Overview of path shapes

Approach and departure functions are used to gently move the tool to or from a contour, without leaving any machining marks on the workpiece.

The APPR folder of the Insert NC function window contains the following functions:

Symbol

Function

Further information

ProgramApprLtIcon

APPR LT or APPR PLT

Use Cartesian or polar coordinates to approach a contour on a straight line with a tangential connection

ProgramApprLnIcon

APPR LN or APPR PLN

Use Cartesian or polar coordinates to approach a contour on a straight line perpendicular to the first contour point

ProgramApprCtIcon

APPR CT or APPR PCT

Use Cartesian or polar coordinates to approach a contour on a circular path with a tangential connection

ProgramApprLctIcon

APPR LCT or APPR PLCT

Use Cartesian or polar coordinates to approach a contour on a circular path with a tangential connection and a straight line

The DEP folder of the Insert NC function window contains the following functions:

Symbol

Function

Further information

ProgramDepLtIcon

DEP LT

Depart contour on a straight line with a tangential connection

ProgramDepLnIcon

DEP LN

Depart contour on a straight line perpendicular to the last contour point

ProgramDepCtIcon

DEP CT

Depart contour on a circular path with a tangential connection

ProgramDepLctIcon

DEP LCT or DEP PLCT

Use Cartesian or polar coordinates to depart a contour on a circular path with a tangential connection and a straight line

 
Tip

You can switch between entry of Cartesian and polar coordinates in the form or by pressing the P key.

Fundamentals of coordinate definitions

Approaching or departing a helix

The tool approaches and departs a helix in the extension of the helix by moving on a circular path that connects tangentially to the contour. Use the APPR CT and DEP CT functions for this.

Helix