Creating Tools in The ToolKit

SolidCAM
ToolKit
MillTurn
Definition of adapter/holder
Definition of shank
Definition of cutting tool
Page 1 MRI 07/15/2022

Table of Contents
Foreword ····································································································································································· 3
Basic definition ···························································································································································· 3
MillTurn machines holder | Turret ······························································································································ 4
Radial drilling and milling head, one-sided ············································································································ 4
Radial drilling and milling head, double-sided ······································································································ 6
Axial drilling and milling head ································································································································ 8
Angle adjustable drilling and milling head ··········································································································· 10
Boring bar holder ················································································································································· 14
Square shank | e.g. Right ····································································································································· 15
Square shank | e.g. Right & Left ·························································································································· 16
MillTurn machines holder | B-Axis ···························································································································· 17
Square shank | e.g. Right - 45° ···························································································································· 17
Square shank | e.g. Right - Straight ····················································································································· 18
Boring bar holder ················································································································································· 19
Turning Tool | OD Neutral | e.g. DCMNN ············································································································ 20
Self-powered tool adapter ········································································································································ 21
Milling spindle drive by coolant, electric or pneumatic ······················································································ 21
Shanks | Turning ························································································································································ 23
Basic definition of the shank/insert coordinate system ······················································································ 23
Turning Tool | OD Right | e.g. PCLNR 2525M-12 ································································································· 24
Turning Tool | OD Neutral | e.g. SDNCN 2525M-11 ···························································································· 25
Turning Tool | ID Right | e.g. A25R PCLNR-12 ····································································································· 26
Turning Tool | ID Right | e.g. Miniature turning tool ··························································································· 27
Turning Tool | Grooving OD Right | e.g. GHDR 20-3 & GIM 3J ············································································ 29
3D-Cutting Tools | Turning ········································································································································· 32
Basic definition of 3D-Data ·································································································································· 32
Basic definition of insert coordinate system ······································································································· 32
Example - Form turning tool ································································································································ 35
Multiple tool holders in the ToolKit ··························································································································· 37
Sub-Tool Item ······················································································································································· 37
VMID – Setting ····················································································································································· 37
Setting for turrets or spindles: ······················································································································· 37
Setting for magazines: ···································································································································· 37
FAQ ············································································································································································ 38
Change index ····························································································································································· 39
Page 2 MRI 07/15/2022

Foreword
With SolidCAM 2021, a new tool catalog was introduced, with which it is possible for the first time to assemble the
adapters, holders, shanks and cutting tools in a tree structure. Adapters or holders & shanks with several fastening
positions can now also be easily defined. A recommended definition of these components is described in this
document.
Basic definition
A component (adapter/holder, shank, cutting tool) consists of the following items, for example:
• Coordinate system for the adapter / holder to attach it to a joint or station

• Coordinate system (Joint) for other components (adapter/holder, shank, cutting tool)
• Type of coordinate system (Joint)
◦ Static
▪ e.g. lathe holders, driven tools
◦ Rotary axis
▪ e.g. angle drill head
◦ Linear axis
▪ e.g. boring tool
• Pattern of the coordinate system (Joint)
◦ e.g. Face Mill → cutting insert is transformed to other positions
• Type of drive of the respective coordinate system (Joint)
◦ Direct
▪ e.g. HSK holder, extension, collet etc.
◦ Not driven
▪ e.g. turning tools
◦ Self drive
▪ e.g. milling spindle driven pneumatically, electrically or by coolant
◦ Gear
▪ e.g. angle drilling head, driven tools
A shaft consists of the following points:
• Coordinate system for the shank to attach it to a joint

