Choosing an operation

Choose an operation from the feature’s role and geometry, then confirm its compatible target, tool, pass, and strategy. Regions can restrict a compatible cut but are not machining targets on their own. 3D surface operations accept one or more imported models; a STEP model counts as a model.

Start from the goal; the middle column is what the operation needs you to have selected.

Requirements

Goal	Feature target	Operation
Clear a closed internal area	Closed subtract	Pocket
Face a closed top or model area	Closed add or model	Surface clean
Cut an internal contour	Closed subtract	Edge route inside
Cut an outside contour	Closed add or model	Edge route outside
Carve closed artwork or a closed line	V-carve-compatible closed geometry	V-carve offset or V-carve medial
Follow open or closed artwork	Machinable feature, with optional closed regions	Engrave
Bore circular holes	Circles, with optional closed regions	Drill

Common operation parametersSettings shared by compatible operations.

PocketClear a closed subtract area.

Surface cleanFace a closed add or model area.

Edge route insideCut a closed subtract contour.

Edge route outsideCut a closed add or model contour.

V-carve offsetCarve compatible closed geometry.

V-carve medialCarve medial-axis channels.

EngraveFollow a feature line directly or as a slot.

DrillMachine circular holes with supported cycles.