SolidCAM 2013 Modules Overview Interactive
SolidCAM 2013 Modules Overview Interactive
SolidCAM+SolidWorks
The complete integrated Manufacturing Solution
Table of Contents
SolidCAM 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
iMachining 2D. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
iMachining 3D. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.5D Milling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
2.5D Milling - Feature Recognition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
High Speed Surface Machining (HSS). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
3D Mill High Speed Machining (HSR/HSM). . . . . . . . . . . 30
Indexial 5-Axis Machining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Simultaneous 5-Axis Machining. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Turning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Mill-Turn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Wire Cut. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Solid Probe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
System Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
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The purpose of this booklet is to give you an overview of all available SolidCAM 2013
modules. There are SolidCAM Parts that demonstrate each of the modules, including a
SolidCAM Professor recording about each Part.
These Parts are included in the SolidCAM installation and located in your hard drive (full path:
C:\Users\Public\Documents\SolidCAM\SolidCAM2013\User\Getting_Started_Examples\SW\).
To enable correct loading of the Parts, make sure these Parts are always stored in this
default location.
You can view the SolidCAM Professor recording of each Part in one of the following ways:
Click the Play button
or
Click the Download button
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SolidCAM 2013
SolidCAM The leading CAM-Solution
integrated in SolidWorks
SolidCAM is the Complete, Best-in-Class Manufacturing
Suite for Efficient and Profitable CNC-Programming Inside
SolidWorks.
SolidCAMs CAM software, for all CNC applications, including the revolutionary
iMachining, is seamlessly integrated in SolidWorks and with full tool path
associativity to the SolidWorks model.
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
This approach shortens the learning curve for programmers, offers greater
geometry editing and manipulation power to manufacturing, and provides a
common tool for supporting interaction between designers and machinists.
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iMachining 2D
Imagine putting the knowledge and experience of
hundreds of CAM and CNC masters in the palm of
your hand Experience iMachining Wizard & Tool
path!
Patented iMachining: Simply Amazing
This is what customers, machine tool manufacturers and tooling companies alike
say about iMachining. The iMachining revolutionary CAM module, fully integrated
in SolidWorks, will make you and your CNC machines more profitable and more
competitive than ever before.
Provides optimal feeds and speeds, taking into account the tool path, stock
and tool material and machine specifications.
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
Using the Controlled Step Over technology, the iMachining tool path ensures
that the cutting conditions set by the Wizard are strictly adhered to.
SolidCAM with iMachining is the only CAM system that takes out the guesswork
from defining the cutting conditions and provides automatically the optimum
values for cutting.
MA
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iMachining
TechnologyWizard
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IN
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Feed Rate
Spindle Speed
Step Over
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iMachining 2D
This example illustrates the use of SolidCAMs iMachining technology to machine the part
above. The machining is performed on a 3-axis CNC-machine in two setups, from both
sides of the part.
These iMachining operations perform the cutting of the outside shape of the
part. An end mill of 12.7 mm (0.5) is used. Two chains are defined, with
the first being the Stock boundary and the second being the profile around
the part. The Stock chain is marked as open. iRough has a 0.25 mm (0.01)
allowance on the wall, and the iFinish operation finishes the profile.
These iMachining operations perform the cutting of the five circular through
pockets. An end mill of 12.7 mm (0.5) is used. Five chains are defined
to represent the five closed pockets. Since the pockets are closed, with no
PreDrilling or EntryChain defined, helical ramping is used to enter the bottom
of the pocket.
This HSR operation performs the rough cutting of the four large chamfers
on the ribs. An end mill of 12.7 mm (0.5) is used. Two boundaries are
picked off the edges the make up the chamfer and the Tool Relations is set
as centered. A 1.27 mm (0.05) step down is used and 0.127 mm (0.005)
allowance on the surfaces.
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
This HSS operation performs the finishing cut on the four large chamfers on
the ribs. The same tool as in the previous operation is used.
This drilling operation performs drilling of the holes located on the lower
surface of the part.
This iMachining operation finishes the bottom ledge on the underside of the
part. An end mill of 12.7 mm (0.5) is used. The floor radius is not machined
at this stage.
This iMachining operation machines away the excess material from the center
through hole of the part. This excess material was used for clamping from the
first side.
This iMachining operation finishes the circular face on the underside of the
part. An end mill of 12.7 mm (0.5) is used. A spiral tool path is performed
from the outside, collapsing towards the inner chain.
This Profile operation finishes the 6.35 mm (0.25) floor radius on the
underside of the part. A ball mill of 12.7 mm (0.5)t is used. The chain is
the bottom edge of the radius and the Tool side is set to center. The 0.13 mm
(0.005) floor offset is left after the first roughing pass and then removed with
the finishing pass. A 0.25 mm (0.01) Lead in/out arc is used.
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iMachining 2D
This example illustrates the use of SolidCAMs iMachining technology to machine the part
above.
This face milling operation machines the part face. A 100 mm end mill is
used. Machining is performed using the hatch technology.
These iMachining operations perform the cutting on the semi-open and closed
pocket. The first iRough and iFinish operations machine two larger open
pockets. An end mill of 12 mm is used. iRough operations have a 0.24 mm
allowance on the wall, and the iFinish operations finish the profiles. The second
and third pair of operations machine the smaller open and closed pockets.
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
The drilling operations perform center drilling and drilling of the holes located
on the upper surface of the part. The profile operation finishes the walls of
the holes.
These profile operations are created to machine chamfers on the part edges
using a 6 mm chamfer drill.
The chamfer option is selected from Rest material/Chamfer section.
