Better Tool Library (BTL)
Better Tool Library (BTL) is a FreeCAD addon (plugin) that replaces the built-in tool library for the Path workbench. It also provides a standalone tool if you want to use your library outside of FreeCAD.
Warning I advise you make a backup of your tool library. I guarantee for nothing, there may be bugs.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Better Tool Library | FreeCAD internal library |
|---|---|---|
| Modern UI |  |
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| Provides a shape browser | |
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| Tool search | |
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| Powerful Feeds & Speeds calculator | |
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| Tool sketch for supported shapes | |
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| Use outside of FreeCAD | |
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| Provides built-in common shapes | |
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| Store tool notes and additional info | |
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| Auto-generates tool icons | |
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| Can be used with no document open | |
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| CLI tool for import/export | |
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| Read BTL files | |
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| Write BTL files | |
Deletes BTL extra data! |
| Import Fusion 360 tool library | |
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| Import from Camotics | |
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| Export to Camotics | |
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| Export to LinuxCNC | |
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Screenshots
Installation
Prerequisites
Better Tool Library (BTL) is compatible with FreeCAD 0.19, 0.21, and 0.22.
Installation via the FreeCAD addon manager
- Open FreeCAD
- Open the Addon Manager via Tools -> Addon manager
- Search for Better Tool Library
- Click it
- Click Install
To run it, just open the Path workbench and there should be a new icon at the end of the toolbar:
Installation in standalone mode
To use BTL via standalone (=outside of FreeCAD), you will have to install it using setuptools.
pip install btlInstructions for running BTL that way are here.
Instructions
Some instructions can be found here: