V-Carve
A V-carve operation uses a V-shaped bit to carve paths at variable depth. Narrow areas are cut shallowly, wide areas are cut deeply. This produces the classic "carved sign" look where the bottom of each groove forms a V profile.
How V-Carving Works
MapleCAM computes the medial axis (centerline skeleton) of each enclosed region. The V-bit follows this centerline, plunging deeper where the region is wider and shallower where it's narrow. The result is a groove whose edges precisely follow the design outline.
Key Settings
| Setting | Description |
|---|---|
| V-bit angle | The included angle of the V-bit (e.g., 60, 90 degrees) |
| Max depth | Maximum cutting depth (limits depth in wide areas) |
| Flat bottom | Optional flat-bottom clearing for areas wider than the V-bit can reach |
| Feed rate | Cutting feed rate (mm/min) |
| Plunge rate | Downward feed rate |
| Spindle speed | RPM |
Flat-Bottom V-Carving
For designs with wide areas, the V-bit alone may not reach the full width without cutting excessively deep. Flat-bottom V-carving uses a flat endmill to clear the wide areas first, then the V-bit finishes the edges. This limits the maximum depth while still producing clean V-shaped edges.
When to Use V-Carve
- Wooden signs and lettering
- Decorative carving
- Any design where you want a classic hand-carved appearance
- Works best with enclosed shapes (closed paths)