Template Files

Foam Context Model Milling

To be used when milling polystyrene foam or HD polyurethane foam. This offers a good general starting point and can be used for geometry ranging from simple surfaces to site models including building masses.

Foam Context Model Milling Template - Without Sample Geometry (2020)

Foam Context Model Milling Template - With Sample Geometry (2020)

Wood Context Model Milling

This utilizes the same toolpath strategy as that employed for the Foam Surface Milling Template file, but with rule-of-thumb parameters for wood. Please note that it will be necessary to calculate the appropriate feed and spindle speed rates for your choice of wood and tools, a TA can assist you with this part of the process for the particular tools that will be used. Additionally, the use of down-cutting tools and additional contour toolpaths may be recommended for plywood and hardwood models, to cut the top edge of vertical faces before cutting lower surfaces in order to prevent tear-out or chipping of the top layer/grain of material. Particular attention will also have to be paid to direction of cuts, considering the grain of the material and any geometric features that would cause short-grain to be formed, increasing risk of blow-out and loss of features in the model. Consult information on Climb Cutting vs. Conventional Cutting in the material of choice.

Wood Context Model Milling Template - Without Sample Geometry (2020)

Wood Context Model Milling Template - With Sample Geometry (2020)

Wood Flat Stock Milling

For cutting 2D / 2.5D shapes out of flat stock materials like MDF and Plywood.

Wood Flat Stock 2D Milling Template - With Sample Geometry (2020)

Texture Milling

Intended for those exploring pattern and texture over surface, this template file contains a wide range of toolpaths that can be used to achieve different effects created by tool motion over surfaces and the leftover material. Use multiple copies of these toolpaths, change stepover values and use different sized tools to create different effects. Use different "stock-to-leave" values on finish toolpaths to leave uncut material for subsequent toolpaths to then work through.

Texture Milling Template (X9 version)

3-Axis Flip Milling

To be used for files where milling on both sides of the material is required. The template includes the drilling of reference holes to accurately locate the material when flipping it so that both sides line up. Parameters are setup for foam material, but with changes to parameters this can also be used with other materials..

3-Axis Flip Milling Template (X9 Version)

Roland 3-Axis Table-Top Mill

To be used for files that will be milled on the small table-top CNC mill in L33. Toolpaths must all use the same tool or be output as separate NC files. This template file supports Drill operations if the Fanuc Machine Definition, Control, and Post Processor are used. See the Roland CNC Mill tutorial for more information about this.

Roland Mill Template (2020 version)

Old (Archived) Templates:

MLA Core III Milling Workshop

For Students enrolled in the MLA Core III studio sequence.

MLA Template File (X9 version)

Roland Mill Template (X9 version)