High Speed Machining Software—Mastercam/CNC Software

The company will showcase the new Mastercam Version 8 CAM tools. A highlight is a set of new software tools for high speed machining (HSM). HSM is a new approach to cutting workpieces; the goal is smooth motion with very few sharp corners, allowing for fast, shallow cuts. Combining this specific tool motion with high spindle speeds, high speed machining delivers faster turnaround and a superior finish.

The company offers a suite of fully associative high speed functions, including smooth tool motion on and off the part--Mastercam will move the tool in a smooth are off the workpiece to avoid any sharp angles; variable Z-level cuts--HSM commonly involves finishing a part using Z-level cuts only, and this software can automatically vary the Z-level step-down for a more consistent material removal; continuous Z-level looping--it can loop the tool off of and onto the part between each Z-level cut, eliminating sharp step-down motion; channeling--by using small, continuous looping motions for certain pocketing operations, the software helps eliminate potentially harmful tool burial; ramp contouring--users are able to cut even deep contours with a single, continuous ramp motion, eliminating sharp corners; circle milling--this eases the tool into the material in a circular motion before cutting in a smooth, spiral patterns; and high speed facing--the software provides a special facing routine optimized for high spe ed machines.

The software includes dozens of new features designed to simplify both basic and complex programming. Examples include full associativity in all products, open pocket machining, automated circle milling, faster surface and solid modeling and multi-surface, five-axis cutting.



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