08.04.2019

5 Ways CAM Software Cuts Your Programming Time In Half

Reducing programming times and improving the machining process is something that all job shop manufacturers are trying to achieve. So, how do you do it? Here are 5 things manufacturers can do to cut their programming time in half using CAD/CAM CNC software!

1. CAD File Importing

The ability to work with a large array of customer file-types may be the difference between gaining a new job or not. This is especially true when working with solid model files or wireframe drawings. If you are able to open them then you are able to edit them & even convert them to G-code. CAD is much quicker than doing the math in your head, even for you G-code warriors.

2. Cross-Posting

CAD/CAM software can write hundreds of lines of G-code in a matter of seconds, programming all kinds of CNC movements, whether moving by 2 axis, or utilizing 3, 3+2 or even 5. Users are able to cut everything from basic hole cycles to complex hard milling on 5 axis & multi-task machines. With post processors, you can write G-code for many different types of machine configurations, controllers and machines. Universality and machine independence allows to switch between control types and different machine configurations with ease. This provides users the ability to wire G-code for your current machine & the one you may get in the future.

3. Reporting & Simulation

Seeing & knowing what’s going on before you go to the machine can make all the difference. Visualizing something in your head is one thing, but being able to see it in real time is another. Before you set up any work offset or optimizing fixturing for a production run, wouldn’t you want to see it? Seeing the direction your tool is going, how far it’s sticking out and how much clearance you have is more than necessary. Simulation & reporting tools can help you navigate through costly mistakes and gain a better understanding of job requirements. Prove out processes well before the job material, equipment or tooling is in front of you.

4. Save & Load Machining Features

Recycle toolpath settings and establish standard processes for machining in the future. Every tool, material, setup & machine have a fine balancing act. How aggressively you cut, the stock you leave behind for finish & the pace at which you go has to be in sync with each other. Through experimentation and through learning from others, you can hold onto these best practices and use them over again.

5. Adaptive Toolpaths

CNC machines are both fast and powerful & it would benefit most machinist to take advantage of the modern cutting strategies that are available. Make deeper cuts more smoothly and increase material removal rates.

Dreambird's comments

Independently from the kind of machining our customer may utilize to achieve his goals, no matter what requirements are set to the finished product, Hexagon Production Software CAD/CAM brands can fully satisfy the customer with their versatility, modern technology and the highest standards. Nowadays, when the competition is high on the market and time is the most critical factor, a CAD/CAM solution like this is the one that really can cut down programming speed and shorten the product cycle as it is.

Have a look at Hexagon CAD/CAM solutions for sheet metal fabrication (RADAN), metal cutting and EDM (EDGECAM), mould&die design and manufacturing (VISI) and multi-axis machining of high complexity parts (WORKNC).