# 2-Axis Milling
The tool moves to a set Z position before moving in the X and Y directions, i.e. in 2 axis. This is similar to the laser cutter however with the added ability to set a precise the depth of the cut. An example of 2 axis milling could be used on is a piece of furniture with interlocking parts.
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## Specify 2 Axis Operations
**1.** Set layer to required machine operation. \
**2.** Insert or create geometry. \
**3.** Position geometry as per instructions in Chapter 3, allow 20mm offset from edges. \
**4.** Check geometry properties for correct layer. \
**5.** Enter required parameters into Layer Name, overwriting the relevant text.
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**COMMON MISTAKES:**
• Control geometry incorrectly placed • Layer name not modified • Incorrect layer selection
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> 3 MINUTES
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## Profiling
The router follows the **inside** or **outside** of a curve at a depth determined by the student (including completely through the material) to achieve engraving or cutting results.
## Outcome
These operations are used to remove internal parts or to ‘cutout’ pieces from the stock.
## Control Geometry
A curve or line placed at the top plane of the stock.
## Layer Parameter
2.5 Axis - Profiling - Internal or External - (Depth in mm) •
E.g. 2.5 Axis - Profiling - Internal - 12.00mm •
E.g. 2.5 Axis - Profiling - External - 12.00mm
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{% tab title="Pocketing" %}
## Pocketing
The router mills all material within an area defined by a closed curve to a specified depth determined by the student.
## **Typical use/Outcome**
These operations are used to mill a recess partly through the stock such as for creating a grooves or notches.
## **Control Geometry**
A closed curve placed at the top plane of the stock. This can include, rectangles, circles, polylines or nurbs curves.
## **Layer Parameter**
2.5 Axis - Pocketing - (Depth in mm) •
E.g. 2.5 Axis - Pocketing - 3.85mm
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**Note:** The minimum bit size used for this operation is 6.5mm thus smaller grooves are not possible. If you require the entire internal region to be removed as waste, use a ‘2.5 Axis - Profile - Internal’ as it is significantly quicker than milling away the internal material. Fab Lab staff will guide students to best machining methods.
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## Hole Pocketing
## Operation
The router drill creates a hole at a depth and diameter determined by the student (including completely through the material).
## Typical use/Outcome
These operations are typically used to drill pilot holes for screws/bolts, or to allow tolerances at rounded corners for square members to fit.
## Control Geometry
A point placed in the centre of the circle at the top plane of the stock.
## Layer Parameters
2 Axis - Hole Pocketing - (Diameter in mm)- (Depth in mm)
E.g. 2 Axis - Hole Pocketing - Diameter 02.00mm - Depth 12.00mm
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{% tab title="Engraving" %}
## Engraving
The router follows the **center line** of a curve to a specified depth, including the full way through the material.
## **Typical use/Outcome**
2 Axis engraving is often used to engrave text or to etch to a specified depth.
Some applications for this beyond engraving include:
* Folding in aluminium composite panels.
* Cutting a straight line using the provided geometry as a **center line** with the **width determined** by the bit selection
## **Control Geometry**
A line or curve on the top plane of the stock (may be open, but joined together).
## **Layer Parameters**
2 Axis - Engraving - (BIT and Width in mm) - (Depth in mm)
E.g. 2 Axis - Engraving - V Mill 60 degrees - Depth 2.50mm
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**Note:** Please refer to the most up-to-date tool library to specify a BIT and DIAMETER. If you require a width outside of the tool bit diameters, please create a 2 Axis - Pocketing operation with a closed curve containing the width you require.
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## **Bridges**
In order to hold small parts in place whilst being milled, the Fab Lab may be required to attach your part to the larger sheet via a ‘bridge.’ This is an absence of milling in small areas to leave the part connected to the stock. This will require some hand finishing to cut the parts out of the stock.
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