiece.
9.1 Gouge checking
SolidCAM enables you to define four different sets of gouge checking parameters. In each set
you have to choose components of the tool holding system and model faces to check the possible
collisions between them. You also have to define the strategy how to avoid the possible collisions.
Combining these sets, SolidCAM enables you to choose different strategies for avoiding the different
types of possible collisions.
Select the Enable/Disable check box to activate a set of gouge checking parameters.
9.1.1 Tool
This section enables you to choose both tool and tool holding system components to perform the
gouge check for them. The following parts of the components are available for the gouge check:
• Holder
• Arbor (shank)
• Tool shaft (between flute length
and arbor)
• Tool tip (flute length)
Tool
Holder
shaft Arbor
Tool tip
100
9. Gouge check
9.1.2 Geometry
The Geometry section enables you to choose the model faces for which
the gouge checking is performed.
Drive surfaces
When this option is chosen, SolidCAM performs the gouge checking
for the Drive surfaces avoiding the possible collisions.
Check surfaces
With this option, SolidCAM enables you to choose a number of non-
drive surfaces on the model as the check surfaces and perform the
gouge checking for them.
The Check surfaces section enables you either to choose the check surfaces geometry from the list
or define a new one with the button displaying the Select Faces dialog box.
When the Use STL file check box is activated, the Check surfaces section enables you to choose a
check surfaces geometry from an STL file. The button enables

you to display the Choose STL dialog box.
The Browse button in the dialog box enables you to choose the
necessary STL file. The full name (including the path) of the chosen
STL file is displayed in the STL file edit box. The Show button enables
you to display the chosen STL triangles in a separate window.
When only the Check surfaces option is chosen, SolidCAM enables
you to define two additional parameters:
• Stock to leave. This parameter enables you to define an
allowance for the check surfaces. The tool will reach the check surface by the specified
value. For example, if the Stock to leave value is set to 1, SolidCAM checks that the tool is
kept away from check surfaces by 1 mm.
This parameter is used only in case when only the Check surfaces option is chosen
for the gouge checking (the Drive surfaces option is not chosen). In case when
both Drive surface and Check surface options are turned on, SolidCAM uses Drive
surface offset to define the machining allowance for both drive and check surfaces.
101
• Tolerance. This parameter enables you to define the accuracy of the gouge checking for the
check surfaces. The value defines the chordal deviation between the tool path and the check
surfaces.
This parameter is used just in cases when only the Check surfaces option is chosen
for the gouge checking (Drive surfaces option is not chosen). In cases when both
Drive surface and Check surface options are turned on, SolidCAM uses Cut
tolerance value (see topic 6.1.1) to define the gouge checking tolerance for both
drive and check surfaces.
9.1.3 Strategy
SolidCAM provides you with a number of strategies enabling you
to avoid possible gouges.
Retract tool
When this option is chosen, SolidCAM enables Tool axis
you to avoid the possible collisions by retracting
the tool. When a possible collision is detected,
Check surface Retracting
the tool performs a retract movement at the
direction
automatically calculated distance and then
“flows” around check faces avoiding the gouge. Retract
movement
The initial gouging tool path is substituted with
a new one free of gouges.
Drive surface
Initial tool path gouging the check surfaces Updated tool path not gouging the check
surfaces
102
9. Gouge check
Advanced
SolidCAM provides you with advanced parameters for projection of the tool path from the drive
surface plane onto the model to be machined.
In certain machining cases, it is convenient to define the required tool path on a flat surface, which
facilitates the definition of parameters such as distance between cuts, machining angle that is set in
the XY-plane, etc. Then this tool path can be projected onto a 3D model that needs to be machined.
Consider the example of the following part: all of its surfaces need to be machined in simple
parallel cuts. Instead of selecting all of its faces as drive faces to process the tool path on, you can
create a new flat surface, on which the tool path will be defined. This surface will be defined as the
drive surface, to which the actual tool path will be applied. You can easily check the resulting tool
path on the flat surface, edit if necessary, and then to project it onto the faces of the model to be
machined. Note that these faces will be defined as check surfaces.
To project the obtained tool path on the check surfaces, click the Advanced button.
The Retracting tool along tool axis dialog box is displayed. This
dialog box enables you to define the parameters of tool path
projection.
The Drop tool down wherever needed check box enables you
to activate the projection of the tool path on the required 3D
geometry. When you select this check box, the tool path applied
to the drive surface is projected onto the defined drive surfaces.
The Remove areas where tool drop fails check box enables you to exclude the areas, where the
projection cannot be performed, from the tool path. When this check box is selected, the positions
where the projection failed are removed.
The Drop tool after rotations check box enables you to activate the projection of the tool on the
surface after rotating or transforming the tool path.
The Drop tool after rotations option is available only if the Rotate&Translate
option is activated on the Roughing and More page.
The Smooth retracts check box enables you to smooth the transition from the collision free area to
the tool retraction area by avoiding sudden axis jumps. The Smooth distance field determines the
start distance of the smoothing to the collision area.
103
SolidCAM enables you to choose the following options to define the retract direction:
• Along +X, -X, +Y, -Y, +Z, -Z
The retraction movement is performed along the chosen axis.
Retract tool in +Z Retract tool in +X
• Along XZ, YZ, XY plane

