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error message. Use the DXF version instead. The DXF file can be imported into AlphaCAM using the Input CAD option in the File menu. (These drawings can be imported into other CADCAM software, if required.) The profiles are accurate outlines of each tool and its tip.Two orthogonal lines, 50mm long (2 inches, for the Imperial tools), are included so that you can check that the drawings are the right size and rescale them if they are not.

Note: the Imperial tool set is identical in all respects to the metric set. It is, in fact, the metric set presented with Imperial measurements. If you are using genuine Imperial tools and tool tips for turning, drawings of their profiles will be required when defining tools in AlphaCAM.

                    

When the lathe tools are on the screen, zoom in on the image of the tool to be defined.Go into the Machine menu. Select the Define Tool option.

                    

Select 2-Axis Tool (One Prog. Point).

                    

Select the tool profile by dragging a box round it.

                    

Pick, by clicking the left mouse button, the tool tip ARC as directed.

                    

In the dialogue box, enter, in the Tool Number box, the number for the chosen profile according to the WELturn numbering (eg 1 if the profile is the right hand tool; 3 if the profile is the neutral tool, etc).

In the Clearance Angle box enter the angle for the chosen profile: its value is given with the profile drawings.

The tool tip radius is automatically picked up from the drawing.

For metric tools, set the Feed/Rev to 0.08. This is a reasonable value for roughing cuts with RH, LH and neutral tools. For a parting tool, set the value to 0.04 or lower, according to experience. Use appropriate equivalent values for Imperial tools, eg Feed/Rev of 0.003 or 0.015.

ALWAYS for ALL tools leave X and Z  Turret Offset at zero: the measurements will be made and stored in WELturn and not here.

Check that Units is set to metric or inch, according to the tool being defined and the units used by the NC code it is to work with.

Check that Spindle Rotation is CW.

                    

In the following screen, Select Quadrant, choose the picture which matches whether the tool being defined is considered as right hand, left hand or neutral. The plunge tool and the parting tool are regarded as left hand.

                    

Press ENTER to begin the saving process.

                    

Open or create a Folder called WELturn (or WELturn Inch) in which your defined tools will be saved.

                    

Give the tool a name and click OK.

Repeat the process to define another tool.

When creating tools paths, take care to use the right tool set: metric for metric parts, inch for Imperial parts.