camInstructor Video Blog

Tabs are often used in machining to provide temporary support for a workpiece. In this video, with the help of some Squid Game geometry, we'll look at creating and machining tabs inside of Mastercam. 

 

The Tabs function is found inside of the 2D Contour toolpath. Once enabled, you have options for Automatic or Manual placement. The easiest option here is to let Mastercam automatically place your tabs based on minimal input from you. You can get away with simply specifying the number of tabs you want on your profile or you can give Mastercam a maximum distance between tabs and Mastercam will then generate the correct number of Tabs to maintain this spacing. 

If you want extra control, you can manually position your tabs. The easiest way to do this is by creating square points along your contour. Square points can be made by adjusting the points attributes on the Home Tab. Use Point Position to create the points at the positions you would like tabs created.

Once positioning is done, you'll need to define the shape and size of your tab. From full to partial, thickness and width can all be controlled as well as the side shape of the tab. It can be vertical or any angle you wish to use. 

An extra bit of customization can be found in the Chain Manager. Right click on your chain and select Edit Tabs. Here you will find many more options to adjust, edit, create, and delete tabs.

Tabs are used not only in 2D machining, but can be used in Window Machining and for parting off of 5X parts as well.