Mastercam 2017 Mill

August 05, 2016

Mastercam 2017 Mill from CNC Software Inc. offers expanded machining flexibility and an increased emphasis on speed and automation. 2D high-speed Toolpaths, 3D enhancements and multiaxis features combine with dozens of additional new enhancements in a package intended to improve shop floor productivity.   

In an effort to streamline and simplify workflow, Mastercam 2017 supports region chaining preview, which allows you to see your machining, air and containment regions. Mastercam 2017 also builds on its already efficient and powerful Dynamic Motion engine, and introduces micro lifts, which use a line-of-sight approach to move the tool where it needs to go through unobstructed areas. Reposition moves are now more efficient, less complex and travel a shorter distance, which creates smaller file sizes and improves cycle times at the machine.


Maximum stock engagement allows you to select a previously made stock model and set the maximum depth so that you can limit how deeply the cutter engages uncut materials, especially useful when semifinishing a part. Perpendicular fill for the raster toolpath allows you to limit raster passes and then fills in the limited area with perpendicular raster motion to create a more consistent finish. And, for quicker toolpath regeneration, the processing time for high-speed scallop has been decreased.

 

To reduce confusion, the multiaxis toolpaths have been consolidated. They are now grouped by either a pattern or application toolpath to make them easier to find. The new 4-axis toolpath, rotary axis, allows more control over the tool motion through the selection of walls, hubs and shroud surfaces. And, multiaxis drill has many new features including using a line length for the drill depth and recognition of the stock model for depth and top of stock purposes.

Additional powerful tools in Mastercam 2017 Mill include:

·         Toolpath preview is now available for select 2D high-speed toolpaths in the graphics window before closing and generating or regenerating the toolpath.

·         Point and lines selected for tool axis control will now be associated with the toolpaths in which they are used.

·         Point sorting is now available for multiaxis drill and circle mill toolpaths.

Related Glossary Terms

  • computer numerical control ( CNC)

    computer numerical control ( CNC)

    Microprocessor-based controller dedicated to a machine tool that permits the creation or modification of parts. Programmed numerical control activates the machine’s servos and spindle drives and controls the various machining operations. See DNC, direct numerical control; NC, numerical control.

  • milling machine ( mill)

    milling machine ( mill)

    Runs endmills and arbor-mounted milling cutters. Features include a head with a spindle that drives the cutters; a column, knee and table that provide motion in the three Cartesian axes; and a base that supports the components and houses the cutting-fluid pump and reservoir. The work is mounted on the table and fed into the rotating cutter or endmill to accomplish the milling steps; vertical milling machines also feed endmills into the work by means of a spindle-mounted quill. Models range from small manual machines to big bed-type and duplex mills. All take one of three basic forms: vertical, horizontal or convertible horizontal/vertical. Vertical machines may be knee-type (the table is mounted on a knee that can be elevated) or bed-type (the table is securely supported and only moves horizontally). In general, horizontal machines are bigger and more powerful, while vertical machines are lighter but more versatile and easier to set up and operate.

  • toolpath( cutter path)

    toolpath( cutter path)

    2-D or 3-D path generated by program code or a CAM system and followed by tool when machining a part.