• Coordinate system (Joint) for additional components
A cutting tool consists of the following points:
• Coordinate system for the cutting tool to attach it to a joint
In the respective descriptions, only the minimum necessary definitions for defining the respective component
described are listed. These basic definitions can be adapted to components or situations not listed in this
document.
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MillTurn machines holder | Turret
Radial drilling and milling head, one-sided
Coordinate system for the holder to attach it to a station
The coordinate system for attaching the holder is

usually located at the position defined in the
picture. This coordinate system is usually defined
in CAD before the component is outputted as an
STL file or imported into the tool catalog via the
CAD import functionality.
Ideally, its alignment corresponds to the same
alignment that was defined in the VMID for the
station where the holder is to be installed.
If this coordinate system is defined according to
these specifications, the holder can be added to
the station without the need of additional
manually alignment.
Coordinate system for attaching a cutting tool or component
Type of connection point Static

The coordinate system for attaching a cutting tool
or component is usually in the center of the
spindle.
Its orientation corresponds to the basic
orientation for driven tools in SolidCAM. This
means that the Z-Plus direction of the coordinate
system always points in the direction of the tool
shank.
Page 4 MRI 07/15/2022

Drive Type – Coordinate system for attaching a cutting tool or component
Type of drive of the

Gear
connection point
This value is usually specified by
the manufacturer and describes
the maximum permissible speed
at which the holder may be
Max Spin operated.
This value is also reflected
in the speed settings for
machining in SolidCAM.
This value is usually specified by the manufacturer and describes the maximum permissible
Power
power with which the tool holder may be operated.
The ratio can be used to define a factor for the input and output speed. Likewise, the speed
Ratio and the direction of rotation outputted by SolidCAM with the post processor can be
influenced.
Gear ratio - Coordinate system for attaching a cutting tool or component
Manufacturer
VMID ToolKit SolidCAM Job NC-Code
specification
max. S = 6000
max. possible S = 6000
Ratio = 1 : 1 max. S Output = 6000
max. S = 8000 Limited by the maximum S6000 CW
Input = CW Ratio = 1 : 1
output speed of the holder
Output = CW
The ratio is given as a decimal number.
It is advisable to specify the ratio as 1 : x
If the machine offers the possibility of defining the transmission ratio of the holder in the machine control, this
must be taken into account in the post processor!
Page 5 MRI 07/15/2022

Radial drilling and milling head, double-sided

manually alignment.

The respective coordinate system for attaching a
cutting tool or component is usually located in the
center of the spindle.
shank.
This basic orientation applies to each individual
spindle.
Page 6 MRI 07/15/2022


Gear
connection point
Max Spin operated.
Power
influenced.
Manufacturer
specification
max. S = 6000
Left Spindle

Output = CW
Right Spindle
max. S = 6000
max. S = 8000 Limited by the maximum S6000 CCW
Input = CW Ratio = -1 : 1
Output = CCW

If the machine offers the possibility of defining the transmission ratio of the holder in the machine control,
this must be taken into account in the post processor!
Page 7 MRI 07/15/2022

Axial drilling and milling head

manually alignment.

spindle.
shank.
Page 8 MRI 07/15/2022


Gear
connection point
Max Spin operated.
Power
influenced.
Manufacturer
specification
max. S = 6000
Output = CW
Page 9 MRI 07/15/2022

Angle adjustable drilling and milling head

manually alignment.
Coordinate system for attaching the angled head
Type of connection point Rotary axis

The coordinate system for attaching the angled
head is usually located in the center of the pivot
point.
An axis vector must be specified for the rotary

axis. In this example, this would be the rotation
around the Y-axis of the coordinate system for
attaching the angled head.
Page 10 MRI 07/15/2022

Drive Type – Coordinate system for attaching the angled head

Gear
connection point
Max Spin the maximum permissible input
speed at which the holder may
be operated.
Power
Ratio The ratio can be used to define a factor for the input and output speed.
Since this connection point is not the last connection point where a cutting tool or
component is mounted, it is recommended that the transmission ratio of this
connection point is set to 1:1
Gear ratio - Coordinate system for attaching the angled head
Manufacturer specification ToolKit

max. S = 6000 | Ratio = 1 : 1 | Input = CW | Output = CW max. S Output = 6000 | Ratio = 1 : 1
It is recommended to specify the ratio as 1:1.
Page 11 MRI 07/15/2022