The retraction movement is performed in the chosen plane. The retraction movement is
performed in the direction defined by the projection of the drive surface normal vector on
the chosen plane.
Retract tool in XY plane Retract tool in XZ plane
104
9. Gouge check
• Along-optimized in XZ, YZ, XY plane

The retraction movement is performed in the chosen plane,
similar to the Along XZ, YZ, XY plane plane options; the
differences are in the direction of the retract movements in
the chosen plane. The contact points, at which collisions are
detected, are projected on the chosen plane and connected into
a contour. This contour is offset outwards by a distance equal
to the sum of the tool radius and the Stock to leave values.
This option enables you to perform the retract movements in
optimal directions, generating the shortest tool path.
• Along surface normal
The retraction movement is performed in the direction of the drive surface normal at the
contact point.
Surface normal
Retract movement
• Away from origin
The retraction movement is performed in the direction of the vector from the Coordinate
System origin to the tool contact point.
Retract movement
Retract
direction
Origin
105
• Along to cut center Cut center
The retraction movement is performed in the Tool path

direction of the center of the cutting pass.
This option is useful for tube milling.
On the illustration, the machining of the
drive surface is performed with the parallel
Z cutting passes. When the gouging of the
check surface occurs, the retract movement is
performed to the cutting pass center, avoiding
the gouge.
Drive surface Check surface

• Along tool contact line
The retraction movements are performed along the contact line between the tool and the
drive surface.
Retract
Contact movements
line
• Along user-defined direction

This option enables you to define the direction of the retraction
movements by a vector. The Direction dialog box (available with the
button) enables you to define the direction vector by its coordinates
(dX, dY and dZ parameters). Using the button, SolidCAM enables
you to pick the start and end points of the vector directly on the solid
model.
Retract
movement
Retract
direction vector
106
9. Gouge check
• Along tool axis
This option enables you to avoid the possible collisions by retracting the tool in the direction
of the tool axis.
Trim and relink toolpath

When this strategy is used, SolidCAM trims the segments of the
tool path where the collisions are detected. The tool path updated
by trimming does not contain gouges.
Check surface
Gouging areas to be trimmed
The following trimming options are available:
• Trim collision only. With this option, only the

colliding segments of the tool path are trimmed out.
• Trim tool path after first collision. With this option,

SolidCAM trims the whole cutting pass, after the first
detected collision.
• Trim tool path before last collision. With this option,

SolidCAM trims the whole cutting pass, before the last
detected collision.
107
• Trim tool path between first and last collision.
With this option, SolidCAM trims the cutting
path between the first and last detected collisions.
• Trim tool path before first collision. When a collision is

detected, the tool path is trimmed in such a manner that
the portion of the current cut from the beginning till the
first collision is removed from the tool path.
• Trim tool path after last collision. When a collision is

detected, the tool path is trimmed in such a manner that
the portion of the current cut from the last collision till
the end of the cut is removed from the tool path.
Stop tool path calculation

When this option is chosen, the tool path is generated until
the position where the first gouge occurs. At this point the tool path
calculation is stopped. The last cutting pass (where the gouge is
detected) is not included into the operation tool path. You have to edit
the machining parameters and calculate the tool path again to avoid the
gouge.
Check surface
Gouge position
Tool path
Last cutting pass (removed)
108
9. Gouge check
Report collisions
SolidCAM checks only for collision between the tool and the check
faces, without trying to avoid the collision; a warning message is
displayed.
Using the simulation, you can check the collision areas and choose the appropriate method to avoid
gouging.
109
9.2 Clearance data
The Clearance data page enables you to define the clearance offsets for arbor and tool holder in
order to get a guaranteed clearance gap between arbor, tool holder and workpiece.
9.2.1 Clearance
SolidCAM enables you to choose either Cylindric or Conical shape of the tool holder, arbor and
tool shaft clearance.
Cylindric clearance
The Holder parameter defines the offset applied to the tool holder
cylinder from all sides. The Arbor defines the offset applied to the arbor
cylinder from all sides. The Tool Shaft parameter defines the offset
applied to the tool shaft cylinder from all sides. The Angular parameter
defines the angular offset applied to the tool.
110
9. Gouge check
Generally, an arbor is the tool extension located between the tool shaft and
its holder. Lollipop and Slot End Mills do not have tool shaft, the cylindrical
Connection between tool and holder is considered as Arbor.
Holder
Arbor
Tool shaft
Holder Arbor
clearance clearance Tool shaft
clearance
Conical clearance
Conical clearance is applied similarly to the cylindrical one being
defined with Upper and Lower offset values.
Angular conical clearance is applied between the tool and collision
surface. It is spanned between the contact point of the tool, the drive
surface, and the collision point.
The Upper offset value must be greater than the Lower

offset value.
Air move safety distance

This parameter enables you to define the minimal distance
between the clearance area and the Drive surface (see topic 3.1.1).
111
9.2.2 Report remaining collisions
This option enables you to generate a report about possible collisions that
remain in the tool path after gouge checking. When this option is selected,
SolidCAM checks the tool path using the tolerance two times greater than
the specified value (see topic 9.1.2) to detect collisions.
You can turn off the collision checking between the tool path positions (see topic
9.2.3). In such case the tool path calculation is accelerated, but the possibility of
remaining collisions is present. The Report remaining collisions option is helpful
to notify about possible collisions in the resulting tool path.
In case of engraving or trimming operations used together with the Report
remaining collisions option, SolidCAM notifies you about collisions. The reason
for such notification is that the technology of such operations requires that the
tool tip be inside the machined surfaces.
The Report remaining collisions option enables you to detect too small retract
and approach distances or too low clearance levels. In such case, the report about
collisions enables you to solve the potential problems.
9.2.3 Check gouge between positions

