How VCarving differs from 2D Machining

What is V Carving? V-Carving uses a constant angled cutter that's moved at flowing variable depth to create a 3D carved effect on the job, similar to the way a craftsman would work by hand.

Why is this different to 2D Engraving/Routing?

CNC machines are often supplied with software that performs what's referred to as 2D machining. This is where the cutter is positioned above the material at the required X and Y coordinates and then slowly moved down, into the job, to the appropriate Z depth. The cutter is then moved at constant Z depth around the job to create the desired effect. At no time does the cutter move simultaneously in all 3 axes - X, Y & Z.

The images below illustrate the differences (click on the images with toolpaths to see a larger version) ...

This is the original vector outline. Note the sharp external corners		This is the vector machined using normal '2d' machining strategies. Note the tool radius left in the corners, this is the radius of the tool at the cutting depth.		This is the vector machined using VCarving with an angled tool. Note the sharp corners formed by 'lifting' the tool in Z as it approaches a sharp corner.
Pocketed letter T next to V-Carved version
	The animated image at the left shows how the 3D movement of the v-bit tool creates the sharp corners of the letter.

As well as creating more pleasing and accurate designs, VCarving often results in much shorter machining times. The images above show why. In order to get an acceptably small radius in the corners of the letters, the 2D machining strategy needs to use a relatively small radius tool which must then make multiple passes to clear out the center of the letter. The V-Carving toolpath only needs to pass down the 'centerline' of the letter and is therefore much quicker as well as producing a more attractive result.

Flat Bottom V-Carving

The image below shows a sign machined with both a V-Bit tool and a flat bottom end mill. Notice how VCarve Pro has intelligently cleared out the large flat areas with the flat bottom tool and used the V-Bit tool to machine the lettering and the areas the flat bottom tool would not fit into around the edges of the letters 'S' and 'M'. The piece was then cut out with a profile cut out pass.