Feature-based CAM software for mills, multi-tasking lathes and wire EDM

www.featurecam.com

Getting Started
 FeatureCAM 2015 R3

Getting Started
FeatureCAM
Copyright © 1995-2015 Delcam Ltd. All rights reserved.
Delcam Ltd has no control over the use made of the software
described in this manual and cannot accept responsibility for any
loss or damage howsoever caused as a result of using the software.
Users are advised that all the results from the software should be
checked by a competent person, in accordance with good quality
control procedures.
The functionality and user interface in this manual is subject to
change without notice in future revisions of the software.
The software described in this manual is furnished under licence
agreement and may be used or copied solely in accordance with the
terms of such licence.
Delcam Ltd grants permission for licensed users to print copies of
this manual or portions of this manual for personal use only.
Schools, colleges and universities that are licensed to use the
software may make copies of this manual or portions of this manual
for students currently registered for classes where the software is
used.

Acknowledgements
This documentation references a number of registered trademarks
and these are the property of their respective owners. For example,
Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks or
trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States.

FeatureCAM Version: 2015 R3 Date: 26 March 2015 12:22

Contents
Getting started in FeatureCAM 1
Starting FeatureCAM for the first time................................................................. 2
Creating a new file .............................................................................................. 4
Screen layout ...................................................................................................... 5
Getting help ........................................................................................................ 6

Introduction to 2.5D milling 8

Defining the Stock ............................................................................................... 8
Creating the features .......................................................................................... 9
Viewing the part ................................................................................................ 12
Simulating the toolpaths.................................................................................... 13
Order of manufacturing operations ................................................................... 15
Automatic ordering operations.................................................................. 16
Manual ordering options ........................................................................... 18
Part documentation ........................................................................................... 19
Controlling the strategies .................................................................................. 20
Generating NC code ......................................................................................... 21
Tool mapping .................................................................................................... 22
Changing the post processor ............................................................................ 22
Saving the NC code .......................................................................................... 23

Introduction to turning 24
Defining the stock ............................................................................................. 24
Preparatory steps ............................................................................................. 26
Defining the geometry ....................................................................................... 27
Creating the features ........................................................................................ 30
Viewing the part ................................................................................................ 35
Simulating the toolpaths.................................................................................... 37
Order of manufacturing operations ................................................................... 38
Part documentation (Turning) ........................................................................... 40
Generating NC code (Turning).......................................................................... 41
Changing the post processor ............................................................................ 41
Saving the NC code .......................................................................................... 42

Introduction to turn/mill 43
Preparatory steps ............................................................................................. 44
Defining the geometry ....................................................................................... 44
Creating the features ........................................................................................ 47

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Contents • i

 Viewing the part ................................................................................................ 48
Creating three radial holes on the face ............................................................. 49
Engraving the face ............................................................................................ 50
Creating three slots ........................................................................................... 53
Simulating the toolpaths.................................................................................... 54

Introduction to 3D milling 55
Defining the Stock ............................................................................................. 56
Defining the geometry ....................................................................................... 56
Creating the bottle surface ................................................................................ 60
Viewing the part ................................................................................................ 61
Creating a surface milling feature ..................................................................... 63
Simulating the toolpaths.................................................................................... 66

Introduction to wire EDM 67

Defining the stock ............................................................................................. 67
Creating the profile ........................................................................................... 68
Creating a wire EDM feature............................................................................. 70
Simulating the wire EDM toolpath ..................................................................... 71
Generating NC code ......................................................................................... 73
Adding a taper angle ......................................................................................... 74

Index 77

ii • Contents FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

Getting started in
FeatureCAM

FeatureCAM is a CAD/CAM software suite that automates machining

and minimizes programming times for parts on mills, lathes, and
wire EDM.

The functionality available to you depends on which

components you have licensed.
FeatureCAM generates toolpaths based on the features of the part,
and automatically selects appropriate tools, determines roughing
and finishing passes, and calculates feeds and speeds.
This Getting Started guide provides step-by-step instructions that
highlight some of the features of this versatile software.
FeatureCAM is very easy to use, and does not require any specialist
computing knowledge.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Getting started in FeatureCAM • 1

 Starting FeatureCAM for the first time
1 From the Start menu, select All Programs > FeatureCAM >
FeatureCAM.

