Scallop_Height for Surface Milling

[ArisTroulis]

What is the difference between stepover and scallop height for surface milling? It seems that make no diference! I cannot have only scallop height without stepover. I also cannot keep constant value of stepover when the slope of the surface is changing.
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[DavidButz]

Aris, You have to set STEPOVER (Default value: -1); setting SCALLOP HEIGHT is an option. When both are set, the simple answer to your question is that, at any particular place in the tool path calculation, whichever setting gives you the better surface finish (smaller actual stepover) takes charge in the calculation, if necessary. For example, if you are using a Radius Mill (as opposed to a Ball Mill), any flat horizontal surface will probably be machined at the STEPOVER setting (Scallop Height = 0), whereas contoured surfaces will be governed by Scallop Height and the Corner Radius of the End Mill. David

[DavidButz]

Aris, I didn't answer your second question. If you want to force the system to maintain your STEPOVER value, a useful method is to select the Projected Cuts option in the Cut Definition dialog box. David

[ArisTroulis]

Thank you for your time. If I use default value for stepover(-1) pro/e don't allow to close the parameters window unless I set a positive value for stepover therefore i cannot have a parameter file with only scallop height value.

[DavidButz]

Aris That's right, but it really doesn't present a problem. SCALLOP HEIGHT will take over if it requires an actual stepover smaller than the nominal setting. Just set STEPOVER to any value smaller than the Tool Diameter. This is actually a benefit when doing something like Volume Milling because the tool will make "gross" stepover moves on the upper levels as it descends into the volume, then revert to the "finer" stepover moves controlled by SCALLOP HEIGHT when it reaches a bottom contoured surface. David