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VX SmoothFlow technology boosts efficiency
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July 2008
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VX Corporation, which specialises in CADCAM for consumer products and mould tools, introduced SmoothFlow technology in Version 13 of its VX Machinist and VX End-to-End products.
The company reports that this machining technology is reducing milling time and extending tool life with optimal material removal.
'Traditional' CNC programs do not automatically compute tool loading which requires programmers to make conservative cuts at slower feed rates to avoid excess tool wear and breakage. These measures often increase cutting times and escalate tooling costs. CNC operators often try to compensate by dialing in higher or lower feed rates in an attempt to improve the overall process. Frequently, these same toolpaths use sharp 90° moves that increase wear and tear on the machine, resulting in maintenance downtime.
SmoothFlow technology allows users to machine cavities and pockets safely and efficiently by maintaining constant material removal during roughing thus extending tool life and reducing machine wear and tear. Higher feed rates are possible without the risk of tool breakage by reducing the radial pressure on the tool spindle, essential for optimising the efficiency of HSM machines.
SmoothFlow motion is softly contoured with corners and tight areas safely milled without full width cuts which prevents tool and spindle overload. All of these factors are critical for unattended machining to achieve extended tool life and reduced milling time.
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Author
Andrew Allcock
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