Toolpaths and Machining: Ramping

Carveco Tutorial: Ramping

Ramping is a toolpath option that gradually lowers the tool into the material instead of plunging vertically. This improves cut quality, extends tool life, and reduces the risk of burning or chipping — especially when using compression tools or machining sensitive materials.

🔹 Why Use Ramping?

• Reduces heat buildup and friction.
• Minimizes the risk of chipping, burning, or material tear-out.
• Prevents excessive tool loading on entry.

🔹 Enabling Ramping

1. Create or open a Profile Toolpath.
2. Check Add Ramping Moves.
3. Select a ramping style:
   • Zig-Zag
   • Smooth
   • Spiral

🔹 Ramping Styles

• Zig-Zag: Tool descends in a back-and-forth motion to cutting depth.
• Smooth: Tool ramps in with a single angled pass — ideal for straight cuts.
• Spiral: Tool descends in a spiral motion — excellent for circular shapes or holes.

🔹 Key Settings

• Zig-Zag Start Height: Defines where the ramp begins above the material (e.g., 0.2").
• Maximum Ramp Length: Limits the ramping distance — disable if not needed.
• Ramp Angle: Controls slope steepness (e.g., 5° to 10°).

🔹 Viewing Ramps in 3D

• Switch to 3D View to see ramp paths in blue.
• Use the Simulation feature to preview tool motion.
• Look for ramped entries at the start of your toolpaths.

💡 Tip

Use Smooth Ramping with a low ramp angle (1°–5°) for delicate or detailed shapes where you want minimal tool engagement at the start.

🔹 Common Use Cases

• Compression Bits: Avoid burn marks and extend tool life.
• Acrylics and Soft Woods: Reduce edge damage during entry.
• Profile Cuts with Holes: Use Spiral Ramping for clean circular entries.

Ramping helps prevent tool damage and improves the surface finish — especially useful when cutting deeper passes or working with brittle materials.