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Tool Library – Tool Properties Tab Overview

Sadek Akl
  • Updated

Overview

The Tool Properties Tab in Mozaik is where all CNC tool parameters are defined and controlled. These settings directly affect how tools behave during machining, including cutting depth, feeds and speeds, ramping behaviour, and how Mozaik assigns tools to operations.

Mozaik ships with a sample tool library, but all tool specifications should be reviewed and adjusted to match your machine, tooling, and shop standards before generating G-code.

Accessing the Tool Properties Tab

  1. Open Mozaik Optimzer.
  2. Navigate to Libraries → CNC Tooling...
  3. Select a tool from the Tool List
  4. Open the Tool Properties tab

Tool Identification and Reference

Tool Image

  • Add a JPG image of the tool for visual reference
  • Images are for identification only and do not affect machining
  • Stored in:
    • C:\Mozaik\Data\CNC\Images

Tool Specification Documents

  • Add tool specification documents (PDF, JPG, or DOC)
  • File name must match the tool name exactly
  • Stored in:
    • C:\Mozaik\Data\CNC\ToolSpecs

Tool Geometry Settings

Tool Diameter

  • Enter the exact measured diameter of the tool
  • Update this value after sharpening to maintain accuracy

Tool Type

  • Select the correct tool type from the dropdown list
  • This determines which operations the tool can perform

Tool Application

The tool application defines how Mozaik assigns the tool:

  • Cutout – Profile cutting (only one cutout tool per toolset)
  • Drill – Hole operations where tool and hole diameters match
  • Dado – Dados and grooves
  • Engrave – User-added toolpaths
  • Dovetail – CNC dovetail drawer boxes
  • Roughing Tool – Used for skinning operations prior to finish passes

Cutting Parameters

Pass Depth

  • Maximum depth of cut per pass
  • Must be less than the tool’s cutting edge length
  • Pass depth is applied in addition to any small part handling settings

Stepover

  • Distance between toolpath centerlines during pocketing and dado operations
  • Affects surface finish and cycle time

Plunge Depth

  • Maximum depth the tool can plunge vertically into material

Add for Thru Cut

  • Additional depth added to through-cuts
  • Helps reduce bottom-side chipping
  • Recommended range:
    • 0.005"–0.015" (0.1–0.4 mm)

Pocket Ramping

Pocket Ramp

  • Defines the horizontal distance used to ramp into pocket toolpaths
  • A value of 0 disables ramping

⚠️ Note:

  • Applies only to Pocket operations
  • Does not apply to Dados, Grooves, or Hole operations

Feeds and Speeds

Feed Rate and Plunge Rate

  • Enter Min and Max values for feed and plunge rates
  • Actual cutting speed is calculated using the Material Library feed percentage

To lock a feed rate:

  • Set Min and Max to the same value
  • Set Material Library feed rate to 100%

Units are based on system settings:

  • Inches per minute or meters per minute

Roughing Tool Setup

Roughing Tool Type

  • Used when parts include skins (Onion skin, Full Sheet skin, Return skinning)
  • Roughing toolpaths run before the finish cutout tool

Requirements:

  • A roughing tool must exist in the toolset
  • Skinning must be enabled

If roughing is desired on all parts, Full Sheet Skinning must be enabled in Cutout Options.

Door and Specialty Tooling

Sharp Corner Tools

  • Used to automatically clean up inside corners on door panels
  • When enabled, Mozaik adds a sharp corner toolpath

CNC Door Tools

  • Used for profiled door tooling
  • Enables drawing the tool’s cross section
  • Mozaik includes standard door tool profiles; custom tools may be drawn manually

Supported included angles include:
22.5°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 90°, 110°, 120°, 140°

Toolpath Control and Mapping

Priority

  • Applies only to manually added toolpaths
  • Used to control machining order

Mapping Number

  • Required for certain post processors (e.g., WoodWOP, Felder)
  • Maps Mozaik tools to machine tool numbers

Toolsets must also be configured so Mozaik knows which tools to use.

Tool Library Management

Sidebar Tools

  • Add a new tool
  • Duplicate a tool
  • Delete a tool
  • Rename a tool
  • Export a tool
  • Import a tool

Tooling Spreadsheet

  • Displays all tools and properties in a grid view
  • Allows bulk editing
  • Can be printed or used for import/export operations

Best Practices

  • Verify all tool dimensions before running production jobs
  • Match tool applications to intended operations
  • Review pass depths and plunge settings carefully
  • Test new tooling with sample parts before full production

Result

When Tool Properties are configured correctly, Mozaik can reliably generate safe, accurate, and efficient CNC toolpaths that match your machine and tooling setup.

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