What is the difference between 2D, 2.5D and 3D contouring?
Working in two dimensions (2D) means that you are cutting out a part with features that are all at the same depth. This is common for laser, hot-wire, water jet, and plasma cutting, along with engraving. The FlashCut CNC software’s DXF Import feature automates the creation of a tool path from a 2D DXF file. Working in two and a half dimensions (2.5D) means you are cutting a part that has multiple flat features at varying depths. During a 2 ½ D cutting process, the Z axis positions itself to a depth where the X and Y axes interpolate to cut a feature. The Z axis then retracts so the X and Y axes can move to the start point of the next feature, which may be cut at a different Z depth than the last feature. Most simple CAM programs deal with 2.5D parts. Working in three dimensions (3D) means that you have the ability to control at least three axes simultaneously. 3D contouring can then be accomplished by creating curves that use all three axes at once, like in a helical cut. You wi