You can also start the program by double-clicking the

FeatureCAM icon on your desktop.

The first time you start FeatureCAM, it runs a program to create
the tools and materials database.
2 Click OK to begin the configuration. This displays the Tool and
Material Setup dialog.

3 To create a local database, select On my local computer.

If you want multiple computers to share the same tool and
material information:
a Select On another computer that I will access over a network.
b Click the Browse button, and use the Database Location dialog
to select the folder where the database is located.

You need to create a database folder on your network first,

and then copy an empty MDB database from the
FeatureCAM CD-ROM to this location. The default database
is created by MS Access, and should be accessed using the
MS Jet database driver. You may use a different database
type, such as MS SQL Server. For more information, refer
to the online help.

You need to have the Shared Network Database module to

use this option.
4 Click Next.

2 • Getting started in FeatureCAM FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 5 Choose the tools to load:

Inch - loads only the inch tools.

Metric - loads only the metric tools.
Both - loads both inch and metric tools.
6 Click Next.
7 If you chose to load both tool types, you are asked which tool
type you use more often. Select Inch or Metric, and click Next.
8 Click Finish to initialize the database.

The tools database specifies the set of tools used by

FeatureCAM to perform manufacturing operations. For best
results, use the Tool Manager (available from the
Manufacturing menu) to customize the database to reflect the
tools in your shop.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Getting started in FeatureCAM • 3

 Creating a new file
Starting FeatureCAM displays the New Part Document Wizard.

1 Select New file in the New Part Document Wizard, and click Next.
2 Choose a Type of Milling Setup.

3 Select the Unit of Measure (Inch or Millimeter).

You can change the default dimension units later, by

selecting Options > File Options from the menu.
4 Click Finish.

4 • Getting started in FeatureCAM FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 Screen layout
The FeatureCAM interface contains a number of standard Windows
elements, such as toolbars, dialogs, context menus, and wizards.

Title bar displays the type of part setup in round brackets, in this
case (Milling), and the name of your part file in square brackets, in
this case [FM1]. When you have any unsaved changes in your part
file, an asterisk (*) is displayed next to its name.
Menu bar provides access to a number of menus. Selecting a
menu, such as View, opens a list of associated commands and sub-
menus. Sub-menus are indicated by a small arrow to the right of
the text. For example, selecting View > Principal Views displays a
list of commonly used views.
Toolbars provide quick access to the most commonly used
commands in FeatureCAM.
The graphics window is the main working area.
Toolbox window with the Steps panel, Part View panel, and
Browser.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Getting started in FeatureCAM • 5

 The Steps panel contains an ordered list of steps for creating part
programs. Each step is a wizard that presents a series of dialogs
for each process. They are listed in the order in which you should
use them during the process of creating a part program.
The Part View panel provides a hierarchical view of the part.
The Browser contains information on the latest features available
in FeatureCAM, including example files that you can load straight
into FeatureCAM.
Results window contains the automatically generated
documentation including tooling lists, setup sheets, and the NC part
programs. Selecting one of the tabs at the bottom of the window
changes the content of this window.
Assistance bar displays help for the current command.
Feature/Geometry Edit bar lets you select and edit a feature, or
enter the point locations and parameters for geometry creation.
Status bar shows your current drawing units, tool crib, and post
processor settings, as well as your keyboard status and information
about the simulation when you run one.

Getting help
FeatureCAM provides a variety of ways for you to get help. Context-
sensitive help displays help for the current task. You can also refer
to the numerous examples in the Examples folder, located in the
FeatureCAM root directory. Finally, if you cannot find an answer to
your question, you can visit our website or contact our technical
support.

Online help
The online help documentation is your primary source for in-depth
technical information about FeatureCAM. It covers all FeatureCAM
modules, and is accessed from the Help menu, or by clicking on
the toolbar.

Context-sensitive help
You can use one of the following methods to get help relevant to the
current task:
 Some commands automatically display the help in the Assistance
bar.