The Check gouge between positions option enables you to
avoid the possible gouges between tool path positions. When the
Position 1
movement is performed between two successive tool path positions,
this option enables you to check for possible collisions of the tool Position 2
and tool holder with drive and check surfaces.
This option is useful especially for flat faces

machining, where the tool path positions are
generated only at the drive surface edges.
When the Check gouge between positions option is not used, the
gouge checking of the tool path on the flat face is not performed
because of absence of tool path positions on the face. The gouging
of a boss may occur.
Position 1
When the Check gouge between positions option is used, the Position 2
gouge checking between tool path positions on the flat surface is
performed. The gouging of a boss is avoided.
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9. Gouge check
The Check gouge between positions option has no effect on the gouge checking of the tool path
spherical surface, because of the many tool path positions that were generated on this face. The
gouge checking for this face is performed for these positions avoiding possible collisions.
9.2.4 Extend tool to infinity

This option enables you to consider the tool as being extended to infinity during collision check in
order to make sure that all active surfaces are checked for collision, no matter where they are located
in space.
9.2.5 Check link motions for collision

When this option is chosen, SolidCAM automatically performs the gouge checking for link
movements in order to avoid possible collisions.
113
114
Roughing and
More 10
The Roughing and More page enables you to define the parameters of the rough HSS machining.
116
10. Roughing and More
10.1 Multi-passes
Using the Multi-passes option, SolidCAM

enables you to perform the machining in a
number of roughing and finishing passes.
During the tool path calculation, SolidCAM
generates the initial cutting pass located on
the drive surface and then creates a specified
number of roughing and finishing passes at
different offsets specified for roughing and Initial tool path Multi passes tool path
finishing.
When this option is used, SolidCAM generates for each tool path point a number of offsets in the
direction of the surface normal. Connecting these points, SolidCAM generates a number of evenly
spaced cuts with a similar tool path shape.
Click the Multi-passes button to define the parameters in the Multi-passes dialog box. Select the
Use multi-passes check box to enable the related options.
Roughing and finishing passes

The Roughing passes section enables you to define the Number of roughing passes and distance
between them (Spacing).
The Finishing passes section enables you to define the Number of finishing passes and distance
between them (Spacing).
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During the tool path calculation, SolidCAM generates the initial cutting pass located on the drive
surface and then creates a specified number of finishing passes using the specified Spacing. After
the finishing, SolidCAM generates a specified number of roughing passes. The distance between the
last finishing pass and the first roughing pass is defined by the Spacing parameter in the Finishing
passes section.
Rough Spacing Rough passes
Finish Spacing
Finish passes
In the illustration above, SolidCAM generates three finishing passes with the specified finishing
spacing and then generates four roughing passes with the specified roughing spacing. The distance
between roughing and finishing parts of the tool path is equal to the finishing spacing.
Sort by
This option enables you to define the way how the generated
passes are sorted and linked.
• Slices. When this option is chosen, all the roughing and
finishing offsets of the current cutting pass are performed
before moving to the next cutting pass.
• Passes. When this option is chosen, all the cutting passes

of the current offset level are performed before moving
to the next offset level.
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Machining angle XY change

This option enables you to define the gradual change of the machining angle for multi-cut roughing.
This option is useful when the material needs to be removed at different angles in each pass. This
option is enabled for Parallel cuts strategy with Linear or Hatch modes.
Angle
Angle
The value defines the angle to which the tool path rotates with every new pass.
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10.2 Depth cuts
The Depth cuts option enables you to perform HSS rough and finish machining similar to
the Multi-passes option (see topic 10.1). Using the Multi-passes option, SolidCAM generates
roughing and finishing passes in the direction of the surface normal, independent from the tool
orientation. The Depth cuts option enables you to perform roughing and finishing cuts in the
direction of the tool axis.
SolidCAM enables you to use a combination of the Multi-passes and Depth cuts
options for the machining. In this case, for each depth cut, SolidCAM generates a
specified number of Multi-passes. For example, if you define 5 depth cuts and10
Multi-passes, SolidCAM generates 5 * 10 = 50 cuts.
Click the Depth cuts button to display the Depth Cuts dialog box. This dialog box enables you to
define the parameters of the depth cuts.
When this option is used, SolidCAM generates for each tool path point a number of offsets in the
direction of the tool axis. Connecting these points, SolidCAM generates a number of evenly spaced
cuts with the similar tool path shape.
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Roughing and finishing passes

