Machsupport Forum

Mach Discussion => General Mach Discussion => Topic started by: Skyhawk on August 10, 2010, 10:18:55 AM

Title: Cutting pockets
Post by: Skyhawk on August 10, 2010, 10:18:55 AM

I am trying to use Autocad to make different items and cut out pockets to mount items.  I've been watching a lot of videos on this but what seems to be simple is getting past me.  I am making 2d drawings in autocad and importing them into Mach3 with ok results.  However, when it goes to cut the pockets I created in AC, it is just cutting the outline in Mach3.  What do I need to change to make the tool paths to clear out the pockets instead of just outline them?

Title: Re: Cutting pockets
Post by: Skyhawk on August 10, 2010, 10:22:31 AM

And if anyone could tell me how to be able to use the 3d functions so I can create better shapes such as bulges or rounded tops that would be great.  I can create the items in CAD but when I save it as a DXF Mach3 wont import it. 

Title: Re: Cutting pockets
Post by: ger21 on August 10, 2010, 11:54:21 AM

Are you using lazyCAM, or an old version of Mach3? The older importer won't do pockets, and I think LazyCAM needs a license to do them. You may want to look at a CAM program like Vectric's Cut2D.

As for 3D, you'll need a 3D CAM program.