Delcam has launched the 2013 version of Delcam for SolidWorks, the integrated CAM system for SolidWorks. The new release includes a new entry-level 3D milling option, plus many of the enhancements made to the 2013 version of the FeatureCAM feature-based programming system on which it is based.
The new entry-level 3D option includes all the 2D and 2.5D strategies available in Delcam for SolidWorks, plus the 3D single-surface strategies for Z-level roughing, with either offset or raster, and finishing with raster, isoline or spiral. It is intended mainly as an introductory level program for companies new to 3D machining, but according to the company will also be useful for users that only have an occasional need for 3D capabilities or that only machine softer materials.
A number of new strategies have been added to the high-speed machining module. Step cutting has been added within area clearance to remove large terraces that can be left on the part when using deeper roughing cuts. Extra toolpaths can now be generated that step back up the terrace with the existing large tool, adding extra cuts at intermediate levels. This results in more material being removed, using the same tool within the same toolpath.
Automatic splitting of finishing between steep and shallow areas of the part has been enhanced with the ability to use the scallop height to control the stepover. Using this value rather than setting a constant stepover distance gives better control of the surface finish.
Both roughing and finishing strategies now incorporate an "area filter" to remove small enclosed pockets within the part from the toolpath. The solution now gives the option of using bottom-up machining for Z-level finishing as well as the conventional top-down approach.
New five-axis strategies available include flowline machining between two curves, pencil machining and corner re-machining. New options have also been added to give smoother five-axis machining. A new look-ahead capability will remove any sudden tool-axis changes during automatic collision avoidance and, instead, ensure that a smooth transition takes place, the company says.
For more information, visit Delcam.
Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company's website.
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