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iMachining 3D
Utilizing Proven iMachining 2D & Technology Wizard
Algorithms for Roughing and Semi-Finish of Molds,
Complex 3D Parts and 3D Prismatic Parts
iMachining 3D provides amazing 3D machining results, regularly providing 70%
savings in machining time, and can reach up to 90% savings.
iMachining 3D automatically produces a complete, ready to run CNC program with
optimal cutting conditions, achieved by the expert Knowledge-based Technology
Wizard, to rough and rest rough a complete 3D part in a single operation, both for
3D surfaced and prismatic parts.
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
Deep roughing utilizes the whole length of the flute, shortening cycle time
and increasing tool life
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iMachining 3D
This example illustrates the use of SolidCAMs iMachining 3D technology to machine the
part above.
Roughing (i3DSurfacing_target_3)
This operation removes the bulk of material using the 3D Surfacing strategy.
An end mill of 16 mm is used. The machining is performed in 2 large step
down cuts till the bottom of the part. Then Rest Rough is performed in the
step up manner leaving steps with the automatically defined value of Scallop.
A machining allowance of 0.2 mm remains unmachined for further finish
operations.
Roughing (i3DSurfacing_target_4)
This operation removes the material left after the previous operation. A bull
nose mill of 12 mm with corner radius of 0.6 mm is used. The Rest Rough is
performed in the step up manner leaving steps with the automatically defined
value of Scallop. A machining allowance of 0.2 mm remains unmachined for
further finish operations.
These HSM operations use the Combined, Horizontal, and Rest Machining
strategies for finishing different areas of the part, including floors and corners.
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
This example illustrates the use of SolidCAMs iMachining 3D technology to machine the
electronic box shown above.
This drilling operation perform drilling of the through hole. The operation
helps prepare for the tool entry in the following iMachining operation. A
16mm drill is used.
Roughing (i3DRough_target)
This operation removes the bulk of material using the 3D Surfacing strategy.
An end mill of 12 mm is used. The machining is performed in one step
down cut till the bottom of the part. Then Rest Rough is performed in the
step up manner leaving steps with the automatically defined value of Scallop.
A machining allowance of 0.38 mm remains unmachined for further finish
operations.
Roughing (i3DRough_target_1)
This operation removes the material left after the previous operation. An
end mill of 6 mm is used. This operation cleans the floor and corners left
unmachined. A machining allowance of 0.38 mm remains unmachined for
further finish operations.
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2.5D Milling
The Most Powerful & Easiest to Create 2.5D CNC
Milling Tool paths: Full Interactive Control + Feature
Recognition!
The most straightforward, easy to use interface, seamlessly integrated in SolidWorks,
combined with the latest tool path technology, provides the fastest, most powerful
and easiest to create 2.5D CNC Milling tool paths.
Easily work on parts, assemblies, and sketch geometry to define your CNC
machining operations. Quickly place fixtures and components for full visualization.
Automatic rest material machining to cut the material remaining after using
larger tools
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
Engraving of a text on flat and wrapped faces and middle line engraving of
a multi-line text
3D Contour operation drives the tool along a 3D curve, cutting the model
at different depths
Special operation for machining of the side slots with undercut by a T-slot
tool
Drill Recognition
Automatic searching and grouping of holes from the solid model with option
to modify resulting geometry manually. A single Drill Recognition operation can
machine groups of holes on varying levels and depths.
Pocket Recognition
Takes SolidCAMs powerful pocketing operation to the next level, by automatically
identifying all pockets on the CAD model. All strategies and options of the
standard Pocket operation are also available here combined with variable levels
and depths recognized from the model faces.
Cycle Toolbox
A very useful and convenient Cycle Toolbox provides additional specialized suboperations for slots, corners, bosses, ruled surface, etc.
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2.5D Milling
This example illustrates the use of SolidCAM 2.5D Milling to machine the part shown in
the video recording. The machining is performed on a 3-axis CNC machine in one setup.
The following SolidCAM operations are created to perform the machining:
This face milling operation machines the parts face. A 40 mm end mill is
used. Machining is performed using the hatch technology, rough removing 0.5
mm from the stock top face. The fillet option is used to finish the corners.
This operation machines the external contour of the part. A 16 mm end mill
is used. The material is removed in three step down cuts, and an additional
finish pass is made to remove the remaining 0.3 mm from the wall.
These three operations machine the pocket and the islands in this part. The
first operation creates the large island in the part using a 16 mm end mill.
The open pocket technology is used with Use profile strategy and Approach
from outside options, while 0.2 mm are left on the walls of the island for a
finishing pass.
The second operation machines the islands surface to create nubs. The same
tool is used, and wall finish is applied to the nubs.
The third operation machines a pocket inside the island, a 10 mm end mill is
used and a helical ramping lead in is chosen to penetrate the surface.
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
The first operation machines the corners of the pocket using a 3 mm end
mill. The rest material option is selected to machine only the material left on
the corners from the larger tool.
The second operation machines only material left on the corners of the profile
using the same 3 mm end mill.
To create a chamfer on the sharp edges left from previous operations, a profile
operation is used with a 8 mm chamfer drill.
The chamfer option is selected from Rest material/Chamfer section.
This slot milling operation machines a side groove. A 36 mm slot mill is used.
Finish passes are made on the groove floor, ceiling and walls.
These drilling operations perform center drilling and drilling of the holes
located on the upper surface of the part.
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2.5D Milling
This example illustrates the use of SolidCAM 2.5D Milling to machine the part shown
above. The machining is performed on a 3-axis CNC machine in two setups, using two
SolidCAM Coordinate systems.
The following SolidCAM operations are created to perform the machining:
The upper face of the part is machined in only one pass using a 100 mm
face mill.