The Roughing passes section enables you to define the Number
of roughing passes and distance between them (Spacing).
The Finishing passes section enables you to define the Number of
finishing passes and distance between them (Spacing).
During the tool path calculation, SolidCAM generates the initial
cutting pass located on the drive surface and then creates a
specified number of finishing passes using the specified Spacing.
After the finishing, SolidCAM generates a specified number of
roughing passes. The distance between the last finishing pass and
the first roughing pass is defined by the Spacing parameter in the
Finishing passes section.
Roughing passes
Rough spacing
Finish spacing
Finishing passes
In the illustration above, SolidCAM generates three finishing passes with the specified finishing
spacing and then generates four roughing passes with the specified roughing spacing. The distance
between roughing and finishing parts of the tool path is equal to the finishing spacing.
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Apply depth to
This option enables you to choose whether the defined depth cuts parameters will be applied to the
entire tool path or only to the first pass/slice.
Sort by
This option enables you to define how the generated passes are sorted and linked.
• Slices. When this option is chosen, all the roughing and finishing offsets of the current
cutting pass are performed before moving to the next cutting pass.
• Passes. When this option is chosen, all the cutting passes of the current offset level are
performed before moving to the next offset level.
Use ramp
The Use ramp option enables you to perform a single spiral cutting pass instead of several separate
passes generated by the Depth cuts option.
Use Ramp check box Use Ramp check box

The image above illustrates the Use ramp option that is used to convert a number of circular
separate passes into a single taper spiral cutting pass.
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10.3 Rotate and Translate
The Rotate and Translate strategy is useful for parts with multiple identical elements arranged in a
circular pattern. Instead of adding a separate operation and defining the same parameters for each
of these patterns, you can have the same tool path repeated a given number of times by rotation
around the Z-axis.
The Rotate / Translate Tool Path dialog box enables you to define the parameters of rotation.
Orientation
• Rotary axis base point. This option enables you to define the position of the rotation axis.
When you click the Select point button, the Select point dialog box is displayed with the
coordinates of the point you pick on the model.
• Number of steps. This parameter enables you to define the number of instances of the
circular pattern. In other words, it defines how many times the initial tool path will be
repeated around the rotation axis.
Rotate
This section contains two parameters that enable you to rotate the tool path:
• Start angle. This parameter enables you to define the rotation angle for the first tool path
instance of the circular pattern.
• Rotation angle. This parameter enables you to define the angle between two adjacent
instances of the circular pattern.
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Translate
This section contains two parameters that enable Step over
you to transform the tool path: distance
• Start distance
This parameter defines the distance Step over

between the initial tool path instance and distance
the next one in the transformed pattern.
• Step over distance
This parameter defines the distance

between two adjacent tool path instances Start
of the transformed pattern. distance
These distances are measured along the Z-axis.

Sorting
• Sort by. This option enables you to choose whether the whole tool path will be rotated or
only a certain part of it. The following options are available:
Complete tool path. With this option the whole tool path will be rotated.
Passes. With this option the whole tool path will be rotated. The resulting tool path
will be sorted and linked by passes.
Slices. With this option the whole tool path will be rotated. The resulting tool path
will be sorted and linked by slices.
Partial tool path. With this option the portion of tool path specified by a percentage
is rotated. The percentage is specified by the Percent of whole tool path parameter.
• Apply stock. This option enables you to trim the tool path with the stock model either
before or after the rotation.
Before rotation. With this option, SolidCAM generates the initial tool path, trims it
with the stock model and then performs the rotation. In this case all the tool path
instances are trimmed with the same stock.
After rotation. With this option, SolidCAM performs trimming after the tool path
rotation. In this case the stock used for the trimming is updated after each rotation
instance.
The Apply stock option is available only when the Stock definition option is
selected in the Roughing and More page.
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• Apply linking. This option enables you to link the tool path either before or after the
rotation.
Before rotation. With this option, SolidCAM generates the initial tool path, links it and
then performs the rotation. In this case the link movements in all the rotated instances
of the tool path are the same.
After rotation. With this option, SolidCAM applies linking after the tool path rotation.
It is recommended to use this option with the collision control activated to avoid
possible collisions in the link movements.
The Apply linking option is available only when the Before rotation option
is used for Apply stock. When Apply stock is set to After rotation, the Apply
linking option is disabled and the After rotation option is used.
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10.4 Stock definition
This button displays the Stock Definition dialog box that enables you to define trimming of the
HSS passes to the pre-machined or casting stock faces to avoid unnecessary air cutting.
When the Avoid air cuts using following stock definition option is chosen, SolidCAM calculates
the Updated Stock model after all the previous operations. SolidCAM automatically compares the
updated stock model with the operation target geometry and machines the difference between
them.
SolidCAM provides you with two modes for the Updated Stock model calculation: Automatic and
Manual. For CAM-Parts, the mode can be specified in the Updated Stock calculation page of the
Part Settings dialog box. In the Automatic mode, SolidCAM automatically calculates the Updated
Stock model for the previous operations. In the Manual mode, SolidCAMenables you to manually
save the Updated Stock model after the SolidVerify simulation and use it for avoiding air cuts.
SolidCAM notifies you about chosen Updated Stock model method using the Update Stock model
method is parameter.
For more information about Updated Stock model methods refer to the SolidCAM Milling User
Guidebook.
126
Machined Stock Name

