NCG CAM Solutions introduces NCG CAM release V12
1 min read
3D HSM CAM specialist NCG CAM Solutions has introduced various enhancements in the V12 release of its software, NCG CAM. The software is billed as compatible with any CAD package and has a user-friendly interface that makes it suitable even for only occasional users.
The ability to machine selected surfaces has been included in NCG CAM V12. This allows the user to select specific surfaces, then machine them to their very edges without the need to create a boundary first.
V12 also allows the user to generate a ruled surface from a set of curves, complementing the existing planar patch feature. In combination with the extract converted curves functionality in V11, the user can, for example, extend part surfaces so that machining carries on beyond their edges.
Users are now able to create a thread milling cycle. The canned cycles menu and dialogue have been changed slightly.
A tool size guide has been added, allowing the user to define a circle or disc that represents the cutter diameter, which can be moved over the part with the cursor. The user is therefore now able to determine a given cutter's accessibility, without having to create the passes or do a lot of measuring.
Users can now machine horizontal areas by plunging off the job and then milling in from the side, using core horizontal area passes. In certain materials, such as Inconel and many heat treated steels, machining in from the side gives far better tool life.
Stock models can now be created from multiple axis toolpaths, which will enable the user to visualise the stock resulting from a combination of 3, 3+2 and/or 5-axis toolpaths. The same stock model could also be used as a basis for rest roughing after a number of machining operations with different tool axes, or against which other toolpaths can be edited.
A Vericut tool list creator has been added to the NCG CAM post-processors, enabling Vericut users to check NC tape files for collisions between machine parts and workpiece when the tool axis is tilted.
Setting the Vericut data option in the post processor options that will create a tool list (*.tls) for the post processed operations. Once Vericut is started that file can be loaded, defining the cutter and toolholder based on their NCG CAM definitions.
Cambridge-based NCG CAM Solutions was established in 2009. Its CAM software solutions offer all the tools needed to manufacture prototypes, models, moulds, dies, patterns and finished products.