To remove material from the part, a hole is drilled using a 10 mm drill (D_D_
Tur1-1A) to make penetrating the surface easier for the rough mill used later.
Two pocket operations (P_F2_Tur1-2A and P_F3_Tur1-2A) are used to
machine the pocket in the part, working in a Contour strategy and using a 10
mm rough mill.
These operations rough the external contour of the part leaving 0.2 mm on the
walls. A 10 mm rough mill is used.
Using ToolBox cycles, a spiral tool path is created to penetrate this slot
effectively using the whole cutting length of the 10 mm rough mill.
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
The round corners on the external contour are machined with a 5 mm rough
mill to remove remaining material that could not be machined with a larger
tool. Rest machining strategy is selected from the Rest Material\Chamfer
section. The second operation finishes the corners with the same tool.
These are semi-finish and finish operations applied on the part external and
internal surfaces using different end mills. A smaller end mill is used for finish.
Chamfer machining
(F_F7_Tur1-7A; F_F3_Tur1-7A; F_F8_Tur1-7A)
These profile operations are created to machine a chamfer on the part edges
using a 2 mm chamfer drill.
Holes machining
(D_drill; D_drill1; D_drill2; D_drill; D_drill1; D_drill2)
These drilling operations perform center drilling and drilling of the holes
located on the cover part faces.
The part is now rotated to a new setup and a Face milling operation is used to
machine the part lower surface. Then, a profile operation is used to break the
edges on the lower side of the part.
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This example illustrates the use of SolidCAM ToolBox cycles to machine the sample part
shown above.
The following SolidCAM operations are created to perform the machining:
In this cycle, machining of the open slot is performed. The geometry consists
of two chains. The machining is performed in a spiral manner.
In this cycle, machining of wide open slot is performed. The first cutting pass is
done in the spiral manner along the determined spine of the slot, and then the
machining of the slot walls is performed by a number of profiles equidistant
to the slot geometry.
In this cycle, machining of wide closed slots is performed. The first cutting
pass is done in the spiral manner along the determined spine of the slot, and
then the machining of the slot walls is performed along the slot geometry.
In this cycle, the tool path starts from the slot center approaching it in a zigzag
movement and then moves toward the walls.
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
In this cycle, one-pass machining of the slot with the width equal to or smaller
than double diameter of the tool is performed.
In this cycle, machining of a closed slot with the width equal to the tool
diameter is performed. The machining is done in the zigzag manner; the last
cut is horizontal to clean the slot floor.
SolidCAM automatically determines the spine of the slot and performs the
machining according to the spines shape.
In this cycle, the profile of a pocket is machined while preserving the rest of
the material fixed to the wall using small thin bridges.
In this cycle, machining of the open corner area is performed. The tool
machines the corner in a number of cuts equidistant to the selected geometry.
In this cycle, machining of several bosses is performed starting from one face.
It is done in a number of equidistant Clear Offset passes parallel to the selected
bosses geometry.
In this cycle, you perform machining of slots having the O-ring shape. The
geometry is defined as a pair of closed chains, the first one being an external
chain and the second one an internal chain.
For more information, refer to the SolidCAM Milling Training Course.
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This example illustrates the use of SolidCAMs Automatic Feature Recognition to machine
the mold base part shown above. The machining is performed on a 3-axis CNC machine.
The following SolidCAM operations are created to perform the machining:
This face milling operation performs the machining of the top face of the
cover. A face mill of 40 mm is used.
This pocket recognition operation automatically recognizes all the pocket areas
in the model and performs their machining. An end mill of 20 mm is used.
The open pocket machining is used to perform the approach movement from
an automatically calculated point outside the material. The tool descends to
the necessary depth outside the material and then moves horizontally into the
material. A special machining strategy is applied to the through pockets; they
are deepened in order to completely machine the pocket.
This drill recognition operation automatically recognizes all the hole features
available for the machining with the current Coordinate System and performs
the center drilling of all the holes in the mold base. A spot drill of 10 mm is
used. The drilling depth is customized for each group of holes.
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
These drill recognition operations perform the machining of all the hole
features automatically recognized in the mold base. SolidCAM automatically
recognized the upper level and drill depth from the model. The through holes
are extended in order to completely machine the holes.
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
Advanced Linking
Total freedom to control tool entry and tool exit motion, to remove the need for
surface modifications. Tool paths can be extended or trimmed, gaps and holes can
be jumped, and you can choose from 9 different lead-in/lead-out options.
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This example illustrates the use of several SolidCAM High Speed Surface Machining (HSS)
strategies to machine the base part shown above.
The following SolidCAM operations are created to perform the machining:
These operations utilize the HSS Projection strategy to perform the machining
of four fillet areas. A ball nose mill of 10 mm is used with a corner radius of
5mm to fit the corresponding surface radius. The depth cut option is used to
machine the whole depth in several cutting passes.
This operation performs the machining of two internal fillet areas using the
morph between two boundary curves strategy. This strategy is utilized to
generate the tool path evenly distributed between the fillet boundaries. The
gouge checking strategy is used to avoid possible gouges between the tool and
the faces of the machining area. A ball nose mill of 10 mm is used.
This operation performs the machining of the part bottom face. With this
strategy, SolidCAM enables you to perform the machining of faces with cutting
passes parallel to the selected curve. In this case, SolidCAM generates a pocketstyle tool path enclosed within the boundaries of the selected face. An end mill
of 10 mm is used.
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
This operation performs the machining of the external fillet and an inclined
face adjacent to the fillet. The Morphing between two boundary curves
strategy is utilized to generate the tool path evenly distributed between the fillet
boundaries. The tool path is generated using the scallop of 0.004 mm in order
to obtain excellent surface quality. The gouge checking strategy is used to avoid
possible gouges between the tool and the faces of the machining area. A ball
nose mill of 6 mm is used.
