CNC Ball-Nose Scallop Height Calculator
Compare theoretical cusp height from ball-nose diameter and stepover on a flat surface.
Set up your calculation
An illustrative example is loaded. Replace its values with your measurements, costs or documented settings.
Tooling help: Ball-nose geometry
Calculation
Your result
- Theoretical scallop height
- 0.015038 mm
- Scallop height
- 15.038 µm
- Stepover percentage
- 10 %
The quote handoff carries your inputs and assumptions. Only an explicit base cost is suggested as a quote cost; prices, rates and measurements remain planning notes.
Choose the tool and check the setup
Understand the cutting profile, material reference and equipment limits before applying the result.
Method & assumptions
For radius R and stepover s, cusp height = R − sqrt(R² − (s/2)²). A numerically stable equivalent is (s/2)² ÷ (R + sqrt(R² − (s/2)²)).
- Ideal spherical tip, parallel passes and a flat surface with no tool tilt. Sloped surfaces require a different effective cutting geometry.
- The result is geometric cusp height, not measured roughness or a safe feed recommendation. Runout, grain, tool deflection and sanding change the finish.
Work through the cnc ball nose scallop example
| Input or step | Example value |
|---|---|
| Example inputs | 6 mm ball-nose cutter and 0.6 mm stepover |
| Theoretical scallop height | 0.015038 mm |
| Stepover percentage | 10 % |
These values match Load example. They illustrate the method, not recommended material, machine or pricing settings. Read the assumptions before using the result.
Common questions
Are the example settings a recommendation?
No. Replace the example with measured dimensions, actual costs and your product or machine manufacturer's limits.
What if an input is incomplete or impossible?
The result is hidden and a field or calculation error explains what needs correction.
Use this in your project
Continue with the next measurement or cost, then keep the assumptions with your quote.
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