VCarve Inlay Settings Steeper Angles

[bmahloch1 (Brian Mahloch)]

Hello All -

I’ve done quite a few VCarve inlays with great success, mostly following the video posted by Winston and using a 60 degree vee bit. I have a project coming up that’s more detailed and wanted to try using a steeper bit to get a deeper inlay on the more detailed areas. Unfortunately the steeper the bit I tried the looser the inlay was. Here are the parameter and bits I tried with:

Female = .25" depth, 60 degree vee bit (302)
Male = .23" plug depth, .04 top gap 60 degree vee bit (302)

Eanosic (E252) 30 degree
Whiteside (SC50) 22 degree - SC50 - Whiteside Machine Company
Amana Tool (45783) 18 degree - 45783 Solid Carbide Carving Liner 18 Deg x 1/4 Dia x 5/8 x 1/4 Inch Shank x 1-Flute

I was surprised that just changing the angle caused such a difference in the inlay fit. At least in my head it seems as long as the same bit is used for both male/female parts the inlay should fit the same regardless of angle.

What am I missing here?
What is the best parameter to experiment changing in order to get a well fit inlay?

Ideally I wouldn’t have to offset one of the vectors to get a snug fit.

All suggestions welcome!

[Tod1d (Tod (with 1 'd'))]

First inspect the tips of the V-bits. If they are not perfectly pointed, they will remove extra stock from both sides, causing a looser fit.

Next create a small test part where the inlay overlaps the edge of the workpiece so you can see and measure the fit. Reduce the plug depth for a tighter fit Add the same amount to the top gap to keep the same total depth of cut.

Fit, measure, adjust.

Note the corrections for each tool.

[bmahloch1 (Brian Mahloch)]

Thanks!

Never thought of overlapping the inlays over the edge. Much more efficient way to trial and error.