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This example illustrates the use of several SolidCAM High Speed Surface Machining (HSS)
strategies to machine the base part shown above.
The following SolidCAM operations are created to perform the machining:
This operation performs machining of two external side areas using the Morph
between two adjacent surfaces strategy. This strategy is utilized to generate
the tool path evenly distributed between the fillet surfaces. A ball nose mill of
10mm is used.
These operations perform machining of the external upper and bottom fillets
and chamfers on the internal surfaces. The Morphing between two boundary
curves strategy is utilized to generate the tool path evenly distributed between
the boundaries. The gouge checking strategy is used to avoid possible gouges
between the tool and the faces of the machining area. A ball nose mill of 10
mm is used.
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
This operation performs machining of the part external face. With this strategy,
SolidCAM enables you to perform machining of the face with cutting passes
parallel to the selected curve. In this case, SolidCAM generates a tool path
closing the large gaps between the edges by the Direct linking with a tangent
arc.
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It offers unique machining and linking strategies for generating 3D high speed
tool paths. It smooths the paths of both cutting moves and retracts, wherever
possible, to maintain a continuous machine tool motion - an essential requirement
for maintaining higher feed rates and eliminating dwelling.
HSM Features
With SolidCAMs HSM module retractions to high Z levels are kept to a minimum.
Angled where possible, smoothed by arcs, retractions do not go any higher than
necessary, minimizing air cutting and reducing machining time.
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
The result of HSM is an efficient and smooth tool path that translates to increased
surface quality, less wear on your tools and a longer life for your machine tools.
With demands for ever-shorter lead and production times, lower costs and
improved quality, High Speed Machining is a must in todays machine shops.
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This example illustrates the use of several HSR and HSM strategies to machine the mold
cavity shown above.
The following SolidCAM operations are created to perform the machining:
This operation performs rest roughing of the cavity. A bull nose tool of 8
and corner radius of 2 mm is used with a Step down of 1 mm to remove the
steps left after the roughing. The same machining allowance as in the previous
roughing operation is used.
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
This operation uses the Rest Machining strategy for semi-finishing of the mold
cavity corners. The semi-finishing of the model corners enables you to avoid
tool overload in the corner areas during further finishing. A ball nose tool of 6
is used for the operation. A virtual reference tool of 16 is used to determine
the model corners where the rest machining is performed. The machining
allowance of 0.25 mm remain unmachined for further finish operations.
This operation performs Linear finishing of the shallow faces (from 0 to 42).
A ball nose tool of 8 is used for the operation. The Apply fillets option is
used.
This operation uses the Rest Machining strategy for finishing of the model
corners. A ball nose tool of 4 is used for the operation. A virtual reference
tool of 12 is used to determine the model corners where the rest machining
is performed.
Chamfering (HSM_Bound_target)
This operation uses the Boundary Machining strategy for the chamfering of
upper model edges. A chamfer drill tool is used for the operation. The chamfer
is defined by the external offset of the drive boundary and by the Axial thickness
parameter.
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This example illustrates the use of several HSR and HSM strategies to machine the mold
insert shown above.
The following SolidCAM operations are created to perform the machining:
This operation performs the HM roughing of the part using the HM spiral step
over. An end mill of 20 is used with a Step down of 5 mm to perform the
roughing. A machining allowance of 0.3 mm remains unmachined for further
semi-finish and finish operations.
This operation performs the rest roughing of the part. A ball nose tool of 12
and corner radius of 6 mm is used with a Step down of 2 mm to remove the
steps left after the roughing. The same machining allowance as in the roughing
operation is used.
Semi-finishing (HSM_Lin_target)
This operation performs Linear semi-finishing of the part. The ball nose
tool of 10 is used with a Step down of 2 mm. The machining allowance
of 0.1mm remain unmachined for further finish operations. The Apply fillets
option is used.
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
This operation uses the Rest Machining strategy for semi-finishing of the mold
insert corners. The semi-finishing of the model corners enables you to avoid
tool overload in the corner areas during further finishing. A ball nose tool of 6
is used for the operation. A virtual reference tool of 12 is used to determine
the model corners where the rest machining is performed. The machining
allowance of 0.1 mm remain unmachined for further finish operations.
This operation performs Linear finishing. A ball nose tool of 6 is used for
the operation. The Apply fillets option is used. The Constraint boundaries are
created manually to allow working on a separate area.
This operation uses the Rest Machining strategy for finishing of the corners. A
ball nose tool of 4 is used for the operation. A virtual reference tool of 8.2
is used to determine the model corners where the rest machining is performed.
This operation performs Constant step over finishing of the concave model
faces down to a certain depth. A ball nose tool of 4 and corner radius of 2
mm is used with the constant step over of 0.05 mm in horizontal and vertical
directions.
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This example illustrates the use of several HSR and HSM strategies to machine the
electronic box shown above.
The following SolidCAM operations are created to perform the machining:
This operation performs the contour roughing of the part. An end mill of 30
is used with a Step down of 10 mm to perform the roughing. A machining
allowance of 0.5 mm remains unmachined for further semi-finish and finish
operations.
This operation performs the rest roughing of the part. A bull nose tool of 16
and corner radius of 1 mm is used with a Step down of 5 mm to remove the
steps left after the roughing. The same machining allowance as in the roughing
operation is used.
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
This operation performs Horizontal Machining of the flat faces. A bull nose
tool of 12 and corner radius of 0.5 mm is used.
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Experience single machine home position with One-click orientations for indexed
setups - SolidCAM speeds up multi-sided machining by eliminating multiple
coordinate system constructions. Define a CoordSys on the fly, by just picking a
face, and continue programming your part.
