Milling using Creo Parametric

T3408-380-01

Course Objectives
In this course, you will learn how to:
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Understand the manufacturing process

Create and configure manufacturing models
Configure the manufacturing environment
Create and modify milling sequences
Create and modify holemaking sequences
Use the process manager to create NC sequences
Post-process cutter location (CL) data

Training Agenda
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Module 1: Introduction to Manufacturing

Module 2: Creating Manufacturing Models

Module 3: Configuring Operations

Module 4: Using Reference Models

Module 5: Using Workpiece Models

Module 6: Creating and Using NC Model Assemblies

Module 7: Creating and Configuring Workcells

Module 8: Creating and Configuring Tools

Module 9: Using Template Manufacturing Models

Module 10: Using Manufacturing Parameters

Module 11: Creating Face Milling Sequences

Module 12: Creating Volume Milling Sequences

Module 13: Creating Profile Milling Sequences

Module 14: Creating Straight Cut Surface Milling Sequences

Module 15: Creating From Surface Isolines Surface Milling Sequences

Module 16: Creating Cut Line Surface Milling Sequences

Module 17: Advanced Surface Milling Options

Module 18: Creating Roughing and Re-roughing Sequences

Training Agenda
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Module 19: Creating Finishing Sequences

Module 20: Creating Trajectory Milling Sequences

Module 21: Creating Holemaking Sequences

Module 22: Using the Process Manager

Module 23: Creating and Post-Processing CL Data Files

Module 1 : Introduction to Manufacturing

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
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Describe the Pro/ENGINEER manufacturing process.

Describe the elements that make up completed manufacturing models.
Create manufacturing models.
Create a simple machining sequence.

Manufacturing Process Overview

The manufacturing process can be divided into four high-level steps:

Figure 2 Creating the Manufacturing Environment

Figure 1 Creating the Manufacturing Model

Figure 3 Creating NC Sequences and CL Data

Figure 4 Post-Processing CL Data and Machining

Module 2 : Creating Manufacturing Models

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
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Describe the contents of manufacturing models.

Create manufacturing models.

Creating Manufacturing Models

Creating manufacturing models is the first step in the manufacturing process.
Manufacturing models contain all manufacturing
process information, such as:
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Operations
Workcells
NC sequences
Reference models
Workpiece models

Figure 1 Using Template Manufacturing Models

Manufacturing Models
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Manufacturing model assembly file

"filename".asm

Figure 2 Template Manufacturing Model Options

Module 3 : Configuring Operations

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
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Describe elements of manufacturing operations.

Configure workcells, fixtures, machine zero positions, and machine retract planes within
operations.

Configuring Operations
Configuring manufacturing operations forms part of the setting up for manufacturing procedure. An operation
and a machine tool must be configured before NC sequences can be created.
Manufacturing operations contain:
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Fixtures (Optional)
Machine Coordinate System
Retract Plane
NC Sequences
Figure 1 Simple Fixture Assembly

Figure 3 Machine Tool Configuration

Figure 2 Machine Coordinate System and Retract

Plane

Module 4 : Using Reference Models

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
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Describe the purpose of reference models.

Assemble reference models using different methods.

Using Reference Models

It is important to understand how reference models are used in manufacturing assemblies.
Reference models represent the finished
machined component. For example, this can be:
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A component machined from solid.

A machined mold core.
A machined casting.

Creating reference model options:

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Same Model
Inherited
Merged by Reference

Figure 1 Reference Model Examples

Modul 5 : Using Workpiece Models

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
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Describe the purpose of workpiece models.

Create workpiece models using different methods.

Using Workpiece Models

It is important to understand how workpiece models are used in manufacturing assemblies.

Using Workpiece Models

It is important to understand how workpiece models are used in manufacturing assemblies. (cont'd.)
Workpieces represent unmachined stock
material, for example:
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Stock Billets
Castings

Workpiece Features:
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Enable machining simulation of workpiece.

As-machined versions.
No machining outside workpiece boundaries.
Workpiece display.
Figure 1 Workpiece Examples

Workpiece Options:
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Create an automatic workpiece.

Assemble using Same Model option.
Assemble with inherited features .
Assemble with merged features.
Create a manual workpiece.
Figure 2 Automatic Workpiece

Module 6 : Creating and Using NC Model Assemblies

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
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Describe the purpose of NC model assemblies.

Create NC model assemblies.
Use NC model assemblies in manufacturing models.

Creating and Using NC Model Assemblies

You can create NC model assemblies that consist of a reference model and a workpiece. You can then use NC
model assemblies by assembling them into manufacturing models.
Creating NC Model Assemblies
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Create Stock Options:

Using NC Model Assemblies

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Workpiece Shape
Overall Dimensions

Offset Dimensions

Alternative means of creating manufacturing

models.
Place directly into manufacturing models.
Components classified automatically.

Rotation Offsets

Figure 2 Configuring the Workpiece

Figure 1 Create Stock Options

Figure 3 Resulting Manufacturing Model

Module 7 : Creating and Configuring Workcells

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
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Describe the elements that make up workcells.

Create workcells and configure various workcell options.

Creating and Configuring Workcells

The workcell specifies the type of machine used when creating NC sequences, for example, mill, lathe, or
mill/turn. You must specify a workcell before you can create NC sequences.
Workcell Configuration
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Name
Type Mill, Lathe, Mill/Turn, or Wire EDM
Number of Axes
Post-Processor
Probing Option

Machine Tool Elements

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Output Tab Options

Multiple Axis Output
Parameters
Properties
CL Command Output
Milling Capability
Cutter Compensation

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Figure 1 Machine Tool Setup Dialog Box

Tools Tab
Travel Tab
Cycles Tab
Assembly Tab

Module 8 : Creating and Configuring Tools

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
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Describe the differences between the different tool types: standard, solid, and sketched.
Create standard and solid tools through the configuration of tool parameters.
Use cutting data to configure optimum tool feeds and speeds based on stock material.

