TOPICS: 5-Axis Machining Generatively Designed Parts Tool life troubleshooting & solutions Steep & Shallow in Fusion 360 McMaster Coolant Filtration Solutions Relieved Shank Endmills Shrink Fit, Set Screw, & Pull-Stud Extenders   SMW & MACHINING A GENERATIVE DESIGN PART (Click Image to View Post) In January, NYC CNC made trucks for a Datron longboard with a combination of 3-axis and 5-axis machining.  However, they didn't stop there! Gavin Bath from CADPRO Systems in New Zealand took the brunt of the work for modeling a generatively designed truck and now it's Saunders' turn to machine it! Today, he'll hit cycle start on his first true simultaneous steep and shallow toolpath. He also shares an important lesson about work coordinate systems. No Rush on the Naks Grimsmo and his team settle into their new shop. Although the machines are up, the Naks still aren't making parts because of coolant line reconfiguration. Will they be forced to scramble or was it all part of the plan? TORX KILLING TOOLS ON TORNOS The 17-4 stainless pivot screws are proving to be a challenge on the Swiss. Grimsmo's using the same process he's used for 5-6 years but the endmills are dying out after 35-60 parts! Saunders and Grimsmo troubleshoot various factors that affect tool life and possible solutions. THE MENTAL TRAP - IS THIS YOU? When it comes to machining strategies, if you've ever found yourself saying, " But I want it to work like THIS," STOP RIGHT THERE! Saunders says, "Get the recipe working FIRST--even if you don't love it. THEN start tweaking it from there!" REACH! When it comes to 5-Axis milling ensuring that you're able to reach occluded features is key. Grimsmo and Saunders discuss relieved shank tools, tapered endmills, and shrink fit, set screw, and pull-stud extenders. Grimsmo + KERN = NEW Pocket Clip Supports Today, he's going to machine this part in 1 op but he's not quite sure which strategy to use for the curvy areas of the part. Saunders suggests either 3D Contour with shaft and holder detection OR Steep and Shallow. SAUNDERS CALLS OUT ChipBLASTER When reaching out for coolant filtration solutions, he got nothing but poor customer service and people reluctant to give straight answers. With that, he sets out to find other options. Grimsmo stands by his filter bag housing from McMaster. Click Here to See Part Number 5168K249 Adafruit Parallel While watching an interview with the CEO of Adafruit, one particular line strikes a chord with Saunders. It brings a new sense of clarity in terms of defining what SMW does.