Using FreeCAD models / toolpaths on Tormach machines?

CAD/CAM
1

I’m new to Tormach machines and software, but am relatively good on manual machines and have some CNC experience on other machines.

I use FreeCAD as my preferred CAD / CAM tool. It has a CAM workbench to generate tool paths and G-Code, which works well. However like most other packages it needs a post-processor to go from the model toolpaths to actual running G-code for a specific machine. At least in my stock install, there is no post offered that specifically says Tormach / PathPilot.

My limited experience with PathPilot suggests that it has a great conversational interface which is great for going directly from ‘beer-mat sketch’ to part, it seems a bit less ideal if one has a CAD model and don’t want to redraw it again in PathPilot..

So is there a recommended post-processor for use in FreeCAD that will produce G-code that can be easily used in PathPilot, or is there a suggested workflow to use a FreeCAD model in some other way?

Thanks,

ART

2

I’ve used linuxcnc as the post processor for the tormach mill in FreeCAD.

3

Great, thanks for letting me know! Any special settings I need to change in that post? IIRC it had some spots for specifying things like the work envelope, any other changes? Anything special in the preamble / postamble sections?

ART

4

I made no changes. Just set it to linuxcnc. I learned just enough in FreeCAD to use it for a couple simple projects that could not be done with conversational.

The CAM stuff is new to me. I use conversational or DXF for most projects.

1 Like
5

OK, thanks for this, I think I will mark my question as solved…

ART