Tech Trends: Suitable Software

Is your current CAM software not working for you? Looking for a new program but just can’t decide which one would suit your needs? Check out some of these choices below! Ranging in features from enabling easier three- and five-axis programming, simulation and verification, reducing cycle times while increasing surface finish, independent operation, and sharper, clearer and more realistic views of machines and the machining process, you are sure to find something suitable for your business and machining needs.

CAM Software Provides Expert CNC Programming Strategies

PowerMill five-axis CAM software from Autodesk, Inc. provides expert CNC programming strategies for complex three- and five-axis subtractive, high-rate additive and hybrid machining. Features in the latest software release enable easier three- and five-axis programming, simulation and verification, including accessing a vast library of CNC strategies to reduce programming times with rapid toolpath calculation. The software release offers shortening machining times, improving control with advanced toolpath editing and automating programming with customizable templates and macros. It prolongs tool life and reduces maintenance costs with interactive tools to help identify and repair toolpath motion that can cause collisions or near misses. The Dynamic ViewMill also provides improved image quality and new options to detect and display collisions.

Software Improves Five Axis Movements for High Accuracy Parts

CAM-TOOL by CGS North America, Inc. has improved its simultaneous five-axis conversion (auto) function. The process has been updated to decrease movement of unnecessary axis when unnecessary. This reduced movement in the machine resulting in smoother more accurate tool paths. Having less axis to control makes the tool paths easier for the user to create. With the ongoing movement towards barrel cutters, CAM-TOOL has expanded its functionality of barrel cutters by adding "3D Offset Cutting" and "Curve Control Along Surface" to the list of many other tool paths that support barrel and lens cutters. When it is combined with simultaneous five-axis machining, this can show large reductions in cycle times all while increasing surface finish.

Software Update Gives Users Sharper View of the Machining Process

CGTech announces the latest release of VERICUT software, Version 9.0. Vericut CNC machine simulation, verification and optimization software simulates all types of CNC machining, additive and hybrid manufacturing processes. The software operates independently but can also be integrated with leading CAM systems. Version 9.0 features several enhancements designed to increase power and improve efficiency, including a new graphics engine. Users will experience sharper, clearer and more realistic views of machines and the machining process. Hundreds of customer-driven enhancements and software change requests were also completed.

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