4th axis G code question

[Mainstore]

I am trying to machine a gear using a shaped milling cutter, not an endmill, but a shaped cutter that looks like a slitting saw. The gear blank is on the 4th axis and the cutter is at the zero Z height (axis of rotation ). The cutter moves across the face of the gear taking multiple passes to achieve final depth. Gearotic does all of this correctly and outputs correct g-code.

Here is the problem/question. The toolpath has too much entry and exit clearance. The gear face is 1.25 in and the cutter is 2.75 DIA (1.375 R). The total length of the toolpath appears to be 1.375+1.25+1.375 = 4 in. Since the cutter withdraws for clearance along the Y axis and does not move in  the Z, the total toolpath only needs to be 1.375+1.25 =2.625 in.

Doesn't sound like much difference but when you are cutting at 3 ipm, 5 passes and 85 teeth, the difference would be measured in several hours!

Is there any way to change the entry/exit clearance amount?

Thanks all.

[ArtF]

Hi:

The width setting automatically calculates the width.but you can override it just by setting the
"depth" to a lower setting. Depth in a 4th axis case is simply the thickness of the blank..

art