Coordinate system for the angled head to attach it to the rotary axis
The coordinate system of the angled head is

usually in the same position and with the same
orientation as the previously defined coordinate
system of the rotary axis. This coordinate system
is usually defined in CAD before the component is
output as an STL file or imported into the ToolKit
via the CAD import.

spindle.
shank.
Page 12 MRI 07/15/2022


Gear
connection point
Max Spin operated.
Power
influenced.
Manufacturer SolidCAM Job NC-Code

VMID ToolKit
specification
max. S = 6000
Output = CW
Page 13 MRI 07/15/2022

Boring bar holder

manually alignment.

Not driven
connection point
mounting hole.
Since this connection point is not driven, the
orientation of the coordinate system is arbitrary.
However, it is recommended to define the
orientation of this coordinate system based on the
orientation of the coordinate system of the next
built-in component.
Page 14 MRI 07/15/2022

Square shank | e.g. Right

manually alignment.

Not driven
connection point
or component is usually at the position defined in
the picture.
built-in component.
Page 15 MRI 07/15/2022

Square shank | e.g. Right & Left

manually alignment.

Not driven
connection point
The coordinate systems for attaching a cutting
tool or component are usually located at the
positions defined in the picture.
orientation of these coordinate systems based on
the orientation of the coordinate system of the
next built-in component.
Page 16 MRI 07/15/2022

MillTurn machines holder | B-Axis
Square shank | e.g. Right - 45°

usually in the center of the spindle adapter. This
coordinate system is usually defined in CAD
before the component is output as an STL file or
imported into the ToolKit via the CAD import.
manually alignment.

Not driven
connection point
or component is usually located at the position
defined in the picture.
built-in component.
Page 17 MRI 07/15/2022

Square shank | e.g. Right - Straight
The coordinate system for attaching the tool

holder is usually in the center of the spindle
adapter. This coordinate system is usually defined
in CAD before the component is output as an STL
file or imported into the ToolKit via the CAD
import.
manually alignment.

Not driven
connection point
or component is usually located at the position
built-in component.
Page 18 MRI 07/15/2022

Boring bar holder
The coordinate system for attaching the tool

holder is usually in the center of the spindle
adapter. This coordinate system is usually defined
in CAD before the component is output as an STL
file or imported into the ToolKit via the CAD
import.
manually alignment.

Direct
connection point
mounting hole.
shank.
Page 19 MRI 07/15/2022

Turning Tool | OD Neutral | e.g. DCMNN

manually alignment.
Coordinate system for attaching a cutting insert

Not driven
connection point
The coordinate system for attaching a cutting
insert is usually at the position defined in the
picture.
The orientation of the coordinate system follows
the rules applicable to lathe tools. See section:
Basic definition of the shank/insert coordinate
system on page 23.
Page 20 MRI 07/15/2022

Self-powered tool adapter
Milling spindle drive by coolant, electric or pneumatic

manually alignment.

or component is usually in the center of the tool
spindle.
shank.
Page 21 MRI 07/15/2022


Self drive
connection point
The name of the gear unit is
specified here. This name is
processed in the post processor
Drive Unit Name:
to generate an appropriate
output to start/stop the self
powered tool.
This value is usually specified by the manufacturer and describes the minimum permissible
Min Spin
speed at which the tool holder can be operated, or the minimum achievable speed.
This value is also reflected in the speed settings for machining in SolidCAM.
Max Spin
speed at which the tool holder can be operated, or the maximum achievable speed.
This value is also reflected in the speed settings for machining in SolidCAM.
Power
Page 22 MRI 07/15/2022

