Vortex high-speed roughing strategy in FeatureCAM
PIC: Delcam’s Vortex high-efficiency area clearance strategy is now available in FeatureCAM. The Vortex high-efficiency area clearance strategy has been added to the latest release of the 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. For full details, including video demonstrations of the new functionality, and to download an evaluation version, please go to www.delcam.tv/fc2014. 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. 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. 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. The benefits of using the Vortex strategy will vary depending on a number of factors, including the material and shape being cut, and the machine tool and cutting tools being used. A series of trials run by Delcam on different […]