Understanding Milling Tools

There are three different tool types: standard, solid, and sketched. It is important to understand the differences
between each type of tool and when you should use them.
Tool Types
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Standard
Solid
Sketched

Tool Tip Position

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Along centerline of tool.

Specifies X-, Y-, and Z-positions for CL data.
Tool position based on machined model
geometry.
Figure 1 Machining an Angled Surface

Figure 2 Tool Tip Locations

Creating Standard Milling Tools

You configure standard milling tools by specifying tool parameters. It is important to specify the correct tool
parameters to obtain the desired tool configuration.
Standard Tools Theory
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Tools configured by specifying tool

parameters.
Available tool type control parameters:

Configuring Tools
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Tool Name

Milling or drilling

Tool Type

Parameter values control resulting tool

shapes in:

Tool Parameter Values

Length

Tool Holder Dimensions

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Cutter_Diam
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Tool Setup Dialog Box

General Tab

Settings Tab
Tool Number

Toolpath display based on parameter values.

Offset Number
Gauge Lengths (X and Z)
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Tool Tables
Display tool information.
Output tool loading information to CL data files.

Figure 1 Tool Geometry Parameters

Figure 2 Tool Table Information

Creating Standard Milling Tools

You configure standard milling tools by specifying tool parameters. It is important to specify the correct tool
parameters to obtain the desired tool configuration. (cont'd.)
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Saving Tools
Tool Libraries

Creating Solid Model Milling Tools

You can use solid model milling tools to enhance CL data display and check for interference when verifying
toolpaths.
Solid Model Milling Tools Theory
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Use parts or assemblies.

Play toolpaths:
View solid tool.
Check for interference.

Creating Solid Model Milling Tools

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Create part or assembly.

Create tool geometry.
Create coordinate system.
Associate dimensions with tool parameters.
Configure parameters to correspond to tool
parameters.

Figure 1 Tool Geometry Parameters

Figure 2 Tool Relations

Using Solid Model Milling Tools

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Information transferred from solid model to

tool parameters.
Retrieve tool:
By Reference.
By Copy.

Figure 3 Enhanced Tool Display

Creating and Using Tool Cutting Data

You can use cutting data stored within tools to transfer optimum feed, speed, and depth of cut parameter
values into NC sequences.
Cutting Data Theory
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Optimize parameter values

Data based on:

Creating and Storing Cutting Data

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Workpiece material list

Workpiece material

Mfg_wp_material_list.xml

Tool

Tool cutting data

Application

Roughing/finishing

Two sets of data:

tool_name.xml
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Alternative methods:
Material directories
Use .tpm tool files

Using Cutting Data

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Figure 1 Cut Data Tab

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Copy from Tool option

Parameter relations
Mfg_param_auto_copy_from_tool
configuration option

Creating and Using Tool Cutting Data

You can use cutting data stored within tools to transfer optimum feed, speed, and depth of cut parameter values
into NC sequences. (cont'd.)

Figure 2 Resulting Data In tool_name.xml File

Retrieving Tool Data

You can configure a tool library where all tool data is stored. This enables quick and easy retrieval of tools
by all users.
Tool Parameter Libraries
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Store all tool parameter files.

Use sub-folders to divide tool types.
Config.pro option:

Retrieving Tools
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By default.

pro_mf_tprm_dir.
Pro/ENGINEER searches for tools from this folder.

Use Tool Setup dialog box.

Display tools with .xml and .tpm file
extensions.

Supported tool file extensions:

.xml Pro/ENGINEER Wildfire 3.0 onwards.
.tpm .Pro/ENGINEER release 12 to

Pro/ENGINEER Wildfire 2.0.

.tprm .pre-Pro/ENGINEER release 12.
Figure 1 Example Tool Folder Structure

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Tools appended in tool table.

Tool information stored with manufacturing
model.
Also store with workcell.

Figure 2 Tool Listing

Module 9 : Using Template Manufacturing Models

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
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Describe the items that you can include in template manufacturing models.
Create new manufacturing models using template manufacturing models.

Using Template Manufacturing Models

You can use template manufacturing models with pre-configured manufacturing items to speed up the creation of
manufacturing models.
Template Manufacturing Models Theory
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Pre-configure manufacturing items:

Operation
Coordinate Systems
Retract Positions
Fixtures

Figure 2 Template Model

Parameters
Workcell
Tooling
NC Sequences
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Default Templates
User-Defined Templates
Configuration Options
mfg_start_model_dir
template_mfgnc

Figure 1 Pre-Configure Tools

Figure 3 Template Features in Model Tree

Module 10 : Using Manufacturing Parameters

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
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Describe how manufacturing parameters control NC sequences.

Describe the different methods used to configure and edit parameter values.
Edit parameter values in NC sequences.
Edit and activate site parameter files.

