Arcs/incees or just inches for output file

[Greybarn]

Any recommendation for whether I should out the cut file in arcs/inches or inches for a 3D file with a PRT/Spindle/4G board? I am about to try cutting some blue foam as a test with this 3D part so I thought I would try it with the Arc/inches output.
Regards
peter

[ken_rychlik]

For a 3d file, I don't think it will make a difference.

For 2d work it makes smoother circles with the arcs file.

I just use arcs for everything.

[zeykr]

I use arc/inches for everything.

[Greybarn]

Thanks! That is what I was guessing but I wanted to make sure.

[Greybarn]

I actually needed to use arc/inches/w speed....For some reason, if I only used arc/inches, then when I tried to run the cut file, the Shopbot setup file would open.

[steve_g]

Can anyone tell me if the “head2” post processor is Arcs inches or not?

Steve

[srwtlc]

They both (one with spindle control) have arc inch in the file name and the structure of the file would suggest that they do process arcs. Generate a file with arcs and open it to see if it has some CG's in it or all M3's

[steve_g]

Thanks for the suggestion Scott, as I suspected, all move commands were M4 (in my situation). Now I’m wondering if I’m missing a post processor or if an arc/inch PP isn’t available for head 2.

Steve

[srwtlc]

Steve, check your C:\SbParts folder for a folder that should have all the PW post in it.

[beacon14]

I don't think the SB is capable of doing cc or cg moves with the A axis, so you probably won't find a post that has arcs for head2.

[Gary Campbell]

This usually doesnt happen, but I disagree with David. There is a Head2 arc inch post for both vectric and delcam products.

CC, CP and CG can all be easily accomplished on the second Z (A) by using the MTC files with a Head 2 (21-29) tool number.

[steve_g]

To add to my confusion:… (not hard to do) I found a file in my PP directory labeled “Shopbot_head2_arc_inch.pp” however as you can see by my attachment, Its’ Post_name is “ShopBot Head2 (inch)” which is how it shows up in my program. It actually appears to be using Arcs when I use this one.


Questions:

will it work with my alpha A axis
is it OK to change the Post_Name

Thanks all

Steve

[Gary Campbell]

Steve...
Yes it will work with your A axis. Thats what it is designed for.

You can change the name. The postP name (filename) can be most anything you like.

Since you are a partworks user the post name (edited in the postP) must have "ShopBot" in the name to allow access to it from PartWorks. This is the name you see in the drop down list when saving a file.