We have come a long way since writing G-code manually, shaving hours off of programming and machine time. But, every now and then, even a solid model can take valuable time to modify, especially if the solid was imported from a CAD system that is not directly compatible with the CAM software. The clock ticks loudly when you need to create a whole new wireframe or solid to perform a minor tweak that should take [...]
Today we are going to discuss how to properly set up your PC to use a high-performance graphics card. If not plugged into the High-performance card, your Mastercam software might seem a bit slow, sluggish, or worse, it may crash either during startup or when you are using the software. Overall, Mastercam is a graphics intense application that requires more power than what the onboard graphics can provide. Using high-performance graphics cards helps the software [...]
This post is Part 3 of the topic: Leverage and import organic shapes into CAD and today we will introduce you to Generative Design. In previous posts, we briefly discussed the value of having the ability to capture organic shapes for use in CAD design. To illustrate this process, scanned our engineer’s hand and then integrated that scan into CAD in order to design a rotating Nespresso Pod holder. Now, we will finalize the CAD [...]
Today we’re going to cover a new enhancement to the Divide/Delete tool in Mastercam 2019. If you were to use the Divide/Delete tool in the past, you had to manually select the pieces of wireframe that you didn’t want to keep. While you can still individually select each piece of geometry that you want to delete with this feature, this can be a time-consuming and cumbersome process. Now, you can trim your geometry efficiently with [...]
There is a new enhancement in Mastercam 2019 for wireframe and curves functions when using STL files. In previous versions it was not possible to create wireframe geometry from STL files so their utility for toolpaths was limited. Now in Mastercam 2019, edges and vertices are recognizable snap locations for creating wireframe geometry. In the example above, we have three models displayed on the screen. We can analyze each to see their properties. [...]
Mastercam Align to Plane is a fairly new function inside of Model Prep. Many times, after importing models from other CAD software programs such as Solidworks and AutoCAD, the parts don’t line up with the Mastercam World Coordinate System (WCS). Now, in Mastercam 2019 this process has become simplified. You now have the option to either create a new WCS in relation to the parts current layout or transform the model and any additional [...]
Today we are going to explore one of the newest features in Mastercam 2019 called Axis Control. This new feature can be found inside of the Machine Simulation options and is a great tool to ensure all of the axis, X,Y, and Z along with A,B, and C all fall within the limits of your machine. Let’s begin with a part file that includes proper stock setup and some toolpaths on it to simulate. [...]
Mastercam 2019 Mill-Turn makes machining on today’s high-powered turning centers and full-function machining centers simpler and easier than ever before. Machines that eliminate multiple setups, manual part handling, redundant fixturing, and reduce idle time can boost production and maximize profitability. Adjust Tool Projection After loading tools, you now have the ability to adjust the tool’s projection length by dragging the tool in the graphics window. Mastercam will display the tool and its locator component in the graphics [...]
