MecSoft Corporation

I am having some issues with machining a part.
I run a 26mm ball over the surface in 4th axis parallel finishing mode (along axis) to clean the part and profile it.
I then run a 6mm ball over the same surface in a set path to machine some grooves that should be all at even depth using the 4th axis engraving. The issue I have is that the 6mm ball is not giving me consistant tool paths and some grooves are deeper than others.
I have ruled out the fact that it could be the 26mm ball causing the issues as I finished the part with the 6mm ball first and then engraved and I still have the same issues.
See attached picture with the grooves at uneven depths.

Do you have project curves to model checked under cut parameters tab in engraving?

If I do that, the profiles get even worse. Part of the issue that I am starting to see is that the bit is not always 90degrees to the work surface. Some of the parts it machines at a 45 degree. I cant see a setting where you can tell it to ensure as much 90degree operation as possible.
Also, when it runs, it sits and thinks at times before rotating the 4th axis. Is this something that cannot be fixed or is it a setting in how my program works?

The tool remains normal to axis of rotation in 4 axis engraving. If you would like to upload the part file here or email it to [email protected] we can take a look at it.

To close this off for anyone else reading this down the road, the issue I had was that the machine keeps the tool normal to the axis of rotation while doing 4th axis engraving. This means that if the part is not round, the tool will have to come at a 45degree at the part and then creates unconsistant grooves.
Best way to overcome this is to upgrade the software and use the 5th axis function, locking one of the axis out.