Understanding Manufacturing Parameter

Concepts
Manufacturing parameters enable you to control how an NC sequence is generated. It is important to understand
the different ways in which you can configure manufacturing parameters.
Manufacturing Parameters Theory
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Control NC sequences
Examples:

Parameter Types
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Six logical categories:

Feeds and Speeds

CUT_FEED = 100

Cut Depth and Allowances

SPINDLE_SPEED = 500

Cutting Motions

STEP_DEPTH = 2.5

Entry/Exit Motions

SCAN_TYPE = TYPE_SPIRAL

Machine Settings
General
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Required Parameters
Must be configured

Optional Parameters

Parameter List Variation

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Figure 1 Feeds and Speeds Category

Based on type of NC sequence

Configuring Parameter Values

You can configure parameter values using different methods. It is important to understand how these methods
work.
Specifying Parameter Values
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Site Parameter Files

System Default Values
Parameter Files
Edit Parameter dialog box
Category
Parameters Basic/All
Copy from Tool
Show/Hide Details

Model Tree

System Default Parameter Values

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Figure 1 Specifying Parameter Values

Required Parameters
System Default Values
Optional Parameters
Numeric Assigned Parameters
Non-numeric Assigned Parameters
Figure 2 Parameter Graphic Illustration

Using Site Parameter Files

You can use site parameter files to control default values in NC sequences. They can also control the range of
parameter values and the visibility of parameters.
Using Site Parameter Files

Site Parameter Files Theory

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Parameter value control

Link created

Allowable range of values

Parameter visibility
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Activate

Links to site parameter files retained

Types
Mill, turn, holemaking, wire EDM
General

Deactivate
Link broken

Workcells
Assign different site parameter files

Each type contains relevant parameters

Figure 1 Site Parameter File Example

Module 11 : Creating Face Milling Sequences

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
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Describe the face milling process.

Describe the key face milling manufacturing parameters.
Create face milling sequences.
Create mill surfaces relevant to face milling.
Create material removal features specific to face milling.

Basic Face Milling

Face milling enables you to face down the workpiece. This enables you to define the top surface of the job and a
reference surface for other NC sequences.
Face Milling Theory
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Using Mill Surfaces and Mill Windows for Face

Milling

Face down the workpiece.

Select or create final machining depth and
area.

Model surfaces

Mill surfaces
Mill volume surfaces

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Alternative machining reference.

Mill geometry.
Create before or during creation of NC
sequence.
Mill Surfaces

Workpiece surfaces

Fill

Mill windows

Extrude

All machining parallel to retract plane.

All inner contours excluded.
Material removal after completing NC
sequence.

Figure 1 Basic Face Milling Example

Copy
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Mill Windows
Closed outline
Depth considerations

Figure 2 Editing Toolpath Parameters

Lateral Control Face Milling Parameters

Lateral control parameters are a group of parameters that control the lateral movement of the tool in face milling
sequences. Lateral movement is also affected by the trim_to_workpiece parameter.
Lateral Control Parameters
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SCAN_TYPE
TYPE_1, TYPE_3, TYPE_ONE_DIR, or

TYPE_SPIRAL
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CUT_ANGLE
STEP_OVER
or NUMBER_PASSES
or TOOL_OVERLAP

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Figure 1 Lateral Control Parameters

STEP_OVER_ADJUST
NUMBER_PASSES = 1
One pass made at center

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ONE_PASS_OFFSET
INITIAL_EDGE_OFFSET
FINAL_EDGE_OFFSET

Figure 2 Offset Parameters

Lateral Control Face Milling Parameters

Lateral control parameters are a group of parameters that control the lateral movement of the tool in face milling
sequences. Lateral movement is also affected by the trim_to_workpiece parameter. (cont'd.)
TRIM_TO_WORKPIECE Parameter
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With a workpiece Can adjust to boundary

of workpiece.
No workpiece Always uses boundary of
machined surface.
Figure 3 TRIM_TO_WORKPIECE = YES

Depth Control Face Milling Parameters

There are a number of parameters that control the depth of a cut when creating face milling sequences.
Depth Control Parameters
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STEP_DEPTH
NUMBER_CUTS
Smallest resulting depth of cut used.

If NUMBER_CUTS = 0 or 1 and STEP_DEPTH is greater than depth to be machined.

One pass taken at full depth.

BOTTOM_STOCK_ALLOW
Stock remaining on machined surface.
Default is zero.

Figure 1 Depth Control Parameters

Entry and Exit Face Milling Parameters

There are a number of parameters that control entry and exit motions when creating face milling sequences.
Entry and Exit Parameters
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START_OVERTRAVEL and END_OVERTRAVEL

Offsets for each pass.

APPROACH_DISTANCE and EXIT_DISTANCE

Offsets for the first and last passes.

ENTRY_EDGE and CLEARANCE_EDGE

Set to LEADING_EDGE, CENTER, or HEEL.

Figure 1 Entry and Exit Parameters Example

1. APPROACH_DISTANCE and START_OVERTRAVEL

2. END_OVERTRAVEL
3. START_OVERTRAVEL
4. EXIT_DISTANCE and END_OVERTRAVEL

Module 12 : Creating Volume Milling Sequences

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
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Describe the volume milling process.

Describe the key volume milling manufacturing parameters.
Create volume milling sequences.
Create mill windows and mill volumes relevant to volume milling.
Modify volume milling sequences using build cut and customize functionality.
Create material removal features specific to volume milling.

Basic Volume Milling

Volume milling sequences enable you to machine material inside a configured volume of material. This is useful
for machining mold cavities and machining pockets and slots.
Volume Milling Theory
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Remove material inside volume.

For example Mold cavities, mold electrodes,
pockets, and slots.
Toolpath removes material slice-by-slice.
Slices parallel to retract plane.
Roughing and profiling passes.
Use manufacturing geometry.

Figure 1 Volume Milling Toolpath Example

Mill volume or mill window.

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Tool does not machine outside specified

volume.
Specify approach walls.

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Also use top surfaces.

Modify default cut motions.
Build cut or customize.

Material removal after completing NC

sequence.

