GibbsCAM 2011 release improvements to 5-axis and multi-task machining

Improvements in the GibbsCAM 2011 release include many new multi-task machining and 5-axis CNC programming features that optimise programming of complex requirements of the medical, aerospace and energy industry.

A new routine for 5-axis hole-making operations, aided by enhancements to GibbsCAM's automatic feature recognition, hole manager and hole wizard, makes programming 5-axis drill cycles much easier and much more efficient. Programming drill cycles at off-axis orientations will be very easy and will take a fraction of the time taken by other methods.

A new Operation Modifier allows converting 2.5- and 3-axis toolpaths for machining in 5 axes, which enables use of shorter tools to achieve smoother toolpaths at certain surface intersections and other geometric conditions.

Additional swarf cutting capabilities have been added, as well as a new 5-axis trimming (wireframe) strategy.

Support for B-axis (tilting live tooling) enables programming of 5-axis milling with Y-axis offsets on lathes and multi-task machines equipped with a live-tooling B-axis.

GibbsCAM support of thread whirling attachments is a key addition for multi-task machines with multiple axes (typically running with 5-axis simultaneous motion). Thread whirling attachments provide the rigidity and rotary tools to make screws of high length-to-diameter ratio, such as ball screws, worm shafts, feedscrews and acme screws.

Author
Celia Cadwallader

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