Shanks | Turning
Basic definition of the shank/insert coordinate system
How the shank/insert coordinate system should be oriented can be determined for any given turning tool as follows:
• By creating a parametric SolidCAM standard turning tool that corresponds or is similar to the turning tool
what should be imported.
• In the tool preview window, the coordinate systems orientations and coordinate systems positions are visible
and can be defined in the same way for the shank/insert which should be imported:
The coordinate system to attach the insert is located on the underside of the insert.
The X-axis of the coordinate system to attach the insert usually points away from the cutting edge in the
direction of the shank.
The Y-axis of the coordinate system to attach the insert usually points from the bottom of the cutter up to the
top of the insert.
Page 23 MRI 07/15/2022

Turning Tool | OD Right | e.g. PCLNR 2525M-12
Coordinate system for the holder to attach it to a station or joint

usually located at the bottom left corner at the
back for this holder. This coordinate system is
usually defined in CAD before the component is
via the CAD import.
manually alignment.

Not driven
connection point
The coordinate system for attaching the insert is
usually at the position defined in the picture.
system on page 23.
Page 24 MRI 07/15/2022

Turning Tool | OD Neutral | e.g. SDNCN 2525M-11

via the CAD import.
manually alignment.

Not driven
connection point
system on page 23.
Page 25 MRI 07/15/2022

Turning Tool | ID Right | e.g. A25R PCLNR-12

usually at the end and in the center of the holder
shaft. This coordinate system is usually defined in
CAD before the component is output as an STL file
or imported into the ToolKit via the CAD import.
manually alignment.
In this example, the coordinate system is rotated 90° around the Y axis. So that the Z-axis points away from the
shank, contrary to the orientation of a standard SolidCAM parametric tool. In most cases, this Simplified
orientation is correct for tools mounted in boring bar holders. Because the previous component's coordinate
system usually also has the same orientation.

Not driven
connection point
system on page 23.
Page 26 MRI 07/15/2022

Turning Tool | ID Right | e.g. Miniature turning tool

usually at the end and in the center of the holder
shaft. This coordinate system is usually defined in
CAD before the component is output as an STL file
or imported into the ToolKit via the CAD import.
manually alignment.
In this example, the coordinate system is rotated 90° around the Y axis. So that the Z-axis points away from the
shank, contrary to the orientation of a standard SolidCAM parametric tool. In most cases, this Simplified
orientation is correct for tools mounted in boring bar holders. Because the previous component's coordinate
system usually also has the same orientation.
Coordinate system for attaching the non-cutting part at the holder

Not driven
connection point
The coordinate system for attaching the non-
cutting part of the insert is usually at the position
built-in component.
Coordinate system for the non-cutting part to attach it to the holder

cutting part of the insert to the holder is usually at
the position defined in the picture.
orientation of the previous coordinate system.
Page 27 MRI 07/15/2022

Coordinate system for attaching the insert to the non-cutting part

system on page 23.
Definition of the insert
It is recommended to separate the insert into

cutting (yellow) and non-cutting (gray) parts.
A separation can be achieved using CAD
functionalities.
Coordinate system for exporting the insert as STL file or with the Import from CAD functionality
The coordinate system for the export/import of

the insert is usually at the position defined in the
image.
the rules applicable for inserts. See section: Basic
insert coordinate system definition on page 32.
When opening/importing the STL file into the

ToolKit, a congruent coordinate system for
attaching the insert is generated at the lowest
point of the component.
Its orientation corresponds to the same
orientation as the coordinate system for attaching
the insert to the non-cutting part.
Page 28 MRI 07/15/2022

Turning Tool | Grooving OD Right | e.g. GHDR 20-3 & GIM 3J

via the CAD import.
manually alignment.
Coordinate system for attaching the non-cutting part at the holder

