CAD/CAM multi-axis tool paths

Mastercam has introduced additional capabilities for multi-axis tool paths, helping ensure safer and more accurate 5-axis machining. The tools add extra strength to the existing set of multi-axis options.

By simply defining a tool with its shank and holder, Mastercam can quickly check that the tooling set-up does not strike areas that would violate the part. This feature will automatically detect and remove any motion in 5-axis multi-surface, 5-axis flow line, swarf and 5-axis curve tool paths that would violate the part's check surfaces.

Mastercam also provides an additional checking procedure for sophisticated 5-axis flow line machining, further ensuring high precision cutting.

Mastercam also has an approach and retract motion. As the tool moves toward and away from a part, Mastercam checks to make sure it is not violating the part. This protection extends to end mills including flat, ball, bull, tapered flat, tapered ball, tapered bull and lollipop mills.

Mastercam's multi-axis machining now includes a suite of additional features, such as undercut programming, setting of negative stock for flat end mills, allowing greater machining flexibility and improved and expanded translators, including IGES, AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Solid Edge and Pro/E.