Faster and more flexible multi-axis functionality, along with improvements in turning applications, are two highlights of Mastercam 2021, the new released by CAD/CAM software developer CNC SOFTWARE INC. For machine programmers and operators the impact is even more promising: Greater machining productivity and lower overall production costs, thanks to programming that enhances CNC machine speed and safety.
Multi-axis machining is increasingly common, and Mastercam 2021 offers resources to accelerate and modify multi-axis programming. The Multiaxis Pocketing function is combined with Accelerated Finish tools, so that the correct tool-contact parameters are maintained automatically. The programmer is able to analyze and modify the UV direction on surface models, expanding the power and flexibility of multi-axis flowline milling toolpaths.
The new 3+2 Automatic Roughing toolpath automatically makes multiplane, three-axis roughing toolpaths by evaluating the model and stock, creating a cut, calculating what remains, and repeating the process until roughing is complete.
CNC turning applications are another area of emerging development. Mastercam 2021 expands the support for modeling chucks and chuck jaws; you can now define them by selecting a solid model. Mastercam Mill-Turn supports collet chucks as individual component types, which expands the range of machines that can be directly supported.
Mill-Turn Simulation has been added to the Mastercam Simulator interface so programmers can experience Mill-Turn simulation with the same interface tools as Mastercam Simulator. Also, Mastercam 2021's Swiss machining solutions combine Mastercam Mill and Mastercam Lathe with specialized post processors. This adds machine-specific controls inside the Mastercam interface, delivering accurate G-code for a wide variety of Swiss machines.
New toolpaths introduced in Mastercam 2021 include Advanced Drill, a customizable multi-segment drill cycle that is useful for spot drilling, deep-hole drilling, and back-spot facing, and each segment of the drill cycle can be defined and customized. When using tools with a tip angle, the new Chamfer Drill toolpath chamfers holes after calculating the correct depth based on the desired width or depth, and lets you select holes of different diameters or sizes, or that lie in different planes, and machine them in a single operation with a single tool.
Mastercam 2021's new Wrap option allows programmers to create the smallest possible bounding box, and the new Check Tool Reach function makes it possible to check a tool and holder against the selected model geometry, to view where the tool can and cannot reach.
“Mastercam is developed by listening to our users and creating solutions for their problems," explained president and CEO Meghan West. "We adapt to changing needs to ensure that the customer experience is the best it can be as we continue to innovate for improved automation, efficiency, connectivity, and precision.”
Learn more about Mastercam 2021's new features at www.mastercam.com.
