Nesting rules for bars

Bars that were incorrectly set are one of the most frequent causes for bad machining results. The rules and recommendations in this help article will help avoid common mistakes.

Using a sufficient number of bars

 

Discs

Blocks

Single-part objects/Small objects

3

1

Multi-unit objects

 

 

1–2 on the outer units

1 per inner unit

For a sinter bar: 1 bar every 20 mm from the sinter bar to the material

3

Using the correct bar types and bar parameters

  • In particular, for multi-unit objects, sufficient partially reduced or intact bars must remain after manufacturing to prevent the object from falling. Arrange these bars so that the object is securely fastened at all points after manufacturing.
  • For objects with only 1 bar, select a larger node diameter.

Positioning the bars correctly

General guidelines for minimizing rework:

  • Place bars outside of fissures.

  • If possible, avoid positioning the bars on the labial side. If necessary to ensure stability, place the bars in the interdental spaces, provided there is enough space.

  • For relevant objects, place the bars in areas that will be covered by veneers whenever possible.

Positioning bars in X- and Y-direction

Place bars evenly on all sides

If you place bars on only one side, vibration during machining may occur. This can lead to the blank or tool getting damaged.

(): Bars on all sides of the object

Incorrect (right): Bars on only one side of the object

Place bars with sufficient distance from each other

If there isn't enough space between bars, the air nozzle of the spindle may not be able to blow off machining debris as required, which can damage the tool.

(): Bars with suitable distances between them

Incorrect (right): Bars without suitable distances between them

Set enough bars

You should at least set 3 bars for each object. Multi-unit-objects generally require 2 bars per unit. Otherwise, vibrations may occur during machining, which can lead to the blank or tool getting damaged.

(): Enough bars have been set

Incorrect (right): Too few bars have been set

Positioning bars in Z-direction

  • Position all bars on the equator. If the equator is on the prepline, position the bar approx. 1 mm above the equator.

Equator marked with arrows

Equator marked with arrows

You need to position all bars completely on the object.

The bar in the figure below is positioned too high. Only a part of the bar is positioned on the object.

Incorrect positioning of a bar

The bar in the figure below is positioned too low. Only a part of the bar is positioned on the object. Additionally, the bar is positioned on the prepline.

Incorrect positioning of a bar

The bar in the figure below is correctly positioned on the equator.

Correct positioning of a bar

Positioning bars on surfaces with sufficient material thickness

Always position bars on convex surfaces with sufficient material thickness. Otherwise, the stability of the bars may become too low and you will have to rework the object manually.

The following figure shows an inlay where the material thickness on the left side is not high enough to position a stable bar. The right side is suitable.

An inlay with 2 bars: The left bar is misplaced

Customize objects in blocks

For blocks, the standard orientation of the objects may be unsuitable for the bar that runs from the object to the shaft of the block.

Original orientation of an inlay in a block (top view)

Original orientation of an inlay in a block (3D view)

In this case, you need to rotate the object about the Z-axis so that you can position the bar on an surface with sufficient material thickness.

After rotating the inlay, you can place a bar on the appropriate side (top view)

After rotating the inlay, you can place a bar on the appropriate side (3D view)

Using convex surfaces and avoid concave surfaces

Always position bars on convex surfaces because these surfaces can adequately support bars. The stability of bars positioned on concave surfaces may be insufficient.

Bar on a concave surface (incorrect)

Bar on a convex surface (correct)