Management of Lead in/Lead out angle and length

Cycle: Contouring, Contour rework, Slotting, Chamfering, Taper cutting, Profile cutting, Chamfering

Learn more about the interface for the Lead in/Lead out parameters, by clicking the link here.

Introduction

Lead in/Lead out angle and Lead in/Lead out length parameters define how the tool approaches the machining path before engaging in cutting.

These settings control the direction and distance of the tool movement as it transitions from rapid positioning to the programmed toolpath.

Proper adjustment of these parameters ensures a smooth entry into the cut while minimizing abrupt tool engagement.

A. Lead-In Angle

The Lead-In angle, together with the Lead-In length, defines the tool’s entry movement at feed rate before the machining path begins. This movement allows the tool to progressively engage the material and apply the tool diameter compensation (G41 or G42).

The Lead-In angle can be set between 0° and 90°.

If the tool offset or the toolpath is positioned to the left or to the right, the angle is defined as an absolute value relative to the first element of the profile.

If no offset is applied (center position) and the toolpath is defined in Part position, the angle is defined as an absolute value following the counterclockwise direction of a circle.

The distance of this entry movement is defined by the Lead-In length parameter.

B. Lead-In Length

The Lead-In length defines the distance of the tool entry movement before reaching the machining path. This value must be greater than the tool radius to ensure proper application of the tool diameter compensation.

The length is measured along the Lead-In angle direction, not along the X or Y axes.

C. Lead-Out Angle

The Lead-Out angle, together with the Lead-Out length, defines the exit movement of the tool at feed rate after the machining path.

This movement allows the tool diameter compensation (G41 or G42) to be cancelled smoothly.

The Lead-Out angle can be set between 0° and 90°.

If the tool offset or the toolpath is positioned to the left or to the right, the angle is defined as an absolute value relative to the last element of the profile.

If no offset is applied (center position) and the toolpath is defined in Part position, the angle is defined as an absolute value following the counterclockwise direction of a circle.

The exit distance of this movement is defined by the Lead-Out length parameter.

D. Lead-Out Length

The Lead-Out length defines the distance of the tool exit movement after leaving the machining path. This value must be greater than the tool radius to ensure proper cancellation of the tool diameter compensation.

The length is measured along the Lead-Out angle direction, not along the X or Y axes.