Delcam has added its new Vortex high-efficiency area clearance strategy to the latest release of its FeatureCAM feature-based CAM system. Vortex was introduced initially as the key enhancement for the 2014 version of Delcam’s PowerMILL software for high-speed and five-axis machining.
Vortex, for which Delcam has a patent pending, has been developed specifically to gain the maximum benefit from solid carbide tooling, in particular those designs that can give deeper cuts by using the full flute length as the cutting surface. It can be used for two- and three-axis roughing, three-plus-two-axis area clearance and for rest machining based on stock models or reference toolpaths.
All-included The strategy will be supplied at no additional charge to FeatureCAM customers on maintenance with the appropriate licenses. Two-axis Vortex functionality will be included for customers that have the FeatureRECOGNITION module, whereas Vortex for Z-level roughing will be able to be used by customers that have the FeatureMILL 3D HSM high-speed machining module. Assuming that they have one of these base products, Vortex can also be used for three-plus-two roughing by users with the positional five-axis programming option and on mill-turn equipment by customers with the FeatureTURNMILL module.
Up to 71% faster Like other Delcam roughing strategies, Vortex toolpaths are calculated to give more efficient machining by following the shape of the part and by keeping air moves to a minimum. This is particularly important for rest machining operations. A series of trials run by Delcam on different machine tools within its Advanced Manufacturing Facility has shown that a time saving of at least 40% is not untypical, with the biggest percentage savings being found when cutting tool steel on a Huron machine with SGS Z-Carb MD cutters. The cycle time for the sample part was reduced from 121 minutes to 34 minutes, a reduction of 71%.
For full details, including video demonstrations of the new functionality, and to download an evaluation version, please go to www.delcam.tv/fc2014.
Delcam plc Small Heath Business Park, Birmingham, B10 0HJ, UK www.delcam.com
For further information on Delcam’s FeatureCAM software please contact Peter Dickin, Marketing Manager Direct phone: 0121 683 1081 [email protected]
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