Feature-based CAM Software Released

Delcam has released the 2016 version of its FeatureCAM feature-based CAM software. This update includes more options for the Vortex high-efficiency area-clearance strategy, support for bar-fed mills, more efficient turning, and user-interface improvements.

The software can be used on numerous machines, including mill/turn machines, 5-axis mills, and wire EDM equipment.

Roughing improvements include the ability to take into account any remaining stock on the model during holder collision checking, ensuring that Z-level roughing toolpaths are completely free of toolholder collisions.

Milling of inside or outside grooves has been upgraded with a number of improvements, including support for different types of roughing links, wind-fan approach and retract moves for finishing, better gouge checking for plunges and retracts, and tool radius and partline cutter compensation support.

Support has been added for multitasking bar-fed milling machines. Access to the back of the component is possible with an option to set the swivel angle of the machine, with additional cutoff operations now available that use milling tools.

Five-axis swarf machining has been made more flexible with a new option to control the upper and lower Z limits of a simultaneous 5-axis swarf toolpath. This is useful if there are limitations on the tool length that can be used or if the stepdown needs to be varied for different segments of the toolpath.

The software now allows the quick import and alignment of a variety of predefined vises and chucks into a machining project. The result is increased productivity, not only due to the speed of programming, but also because collision checking is provided automatically during simulation, the company states.

www.delcam.com