Not driven
connection point
cutting part of the insert is usually at the position
system on page 23.
Since various types of inserts can be

accommodated in this holder, it is recommended
that the coordinate system for the non-cutting
part is defined at a position common to all inserts
that can be used in the holder.
For example, this position can be the center of a
standard insert.
Page 29 MRI 07/15/2022

Coordinate system for the non-cutting part to attach it to the holder

cutting part of the insert to the holder is usually at
the position defined in the picture.
orientation of the previous coordinate system.
Coordinate system for attaching the insert to the non-cutting part

system on page 23.
Definition of the insert
It is recommended to separate the insert into

cutting (yellow) and non-cutting (gray) parts.
A separation can be achieved using CAD
functionalities.
The contour of the insert should generally be at

the height of the center (red dotted line in the
picture) and lie planar to the working plane.
Page 30 MRI 07/15/2022


image.

the insert to the non-cutting part.
Page 31 MRI 07/15/2022

3D-Cutting Tools | Turning
For cutting tools, it is always advisable to use the standard cutting tools that can be parametrically defined in
SolidCAM. Except that with the same, a definition of the cutting tool to be used is not possible.
Basic definition of 3D-Data
At the insert, there should be no free form as a

cutting contour, as highlighted in the picture.
Not simplified
The best result for the tool path calculation can be
achieved if the insert is prepared accordingly Simplified
using CAD functionalities.
Basic definition of insert coordinate system
The insert coordinate system is typically at the top

level (peak height) of the cutter. The cutting point
will also be automatically created later on this
level.
The X-axis of the coordinate system for the insert
usually points away from the cutting edge
towards the shank.
The Z-axis of the coordinate system for the insert
points up from the top level (peak height) of the
cutting tool.
Page 32 MRI 07/15/2022

Not simplified Not simplified Not simplified Not simplified Not simplified Not simplified Not simplified
Page 33
Simplified Simplified Simplified Simplified Simplified Simplified Simplified
Different cutting tools | Before and after simplifying them with CAD functionalities
MRI 07/15/2022
Not simplified Not simplified
Page 34
Simplified Simplified
MRI 07/15/2022
Example - Form turning tool
View of the components in a CAD assembly
In this example it is assumed that it is a left-hand

clamp holder. The coordinate system for attaching
the holder is therefore located at the bottom right
corner at the back. This coordinate system is
via the CAD import.
manually alignment.
Coordinate system for attaching the cutting insert

Not driven
connection point
Because this tool is a grooving tool, the
orientation of the coordinate system is the same
as a standard SolidCAM parametric grooving tool.
See section: Basic definition of the shank/insert
coordinate system on page 23.
Page 35 MRI 07/15/2022

Definition of the cutting tool 3D data
Deviating from the basic definition of 3D data on

page 32, the cutting tool in this example was not
simplified. Since the cutting tool has a flat
clamping surface and is only used for piercing, the
resulting contour deviation, which inevitably
occurs when the contour of the cutting tool is
adapted to the rake and clearance angle, can be
neglected.

image.

the cutting insert.
Simulation:
Page 36 MRI 07/15/2022

Multiple tool holders in the ToolKit
Sub-Tool Item
If there are several tools on the same physical tool station and these are to be output in the NC code with different
tool calls (e.g. via tool number, tool name, etc.), a sub-tool item can be created.
• A sub-tool can be added by right-clicking:
• Tool number, tool ID, tool offset number and tool offset index can now be completely independent of each
other:
VMID – Setting
In order to work correctly, this function must be activated in the VMID for each turret, spindle or tool
magazine.
If the NC-Code output is not correct after activating this function, the post processor must be adjusted. If this
is the case, please contact our support.
Setting for turrets or spindles:
Setting for magazines:
Page 37 MRI 07/15/2022

FAQ
• Does the Coordinate system for the holder to attach it to a station or joint always have to be defined for a
turning tool?
◦ If the alignment and position of the CAD coordinate system corresponds to the Coordinate system for
the holder to attach it to a station or joint, this does not have to be defined separately.
• For a turning tool, when using the CAD import functionality in the ToolKit, does the Coordinate system for
the insert need to be defined?
◦ If the CAD import function is used in the ToolKit, it is a must that the coordinate system for the insert is
defined.
• Why do I need these coordinate systems?

