// Docs
Safety checks and messages
Every time the operations change, MillPath simulates the toolpaths and reads the G-code back. Checks OK means none of the problems below was found. A number opens the list; each problem can be shown on the drawing at the point where it happens.
In the toolpath
| Problem | Means | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Rapid into material | A rapid (G0) move would pass through material. | Raise the retract or clearance height, or check the start depth. |
| Plunge with a tool that cannot | A tool that is not center cutting plunges straight into material. | Use a ramp entry, a center-cutting tool, or pre-drill. |
| Gouge | A cut goes into material that this operation must keep (a wall, an island, stock to leave). | Check the side, the tool size, and the shapes selected. |
| Below the stock | A move goes below the stock bottom, into the table or spoilboard. | Reduce the depth; a through cut needs only a little extra. |
In the G-code file (read back)
| Message | Means |
|---|---|
| No G20 / G21 (or no units guard) | The controller would use whatever units it was left in. |
| Cutting with the spindle stopped | A feed move comes before the spindle is on. |
| A speed the toolpath does not use | A feed in the file matches no feed of the toolpath — usually a wrong feed unit (per second against per minute). |
| The file differs from the toolpath | Read back, a cut or a rapid is more than 0.02 mm from the checked toolpath. |
| A word the check does not read | The post wrote something MillPath cannot follow; check the post. |
A post that fails the read-back is a post problem: compare it with a file that runs on your machine, or learn the post.
An operation that needs attention
An operation that cannot be calculated is marked Needs attention in the list, with the reason in its settings. Common ones:
| Message | What to do |
|---|---|
| The tool is too large / too small | The shape is smaller than the tool, or the tool too small for the operation (for example a bore). |
| No plunge possible | There is no room to enter: use a smaller tool or a ramp. |
| Tabs too high or too wide | Tabs must be lower than the depth and fit on the outline. |
| Rest machining needs a larger previous tool | Choose the larger tool used before. |
| Tapping is not supported by this post | Use Thread mill, or a controller with synchronised tapping. |
| The tool number does not fit the controller | For example MASSO takes tools 1–100 for the spindle: renumber the tool. |
Notices
- The part comes loose at the last pass — a profile cuts the part free with no tabs or onion skin. Add tabs, use onion skin, or hold it another way (screws, vacuum).
- Uncut stock — in the 3D view, grey shows material the operations leave (for example corners smaller than the tool). Add rest machining with a smaller tool if it matters.
Exporting with failed checks is possible after a confirmation; it is your decision. See Safety.