This option enables you to choose the previously generated Updated Stock model for the tool path
calculation.
This field is active only when the Manual method of the Updated Stock model
calculation is used.
The Show 3D button displays the difference between the updated stock model and the target
geometry used in the operation.
Shrink/Expand
SolidCAM provides you with the possibility to shrink/expand the stock model used for avoiding
air cuts. The defined Shrink/Expand value enables you to define the 3D offset by which the stock
model will be modified.
Check for collision

SolidCAM enables you to prevent the collisions between the tool/holder components and the
machined stock model.
• Tool shaft
Select this check box to check for collision between the tool shaft and the machined stock.
• Tool arbor
Select this check box to check for collision between the tool arbor and the machined stock.
• Tool holder
Select this check box to check for collision between the tool holder and the machined stock.
Trim contours shorter than
This option enables you to exclude the contours of the tool path that are shorter than a specified
length.
When this check box is selected, the contours whose length is smaller than the specified contour
length value are excluded from the tool path. The specified contour length can be defined as
percentage of tool diameter or as a value.
127
Avoid trimming in case gap smaller than
This option enables you to ignore small gaps on the tool path that are shorter than a specified
length.
When this check box is selected, the gaps whose length is smaller than the specified length value are
ignored, and linking is not applied to them. The specified gap length can be defined as percentage
of tool diameter or as a value.
Trim only full contours
This option enables you to keep the cuts that are partially within the stock definition and remove
the cuts which are completely outside the stock definition.
When this check box is not selected, all tool path segments which do not intersect with the stock
are removed.
When this check box is selected, it keeps the contours that partly intersect with the stock and
removes only the contours that are completely out of stock.
128
10.5 Plunging
The Plunging option enables you to perform HSS machining using the plunging technology.
Plunging is a totally different concept of removing material with a special tool. Instead of milling
the material, the tool moves up and down in a motion similar to drilling, at the points along the
tool path.
Click the Plunging button to display the Plunging dialog box. This dialog box enables you to define
the parameters of the plunging.
When the Plunging option is used, SolidCAM generates for each cutting pass a number of tool
path positions. These positions are evenly spaced along the cutting pass. The distance between two
successive tool positions is defined by the Step length parameter. In each such position SolidCAM
generates a plunging tool path in the direction of the tool axis; the height of this tool path is defined
by the Plunge height parameter. The Slide length value defines the distance the tool travels after
the plunge move.
Plunging pass
Step length
Plunge
height
Cutting pass
Slide length
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10.6 Morph pocket
The Morph pocket option enables you to perform HSS pocket

machining. When this option is used, all the side faces of the
pocket have to be defined as the Drive surface. Drive
surface
Click the Morph pocket button to display the Morph Pocket
dialog box. This dialog box enables you to define the parameters
of the pocket machining.
Move
This option enables you to define the direction of the pocket machining.
• Outwards. This option enables you to work in a pocket area starting from the middle of the
pocket and cutting towards the outside border of the pocket.
130
• Inwards. This option enables you to work in a pocket area starting from the outside border
of the pocket and cutting towards the middle of the pocket.
Step over value

This parameter enables you to define the distance between two successive cuts in the pocket pass.
Step over
131
Pocket area
This option defines the pocket area to be machined.
When the Full option is chosen, SolidCAM performs the machining of the whole pocket.
The Determined by number of cuts option enables you to machine a partial pocket area determined
by the number of cuts (specified by the Number of cuts parameter).
Spiral machining
When this check box is not selected, the machining is performed by a number of evenly spaced
offsets connected with a straight tool movement.
When this check box is selected, SolidCAM generates a spiral tool path to machine the pocket.
Spiral machining check box Spiral machining check box

132
10.7 Sorting
This button displays the Sorting options for Roughing dialog box that enables you to define the
sorting of the tool path passes.
10.7.1 Reverse order of passes/tool path

When this check box is not selected, the tool path passes are performed in the default order and in
the direction of the geometry.
1
2
3
4
When the check box is selected and the Passes option is chosen from the list, the tool path passes
are performed in the reversed order.
4
3
2
1
133
When the check box is selected and the Complete tool path option is chosen from the list, the tool
path passes are performed in the reversed order and direction.
4
3
2
1
10.7.2 Connect slices by shortest distance

When this check box is not selected, the connection between tool path slices is performed through
the clearance level: after a certain slice has been machined, the tool goes up to the clearance level
and then descends to machine the next slice.
134
When this check box is selected, the tool path slices are connected by lines automatically calculated
by SolidCAM, so that the distance between the end of one slice and the start of the next one is
minimal.
The options of Plunging, Morph pocket, and Sorting are available only when the
Advanced check box is selected.
135
10.8 Links between passes
When the Multi-passes (see topic 10.1) or

the Depth cuts (see topic 10.2) option is used,
SolidCAM performs the machining at several
cutting levels. The Links between passes option
enables you to define how the linking of the tool
moves between these levels.
SolidCAM enables you to choose two different linking options for large and small movements
between cutting levels. The maximum size of movements to be
considered as small can be specified by a Value.
The following Link types are available:
• Direct
After the level machining, the tool moves directly to the first
pass of the next level.
• Safety distance
After the level machining, the tool retracts to the Safety

distance and then directly moves to the Safety distance
of the next level.
Safety distance
• Clearance area
After the level machining, the tool retracts to the

