Do I need a smaller bit?

[44henry]

I've been cutting some of the Vector Art 3D files and have been using a 1/8" ball end mill but I am wondering if I can get more detail if I go to a smaller bit. How many here routinely use 1/16" ball end mills for doing 3D carving. Perhaps I'm trying to get more detail than is really there.

[mitch_prest]

what you need to consider is just how much time you have... the smaller the bit .. the longer it takes..
you will be surprised just how long a 3d carving of any size can take with a 1/8 bit.. now imagine a 1/16 with a 10% step over..

m

[jim_vv]

The size and level of detail of the relief may or may not need a .0625" cutter. I don't know what software you are using, but you may be able to toolpath the areas that the .125" can't get to be cleaned up with a .0625" cutter.

[adrianm]

What software are you using?

Aspire 2 has rest machining that will allow you to just machine the areas that would benefit from the smaller bit.

[rcnewcomb]

It depends on the size of the design. James Booth offers a good explanation ->here (http://www.vectorart3d.com/index.cfm/Machining.htm)

[44henry]

Right now all I am using is the 3D Vector art files using their software to create the SBP file. I have plans to purchase 20 seats of ArtCAM in the near future which hopefully will give me some more flexibility in this area. Thanks