Custom Tool Library & 2.5D AutoCAM

The Tool Library is the Bantam Tools Desktop Milling Machine Software’s database of default and custom tools. You can use the Tool Library to add new tools, edit tool settings, and import or export your entire tool library. When you create a custom tool, you can choose the cutting diameter, as well as the feeds and speeds that the software will use when this custom tool is selected. 

G-Code vs. SVG

When working with G-code files, the tool you select from the tool dropdown menu (see image below) helps create an accurate preview of your job. However, the speeds and feeds for that tool will be read directly from the G-code file––not from the Tool Library. 

When working with SVG files, the speeds and feeds will be taken directly from the Tool Library. As a result, the Tool Library allows you to customize your feeds and speeds without having to program CAM in software like Fusion 360––a powerful tool for those dialing in designs and/or learning CAM.

Managing Your Tool Library

Open the Custom Tool Library

Once you’ve launched the Bantam Tools software, there are a few ways to access the custom Tool Library. First, if you’re in the middle of setting up a job and would like to customize your tool, click the gear icon next to the tool you want to modify. Also, next to each gear icon is a trash icon that allows you to quickly remove that tool. 

You can also access the Tool Library by navigating to the Settings tab > Program Settings > Open Tool Library. 

 And finally, you can open the Tool Library by using a keyboard shortcut: Control + T on Windows or Command + T on Mac.

Add Custom Tools

To add a new tool:

• Go to the Settings tab and under Program Settings, and click Open Tool Library.
• Click the “Add” button.
• Enter a name for the tool.
• Select the tool type. Currently, the software supports flat end mills and engraving bits. 
• Enter the tool’s dimensions.
• For flat end mills, set the diameter of the tool.
• For engraving bits, set the angle of the tool and the tip diameter.
• Enter custom speeds and feeds for your tools.
• Set the appropriate speeds and feeds. Refer to the Speeds and Feeds guide for detailed information on how to configure these settings.
• When you’re finished, click the Confirm button to save the tool you’ve created.

Above: Adding custom speeds and feeds recipe for flat end mill. 

Above: Adding custom feeds and speeds for an engraving bit. 

Remove a Tool

To remove a tool:

• Go to the Settings tab, and under Program Settings, click Open Tool Library.
• Select the tool you wish to remove.
• Click the Remove button.

Export Your Tool Library

The software's Tool Library allows you to export your entire library. This is a fast and easy way to share your tool library with other users or to back up your tool definitions. 

To export your library:

• Go to the Settings tab, and under Program Settings, click Open Tool Library.
• Click the Export button. You’ll be prompted to save your Tool Library locally and then you’ll be able to share the file. 
• Navigate to the location where you’d like to save the Tool Library and give it a name.
• Click Save. The software will save a .json file containing all of the tools in your library.

Import Your Tool Library

To import an exported Tool Library:

• Go to the Settings tab, and under Program Settings, click Open Tool Library.
• Click the Import button.
• Select the file you wish to import.
• Click Open. The software will add all of the tools in the imported tool library file to your Tool Library.

Note: If you attempt to import a tool that already exists in your tool library, the definition will not be updated.  

FAQs About the Tool Library

Why would I want to add tools?

Although the Bantam Tools Desktop Milling Machine Software comes configured with all of the standard cutting tools we offer, there's an entire universe of milling tools available. You might prefer to use metric tools, tools from other suppliers, or tools with different geometries. Or, you might want to set custom speeds and feeds for a tool (e.g., if you purchase tools from an alternative manufacturer). Adding a tool to the software’s Tool Library makes this all easy.

What kinds of tools can I add to the Tool Library?

Currently, the software supports custom flat end mills and engraving bits but doesn't yet support users creating custom ball end mills, drill bits, or other types of tools. There are default 1/4” and 1/8” ball end mills that you can use, but copying these tools or creating tools with a ball end from scratch isn’t yet supported. 

The software supports tools defined in either millimeters or inches.

Do I need to set the speeds and feeds for my G-code file in the Bantam Tools Tool Library?  

No, the speeds and feeds for G-code files will be pulled directly from the G-code file itself. The Tool Library controls the speeds and feeds for SVG files, PCB files, or any file where the internal CAM engine is used. The tool selected from the dropdown menu for G-code files is only used to provide an accurate preview of the job.