Clearance area and then performs the approach movement
to the next level.
136
• Follow surfaces
After the level machining, the tool retracts to the Safety

distance and then performs an approach movement to the
Safety distance at the next level. During the movement, the
tool follows the drive surface geometry at the offset specified
by the Safety distance parameter.
• Blend spline
The tool movement connecting the cutting levels is performed

by a spline tangential to the cutting passes.
After the level machining, the tool retreats to the Retract

distance and then directly moves to the Retract distance at Retract
the next level. distance
Safety distance
• Follow Stock
When a gap area is detected, the tool performs a retract movement to the stock upper level
and makes a link at the upper level height.
137
SolidCAM enables you to use pre-defined Lead-In/Lead-Out strategies (see topic 8.3) to perform the
movements between cutting levels.
• Use Lead-In
The approach movement is performed to the cutting

level using the specified Lead-In options.
Lead in
• Use Lead-Out
The approach movement is performed from the cutting

level using the specified Lead-Out options.
Lead out
• Use Lead-In/Out
The approach movement is performed to the cutting

level using the specified Lead-In options and performs
the retreat movement from the cutting level using the
specified Lead-Out options. Lead out
Lead in
138
Machine control
11
Using the parameters of the Machine control page, you can optimize the calculated tool path
according to the kinematics and special characteristics of your CNC-machine.
The default values of these parameters can be defined in the VMID file of your CNC-machine.
The interface of the Machine control page may vary depending on the parameters of your
CNC-machine.
140
11. Machine Control
11.1 Point interpolation
The point interpolation provides the ability to create

intermediate points by splitting long linear motions for feed
rate moves and rapid rate moves.
Interpolation for distance. Using this option, SolidCAM enables you to perform
interpolation for the linear tool movements. When this option is active, a new
interpolated tool position is defined at each distance, defined by the Interpolation for
distance parameter. E.g. when the linear tool movement is performed from 0, 0, 0 to
0, 0, 100 and the Interpolation for distance option is used with the distance value of
10, SolidCAM adds 9 tool positions between start and end positions (0, 0, 10, then 0,
0, 20 etc.).
Rapid feed rate moves. This option enables you to specify the number of the feed rate
moves that will be performed instead of one long linear motion.
11.2 Machine limits
With this option, SolidCAM enables you to use the machine limits defined within the machine
definition to limit the tool path movements in translation and/or rotation axis.
The following options of machine limits use are available:
No limits
All the machine limits defined in the machine definition are ignored.
Translation limits
SolidCAM uses the machine limits defined in the machine definition for translation
movements.
Rotation limits
SolidCAM uses the machine limits defined in the machine definition for rotation
movements.
Limits All
SolidCAM uses the machine limits defined in the machine definition for both translation
and rotation movements.
If the machine limits are exceeded, SolidCAM displays an error message.
The default value for the Machine limits option is defined in the VMID file of the CNC-machine.
141
11.3 5th Axis
For a 5-axis machine, the tool axis vector can always be mapped into two different angle pairs.
During the tool path generation, SolidCAM calculates for each tool axis orientation both of these
two angle pairs; only one of the two has to be chosen for the GCode generation.
Some machines can only use one of the angle pairs due to mechanical limitations. In this case the
angle pair will then be chosen as the First angle pair or Second angle pair.
142
Misc. parameters
12
The Misc. parameters page enables you to define a number of miscellaneous parameters and
options related to the HSS tool path calculation.
12.1 Message
In this field, you can type a message that will appear in the generated GCode file.
12.2 Extra parameters
The Extra parameters option enables you to use special operation

options implemented in the post-processor for the current CAM-Part.
The Parameters List button enables you to display the list of additional
parameters defined in the post-processor.
144
12. Misc. Parameters
12.3 Tool center based calculation
This option enables you to perform the tool path calculation based on the tool center.
The illustration shows the use of the Tool center based calculation option for Constant Z
machining. When the option is turned off, the contact points between the tool and machined
surface are located at the specified Z-levels. When the Tool center based calculation check box is
selected, the tool center points are located at the specified Z-levels.
Check box is not selected Check box is selected
145
146
Exercises
13
Exercise #1: Parallel cuts strategy
This exercise illustrates the use of the HSS Parallel

Cuts operations for machining of the part shown
on the illustration.
HSS_Linear_selected_faces_T1
This operation performs the Linear machining of
the part of the upper face.
The drive surface is defined as shown below.
The machining area is limited by the following 2D boundary:
A bull nose mill tool of Ø10 with the

corner radius of 1 mm is used for the
operation.
The machining is performed in parallel
cuts that form a linear pattern on the
defined drive surface.
148
13. Exercises
HSS_CZ_selected_faces1_T1
This operation performs the Constant Z machining of the right side vertical faces.
The drive surfaces are defined as shown below.
The drive surface including gaps is extended

by 20 mm.
A bull nose mill tool of Ø10 with the corner
radius of 1 mm is used for the operation.
The machining of the defined drive surfaces
is performed in Constant Z parallel cuts.
HSS_Hatch_selected_faces2_T1
This operation performs the Hatch machining of the side faces (Vertical and Inclined).
The drive surfaces are defined as shown below.
The hatch angle is set to 90°.

