Scalable CAM technology tips: General Industry Coverage

Job shop owners should avoid getting boxed in with basic CAM software that seems adequate for their current needs but does not allow them to exploit more advanced capabilities as they grow. This kind of CAM software costs less initially, but a shop will have to install a more comprehensive package and train its workers as the shop’s requirements multiply. A better alternative is a scalable CAM package that allows users to upgrade as needed so the business can keep growing smoothly.

When cutting tools with advanced designs are paired with the right toolpaths and coolant, they can pay for themselves many times over in terms of increased productivity. All images courtesy CNC Software.

The following are some methods small shops have employed to strengthen their businesses with scalable CAM software.

■ Customized posts are needed to get a CNC to behave as expected based on the code generated by CAM software. These posts allow for higher operating efficiencies as more CNC equipment is installed, because each machine will behave consistently.

■ Although more expensive, carbide cutting tools with advanced designs cut faster and last longer than conventional cutting tools. When paired with the right toolpaths and coolant, they can pay for themselves many times over via increased productivity.

■ Advanced cutting algorithms, such as those in Mastercam’s Dynamic Motion technology, continually adjust feeds, speeds, entries and exits based on the program’s knowledge of material conditions ahead of the tool. This provides a consistently smooth tool motion that maximizes allowable chip loads without excessively wearing or breaking a tool.

■ Shops that employ conventional CNC programming can often improve the profitability of repeat jobs by rewriting the programs using material-aware toolpaths. Typically, the cost associated with rewriting the program is recovered through increased machining productivity.

■ CNC equipment can run during long shifts while continuously operating at the highest allowable chip loads. With the trend toward short production runs, too much time can be lost stepping through a program to make sure it is safe. Shops must be have the confidence to post the program and go full tilt. This is accomplished by simulating everythingthat has been written into the program at every stage, consuming a few seconds per stage.