Cutting Depth Issue

I’ve seen a few threads on this issue, but none that have solved my problem. I have a new Shapeoko 4 XXL. All projects I have run have been designed in Carbide Create.

Setup: New Shapeoko 4 XXL with BitSetter.

The issue: When using the Pocket and Contour tool paths, the depth of cut ends up being almost exactly 61.5% deeper than programmed. For example, the pocket is set to be 0.700 inches and it ends up being 1.13 inches. This same issue results regardless of the programmed depth: 0.250 inches becomes 0.40375 inches, 0.500 inches become 0.8075 inches.

In this particular instance, I’m simply trying to mill a larger pocket with a smaller contoured hole inside. Both the pocket and contour tool paths result in deeper than programmed cuts. This problem does not present it self in the vcarve tool path; the two projects I ran with the vcarve tool path were at the correct depth.

Because the issue results in cuts that are almost identically 61.5% deeper, I’ve been able to work around the issue by simply reducing my designed cutting depths by 61.5%, which has worked so far. However, this is clearly not a proper solution.

I checked the G-Code and the code shows the proper depths, so it’s not a code issue. I’ve checked to make sure my zero is properly set to the top of the stock, so that’s not the issue.

I read in another thread to try jogging the machine in Carbide Motion and measuring the distance the Z-axis travels. I did so, but the results don’t make any sense. I zeroed the Z-axis at exactly 2 inches above my wasteboard. I then jogged the Z-axis down 0.500 inches (or so it showed in Carbide Motion). However, when I measured the distance with calipers, it actually moved 0.9140625 inches (117/128"). Of course, that means it traveled nearly 83% more than it should have… I would have understood if it traveled 61.5% more than it should have, but it traveled more.

I’m at a complete loss for what the issue could be. It seems obvious the issue is related to the z-axis, but the numbers don’t match up, so I don’t know. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Welcome to the community! I’m sure someone will have an idea regarding your issue, but you should definitely copy this post and email it to support@carbide3d.com to start a tracking ticket.

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Thanks. I just emailed them.

Great – they provide support services 7am - 3pm PST on Saturday, so hopefully you’ll hear back in a couple of hours.

Are you sure you don’t have a Z-Plus Z-axis configured as an HDZ?

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Ding ding ding. I fat fingered the setup and incorrectly selected HDZ.

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