Our coordinate system manager keeps track of all necessary data for each
tool orientation
Solid Verify simulation shows tool holders and fixtures, together with
material removal for all machining operations in all positions
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
SolidCAMs post processor can be setup to handle all rotations and work offset
shifting, to eliminate the need for setting up multiple work offsets at the machine.
Whether your controller can calculate part rotations internally or it needs the post
processor to handle rotations, SolidCAM has this covered.
For controllers with advanced plane rotation or coordinate rotation functions,
SolidCAMs post processors are built to use these internal CNC functions. If you
have a machine without such functions, users can input the part location inside
SolidCAM and the GCode will handle all the GCode transformations for each
rotation.
At SolidCAM our philosophy to indexial milling is simple. From the software to
the GCode, make the process the same for indexial milling as for single sided
milling. The customer should not have to do any special functions or tricks inside
the software to machine multi-sided parts. It should just work!
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This example illustrates the use of SolidCAM Multi-sided machining to complete the
machine fixture shown above, using a 5-axis CNC Machine.
The following SolidCAM operations are created to perform the machining:
This Face Milling operation machines the top face of the fixture. Machine
Coordinate system #1 (Position #1) is used for the operation.
This Face Milling operation machines the side face of the fixture. Machine
Coordinate system #1 (Position #2) is used for the operation.
These Face Milling operations machine the rest of the faces: front, back,
and side. Machine Coordinate system #1 (Positions #3, 4, 5) is used for the
operations.
These Profile operations machine the step located on the top face of the fixture
using a 20 mm end mill with 10 mm step down and clearing the offset and
then making the final pass and removing the floor and wall offsets.
This Pocket operation machines the open pocket located on the top face,
using the Open pocket strategy with the Use profile strategy option. Machine
Coordinate system #1 (Position #1) is used for the operation.
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SolidCAM + SolidWorks = The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
This Pocket operation machines the closed pocket located on the top face of
the fixture, using the Contour strategy. Machine Coordinate system #1 (Position
#1) is used for the operation.
These Pocket operations machine the rest of pockets located on the top face
of the fixture, using strategies suitable for open and closed pockets. Machine
Coordinate system #1 (Position #1) is used for the operations.
These Pocket operations machine an open pocket located on one side face
of the fixture and then another pocket located on the opposite side. Machine
Coordinate system #1 (Positions #2, 3) is used for the operations.
These drilling operations perform center drilling, drilling, and tapping of the
holes located on the top face of the part.
This Profile operation completes machining of the holes located on the top
face.
These Profile operations break the edges of the different part faces. Machine
Coordinate system #1 (Positions #15) is used for the operation.
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This example illustrates the use of SolidCAM indexial 5-axis machining to complete the
machine fixture shown above.
The following SolidCAM operations are created to perform the machining:
This Face Milling operation machines the top face of the fixture. Machine
Coordinate system #1 (Position #1) is used for the operation.
This Face Milling operation machines the side faces of the fixture. Machine
Coordinate system #1 (Position #2) is used for the operation. The Transform
option is used to create a circular pattern of operations around the revolution
axis in order to machine all side faces.
This Face Milling operation machines the inclined faces of the fixture. Machine
Coordinate system #1 (Position #5) is used for the operation. The Transform
option is used to create a circular pattern of operations around the revolution
axis in order to machine all side faces.
This Profile operation machines the inclined faces of the fixture. Machine
Coordinate system #1 (Position #5) is used for the operation. The Transform
option is used to create a circular pattern of operations around the revolution
axis in order to machine the side surfaces.
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The Pocket operation machines the closed pocket located on the top face,
using the Contour strategy. Machine Coordinate system #1 (Position #1) is
used for the operation
The Profile operation finishes machining of the pocket. A taper mill of 10
angle is used to perform the machining of the inclined face with 3 mm step
down.
These operations machine the side faces of the fixture using in Machine
Coordinate system #1 (Position #2), while the Transform option creates a
circular pattern of operations around the revolution axis.
The first operation is a pocket operation that machines closed pockets on the
central part of each surface.
The second operation is created to machine the radii on the edges using the
Morph between two adjacent surfaces strategy. A 6 mm ball end mill is used.
The third operation is a drilling operation that uses a 10 mm spot drill with
a 90 angle.
These operations perform drilling of the holes on the top surface in Machine
Coordinate system #1 (Position #1). The first operation uses a 10 mm spot
drill with a 90 angle. The second operation uses a 6.8 mm drill.
These operations perform drilling of the holes on the side surface in Machine
Coordinate system #1 (Position #2). The first operation uses a 6.8 mm drill.
The second operation uses a 8 mm tap tool with a pitch of 1.25 mm.
The first operation is created to machine a chamfer on the top surface edges.
Machine Coordinate system #1 (Position #1) is used for the operation. A
12mm chamfer drill is used, and Chamfer is selected in the Rest material\
Chamfer section. The second operation machines chamfers on the side surface
edges. Machine Coordinate system #1 (Position #2) is used for the operation.
The same chamfer drill is used. The Transform option creates similar chamfers
on all four sides.
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Flowline cutting produces a tool path that follows the natural shape of the
component
Multi-surface finish machining keeps the tool normal to the surface (or with
specified lead and lag) to provide a smooth surface finish.
Advanced tool tilting control and direct control on side tilting and lead\lag
angles
Automatic gouge avoidance strategies that check each part of the tool and
the holder
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SWARF Machining
SWARF machining allows the side of the tool to be tilted over to machine the side
wall at the correct angle. SWARF cutting uses the whole cutting length of the tool,
resulting in better surface quality and shorter machining time.
