Bit optimization

[autobodyman]

I am doing a mantle project, the carve area is 54" long, 8" tall and .75" deep. I set bit optimization at best for all the patterns but was wondering if for the region carve if I could set a different level? Would it make much difference and is it okay to mix optimization levels?

I was thinking low or normal, since most of the area is carved with best optimization with the patterns.

Here is a pic of the planned carving, I will be using redwood to test this and if all goes well I will carve again out of walnut. http://www.PhotoShare.co.nz/PhotoShareGallery1/100503/108025/Mantel06044.jpg

I'm using 1.126 if that matters.
Thanks ~Mike

[PCW]

Mike

I am not the best person to answer this question because I am still learning myself however I don't think that mixing bit optimization in the software is a problem. AskBud has a good video on this subject covering using optimization in Designer Here (http://www2.wcoil.com/~nharbison/cw-bit%20optimization.zip) it will need to be unzipped before viewing.

Maybe this can help you till one of the more experienced members can fill in the blanks or erase them completely.:-D

[Rick P]

Mike,
Your depth of .75" seems a little too deep...but, I'm no expert.
I was told .25" to .50" is best for carving.

[DocWheeler]

autobodyman,

I'm glad that you asked a question that I could respond to.
I just did some long carvings that estimated the carve time at about 10.5 hours. I went back and changed the optimization to best and the carve time went down to 8.25 hours.
So I'd say you would save time by using the best optimization.