Figure 2 Extruded Mill Volume

Basic Volume Milling

Volume milling sequences enable you to machine material inside a configured volume of material. This is useful
for machining mold cavities and machining pockets and slots. (cont'd.)
Mill Volume Configuration Tools
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Add solid features Extrude a sketched

outline.
Trim Subtract reference model.

Figure 3 Trimmed Mill Volume

Volume Milling with Mill Windows

You can use mill windows to specify the volume of material to be machined when creating volume milling
sequences.
Mill Windows Theory
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Closed outline projected onto reference

model.
Configuring mill windows:
Select a closed outline.
Sketch a closed outline.

Figure 1 Selected Outline

Use reference model silhouette outline.

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Reference model geometry within window is

machined.
Options:
Placement
Depth

Figure 2 Sketched Outline

Offset Window Uniformly

Window Contour Options:

Inside
On
Outside
Inside loops

Figure 3 Silhouette Outline

Scanning Volume Milling Parameters

Scanning parameters are a group of parameters that control how the tool machines each slice in volume milling
sequences.
Scanning Parameters
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High speed machining options

ROUGH_OPTION

CONSTANT_LOAD

ROUGH_ONLY

SPIRAL_MAINTAIN_CUT_TYPE

ROUGH_&_PROF

SPIRAL_MAINTAIN_CUT_DIRECTION

PROF_&_ROUGH

FOLLOW_HARDWALLS

PROF_ONLY
ROUGH_&_CLEAN_UP
POCKETING
FACES_ONLY
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SCAN_TYPE
TYPE_1

Figure 1 ROUGH_OPTION = ROUGH_&_PROFILE

TYPE_2
TYPE_3
TYPE_SPIRAL
TYPE_ONE_DIR
POCKETING
FACES_ONLY
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CUT_ANGLE

Figure 2 SCAN_TYPE = TYPE_ONE_DIR

Scanning Volume Milling Parameters

Scanning parameters are a group of parameters that control how the tool machines each slice in volume milling
sequences. (cont'd.)

Figure 3 CUT_ANGLE = 45 degrees

Depth and Lateral Control Volume Milling

Parameters
There are many parameters that control the depth of cut and lateral movement when you create volume milling
sequences.
Lateral Control Parameters
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Depth Control Parameters

Step-over distance:

STEP_OVER

NUMBER_PASSES

STEP_DEPTH
WALL_SCALLOP_HGT
MIN_STEP_DEPTH

TOOL_OVERLAP
BOTTOM_SCALLOP_HEIGHT
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STEP_OVER_ADJUST

Figure 2 Depth Control Parameters

Figure 1 Lateral Control Parameters

Stock Allowance Volume Milling Parameters

There are a number of parameters that control the stock allowance when you create volume milling sequences.
Stock Allowance Parameters
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ROUGH_STOCK_ALLOW Stock on walls for rough passes.

PROF_STOCK_ALLOW Stock on walls for profile passes.
Used in material removal.

BOTTOM_STOCK_ALLOW Stock on bottom faces for rough and profile passes.

Defaults to PROF_STOCK_ALLOW if set to -.

Figure 1 Stock Allowance Parameters

Gathering Mill Volumes

The gathering technique enables you to create complex mill volume shapes by referencing model geometry
including surfaces and edges.
Gathering Mill Volumes Options
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Select Surfaces Form extruded quilt.

Surf and Bound
Surfaces
Features

Figure 1 Surf and Bound: Seed Surface

Mill Surfaces
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Exclude Exclude specified items.

Surfaces
Loops

Figure 2 Surf and Bound: Bounding Surface

Fill Fill inner loops.

All
Loops

Close Cap mill volume.

Figure 3 Fill Inner Loops

Specify plane or surface.

Use retract plane.

Figure 4 Cap Plane and Resulting Volume

Modifying Volume Milling Toolpaths

You can use the build cut or customize functionality to modify the default cut motions generated for volume
milling sequences.
Modifying Volume Milling Toolpaths
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Modify default cut motions.

Two tools:
Build Cut

By Slice
By Region

Figure 1 Build Cut By Slice

Customize

Automatic
Upto Depth
From-To Depth
Slice/Slice

Figure 2 Build Cut By Region

Figure 3 Customizing Cut Motions

Module 13 : Creating Profile Milling Sequences

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
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Describe the profile milling process.

Describe the key profile milling manufacturing parameters.
Create profile milling sequences.
Create mill surfaces relevant to profile milling.
Create lead in and lead out motions.

Basic Profile Milling

Profile milling sequences enable you to machine vertical and slanted surfaces. This is useful for machining the
sidewalls of pockets and for machining outside profiles of components.
Profile Milling Theory
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Machine vertical or slanted surfaces.

Select or create final machining surfaces.
Continuous toolpath required.
Final cut depth determined by machined
surface depth.
Approach and exit moves.
Material removal after completing NC
sequence.

Using Mill Surfaces for Profile Milling

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Alternative machining reference.

Mill geometry.
Create before or during creation of NC
sequence.
Common mill surface types:
Fill
Extrude
Copy

Customizing the Toolpath

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Modify default cut motions.

Use approach/exit or tool motions.