Multi-Blade Machining
The Multi-blade machining operation easily handles
impellers and bladed disks, with multiple strategies to
efficiently rough and finish each part of these complex
shapes. Multi-bladed parts are used in many industries
and this operation is specifically designed to generate
the necessary tool paths for the different multi-blade
configurations.
Port Machining
The Port machining operation is an easy to use method for machining ports with
tapered lollipop tool, and has collision checks for the entire tool. It provides both
roughing and finishing tool paths to make ports from castings or billet.
Multi-Axis Drilling
The Multiaxis Drilling operation uses SolidCAMs
automatic hole recognition and then performs
drilling, tapping or boring cycles, at any hole
direction, easily and quickly. All the advanced
linking, tilting and collision avoidance strategies
are available in this operation.
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This example illustrates the use of the SolidCAM multiaxis simultaneous machining
module for turbine blade machining.
The following Sim. 5-axis operations are used to perform the semi-finish and finish
machining of the turbine blade:
Blade Semi-finishing
(5X_selected_faces; 5X_selected_faces_1)
The first operation provides the semi-finish of the turbine blade using a bull
nose tool of 16 with a corner radius of 4 mm. The Parallel Cuts strategy is
used to perform the spiral machining of the blade.
The tool tilting is defined using the Tilted relative to cutting direction option
with lag angle of 20. The tool contact point is defined at the front tool face.
This combination of parameters enables you to perform the machining by the
trochoidal surface of the tool.
Gouge checking is performed to avoid the possible collisions of the tool with
the planar surface of the blade base. The remaining material will be machined
at a later stage using a special tilting strategy.
The second Sim. 5-axis operation provides semi-finishing of the blade area,
close to the blade base. This area was not machined in the previous operation
because of the gouge protection. A bull nose tool of 8 with a corner radius
of 2 mm is used for the operation.
The tool tilting is defined using the Tilted relative to cutting direction option
with a lag angle of 20. In addition to the lag angle, a side tilting angle of 10 is
defined to avoid the gouging of the planar face of the blade base.
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This operation performs the finishing of the blade. A bull nose tool of 8
with a corner radius of 2.5 mm is used for the operation.
The tool tilting is defined using the Tilted relative to cutting direction option
with a lag angle of 20. In addition to the lag angle, a side tilting angle of 10 is
defined to avoid the gouging of the planar face of the blade base.
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This example illustrates the use of the Sim. 5-axis operation for an aerospace part machining.
A number of Sim. 5-axis operations are defined in order to perform the finish machining
of the inclined faces of the aerospace frame and their adjacent fillets. The inclined faces are
forming an undercut area that cannot be machined using 3 axis milling; 5-axis milling has to
be used with the appropriate tilting strategy, to machine the inclined faces.
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Fillet machining
(5X_selected_faces4; 5X_selected_faces5; 5X_selected_faces6)
These operations perform the finish machining of the fillets adjacent to the
walls.
A ball nose tool of 4 is used for the operation.
The Projection (User defined) strategy is used to generate a single pencil milling
pass, machining the fillets.
The Tilted through curve tilting strategy is used to perform a smooth transition
between different tool axis orientations.
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This example illustrates the use of the Sim. 5 axis operation for a machine part.
A number of Sim. 5-axis operations are defined in order to perform machining of the
inclined internal and external walls of the part. The inclined faces cannot be machined
using 3 axis milling; to machine them, 5-axis milling has to be used with the appropriate
tilting strategy.
These operations perform the rough machining of the part: face milling, profile
machining, HM roughing, open and closed pocket machining.
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Turning
SolidCAM Module for Fast and Efficient Turning
SolidCAM provides a most comprehensive turning package with powerful tool
paths and techniques for fast and efficient turning.
SolidCAM Turning provides functionality for a wide range of machine tools,
including 2-Axis lathes, multi-turret configurations, sub-spindle turning centres
and Mill-Turn machines.
On a Mill-Turn machine, C-, Y- and B-Axis milling and drilling take place within
the same program as the turning, providing a fully integrated and associative
programming solution.
SolidCAM produces advanced rough and finish profile turning, together with
support for facing, grooving, threading and drilling in either canned cycles or long
GCode.
Tool path calculation takes into consideration the complete tooling Insert, tool
Holder and previously machined material, to avoid gouging and eliminate air
cutting.
Standard fixture libraries are available and specialized fixtures can be added.
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Updated Stock
SolidCAM has the ability to keep the stock updated live within the operations
tree. Updated stock is supported from the most basic 2 axis turning centre, right
through to a CYB multi-turret, sub-spindle Mill- Turn CNC machine.
On a sub-spindle turning centre, when a component is transferred from the main
spindle to the sub spindle, the updated stock transfers with it. Any subsequent
machining on the sub-spindle will detect the stock in the state that it left the main
spindle, ultimately providing the most efficient machining sequence possible.
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Turning
This example illustrates the use of the SolidCAM Turning for the machining of the flange
shown above.
The following Turning operations are used to perform the machining of the part:
This operation is used to generate tool path for front face machining. An
External roughing tool is used for the operation. The offset of 0.1 mm is left
on the face for further operations.
This operation is used to generate the tool path for the external faces roughing.
An External roughing tool is used for the operation. The Rough option is
selected as a Work type for this operation to perform machining in a number
of equidistant passes.
Drilling (DRILL)
This Drill operation is used to drill a hole in the center of the part. A 23 mm
flat drill is used for this operation.
To rough the internal faces of the part and create chamfers on the hole, an
internal turning operations is used along with an internal roughing tool. The
Non-descending motions strategy is used here to avoid collisions.