◦ Coordinate systems are necessary so that the software knows the spatial position of the respective
component.
• Why should you prepare CAD data before exporting as an STL file or using the CAD import functionality?
◦ When exporting or importing a solid, faceting (approximation using triangular surfaces) takes place. Flat
surfaces, for example, can be described by a few triangular facets. However, with radii or free-form
surfaces, depending on the accuracy of the faceting, there is a considerable number of triangular facets,
which can lead to an unnecessarily large STL file. Basically, the following applies: "The smaller the file size
of the STL file, the less influence it has on performance".
◦ The table below shows how the ratio between original CAD data and Simplified CAD data behaves.
Saving while
simplifying
CAD data
Original CAD-Data Simplified CAD-Data

STL accuracy Fine Coarse Difference Fine Coarse Difference Fine Coarse
File size in KB 629 208 67% 76 41 46% 88% 80%
Page 38 MRI 07/15/2022

Change index
Index Note
0 First version of the document
1 Various adjustments made and various tools added
2 Added description regarding sub tools. Frequently asked questions added.
Page 39 MRI 07/15/2022

Creating Tools in The ToolKit

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Creating Tools in The ToolKit

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SolidCAM

Definition of cutting tool

Page 1 MRI 07/15/2022

Page 2 MRI 07/15/2022

• Coordinate system for the adapter / holder to attach it to a joint or station

A shaft consists of the following points:

• Coordinate system for the shank to attach it to a joint

A cutting tool consists of the following points:

• Coordinate system for the cutting tool to attach it to a joint

Page 3 MRI 07/15/2022

Coordinate system for the holder to attach it to a station

The coordinate system for attaching the holder is

Coordinate system for attaching a cutting tool or component

Type of connection point Static

Page 4 MRI 07/15/2022

Type of drive of the

Gear ratio - Coordinate system for attaching a cutting tool or component

Page 5 MRI 07/15/2022

Coordinate system for the holder to attach it to a station

The coordinate system for attaching the holder is

Coordinate system for attaching a cutting tool or component

Type of connection point Static

Page 6 MRI 07/15/2022

Type of drive of the

Gear ratio - Coordinate system for attaching a cutting tool or component

max. possible S = 6000

The ratio is given as a decimal number.

Page 7 MRI 07/15/2022

Coordinate system for the holder to attach it to a station

The coordinate system for attaching the holder is

Coordinate system for attaching a cutting tool or component

Type of connection point Static

Page 8 MRI 07/15/2022

Type of drive of the

Gear ratio - Coordinate system for attaching a cutting tool or component

Page 9 MRI 07/15/2022

Coordinate system for the holder to attach it to a station

The coordinate system for attaching the holder is

Coordinate system for attaching the angled head

Type of connection point Rotary axis

An axis vector must be specified for the rotary

Page 10 MRI 07/15/2022

Type of drive of the

Gear ratio - Coordinate system for attaching the angled head

Manufacturer specification ToolKit

Page 11 MRI 07/15/2022

The coordinate system of the angled head is

Coordinate system for attaching a cutting tool or component

Type of connection point Static

Page 12 MRI 07/15/2022

Type of drive of the

Gear ratio - Coordinate system for attaching a cutting tool or component

Manufacturer SolidCAM Job NC-Code

Page 13 MRI 07/15/2022

Coordinate system for the holder to attach it to a station

The coordinate system for attaching the holder is

Coordinate system for attaching a cutting tool or component

Type of connection point Static

Page 14 MRI 07/15/2022

Coordinate system for the holder to attach it to a station

The coordinate system for attaching the holder is

Coordinate system for attaching a cutting tool or component