Figure 1 Customize Example

Figure 2 Profile Milling Example

Depth and Lateral Control Profile Milling

Parameters
When you create profile milling sequences, you can use a number of parameters to control the depth of cut
and lateral movement.
Depth Control Parameters
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STEP_DEPTH
AXIS_SHIFT

Lateral Control Parameters

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Figure 1 Depth Control Parameters

PROF_INCREMENT
NUM_PROF_PASSES
PROF_STOCK_ALLOW

Figure 2 Lateral Control Parameters

Lead In and Lead Out Motions

When you create profile milling sequences, you can use a number of parameters to control lead in and lead
out motions.
Lead In and Lead Out Motion Parameters
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CUTCOM
CUT_ENTRY_EXT
CUT_EXIT_EXT
LEAD_RADIUS
TANGENT_LEAD_STEP

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NORMAL_LEAD_STEP
OVERTRAVEL_DISTANCE
APPROACH/EXIT
APPROACH_DISTANCE
EXIT_DISTANCE

Figure 1 Lead In and Lead Out Tool Motion

Module 14 : Creating Straight Cut Surface Milling

Sequences

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
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Describe the surface milling process.

Describe the key straight cut surface milling manufacturing parameters.
Create straight cut surface milling sequences.
Create mill surfaces relevant to surface milling.

Understanding Surface Milling

You use surface milling to mill horizontal or contoured surfaces. There are four types of surface milling sequences
that you can configure. It is important to understand the benefits of each type of surface milling sequence.
Surface Milling Theory
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Machine horizontal or contoured surfaces.

Continuous toolpath required.
Cut types:
Straight Cut

Figure 1 Straight Cut

From Surface Isolines

Cut Line
Projected Cuts

Surface Milling Options

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Cut Type
Geometry Selection

Figure 2 From Surface Isolines

Model
Mill Volume
Mill Surface
Mill Window

Figure 3 Cut Line

Understanding Surface Milling

You use surface milling to mill horizontal or contoured surfaces. There are four types of surface milling sequences
that you can configure. It is important to understand the benefits of each type of surface milling sequence. (cont'd.)

Figure 4 Projected Cuts

Straight Cut Surface Milling

Straight cut surface milling enables you to mill the selected surfaces with a series of straight cuts.
Straight Cut Surface Milling Theory
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Machine selected surfaces using straight cuts.

Machining direction:
Use CUT_ANGLE parameter.

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Straddle open edges.

Avoid inner walls.
Patch slots.

Figure 1 Straight Cut Example

Figure 2 CUT_ANGLE = 45 Degrees

Straight Cut Surface Milling Parameters

There are a number of parameters that control straight cut surface milling sequences. It is important to
understand how these parameters work.
Straight Cut Parameters
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SCAN_TYPE
TYPE_1
TYPE_3

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CUT_ANGLE
LACE_OPTION

Figure 1 SCAN_TYPE = TYPE_1

LINE_CONNECT
CURVE_CONNECT
ARC_CONNECT
LOOP_CONNECT
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Figure 2 SCAN_TYPE = TYPE_3

Lateral control
STEP_OVER
TOOL_OVERLAP
SCALLOP_HEIGHT

PROF_STOCK_ALLOW

Figure 3 Lateral Control and Stock Allowance

Creating Surface Milling Reference Geometry

You can use reference geometry such as mill surfaces as alternative machining references in surface milling.
Surface Milling Reference Geometry
Alternative surface machining references.
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Mill Surfaces
Copy
Extrude

Figure 1 Copying Surface

Fill
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Mill surface modification

Extend

To Plane
Along Surface
Same
Tangent
Approximate

Trim
Merge
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Mill Volumes
Mill Windows

Figure 2 Extending a Surface

Creating Surface Milling Reference Geometry

You can use reference geometry such as mill surfaces as alternative machining references in surface milling.
(cont'd.)

Figure 3 Merged Surfaces

Module 15 : Creating From Surface Isolines Surface

Milling Sequences

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
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Describe the from surface isolines surface milling process.

Describe the key from surface isolines surface milling manufacturing parameters.
Create and edit from surface isolines surface milling sequences.

From Surface Isolines Surface Milling

From surface isolines surface milling creates toolpaths based on the natural UV contours of the machined
surfaces.
From Surface Isolines Surface Milling Theory
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Machine using natural UV surface contours.

Straddle open edges.
Avoid inner walls.
No patching of slots.

From Surface Isolines Parameters

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Figure 1 Surface Contour Directions

SCAN_TYPE
TYPE_1/2/3

Lateral control:
STEP_OVER
TOOL_OVERLAP
SCALLOP_HGT
NUMBER_PASSES

PROF_STOCK_ALLOW

Figure 2 Resulting Toolpath

From Surface Isolines Surface Milling

From surface isolines surface milling creates toolpaths based on the natural UV contours of the machined
surfaces. (cont'd.)

Figure 3 Straight Cut Example

Module 16 : Creating Cut Line Surface Milling

Sequences

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
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Describe the cut line surface milling process.

Describe the key cut line surface milling manufacturing parameters.
Create and edit cut line surface milling sequences.

Cut Line Surface Milling

Cut line surface milling enables you to specify the shape of the first, last, and optionally some intermediate cuts.
The toolpath gradually changes the shape of the cuts according to the surface topology.
Cut Line Surface Milling Theory
n
n
n

Mill surfaces using cut lines.

Toolpath gradually changes shape.
Open or closed cut lines.

Cut Line Surface Milling Parameters

n

SCAN_TYPE

Figure 1 Cut Line Surface Milling

TYPE_1/2/3
TYPE_SPIRAL
TYPE_ONE_DIR
TYPE_HELICAL
n
n
n
n

Figure 2 Multiple Cuts

NUMBER_CUTS
OFFSET_INCREMENT
LACE_OPTION
Lateral control:
STEP_OVER
TOOL_OVERLAP
SCALLOP_HGT

PROF_STOCK_ALLOW

Figure 3 Stock Allowance and Scallop Height

Module 17 : Advanced Surface Milling Options

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
n
n

Describe the methods that you can use to modify default surface milling cut motions.
Edit surface milling sequences using different methods.

