The tool definition pages in all of the BobCAM milling wizards can be used for choosing tools, defining the tool numbering, as well as setting the feeds and speeds.
Three different methods can be used for selecting tools inside the BobCAM milling wizards.
When the System Tool check box is selected, BobCAM automatically selects tools that match the machining operation from the tool library. In the case of endmills, you may alter the diameter and corner radius allowing BobCAM to find the appropriate tool from the tool library. In the case that the appropriate tool sizes are not found in the tool library, a new tool is automatically created.
When the System Tool check box is cleared, you can edit all tool information on the fly. In this case BobCAM does not reference or create any tools inside the tool library.
Tools can also be chosen directly from the tool library by clicking the Tool Library button at the top of the page. The tool library appears allowing you to select tools from the tool library.
NOTE: Tools may also be added and modified while viewing the tool library.
There are two different methods of tool numbering depending on your needs. In order to modify a tool number, click Tool Number. The Assigned Tools dialog box appears. Inside this dialog box you can see all of the current tools being used, and can modify the tool numbers.
When the Use Automatic Tool Numbering check box is selected, BobCAM automatically number the tools, one through the number of tools, in order of usage. The tool numbers defined in the tool library are ignored.
When the Use Automatic Tool Numbering check box is cleared, BobCAM reads the tool numbers defined in the tool library. In this state, you may edit the tool number for any tool currently being used. The numbers entered inside of this dialog box do not overwrite the tool numbers stored inside of the tool library.
By default, BobCAM uses the currently assigned tool number for the Height Offset Register and Diameter Offset Register value. These can be overwritten by selecting the Override Offsets check box and manually entering the desired value.
Coolant use for this tool may be selected from the box.
By default, BobCAM automatically calculates feeds and speeds based on the surface feet per minute (SFM) values defined in the Cutting Conditions and the selected material. If you clear the Use System Feeds and Speeds check box, all of the values can be manually edited. While editing the feeds and speeds, changing one value automatically calculates any other associated values. For example, if you modify the SFM value, the Spindle RPM, Cutting Feed Rate, and Plunge Feed Rate are automatically calculated.