Delcam recently revealed new information for the 2016 release of FeatureCAM, a feature-based CAM software.
Launched in 1995, FeatureCAM was the world's first feature-based programming software. Originally, its strength had layed in its ability to create machinable features from very little information, like rudimentary or geometrically simple CAD drawings.
Over its 20-year history, FeatureCAM has added more toolpaths and a wider range of machinery. It now encompasses mill-turn machines, 5-axis mills, wire EDM equipment and more.
In the modern-day industry, FeatureCAM's standout point is widely considered to be Delcam's patented Vortex roughing strategy.
The Vortex high-efficiency area-clearance strategy is for the optimal use of solid carbide tooling. First implemented in Delcam's PowerMILL 2014, it's since been added to and expanded on in FeatureCAM.
Carbide is a tough material and machining it can wear out tools quickly. FeatureCAM can efficiently and quickly machine carbide, which is a strength that the new release has built on.
Vortex aims to remove carbide material in the fastest way possible. It uses the full flute length as a cutting surface, which enables it to cut deeper and results in fewer passes.
In order to maintain optimal cutting conditions for the entire procedure, toolpaths must keep a controlled engagement angle between the cutter's surface and the stock. Vortex lets the user maintain feed rates over the entire toolpath, enabling larger step-downs with help from the system to maintain efficiency.
The new release of FeatureCAM brings more options for Vortex, allowing faster machining and longer tool life. New additions adjust and fine-tune the non-cutting movements of the 2.5D and 3D toolpaths.
The tool can be retracted and the feed rate can be manipulated individually to achieve optimal speed and efficiency. Another improvement in roughing is the ability to avoid tool-holder collisions on Z-level roughing toolpaths.
The update also brings improved groove milling. FeatureCAM now supports different types of roughing links, wind-fan approach and retract moves for finishing and better gouge checking for plunge and retract moves.
Multitasking, bar-fed milling machines, such as Mazak INTEGREX i-150 and Willemin-Macodel 408MT and 508MT, are now supported.
FeatureCAM 2016 supports more cut-off operations using milling tools and the machine's swivel angle can now be set to access the back of the component.
Toolpaths for 5-axis swarf machining can now be controlled by adding upper and lower Z limits. This is particularly convenient if there are limitations on tool length or if stepdown varies for different segments of the toolpath.
FeatureTURN simplifies tool selection by allowing the same tool to be used in multiple orientations.
The software's user interface has also been improved. By hovering a mouse pointer over an item, the item can be highlighted in part view and in the graphics screen. The update also integrates Autodesk RealDWG, a software library that lets developers read and write AutoCAD DWG files. This means faster DWG file import and support for DWG solid models.
For more information, see the FeatureCAM site.