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This turning operation is used to rough the parts internal groove. An Internal
grooving tool is used for the operation. Roughing type is set to Smooth for a
smooth finish.
These operations are used to finish the internal surfaces of the part using
internal grooving tools. The Work type is set to Finish only to perform only
finishing cuts.
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Turning
This example illustrates SolidCAMs functionality for rest material machining, during
longitudinal and facial rough/finish turning operations, performed on the part shown
above.
The following Turning operations are used to perform the machining of the part:
This operation is used to rough the parts face using an External roughing tool.
To perform machining on the face of the part, Face front is selected as the
Mode. The Rough work type is selected for this operation to rough the part in
a number of equidistant passes.
This turning operation is used to rough the external contour of the part. The
Mode is set to Long external to create passes along the parts rotational axis.
Drilling (DRILL)
This drilling operation is used to make machining the internal contour easier
and more efficient. A 33 mm drill is used.
This operation performs roughing of the internal contour of the part using an
internal roughing tool. This operation uses Smooth as a rough type to create a
smoother surface.
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These external turning operations finish the contour roughed in the Contour
turning operation. The external roughing tool with additional angle is used in
the first operation to remove the material left unmachined. In the next two
operations, the Work type is set to Finish only. The third external finishing
operation is performed on the selected contour using Smooth as the roughing
type to create a smoother surface.
The first operation is used to remove the material left from internal roughing
operation. To reach a particular location, the tool is mounted in a different
orientation.
This operation is used to remove the material left from external roughing
operation.
The first operation is used to remove the material left from internal roughing
operation. To reach a particular location, the tool is mounted in a different
orientation. Similarly, the other operation are used to finish the remaining
surface.
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Mill-Turn
Easy Programming for Complex Multiple Turret and
Multiple Spindle CNC Machines
The fastest growing and most demanding class of CNC machines on the market today
are multi-task machines, that combine several capabilities into one machine. Multiple
spindles, multiple turrets, material being machined in multiple stages, transferring from
spindle to spindle without handling, stock inserted at one end, finished parts coming
out the other.
4/5-Axis Simultaneous Mill-Turn machines have many uses and allow much more
flexibility and capabilities, not offered from other machine configurations. With this
in mind many of these have multi-axes, upper turrets, lower turrets, CYB and Sub
Spindles.
SolidCAM has the advanced technology to support the programming of all the latest
multi-function CNC machines, providing powerful programming tools that are easy to
learn and use, with the ultimate in flexibility and configurability.
The use of tail stocks, steady rest, sub spindles, rotary and linear turrets along with
C-Axis, CY-Axis and B-Axis, are regular features on todays Mill-Turn machine tools.
In this collision rich environment, the programming of these machines is made
simple and safe by utilizing SolidCAMs turning and milling operations in a single
environment.
Support for multi-turret and multi-spindle programming, with turret synchronization
and full machine simulation, is seamlessly integrated into one extremely powerful
package.
All SolidCAM milling and turning operations, including the powerful, revolutionary
iMachining operations, are available for the programming of mill-turn machines. All
ancillary devices can also be defined and taken into account for simulation and gouge
checking.
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Machine ID
Defines the CNC machine components and their kinematics enabling users to setup
and support the most complicated mill-turn machines easily and effectively. Machine
axes are defined in machine ID by their direction, rotation speed or linear feed and
physical limits.
Mill-Turn iMachining
In a mill-turn part, using iMachining 2D & 3D saves you programming and cycle
time. Additionally, iMachining has the very important advantage of exerting smaller
cutting forces, eliminating vibrations and excessive tool wear, even in situations of
non-rigid workpiece holding.
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Mill-Turn
This example illustrates the use of the SolidCAM Mill-Turn module for the machining of
the optical part shown above on a 4-Axis Mill-Turn CNC-Machine.
The following Turning and Milling operations are used to perform the machining of
the part:
These turning operations are used to generate the tool paths for the rough and
finish machining of the external and internal cylindrical faces.
These operations perform the machining of the screw slot and four holes using
SolidCAM capabilities for facial milling. Position #1 of Coordinate System #1
is used to perform the facial machining.
This Pocket operation is used to perform the machining of the side faces
of the model. The Contour strategy is used in combination with a negative
Wall offset value in order to generate an overlapping tool path that completely
machines the faces.
Position #3 of Coordinate System #1 is used for the operation. The Transform
option is used to create a circular pattern of operations around the revolution
axis.
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This Drill operation is used to perform the machining of two holes located
on the side face of the model. Position #3 of Coordinate System #1 is used
for the operation.
This Profile operation is used to perform the machining of the slot using
indexial 4-axis milling.
Position #4 of Coordinate System #1 is used for the operation.
An end mill of 2.5 is used for the operation.
These Drill and Pocket operations are used to perform the machining of three
counter bore holes located on the cylindrical face.
Position #5 and Position #6 of Coordinate System #1 are used for the
operations.
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Mill-Turn
This example illustrates the use of the SolidCAM Mill-Turn module for the machining of
the console part shown above on a 5-axis Mill-Turn CNC-Machine.
The following Turning and Milling operations are used to perform the machining of
the part:
Turning (TR_contour)
This turning operation is used to generate the tool path for the rough and finish
machining of the external cylindrical faces.
This Profile operation is used to perform the machining of the cube sides using
the SolidCAM indexial milling capabilities. Position #4 of Coordinate System
#1 is used for the operation. The Transform option is used to create a circular
pattern of operations around the revolution axis in order to machine all the
cube faces.
An end mill of 16 is used for the operation.
This Profile operation is used to perform the indexial milling of the horizontal
faces at the front part of the console. Position #4 of Coordinate System #1 is
used for the operation.
