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Advanced Tips and Tricks

Importing and Managing Toolsets in SheetCam

Toolsets in SheetCam contain the cutting parameters (amps, feedrates, pierce delay, cut height, kerf width, etc.) for your plasma system. Keeping the correct Hypertherm library loaded ensures consistent and accurate cutting.

Note: Your Star Lab CNC plasma table was pre-configured with the correct Hypertherm toolset when it was shipped.
These instructions are provided in case you need to reload the toolset, switch to a different plasma model, or add a custom set later.


Step 1 – Download the Toolset

Choose the correct toolset for your plasma system and download it from the links below:


Step 2 – Import the Toolset into SheetCam

  1. Open SheetCam.

  2. From the top menu, click Tools → Import Toolset.

  3. Browse to the .tools file you downloaded.

  4. Select the file and click Open.

  5. The toolset will now appear in your Tool List.


Step 3 – Switch Between Toolsets

  1. In SheetCam, go to Tools → Current Toolset.

  2. Choose the desired library from the list (e.g., Hypertherm_65-85-Star_Lab_2019).

  3. The selected set becomes the active toolset.

⚠️ Note: Only one toolset can be active at a time. Switching will replace the currently loaded tools in your session.


Step 4 – Set a Default Toolset

If you always use the same plasma system:

  1. Load the desired toolset (see Step 2).

  2. Go to Options → Application Options → Files tab.

  3. Under Default toolset, click Browse and select the .tools file.

  4. Save and restart SheetCam.

Now, every time you start SheetCam, it will automatically load that toolset.


Step 5 – Editing or Adding Tools (Optional)

  1. Go to Tools → Edit Tool.

  2. Select the tool you want to adjust (for example, to fine-tune cut volts or feedrate).

  3. Make changes, then Save.

  4. To save your edits permanently, go to Tools → Export Toolset and save as a new .tools file (e.g., Shop_45XP_Custom.tools).

This way, your adjustments won’t be lost when switching libraries.


Pro Tips

  • Your machine ships preloaded with the correct toolset for your model — you don’t need to change anything unless you install a different torch or plasma unit.
  • Keep all toolsets backed up in a safe folder — these files are small but valuable.

  • Label custom toolsets with your shop name/date so operators know which one is official.

  • Use notes inside the tool description (e.g., “best for 1/8" mild steel, minimal dross”) for quick operator reference.

  • If jobs were programmed with a different toolset, always verify tool numbers match before running.