ISO/TS 13399-70:2016

Overview - ISO/TS 13399-70:2016 (Cutting tool data, graphical layer settings)

ISO/TS 13399-70:2016 specifies a standardized graphical data layout and layer setting for cutting tool layouts used in CAD/CAM environments. Part of the ISO/TS 13399 series on cutting tool data representation and exchange, this technical specification defines a common layer structure (building on the BMG concept) to support tool pre-setting, NC programming, process simulation and machining equipment layout. It covers 2D/graphic layer definitions, colouring/grouping rules, and data concepts for origin/mounting points - including differentiation between cutting and non-cutting components.

Keywords: ISO/TS 13399-70:2016, cutting tool data, graphical data layout, layer setting, tool layout, CAD, NC programming, simulation.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Layer concept and structure
  • Standard grouping and naming for layers (basic layer, tool drawing main view, NC-geometry CUT/NOCUT, extended views, multilingual layers, reconditioning, machine equipment layout, drawing frame).
  • Rules for layer properties: colour indices, line types, font type/size and grouping.
• NC-Geometry and collision contours
  • Separate layers for CUT (cutting geometry) and NOCUT (non-cutting/collision-relevant geometry) to support stock-removal simulation and collision checks.
• Dimensioning rules
  • Dimensioning scope is limited to dimensions populated in manufacturer or distributor catalogues; manufacturers determine tool-specific detail level.
• Data concept
  • Definition of origin points, zero points and mating/mounting points for both rotationally symmetric and non-rotationally symmetric (lathe) tools.
• Compatibility and change management
  • Intended for new layouts; existing data files are not automatically upgraded. Manufacturers decide on applying the spec to legacy data.

Practical applications and users

• Manufacturing engineers and CAM programmers use the standard to ensure consistent tool graphics for NC programming, collision simulation and tool pre-setting systems.
• CAD/CAM tool vendors and software developers implement the layer structure to enable standardized data exchange (DXF and other CAx formats).
• Tool designers, tool presetting technicians and machine tool integrators use the specification for reliable machining equipment layout and process simulation.
• Tool manufacturers and distributors apply the dimensioning and layer rules when creating catalogs and graphical product information.

Related standards

• ISO/TS 13399 series (Parts 1, 2, 3, 50, 71, etc.) - reference dictionaries, 3D model creation and graphical product information.
• DXF and ISO drawing standards referenced for colour indices, line types and dimensioning (e.g., ISO 128, ISO 6428).

ISO/TS 13399-70:2016 promotes interoperable, simulation-ready tool graphics across CAD/CAM ecosystems - improving NC-program reliability, collision detection and consistent tool documentation.