The Transform option is used to create a circular pattern of operations around
the revolution axis in order to machine both sides of the consoles front part.
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These Profile operations are used to perform the machining of the inclined
faces using the B-axis. Positions #5 and #6 of Coordinate System #1 are used
for these operation.
An end mill of 16 is used for the operations.
This Profile operation is used to perform the machining of the cylindrical face
at the front part of the console. Position #4 of Coordinate System #1 is used
for the operation.
An end mill of 16 is used for the operation.
This Pocket operation is used to perform the machining of the pocket located
on the inclined faces using the B-axis. Position #5 of Coordinate System #1 is
used for the operation.
An end mill of 6 is used for the operation.
These Profile operations are used to perform the machining of the inclined
faces on the cube using the B-axis. Positions #7 and #8 of Coordinate System
#1 are used for the operation.
An end mill of 16 is used for the operations.
These Drill operations are used to perform the machining of the inclined faces
on the cube using the B-axis. Positions #4, #6, #7 and #8 of Coordinate
System #1 are used for the operations.
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Mill-Turn - 2 Spindles
This example illustrates the use of the SolidCAMs front and back spindles functionality
for machining of the connector part shown above on a 5-axis Mill-Turn CNC-Machine.
The following Turning and Milling operations are used to perform the machining of
the part:
These operations are used to perform turning and facial milling of the front
faces of the connector. Position #1 of Coordinate System #1 is used for the
operation. The back spindle is not used in these operations; only the main
spindle is used.
These Profile and Drill operations are used to perform the machining of the
pads and holes located around the cylindrical surface, in the middle part of the
connector. Position #5 of Coordinate System #1 is used for the operation.
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These Profile and Drill operations are used to perform the machining of the
pads and holes located around the conical surface, in the middle part of the
connector. Position #6 of Coordinate System #1 is used for the operation.
These operations perform turning and facial milling of the back faces of the
connector using the back spindle. Position #1 of Coordinate System #1 is
used for the turning operations. Position #4 of Coordinate System #1 is used
for milling operations. Separate setup settings are used for machining of the
part clamped in the back spindle.
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Wire Cut
SolidCAM Wire-EDM Module
SolidCAM Wire EDM handles profiles and tapers with constant and variable
angles, as well as 4-Axis contours. SolidCAM's intelligent algorithms prevent the
falling of material pieces by automatic pocket processing. SolidCAM provides full
user control of stop-points and of wire cutting conditions at any point of the
profile or taper.
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The wire_cut.prz example illustrates the use of the SolidCAM Wire Cut module for the
conical gear machining.
The following Wire Cut operations are used to perform the machining of the part:
This Profile operation is used to machine the central through cut. The later
option is used for the Auto Stop technology, generating a postponed separate
sub-operation, preventing the material dropping.
The 4-axis operation is used to machine the conical gear shape. The insertion
point of the wire is chosen outside the cylindrical stock, simplifying the
approach of the wire to the machining contour.
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Solid Probe
New Module for Home Definition and On-Machine
Verification
SolidCAM Solid Probe Module
SolidCAM is bringing you Solid Probe, a new SolidCAM module that provides
capabilities for Home definition and On-Machine Verification, using probes on the
CNC machine, to control the quality of machined parts and tooling.
Full visualization of all the probe movements, provided by SolidCAM Machine
Simulation, enables you to avoid any potential damage to the Probe tool.
Solid Probe, with all its advantages, is a must module for every machinist
using probes:
On machine Verification
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Home Definition
Solid Probe provides an easy solution for home setting, using 16 different cycles,
to easily define home positions, replacing manual setup procedures.
On-Machine Verification
Solid Probe cycles are used for measuring of machined surfaces without transferring
the part to a CMM machine - the part is inspected on the machine tool itself.
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Solid Probe
This example illustrates the use of the SolidProbe Cycles in multiple positions to check the
precision of machining for different areas of the part.
This Angle Y cycle is used to check if the cylinder surface is straight. Position
#1 of Coordinate System #1 is used for the cycle.
This Boss cycle is used to check the width of the cylinder. Position #1 of
Coordinate System #1 is used for the cycle.
This Pocket cycle is used to check the length of the cylinder, measuring the
distance between two boundary surfaces. Position #1 of Coordinate System
#1 is used for the cycle.
This Single point Z cycle is used to check the height of the cylinder, measuring
the position of the highest point. Position #1 of Coordinate System #1 is used
for the cycle.
These Cylinder cycles are used to check the diameters on both ends of the
cylinder. Position #2 of Coordinate System #1 is used for the first cycle and
Position #3 is used for the second one.
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These Hole cycles are used to check the diameters of the holes. Position #4
of Coordinate System #1 is used for the first cycle and Position #5 is used for
the second one.
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System Requirements
Microsoft Windows 7 x32/x64 Professional and Ultimate
editions,
Microsoft Windows Vista x32/x64 Business and Ultimate
editions with Service Pack 1,
Microsoft Windows XP Professional with Service Pack 2 or 3,
Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 Edition
Intel Core, Intel Core2 Duo, Intel Core Quad, Quadcore, Intel Xeon,
AMD Phenom, AMD Phenom II, AMD Athlon X2 DualCore - class processor
2 GB RAM or more (4 GB or more for x64 operating system is
recommended for large CAM-Parts machining)
An OpenGL workstation graphics card (512 MB RAM
recommended) and latest driver
Mouse or other pointing device
CD drive
Internet Explorer version 6 if you are using the SolidCAM online
help
For viewing SolidCAM User Guides and Training Courses,
Adobe Acrobat version 9 or higher is recommended
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2.5D Milling
Wire EDM
iMachining
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