A bull nose mill tool of Ø10 with the corner
radius of 1 mm is used for the operation.
The defined drive surfaces are machined
in parallel cuts performed in the hatch
manner.
149
Exercise #2: Parallel to curve strategy
This exercise illustrates the use of the HSS Parallel

to Curve operation for cavity machining.
The HSS_ParToCurve_selected_faces_T1 operation
is used to perform the finish machining of the cavity
faces.
The geometry is defined as shown below.
Drive surface Edge curve
A ball nose mill tool of Ø6 is used for the operation.

The Spiral cutting method is used to perform the spiral machining of the faces.
Gouge checking is performed to avoid the possible collisions between the tool and the drive surface.
The Retract along tool axis gouge checking strategy is used.
The machining of the defined drive
surface is performed in cuts parallel to the
edge curve presented on the illustration.
150
13. Exercises
Exercise #3: Parallel to surface strategy
This exercise illustrates the use of the HSS

Parallel to Surface operation for machining
of the cusps walls.
The HSS_ParS_selected_faces2 operation is
used to perform the finish machining of the
side faces.
Drive surface Edge surface

The Vertical tangential arc method is used
for Lead-in and Lead-out.
The machining of the defined drive surface is
performed in cuts parallel to the edge surface
presented on the illustration.
Two more HSS Parallel to Surface operations
are defined in a similar manner for machining
of two other cusps.
151
Exercise #4: Perpendicular to curve strategy
This exercise illustrates the use of the HSS Perpendicular

to Curve operation for cylindrical surface machining.
The HSS_PerpToCurve_selected_faces_T1 operation
is used to perform the finish machining of the right
cylindrical face.
Drive surface Edge curve
The drive surface is extended by 5 mm on both sides.

The machining of the cylindrical drive
surface is performed in cuts perpendicular
to the edge curve presented on the
illustration.
152
13. Exercises
Exercise #5: Morph between two boundary curves strategy
This exercise illustrates the use of the HSS Morph

between two boundary curves operation for an aerospace
part machining.
The HSS_Morph_Curve_selected_faces_T1 operation is
used to perform the finish machining of the fillet faces.
Drive surface
Start edge curve End edge curve

The machining of the defined drive surface is
performed between two edge curves presented on the
illustration.
153
Exercise #6: Morph between two adjacent surfaces strategy

between two adjacent surfaces operation for a mold
insert machining.
The HSS_Morph_Surf_selected_faces_T1 operation
is used to perform the finish machining of the part’s
front inclined faces.
Drive surface
Start edge surface End edge surface

The machining of the defined drive surfaces is
performed in a number of cuts between two edge
surfaces presented on the illustration.
154
13. Exercises
Exercise #7: Projection strategy
This exercise illustrates the use of the HSS Projection

operation for a mold insert part machining.
The HSS_Proj_selected_faces operation is used to
perform the finish machining of the 3D fillet-shaped
faces.
Drive surface Projection curve

The machining is performed in a single cut following the projection curve presented on the
illustration.
155
Exercise #8: General HSS machining
This exercise illustrates the use of the HSS functionality

for machining of the part shown on the illustration.
HSS_CZ_selected_faces_T1
This operation performs the Constant Z machining of

the part side face with the slot.
A ball nose mill tool of Ø10 is used for the

operation.
To avoid the tool movements to the
clearance area over the slot, the Gaps
along cut option is set to Direct for Large
gaps, and the Blend spline option is used
for Links between slices.
The machining is performed in parallel Constant Z cuts over the slot on the defined drive surface.
HSS_Linear_selected_faces1_T2
This operation performs the Linear machining of the
part floor.
The drive surface on the flat floor is defined as shown.
156
13. Exercises
In the same manner as in the previous operation,

the tool movements to the Clearance area over the
holes on the floor are avoided by setting the Gaps
along cut option to Direct for Large gaps and using
the Blend spline option for Links between slices.
The machining is performed in Linear Parallel cuts
on the defined drive surface.
HSS_Morph_Curves_selected_faces2_T2
This operation performs machining of the part
inner fillet.
Drive surface

The linking between slices is performed using the Direct option.
157
The gouge checking is performed by Leaving out gouging points with the offset of 10 mm from
the following check surfaces:
The machining is performed in cuts between the edge curves on the defined drive surface. The tool
path is trimmed at the vertical wall areas to avoid the tool contact with the defined check surfaces.
HSS_CZ_selected_faces4_T3
The operation performs the Constant Z machining of the part undercut face.
The drive surface is defined as shown on the right.
The drive surface is trimmed by 12 mm on each side.
158
13. Exercises
A slot mill tool of Ø30 is used for the

operation.
The linking in the gap area and between
Slices is performed using the Direct
option.
Constant Z cuts on the defined drive
surface.
HSS_Morph_Curves_selected_faces5_T4
This operation performs the machining of the part inner fillets.
Drive surface
159
The linking between slices is performed using the Blend spline option.
The machining is performed on the designated upper fillet area.
160
13. Exercises

for machining of the part shown on the illustration. The
part was pre-machined using the HSM technology.
HSS_Linear_selected_faces_T3
This operation performs the Linear machining of the
part inclined face.
An end mill tool of Ø8 is used for the operation.

