Improve CNC Machining Productivity with Mastercam Multiaxis
Multiaxis machining can dramatically increase a shop’s competitiveness. Mastercam Multiaxis is an add-on for Mastercam Mill 3D, Router 3D, Mill-Turn, and Mastercam for SOLIDWORKS®. It improves productivity with simultaneous 4- and 5-axis machining capability for Mastercam. Mastercam Multiaxis offers a wide range of multiaxis machining strategies, both basic and advanced. These toolpaths are also useful for advanced control of 3-axis machines. The new Multiaxis Unified toolpath allows you to select multiple pieces of input geometry to generate the toolpath pattern. Using those geometry choices, the toolpath picks the best algorithm to calculate the path. This single toolpath gives you access to all the surface-based toolpaths, as well as the geodesic toolpath options, in a single interface. New Deburr toolpath enhancements include a new option, Number of cuts along edges, which allows users to add multiple cuts to the Deburr toolpath, rounding or flattening edges, to create a quality edge on deburred parts. Additionally, the new Tilt Range options allow you to limit tilt when machining type is set to 5-axis (simultaneous) or 3+2 axis. Maintaining climb and conventional machining is critical for surface finish and tool life. Controlling Climb and Conventional Cutting now provides control of climb or conventional cutting while working with [...]
Letter from our CEO – Exciting Future of Manufacturing
Happy 2022! As I think about 2022 I can only get excited about the state of the industry and where Cimquest is heading. Certainly, it has been a bit crazy over the past 2 years; however, it is now time to pick ourselves up and dust ourselves off. One of the few things that seem to be staying the same is that the rate of change in the world is continuing to increase. Speaking of changes, I thought I would summarize some of the changes that have occurred: CNC Software was acquired by Sandvik. M&A activity and consolidation in the industry continue to increase. Many 3D Printer companies are going public utilizing SPACs. Metal 3D Printers become Cimquest’s fastest-growing segment. Production 3D printing (metal and plastic) is no longer a pipe dream. It is a reality. The number of manufacturers producing 3D Printers continues to rapidly increase making the selection of 3D Printers for your business and applications an even more daunting task. Cloud-based computing and AI/Machine learning are becoming a much more strategic technology that is enabling greater efficiency and more capable products. An important saying to take to heart was well said by Jack Welch “If the rate of change on [...]
Performing Part Inspections From within Mastercam
You probably already know that Mastercam is the most popular CNC Programming software in the world. For over three decades, Cimquest has contributed to its popularity by being one of the leading Mastercam resellers and training centers. We’ve helped thousands of machine shops and manufacturing facilities achieve great levels of success in CNC programming of their mills, lathes, routers, and EDM’s. What you might not know is that Cimquest is also among the nations leading resellers of Verisurf Software, enabling part inspections and even the programming of both automated and manual CMM’s from within Mastercam. Master 3D Gage is Verisurf software that runs “inside” of the Mastercam user interface and devices like the Master 3D Gage, as well as Faro arms, Romer arms, API Trackers, Laser Projectors and dozens of other metrology devices may be used for part inspections through Verisurf. No need to perform part inspections anymore using manual tools or clumsy software. Experience the comfortable look and feel you have with part programming in your CMM room as well, or even out on the shop floor for in-process inspections. Extend the Mastercam programming experience to your CMM room! Even your manual or automated CMM’s may be programmed through Verisurf. [...]
Increase 3D Print Speed Streamline Post-processing with Formlabs Form 3+
Increase Print Speed by 20-40% and Streamline Post-processing with the Form 3+ and Build Platform 2 Formlabs has released two new hardware products that will further advance industrial 3D printing and help bring ideas to life faster than ever. The Form 3+ and Build Platform 2 with patented Quick Release Technology are now available. The Form 3+ combines both hardware and software improvements to deliver what’s most important to 3D printing users: fabricate parts and components in record time and drive forward critical R&D projects faster than ever. In addition to 20-40% faster print speeds, Form 3+ features a redesigned heating system and new components that stabilize the laser system, resulting in improved surface finish and more consistent prints. Request a Free Sample
Increase 3D Printing Production Yield with Formlabs ESD Resin
Increase Production Yield and Streamline Processes for Electronics Manufacturing with Formlabs ESD Resin Formlabs has released their new ESD Resin, their first-ever material which safely dissipates unregulated electrostatic discharge. ESD Resin streamlines electronics manufacturing processes by increasing production yield, improving operational efficiency, and reducing production ramp-up time. ESD Resin was developed to hold up under a rigorous manufacturing environment. Create robust, functional, and dynamic enclosures for sensitive electronics that can handle significant wear and tear. Deploy custom tools, jigs, and fixtures to protect your critical electronics components from static discharge. ESD Resin is ideal for those looking to create: Tooling & fixturing for electronics manufacturing. Custom trays for component handling and storage. Anti-static prototypes and end-use components. Request a Free Sample
What are the Differences Between Milling, Turning, and Mill-Turn?
Choosing which kind of CNC machining to use — mill, lathe, or mill-turn — can be overwhelming. All three techniques are forms of subtractive manufacturing; they cut material away rather than add material on, unlike additive processes like 3D printing. But what sets them apart from each other? Mostly, the answer lies in how they remove that material and which piece rotates: the cutter or the workpiece. What is Milling? Milling is the most commonly used process of the three. In milling, a multi-bladed cutting tool rotates quickly to cut away material while the workpiece is held stationary or moves along a set path. Milling centers can range from 2-axis milling machines, which cut holes and slots along the X- and Z-axes (horizontally and vertically), to multiaxis milling machines, which cut much more complex geometries by using rotational axes in addition to linear axes (like the original X- and Z-axes). A vertical milling center positions the spindle and cutter above the table, which holds the material to be cut. There are two basic types of vertical centers: turret and bed. Turret vertical mills keep the spindle stationary while the table moves along linear axes to direct the cutting. Bed vertical mills allow the [...]