Article From: 1/1/2011 Production Machining
CNC Software’s Mastercam X5 introduces some dynamic milling techniques, multi-axis machining, smart hybrid finishing, and more. Dynamic milling constantly adjusts the tool path to ensure the most efficient cut possible and allows use of the entire tool flute length, often eliminating the need for multiple depth cuts, the company says. New dynamic milling techniques include Dynamic Rest Mill and Dynamic Contour.
The company’s multi-axis suite has new machining techniques and a workflow-oriented interface. The software lets users choose the basic type of work using illustrations, and then gives a step-by-step process for defining how to cut the part. Multi-axis machining also includes an interface for smooth, gouge-free engine head porting.
Hybrid finishing intelligently blends two efficient cutting techniques in a single tool path. This tool path evaluates the model shape and smoothly switches between Constant Z cutting and Constant Scallop machining. The result is a dramatically finer finish with less work, according to the company.
