The X5 version of the company’s CAD/CAM software introduces significant new capabilities, including new dynamic milling techniques, multi-axis machining, Smart Hybrid Finishing and more. Dynamic milling constantly adjusts the toolpath to ensure the most efficient cut possible, the company says, and allows use of the entire tool flute length. This can eliminate the need for multiple depth cuts. The software’s new dynamic milling techniques include Dynamic Rest Mill and Dynamic Contour. Dynamic Rest Mill behaves in a manner similar to the current toolpath, only it uses dynamic milling motion instead of core mill or area mill motion for the rest operations. Dynamic Contour uses an efficient high speed contouring strategy to remove material along walls. It supports multi-passes and can optionally include finishing passes.

 

The software’s multi-axis suite has new machining techniques along with a new workflow-oriented interface. It allows users to choose the basic type of work they are performing using clear illustrations, and then offers them a clear, step-by-step process for defining how the part will be cut. The software also includes a specialized interface for smooth, gouge-free engine head porting.

 

In addition, a new 3D surface, high speed OptiRough toolpath is a strategy designed to remove large amounts of material quickly using dynamic milling motion. Large, aggressive cuts are followed by fast, smaller up-cuts, safely delivering a fully roughed part faster than ever. A hybrid finishing function evaluates the model shape and smoothly switches between Constant Z cutting and Constant Scallop machining, resulting in a finer finish, according to the company.