In a collaborative effort to enable 5-axis machining for users with Heidenhain TNC controls and Mastercam CAD/CAM software, a new collaborate postprocessor is now available. Called the Heidenhain TNC 5X Mill post processor. CNC Software, Inc., developers of Mastercam software, introduced it after coordinating development efforts between the two companies. Collaboration also included beta testers and industry resellers to best meet the goal of providing a consistent, quality Heidenhain translation post.

All Heidenhain control users that use Mastercam CAD/CAM software can now use this newly developed processor, including those using iTNC 530, TNC 620 and TNC 640 controls.

“Heidenhain is committed to ensuring that our control customers have the tools they need during any 5-axis machining application, and this collaboration post processor is just one example. We are now experiencing an increased demand in North America for our newest TNC 640 control for high precision 5-axis machine tools, and we want those customers to know that if they have Mastercam software, we are dedicated to providing ongoing translation updates as needed,” explains Gisbert Ledvon, Heidenhain TNC business development manager.

Mastercam 2020 Mill improves curved surface finishes
The updated Mastercam 2020 Mill offers expanded machining flexibility and an increased emphasis on speed and automation. Among the general improvements are updates to the Dynamic Motion tool path for faster and more streamlined programming, support for oval-form and lens barrel-form tools in Accelerated Finishing and enhancements for Toolpath Hole Definition and the Features list.

Mastercam’s Equal Scallop tool path is designed to improve surface finish across sloped, curved and flat surfaces. Now tool tip containment and ‘Closed’ or ‘Trimmed’ tool path offsets deliver optimal finishes for different types of complex shapes, the company says.

A new tool path, Blend, has been added to the 3D High Speed suite. Blend is based on the Surface Finish Blend tool path but is faster and results in better quality. It also includes the use of stock and holder checking.

Deburr can use ball end mills or lollipop undercut tools to break edges for three to 5-axis deburring. The software enables fast, automated part deburring using climb or conventional cutting, with more controls for selecting which area of a part to deburr.

Holemaking is now easier with Toolpath Hole Definition supporting the selection of solid features and lines, in addition to arcs, points and AutoCursor positions, the company says. Users can also pick all or some matching diameters and vectors.

Port Expert, an add-on, designed for creating multi-axis tool paths within cylinder head ports, complex tubes or deep pockets. It is now material-aware, allowing automated programming of remaining stock.

For further details contact Mecad Systems on TEL: 012 645 4300 or visit www.mecad.co.za