The machining is performed in parallel linear cuts as shown.
161
HSS_Linear_selected_faces1_T3
This operation performs the Linear
machining of the part rim.
The drive surface is defined as shown.
An end mill tool of Ø8 is used for the
operation.
The linking between slices is performed
using the Direct option.
linear cuts as shown.
HSS_PC_CZ_selected_faces2_T4
This operation performs the Constant Z machining of the part back and bottom faces.
The drive surface is extended by 3 mm on each side.
A slot mill tool of Ø30 is used for the operation.
The gouge checking is performed using the
Retracting tool along tool axisoption to avoid the
contact between the tool and the drive surfaces.
162
13. Exercises
The machining is performed in parallel Constant Z cuts on the defined drive surface.
163

for machining of the part shown on the illustration. The
part was pre-machined using the HSM technology.
HSS_CZ_selected_faces_T1
This operation performs the Constant Z machining of
the part back and bottom faces.
A lollipop mill tool of Ø16 is used for

the operation.
To avoid unnecessary tool movements,
the Gaps along cut option is set to Direct
for Large gaps, and the Follow surfaces
option is used for Links between slices.
Constant Z cuts as shown.
164
13. Exercises
HSS_Morph_Curve_selected_faces1_T2
This operation performs the machining of the part faces shown on the illustration.
Drive surface

165
The machining of the defined drive surface is performed between two edge curves.
166
13. Exercises
HSS_Morph_Surf_selected_faces2_T2
This operation performs the machining of the part faces shown on the illustration.
Drive surface
Start edge surface End edge surface

To avoid the unnecessary tool
movements, the Gaps along cut
option is set to Direct for Large
gaps, and the Follow surfaces
option is used for Links between
slices.

surface is performed in a number
of cuts between two edge surfaces
presented on the illustration.
167

between two boundary curves operation for a bottle
bottom cavity part machining.
The HSS_Morph_Curve_selected_faces_T1 operation
is used to perform the finish machining of the part
faces containing the undercut area.
Drive surface
A lollipop tool of Ø5 is used for the

operation.
surface is performed between two edge
curves presented on the illustration.
168
SolidCAM User Guide:
HSS
iMachining 2D 2.5D Milling HSS (High-Speed Surface Machining)
iMachining 3D Indexed Multi-Sided Machining HSM (High-Speed Machining)
Simultaneous 5-Axis Machining Turning & Advanced Mill-Turn Solid Probe
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2015 SolidCAM HSS User Guide

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2015 SolidCAM HSS User Guide

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SolidCAM User Guide:

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6. Tool path parameters................................................................................................ 51

10. Roughing and More................................................................................................. 115

11. Machine control....................................................................................................... 139

Document number: SCHSSUG1501SP2

Powerful Surface Machining Strategies for Smooth, Gouge-Free and Optimal

Total Tool Control to Machine Only the Areas You Choose

Advanced Gouge Control for Holder, Arbor and Tool

Important Module for Every Machine Shop

About this book

About the Exercises

The HSS Parallel cuts: Linear operation dialog box is displayed.

1.2 HSS operation dialog box

Define the CoordSys Position for the HSS operation.

Choose geometry for machining and define the related parameters.

Define the Clearance area and the machining levels.

Define the machining parameters.

Define the tool control parameters.

Define the parameters of the HSS roughing.

1.3 The stages of the HSS operation parameters definition

The operation definition is divided into the following stages:

2. Gouge check – avoiding tool and holder collisions.

Tool path generation Gouge check

For more information on the Coordinate System definition, refer to the

The CoordSys definition must be the first step in the

3.1.1 Geometry for the Parallel cuts strategies

The Drive surface offset parameter enables you to define a

The offset is three-dimensional and expands the faces in every direction.

This option is available only in the Linear and

3.1.2 Geometry for the Parallel to curves strategy

The machining is performed along a lead curve. The generated cuts

The lead curve must be located exactly

3.1.3 Geometry for the Parallel to surface strategy

The drive and check surfaces have

Single edge tool

Single edge tool

3.1.4 Geometry for the Perpendicular to curve strategy

This strategy enables you to generate the tool path orthogonal to

SolidCAM projects the virtual points onto

This option creates a morphed tool path between two leading

It is recommended to choose the

This strategy enables you to generate the morphed tool path on

SolidCAM enables you to define a number of advanced

Second surface tool

Second surface tool

First surface tool

3.1.7 Geometry for the Projection strategies

The Projection strategies enable you to generate a single tool path

Max. projection distance

The Angle option is available only in the Radial strategy.

The Area section enables you to define the cutting

The following options are available to define the

• Full, start and end at exact surface edges

• Determined by number of cuts

• Limit cuts by one or two points

All of these options are unavailable with the Projection strategy.

3.2.1 Full, avoid cuts at exact edges

3.2.2 Full, start and end at exact surface edges

Click the Margins button.

Drive Start margin

Advanced parameter for margins

3.2.3 Limit cuts by one or two points

Click the Points button to define the limiting

The defined limiting points

Start point End point

3.2.4 Determined by number of cuts

Parallel to curve Parallel to surface

3.2.5 Use 2D Boundary

SolidCAM provides you with a functionality to limit the machining

4.1.1 Spin definition

The F/FZ buttons enable you to check the parameter values.

This field defines the cutting feed rate of the tool.

You can choose the appropriate geometry from the list

This field enables you to put an additional offset value

4.1.7 Rapid motion in G1 mode