Advanced Surface Milling Options

You can use various advanced options to modify default surface milling cut motions. You can also change
toolpaths by specifying check surfaces.

Advanced Surface Milling Options

You can use various advanced options to modify default surface milling cut motions. You can also change
toolpaths by specifying check surfaces. (cont'd.)
Approach and Exit Moves
n
n

Modify default cut motions

Entry Type
First cut/each cut

Exit Type
Last cut/each cut

Figure 1 Entry/Exit Move Dialog Box

Alternative Methods
Build Cut
Customize

Check and Scallop Surface Options

n

Check Surfs
Additional surfaces for gouge checking

Figure 2 Entry and Exit Moves

ScallopSrf
Exclude surfaces from scallop height calculation

Figure 3 Toolpath Adjusted for Check Surfaces

Module 18 : Creating Roughing and Re-roughing

Sequences

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
n
n
n
n

Describe the roughing and re-roughing process.

Describe the key roughing manufacturing parameters.
Create roughing sequences.
Create re-roughing sequences.

Basic Roughing and Re-roughing

Roughing and re-roughing sequences are intended for high speed mold machining, and for machining imported,
non-solid geometry. You can use these NC sequences to produce more efficient toolpaths when machining
mold cavities or pockets.
Roughing and Re-roughing Sequences Theory
n

Roughing High speed mold machining and machining imported geometry.

Remove material inside mill windows.
Scallop height control.
Automatic degouging.
Machine by cavity.
High speed roughing scans.
Open and closed area scans.
Open and closed area entry methods.
No automatic material removal.

Re-roughing Machines where previous roughing could not reach.

Use manufacturing geometry.
Typically use smaller tool.
No removal of scallops between slices.

Basic Roughing and Re-roughing

Roughing and re-roughing sequences are intended for high speed mold machining, and for machining imported,
non-solid geometry. You can use these NC sequences to produce more efficient toolpaths when machining
mold cavities or pockets. (cont'd.)

Figure 1 Basic Roughing Toolpath

Figure 2 Basic Re-Roughing Toolpath

Roughing Scans and Entry and Exit Parameters

For roughing sequences, there are a number of parameters that control the roughing scan type. You can also
vary the entry and exit methods for closed and open areas.
High Speed Roughing Scans
n

OPEN_AREA_SCAN and CLOSED_AREA_

SCAN
CONSTANT_LOAD (default for closed areas)
MAINTAIN_CUT_TYPE
MAINTAIN_CUT_DIRECTION
FOLLOW_CONTOUR (default for open areas)

Figure 1 CLOSED_AREA_SCAN =
CONSTANT_LOAD

TYPE_SPIRAL
TYPE_3

Entry and Exit Methods

n

OPEN_AREA_ENTRY
Tool enters from open side.

CLOSED_AREA_ENTRY

Figure 2 CLOSED_AREA_SCAN =
MAINTAIN_CUT_TYPE

TANGENT_HELIX or RAMP

Figure 3 CLOSED_AREA_SCAN = TYPE_SPIRAL

Step Depth and Tolerance Control Roughing

Parameters
For roughing sequences, there are a number of parameters that control the step depth and tolerance control.
Step Depth Calculations
n
n
n

Based on the maximum and minimum

Z-heights in the mill window
MAX_STEP_DEPTH
MIN_STEP_DEPTH

Figure 1 Step Depth Calculation

Improved Tolerance Control

n

Tolerance options
INSIDE_TOLERANCE
OUTSIDE_TOLERANCE

Figure 2 Tolerance Control

Additional Scallop Height Control Roughing

Parameters
Scallop height control enables you to generate a semi-finishing toolpath with the same tool and during the
same roughing sequence.
Additional Scallop Height Control
n
n

Optional extra slices

ROUGH_SCALLOP_CONTROL
NO
DURING
DURING_BOTTOM_UP
AFTER

ROUGH_SCALLOP

Figure 2 No Scallop Height Control

Figure 1 Scallop Height Control

Figure 3 With Scallop Height Control

Roughing Corner Options

When you rough a surface, you can add a filleting move to a sharp corner. You can also create slowdown motions
before a corner and ramp up motions after a corner.
Toolpath Filleting
n
n

Add a filleting move to a sharp corner

SMOOTH_SHARP_CORNERS
NO
CONSTANT_RADIUS
RADIUS_BY_ANGLE

Figure 1 No Toolpath Filleting

MAX_RADIUS
n

SMOOTH_RADIUS

Progressive Slowdown for Corners

n
n
n
n
n

Slowdown motions and ramp up

motions
CORNER_SLOWDOWN
SLOWDOWN_LENGTH
SLOWDOWN_PERCENT
NUMBER_SLOWDOWN_STEPS
Figure 2 Toolpath Filleting Applied

Module 19 : Creating Finishing Sequences

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
n
n
n

Describe the finishing sequence process.

Describe the key finishing sequence manufacturing parameters.
Create and edit finishing sequences.

Basic Finishing
You can use finishing sequences to machine components after roughing and re-roughing. You can also use them
to directly machine models containing non-solid geometry.
Finishing Sequences
n
n
n

Reference mill windows.

Create after roughing and re-roughing.
Directly machine STL data.

Cut Types
n
n
n

Figure 1 Basic Finishing Toolpath

Vertical Slices
Horizontal Slices
Combined

Slope Angle Parameter

n

Specify areas for machining.

Steep
Shallow

Figure 2 Steep and Shallow Machining Areas

Editing Finishing Parameters

You can use finishing sequence parameters to specify how the vertical and horizontal slicing toolpaths are
created within a finishing sequence.
Finishing Parameters
n
n

SLOPE_ANGLE Divides steep and shallow areas.

