Hey all,
I am running into an issue cutting through 3/8 inch Baltic birch on my 2020 Desktop Max ATC. Partway through the cut, the tool begins losing position, specifically when the X or Y axis reverses direction at the extremes of the 10 inch diameter circle I am profiling. As soon as the machine changes direction, the cut starts to drift off path. The bit then rubs hard against the sidewall, causing resistance and eventually sending the tool into a spiral and crash.

Cut parameters:

Tool: 0.25 inch downcut, two flute

Feed rate: 2 ips

Pass depth: 0.0975 inch

Chip load: about 0.003 inch

Material: 3/8 inch Baltic birch

The cutter is not brand new, but this operation should not be putting significant stress on the steppers. This feels more like position loss or mechanical drag showing up when the machine reverses direction under load.

Has anyone seen similar behavior on a Desktop Max? Any insight into troubleshooting steps, whether mechanical, electrical, or toolpath related, would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance. Patrick