Use this function to create a 2D spiral pocket program, following the steps below.

NOTE: Because a toolpath is a collective, it can be selected, moved between levels, copied and deleted using the features available from the NC submenu.  

Step 1: Specify Part Zero

This is done through the Pocketing Dialog that appears when you click Pocket from the 2D submenu. To change the current Part Zero values, check the Change Part Zero setting. You are also allowed to use Cursor Select to define Part Zero.

Step 2: Specify the Cutting Tool

If no tool is currently selected, you can define a new tool by clicking the Select New Tool button on the Pocketing dialog. For every tool used, you will need to set the feeds and speed parameters.

Step 3: Select the Outer Boundary

Once you have configured the settings contained in the first Pocketing dialog, click the Next button. The second dialog then appears. Through this dialog, you are required to select the outer and inner boundaries, using the menu options that appear on the Conversation Bar.

When the second dialog appears, click the Select Outer Boundary button, then specify the general pocket configuration from the pop-up menu that appears.

1. Use either the Single or Chain selection method to select the outer boundary. Once it has been selected, you will be prompted to follow the same steps to select the islands.

2. The second Profile Milling dialog re-appears, with additional options displayed. (These options were unavailable before the profile geometry was selected). Configure the additional dialog options and click the Next button. Note that you are able to select Island Boundaries.

Step 4: Set Z Parameters and Stock Allowance

This is done through the third Pocketing dialog. Specify, or CURSOR SELECT, a new setting for each Z parameter. Configure the other available settings in this dialog.

Step 5: Create the Toolpath

For the final step, click the Create Path button to create the toolpath. Specify a description for the toolpath being created.

Step 6: Post-Process the Toolpath

After the toolpath has been created, you will need to select a post-processing method for your specific controller from the NC library of post-processors. The tool path is then post-processed using the appropriate machining parameters.

See also Using the 2D Pocketing Feature.