FINISH_OPTION Specifies machining method.
STRAIGHT/PROFILE/SHALLOW/COMBINED

n
n
n
n

SHALLOW_AREA_SCAN Scanning method for shallow areas.

STEEP_CONNECT_OPTION Method for connecting profile slices.
FINISHING_ORDER Shallow/steep area.
FLAT_AREA Method of machining flat areas.

Figure 1 Finish Option: PROFILE_CUTS

Figure 2 Finish Option: SHALLOW_CUTS

Module 20 : Creating Trajectory Milling Sequences

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
n
n
n
n
n

Describe the trajectory milling process.

Describe different methods of creating trajectory milling sequences.
Describe how to create sketched tools.
Create trajectory milling sequences using different methods.
Create sketched tools.

Understanding Trajectory Milling

Trajectory milling enables you to sweep a tool along any user-defined trajectory. You can use it for milling
slots or chamfers.
Trajectory Milling Theory
n

Two Types
2-Axis Trajectory Milling

Select or sketch a curve.

Curve must be planar.
Simple to use.
Automatic material removal.

Figure 1 3-Axis Trajectory Milling

3- to 5-Axis Trajectory Milling

Interactively configure trajectory.

Create cut motions.
More advanced options.
Sketched or Edited Tools
n
n

Figure 2 2-Axis Trajectory Milling

Edited Tools
Sketched Tools User-defined tool control
point.

Figure 3 Sketched Tool

Creating Sketched Milling Tools

Trajectory milling sequences enable you to sketch a tool. This enables you to create a user-defined tool
cross-section and specify a non-standard control point for the tool.
Sketched Tools Theory
n
n

Create a sketch during tool configuration.

Tool Features
Sketch as revolved solid.
Half tool cross-section.
Right side of axis of symmetry.
Sketch must be closed.
Tool control point:

Sketcher coordinate system.

Tool Offset Tool control point offset from
trajectory
n
n
n
n

Figure 1 Sketched Tool

Specify during tool configuration.

Left, right, or none.
Offset half cutter diameter.
Tool center or tool edge cutter compensation.
Figure 2 Tool Offset

Basic 2-Axis Trajectory Milling

In 2-Axis trajectory milling, you specify the tool trajectory by sketching or selecting a curve that represents
the final trajectory of the tool.
2-Axis Trajectory Milling Configuration
n
n

Specify a curve to represent the final tool

trajectory.
Configure
Depth
Multiple Passes

Figure 1 Datum Curve and Height Same

Multiple Slices
n

Options
Datum Curve
Start Height
Height
Direction

Figure 2 Alternative Height Specified

Offset
Material Side

Parameter Configuration
n
n

Lead In and Lead Out

Cutter Compensation
Figure 3 Offset Left, Right, or None

2-Axis Trajectory Milling Depth Control

Parameters
There are many parameters that control the depth of cut when creating 2-axis trajectory milling sequences.
Depth Control Parameters
n
n
n
n
n
n

NUMBER_LAST_FINPASSES
NUMBER_FIRST_FINPASSES
LAST_FINPASS_OFFSET
FIRST_FINPASS_OFFSET
WALL_FINISH_CUT
PERCENT_LENGTH

Figure 1 Depth Control Parameters

Figure 2 Depth Control Parameters

2-Axis Trajectory Milling Cutting Slices

Parameters
There are many parameters that control the number of cutting slices when creating 2-axis trajectory milling
sequences.
Cutting Slices Parameters Control cutting slices
and offset values.
n
n
n
n
n

SLICE_PASS_SCAN Machining order

NUMBER_LAST_FINCUTS
NUMBER_FIRST_FINCUTS
LAST_FINCUT_OFFSET
FIRST_FINCUT_OFFSET

Figure 1 Cutting Slices Parameters

Figure 2 Cutting Slices Parameters

Basic 3-Axis Trajectory Milling

In 3-axis trajectory milling, you specify the tool trajectory by creating cut motions using the customize
functionality.
3-Axis Trajectory Milling Configuration
n
n

Create cut motions

Trajectory Options
Sketch/Edge/Curve/Surface

Figure 1 Sketch

Cut motion Options

Specify Trajectory
Direction
Offset
Start Height

Figure 2 Edge

Height
Material Side
n

Customize Options Low-level control

Figure 3 Curve

Figure 5 Surface
Figure 4 Customize Approach and Exit Moves

3-Axis Trajectory Milling Multi-Step and

Multi-Pass Parameters
There are a number of parameters that enable you to create multi-step and multi-pass 3-axis trajectory milling
sequences.
Multi-Step Configuration
n
n
n
n
n

NUMBER_CUTS
STEP_DEPTH
Final pass along specified trajectory
Start Height
Height

Multi-Pass Configuration
n
n
n

Figure 1 Multi-Step Parameters

NUM_PROF_PASSES
PROF_INCREMENT
Final pass along specified trajectory

Figure 2 Multi-Pass Parameters

Module 21 : Creating Holemaking Sequences

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
n
n
n
n
n

Describe the holemaking process.

Describe the key holemaking manufacturing parameters.
Describe different drill cycle types and hole selection methods.
Create holemaking sequences.
Create drill groups relevant to holemaking.

Understanding Holemaking
Holemaking enables you to create many different types of drilling cycles including standard, countersink,
tapping, and reaming.
Holemaking Process
n
n
n
n
n

Cycle Types

Select the drill cycle type.

Select a tool.
Configure holemaking parameters.
Configure the set of holes to be machined.
Customize hole connections (optional).

n
n

Output CYCLE/XXXX in CL data.

