Cusp height
Estimate the theoretical material left between adjacent ball-end passes.
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Scallop height calculator
Connect ball-end diameter, stepover and theoretical cusp height in one fast calculation.
Height from stepoverStepover from heightmm and inchLocal calculations
NCTune CNC Toolbox
Choose a machining stepover for the target surface
The calculator uses circle-and-chord geometry and also reports stepover as a percentage of tool diameter and the contact angle.
Inverse calculation
Enter an allowable scallop height to find the corresponding geometric stepover.
Clear limitations
The model does not replace analysis of surface slope, runout, deflection or machine accuracy.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Does a smaller stepover always reduce scallop height?
Yes, in this geometric model reducing stepover reduces the theoretical cusp height.
Does the calculator include surface slope?
No. It models a ball end mill on a flat surface; slope changes the effective geometry.
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