Color Map Fitting Inside Control X
In this blog post, we are going to take a look at Color Map Fitting inside of Control X. Color Map Fitting is a useful tool for analyzing the tolerances of 3D scan mesh files, relative to the original model. The image above shows a CAD model of a crankshaft with the scan mesh superimposed on the model. The image below shows the Color Map Fitting. We first selected the flatness of the scanned mesh face. By turning on the checkbox for fitting deviation, the software will show how the scan data truly fits to the CAD model. Turning off the CAD model will give a better visual through the color map. In this example, we are setting to check for a flatness of 2 millimeters. What this means is that the worst-case scenarios for flatness are points that are plus or minus 0.4 millimeters. This means we should be well within tolerance. The colors indicate where the face is high and where it’s low. The resolution of the scanner comes into play and generally the edges are going to be where you see the majority of the deviation. Next, we can check parallelism to make sure that it’s within 5 millimeters. On [...]
5-Axis Machining – What are the Axes?
Five-axis machining is taking the machining world by storm, and for good reason. This type of manufacturing, in which computer numerical control is used to move cutting parts or tools along five different axes simultaneously, unlocks incredible potential for any shop. Five-axis machining reduces labor hours, eliminates extra setups, increases production efficiency, and results in beautiful, complex parts. Understanding 5-axis machining is less simple, though. To help, we are breaking down each of the five axes below. What are the three basic axes? Standard 3-axis milling takes place on the X-, Y-, and Z-axes. These three linear axes are the directions the spindle or part—depending on the machine—can move: X-axis: Left-to-right Y-axis: Forward-to-back Z-axis: Up-and-down Using all three axes at once, a machine can shave down material to create various three-dimensional objects. It is most useful in situations where the part does not require advanced work-holding, does not have deep or narrow cavities, and can be machined with one setup. For more complex parts, 5-axis machining is better. What are the “extra” axes on a 5-axis machine? In addition to the traditional three axes, 5-axis machining also uses two rotary axes: A-, B-, and/or C-. A-axis: Rotation around the X-axis B-axis: Rotation around [...]
3DGence Launches New Industry F421 3D Printer
3DGence recently announced the launch of their latest 3D printer, the new Industry F421 printer. This dual extruder 3D printer is designed for industrial applications where accuracy, speed, comfort, and safety of the entire 3D printing process are crucial. It offers: Enhanced, high-speed mechanics for high-temperature printing of advanced materials such as: PEEK, PEKK & ULTEM. Composite ready with reinforced components to handle sequential printing of end-use parts Large, user-friendly tablet oriented screen with enhanced workflow Standard safety features with e-stop, signal tower A range of connectivity options Please click the button below for more details. More Details
2021 3D Printed Ornament Challenge
Our annual 3D Printed Ornament Challenge Is On We had so much fun seeing all the creative designs in previous years that we couldn’t resist running this competition again. It's time to get your creative juices flowing and join in on the challenge to design your own 3D printable ornament. Not only will you have a chance to win an Amazon gift card to treat yourself, but you will also be able to give your unique creation to a friend or family member. We will print the winning designs and have the ornaments delivered before the holidays. There's no more meaningful gift than something that you created! Grand Prize will receive a $500 Amazon gift card, plus their 3D printed ornament. 2nd Place will receive a $200 Amazon gift card, plus their 3D printed ornament. All you need to do is get creative and start designing. Use your favorite tradition as inspiration and create an ornament that is fun, festive, and unique to you! Cimquest will use an internal vote to narrow the field down to 5 ornaments. The top 5 designs will be posted to our Facebook page for public voting. The design that receives the most combined likes will be the grand [...]
Mastercam 2022 Delivers Comprehensive Turning Solutions
Mastercam 2022 turning solutions delivers powerful toolpaths and techniques. From accepting and programming any CAD file to Dynamic Motion™ roughing and precision finishing, Mastercam 2022 gives you a variety of options to turn all your parts exactly as you need them. Mastercam 2022 features new Mill-Turn support, enhancements to 3D Turning Tools, Stock Diameter, and much more. New Options for Turning With Mastercam 2022, you can now define reusable holder assemblies. Create collections of adapters, extensions, and holders, and store them as an assembly. You can save time and avoid errors by creating reusable assemblies of modular components. These assemblies can be stored in a library and used for the creation of full 3D Lathe Tool assemblies. When defining stock dimensions in Job Setup, a new button lets you specify the outer or inner diameter by selecting an arc or radial face. After selecting the button, you are returned to the graphics window where you can select an arc or radial face. You can also select an edge. Mastercam automatically reads the proper diameter value from the selected geometry. Extended Support for Mill-Turn Mastercam 2022 introduces steady rest support for Mill-Turn which allows you to precisely position and simulate steady rests throughout your [...]
Introducing a New 3D Printer from XYZ Printing
XYZ Printing recently announced the release of their latest Selective Laser Sintering printer – the MfgPro236xS. The new MfgPro236xS allows a build volume of 230x230x250mm and is designed to meet the demanding requirement of aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and engineering companies’ applications. The MfgPro236xS comes with an open material platform option that makes it the ideal choice for on-demand manufactures, research institutions, and third-party material suppliers to become part of this ecosystem. Some of the specs include: 60 Watt laser 230x230x250mm (9"x9"x10") build volume 10% larger build area compared to MfgPro 230 Materials PA6, PA6FR, PA11, Carbon Fiber, PA12, TPU, FiberTuff Fastest Cooling Cycle in SLS 20% Power Refresh Rate for PA12, TPU Open Material Platform White parts easily dyes vibrant colors 12-month warranty included Extended warranties available For more details about this new 3D printer, please click the button below. More Details