Tech Tips

Recent releases of Mastercam have implemented some big improvements to the Sweep function within the Solid Modeling function. Prior to these releases, Sweep operations required a fillet between entities on the Along curve when there was a change in direction of more than 5 degrees. Sweep is ideal for cylindrical-shaped parts. Fixtures, propeller blades, door handles, wheel spokes, exhaust pipes, and engine ports are some examples. We want to make sure you are taking advantage [...]

In this article, we will discuss Cartesian coordinates along with X,Y,Z orientation in Mastercam’s Planes Manager. When working with Mastercam, it is helpful to remember that we are working in a Cartesian coordinate system with regard to an X,Y,Z origin. The Mastercam X,Y,Z coordinates system also follows right-hand rule whereas X positive moves from the left to the right of the origin. This is also represented by the motion in common vertical CNC milling machines. [...]

How would you like a handy reference guide for all of Mastercam’s functions? The Mastercam 2021 Quick Reference Guide is one simple chart that shows all the Mastercam icons, what functions they call, and the associated keyboard shortcut. It’s the perfect thing to have near your computer. The back of the reference guide even shows quick tips for the on-screen editing tools. Did you forget how to use the Mastercam Dynamic Gnomon or need some [...]

This article will explain how to use the edited tool holder to create a custom tool assembly in a Mastercam tool library. With the tool holders defined, we can take advantage of gouge check and tilt strategies in the surface and multi-axis toolpaths. To create the tool assembly, we will use the Tool Manager in a Mastercam Mill part file. Open the Tool Manager and create a tool. Next, right-click on the tool and select [...]

Mastercam Lathe Operations Libraries make the programming of part families more efficient. Working from the first part in the family, the toolpath order of operations and tooling has already been established. To use these same operations in the series of parts first, select a group of toolpaths, then right-click in the Operations Manager and select Export. Remember to rename the operations file to prevent overwriting Mastercam’s default version of the file. Then Save the file. [...]

Mastercam 2020 allows you to use a tooling manufacturer's solid STEP files to define toolholders. To do this, start by opening the original STEP file downloaded from the tooling supplier and, with this geometry, reposition the holder so that it will rotate around Mastercam’s Z-axis relative to the top tool construction plane. Use the Dynamic Transform utility to do this. Now select both solid models and anchor the gnomon at the center of the bottom [...]