Delcam has released the 2015 version of its FeatureCAM feature-based CAM system with a range of enhancements in three-axis milling, two-axis and five-axis drilling, turning and turn-mill, and wire EDM to make the software even more powerful and easier to use.
FeatureCAM was the world’s first feature-based programming software when it was launched in 1995. Constant development since then has ensured that the system has retained its leadership in programming speed and ease of use, while an increased range of strategies has been added to provide more efficient toolpaths that give greater productivity on a wider range of machinery, including mill-turn machines, five-axis mills and wire EDM equipment.
Many novelties for more security and ease of use In FeatureCAM 2015, programming of complex parts has been made easier and more reliable with the addition of automatic collision checking of the tool shank and holder, as well as the cutter, for both three-axis roughing and finishing toolpaths. The user has the choice of either stopping the simulation immediately when a gouge is detected or of running the complete toolpath with any gouges being highlighted on the model as they are detected. The toolpath can then be recalculated with any segments that will cause a gouge clipped away.
Intelligent integrated system Removing these segments of the toolpath will leave an area of unmachined stock that will need to be removed with a longer tool. This extra toolpath can be calculated using a stock model of material remaining after the shorter tool has been used to ensure there is no re-machining of stock that has already been removed. As part of this development, an additional function, called ‘maximum machine stock’, has been added that removes direct moves where clipping has occurred. These direct moves can leave witness marks on the part so their removal improves surface finish.
The new version includes many novelties, to learn more and see full details, including video demonstrations, go to the Learning Zone – www.delcam.tv/fc2015
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Delcam Ltd Small Heath Business Park, Birmingham, B10 0HJ, UK www.delcam.com
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