Drill
Standard/Deep/Break Chip/Web/Back

n
n
n
n

Face
Bore
Countersink
Tap
Fixed/Floating

Figure 1 Holemaking Example

n
n

Ream
Custom

Figure 2 Drill Cycle Types

Basic Drilling
You can create many different types of drilling sequences by selecting the holes for drilling and configuring
the drill depth options.
Configure Hole Sets
n

Selecting Holes
Axes
Points
Diameters
Surfaces

Figure 1 Selecting Holes

Parameters
Groups
n

Depth Options
Blind
Auto
Thru All

Figure 2 Depth Options

Shoulder/Tip
n

Countersink Drilling
Start Surface
Countersink Diameter
Auto Chamfer

Figure 3 Countersink Drilling

Editing Drilling Toolpaths

You can edit drilling toolpaths by configuring holemaking manufacturing parameters. You can also use customize
functionality to specify the tool movement between drilling holes.
Holemaking Parameters
n

SCAN_TYPE
TYPE_1
TYPE_SPIRAL
TYPE_ONE_DIR
PICK_ORDER
SHORTEST (default)

n
n
n
n
n

BREAKOUT_DISTANCE
PECK_DEPTH
CLEAR_DIST
RAPTO_DIST
PULLOUT_DIST

Connect Motions
n

Insert connect motions between holes.

Figure 1 Holemaking Parameters

Creating and Using Drill Groups

You can configure groups of hole axes within drill groups. You can then select drill groups when creating
holemaking sequences. This simplifies the hole selection process.
Drill Groups Theory
n
n

Simplify hole selection.

Drill group updates.

Configuring Drill Groups

n

Selecting holes:
Axes
Diameters
Surfaces
Parameters

Figure 2 Highlighted Selection

Figure 1 Drill Groups Dialog Box

Module 22 : Using the Process Manager

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
n
n
n

Describe the capabilities of the process manager.

Create and edit process steps using the process manager.
Create and use manufacturing templates using the process manager.

Using Process Manager Tools

The process manager enables you to create new manufacturing objects such as workcells and NC sequences
and modify the properties of existing objects.
Process Manager Theory
n
n
n
n

Process Table Table-based view of

manufacturing model.
NC Sequences = process steps.
Create and edit manufacturing objects.
Process Table Features
View Types

Process Table Tools

n
n
n
n
n
n

Highlighting References
Show Step Parameters
Toolpath Simulation
Compute Step Time
Printable Reports
CSV Files

Custom Views
Sorting and Filtering Views

Figure 1 Process Table

Figure 2 Printable Reports

Editing Process Items

The process table enables you to reorder and merge steps. You can also modify the configuration of an existing
step in the process table.
Editing Process Items
n

Reordering Steps
Process view only
Cut/Copy/Paste

Merging Steps
Holemaking Steps

Figure 1 Editing Steps

Editing Process Items

The process table enables you to reorder and merge steps. You can also modify the configuration of an existing
step in the process table. (cont'd.)
n

Edit Existing Steps

Tool
Parameters
Geometry References
Retract Plane
Steps supported include:

Facing
Profiling
Roughing
Re-roughing
Finishing
Corner Finishing
Holemaking
Trajectory Milling

Figure 2 Editing Tools

Creating New Items in the Process Manager

You can insert and configure many different types of items in the process table, including operations, workcells,
fixtures, and NC sequences (steps).
Creating New Items
n

Inserting Items
Operations
Fixtures

Figure 1 Inserting a Workcell

Workcells
n

Inserting NC Steps
Facing and Profiling
Roughing and Re-roughing
Finishing and Corner Finishing
Holemaking
Trajectory Milling

Editing NC Steps
Tool Configuration
Manufacturing Parameters
Reference Geometry
Review Toolpath
Compute Step Time

Figure 2 Inserting a Milling Step

Creating New Items in the Process Manager

You can insert and configure many different types of items in the process table, including operations, workcells,
fixtures, and NC sequences (steps). (cont'd.)
n

Other Milling Steps

Insert
Configure using menu manager

Figure 3 Face Milling Configuration Tools

Creating and Using Manufacturing Templates

In the process manager, you can configure manufacturing templates based on existing steps, and then use these
templates to create manufacturing steps in different models.
Manufacturing Templates
n

Based on existing NC steps.

Use in different manufacturing models.

n
n

Workcell templates.
Stored as XML files.

Using Manufacturing Templates

n

Figure 1 Creating an NC Step Template

Insert new NC steps.

Step information taken from template.
Configure missing items.

Insert workcell templates.

Figure 2 Configuring Missing Items

Module 23 : Creating and Post-Processing CL Data

Files

Milling using Creo Parametric

Objectives
After completing this module, you will be able to:
n
n
n

Describe the post-processing method.

Create CL Data files for operations and selected NC sequence sets.
Create MCD files using a post-processor.

Creating and Post-Processing CL Data Files

When toolpaths have been completed, you can use them to create ASCII format Cutter Location (CL) data files.
You can then post-process CL data files into specific machine control data (MCD) files using a post-processor.
Post-Processing Theory
n
n
n

CL data files generated from toolpaths.

Post-process CL data files into
machine-specific code.
Machine-specific code used to control
machine tools.

Post-Processing Method
n
n

Figure 1 CL Data File Simulation

Complete NC Sequences
Create CL Data Files
From one or more NC sequences.
ASCII format.

Figure 2 CL Data File

Filename.ncl.
n

Post-Process CL Data Files

Create MCD files.
Filename.tap.

Changes to NC Sequences
n

Recreate CL data files and MCD files.

Figure 3 MCD File