VCarve Pro is a powerful CAM software that allows for customized toolpath generation. Specifically, this article focuses on using the Quick Engraving toolpath for metallic surfaces with a diamond tipped drag tool.
This toolpath is not for common milling practices, but opens an array of options for engraving. It can be used for plaque engraving, sign making, jewellery making, inlays, serial numbers, and many more manufacturing projects.
Customized tool setup
Many tools can be added to VCarve Pro, the following image showcasing a diamond tipped drag tool. Tool parameters can be customized to allow for any tool, this will eventually be linked to the required post processor for the generation of machining code.
Having the freedom to define custom tool parameters allows for a personalised machining setup that accommodates all materials and tooling functions.
Note: commonly a drag knife would not need a CNC machine’s spindle to operate. This will be addressed later in the article.
Toolpath parameters
The Quick Engraving toolpath can be customized for various machining operations. See the following image, an image from VCarve Pro’s toolpath setup. Following this, an explanation of each feature will showcase the toolpath’s engraving capabilities.
Depth/pressure
Normally a depth of cut is chosen for each cutting action in VCarve Pro. In the Quick Engraving toolpath, a depth/pressure value is rather chosen.
This is the pressure that a tool will place upon the face of a material, specifically for tools that don’t cut into the material but use compression resulting from the pressure placed upon a spring loaded tool.
Outline/fill
These are the engraving modes that can be used with this toolpath. A simple outline of a shape can be applied, or multiple forms of filling. See the outline action and the offset action directly below:
Followed by the two actions for hatching:
Nose cone
A nose cone is often used to improve the depth consistency of a toolpath. This commonly sees a tool that is fixed in position, with a spring loaded collar used to maintain the depth consistency.
If a nose cone is used, parameters can be input into VCarve and the toolpath will allow for this tooling setup.
3D simulations
VCarve Pro generates 3D simulations of toolpaths. Simulating your toolpaths allows for a visual representation of the machining actions and is useful for finding errors prior to manufacturing as the machine’s toolpath can be closely inspected.
Simulating toolpaths increases overall production efficiency by reducing wasted time and material resources.
Post processor output
VCarve Pro allows for post processor files to be generated directly from the Quick Engraving toolpath setup. This is an efficient workflow for small engraving jobs.
It also allows for engraving post processors to be kept separate from other tooling post processors. This can be important as a user may decide to use a specific post processor setup for engraving with a drag tool by not utilizing a CNC machine’s spindle.
Final tips for metal plate engraving
When performing metal plate engraving, please note the following:
- Always secure the metal plate to the machine bed
- Confirm the appropriate tool is used for the type of material selected
- Run a test engraving on scrap material in order to fine-tune depth/pressure setups
- Maintaining consistent feed rates is important for quality engraving
- Do not place excessive force on engraving tools
- Always preview the 3D simulation before engraving to look for potential problems
If engraving is a toolpath that you want greater flexibility over, or want to begin using in your workshop, then trial VCarve today.
Contact us here if you would like a demonstration of the software, which offers an excellent integration with our cabinet software PolyBoard, CNC nesting software OptiNest, and StairDesigner.
