Common Toolpath Types
- Adaptive Clearing - Constant tool engagement, reduces tool wear, best for roughing
- HSM (High Speed Machining) - Smooth arcs, no sharp corners, maintains constant chip load
- Trochoidal Milling - Circular tool path for slotting, reduces radial engagement
- Parallel Finishing - Straight line passes, simple but may leave scallops
- Scallop/Constant Stepover - Maintains consistent surface finish across complex surfaces
Strategy Selection
Roughing: adaptive clearing for most materials. Finishing: scallop for 3D surfaces, parallel for 2D. HSM strategies reduce machining time by 30-50% on complex parts.