C Axis-Surface Machining (AlphaCam)

C Axis machining with Cardinal Faces: Tool Paths can be

created on Work Planes and projected or wrapped to a horizontal
surface. Listed below is a description of the process.

Draw Geometry
Note : For C Axis machining to work well do
the following :
a. draw the geometry in correct position on the
router table and do not to move the part
b. Create the 3D work volume.

Use Work Volume to

create panel thickness.

Panel Height

Outline shows 3D Work

Volume

Draw Rectangle

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 Draw Curve for Surface
and Line for Work Plane

Draw Polyline at the end

of the curve and Line

a. Polyline used to copy curve to a point to create ruled surface

b. Polyline used to pick XY axes to set up Work Plane.

a. Click on X Axis (Curve) first

b. Then Click on Z Axis

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 Copy curve to
bottom of panel

Place a ruled
surface between
the curves

Creates mesh
sections

a. Click on X Axis first

b. Then Click on Z Axis

To Create Work Plane

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 Draw a rectangle on Work Plane for
reference.

Use offset and construction lines to

draw mortise.

Select Aggregate Macro

If Menu is not active go to Utils ADD INS

and check Select Aggregate .APP

Sets starting rotation

position of the aggregate Click on
Get aggregate

Select Tool

Check
To use
aggregate

Click on
Get tool from tool library

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 Tool Path

Project Tool Path to the

surface

Select Global 5 Axis to project

Tool Path

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 Output Code

1. Make sure you have C

Axis Post.
2. Check C Axis Rotation
to see if it makes sense.
3. Double check that your
height offset is correct.
4. Check Safety Plane to
make sure it clears
pods or fixtures

Note : Notice all axes are

rotating against the surface.

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