Mastercam Port Expert

October 01, 2011

CNC Software/Mastercam's new Port Expert add-on creates accurate, efficient engine cylinder head porting toolpaths on port surface or solid data. Port Expert uses a lollipop tool, and has collision checks for the entire tool (shank, arbor, and holder). There are multiple cutting options available with Port Expert.

You can:

Cut only the top

Cut only the bottom

Specify how much stock to leave on the entire port

The Port Expert toolpaths use 3-axis machining as far into the port as possible, and then convert automatically to 5-axis motion with minimum tilt. This leaves no fishtails or inefficient reverse moves, and smoothly transitions where the toolpaths meet at the middle of the port. Port Expert provides both roughing and finishing toolpaths to make ports from castings or billets. And, since Port Expert can support unlimited surfaces, the geometry can be made of multiple surfaces that are stitched together.

Additional features of Port Expert include:

Port Expert automatically calculates optimal tilt angles so there is no need to split the surface or create tool axis control splines.

Port Expert creates toolpaths on triangulated or stitched surfaces, a one-piece surface is not necessary.

Mastercam's simulation proceeds step-by-step through the toolpath, even showing you the motion used in transition at the middle of the port. Mastercam generates 5-axis code that can run any CNC machine.

Related Glossary Terms

  • arbor

    arbor

    Shaft used for rotary support in machining applications. In grinding, the spindle for mounting the wheel; in milling and other cutting operations, the shaft for mounting the cutter.

  • 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.

  • 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.