6 • Getting started in FeatureCAM FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

  Hovering the mouse over a toolbar icon displays a brief
description.

 Pressing F1 displays the relevant help page.

 Most FeatureCAM dialogs have the Help button. Clicking it
displays the relevant help page.

 Click the Context Help button on the toolbar. When the cursor
has changed to a question mark (?), click a menu item, button or
dialog for more information.

Links
You can find FeatureCAM information from the Help menu:
 Help > FeatureCAM on the Web for product news, online support,
training information, discussion forum, and mailing list.
 Help > Check for a FeatureCAM Patch for product updates.
 Help > FeatureCAM API Help for documentation on the FeatureCAM
API (Application Programming Interface).

Technical Support
If you have any questions related to FeatureCAM, which you cannot
find an answer to in the documentation, you can contact the Delcam
technical support service. Email [email protected],
describing your problem as precisely as possible. This support is
free for the first 60 days after your initial purchase and 30 days
after the purchase of an upgrade.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Getting started in FeatureCAM • 7

Introduction to 2.5D
milling

This example shows you how to create some simple features,

generate toolpaths and output the toolpaths used to machine the
part.
1 Start FeatureCAM (see page 2).
2 Create a new file (see page 4).
3 Create the stock (see page 8).
4 Create the features (see page 9).
5 Viewing the part (see page 12).
6 Simulating the toolpaths (see page 13).
7 Part documentation (see page 19).
8 Controlling the automation (see page 20).
9 Changing the post processor (see page 22).
10 Generating NC code (see page 21).
11 Tool mapping (see page 22).
12 Saving the NC code (see page 23).

Defining the Stock

The stock is the initial material from which you cut your part. When
you create a new part, the Dimensions page of the Stock wizard is
displayed. It enables you to determine the shape and dimensions
for the stock, the stock material, part program zero, and the
coordinate system for modeling.

8 • Introduction to 2.5D milling FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 1 On the Dimensions page of the Stock wizard:

a Enter a Thickness of 1 (25 mm).

b Enter a Width of 4 (100 mm).
c Enter a Length of 5 (120 mm).
d Click Finish.
2 Click OK to accept the default values of the Stock wizard.

Creating the features

This step shows how to create Hole and Rectangular Pocket
features.

English units Metric units

1 Create a Hole feature.

a Click the Features step in the Steps panel.

b In the New Feature wizard, select Hole in the From Dimensions
section, and click Next.
c Enter a Diameter of 0.5 (12 mm), and click Next.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to 2.5D milling • 9

 d Enter a hole center location of X 1.0 (25 mm) and Y 1.0 (25
mm), and click Next.
This displays the Strategies page. This page controls the types
of operations used to cut the feature. The default operations
for a Hole feature are to spot drill and then drill the hole. If
the Hole has a chamfer, the default is to cut the chamfer with
the spot drill operation.
e Accept the default strategy settings by clicking Next.
The Operations page shows a summary of the operations to
cut the feature, the automatically selected tools, and the
feeds and speeds.

From the Finish menu button select the Finish

option.

2 Create a Rectangular Pocket feature.

a Click the Features step in the Steps panel.

b In the New Feature wizard, in the From Dimensions section,
select Rectangular Pocket, and click Next.
c Accept the default dimensions by clicking Next.
d Enter a pocket location of X 0.75 (15 mm), and Y 2.5 (60 mm),
and Z 0 (0 mm), and click Next.

10 • Introduction to 2.5D milling FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 The Strategies page shows that roughing and finishing
operations are created.

e Click the Finish button.

3 Use the Features step to create a second Hole with a

diameter of 0.5 (12 mm), located at X=4 (95 mm) and Y=3 (75
mm).

4 Use the Features step to create another Rectangular Pocket

the same dimensions as the first, but positioned at X=2.5 (55
mm), Y=0.5 (15 mm).

5 Select File > Save, and save the part as milling.fm.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to 2.5D milling • 11

 Viewing the part
To look at the part in a different orientation you can select one of
the standard predefined views. These options are available from the
Standard toolbar:

1 To change the view to an isometric view, click the Isometric

button on the Standard toolbar.

2 To change the view to a front view, from the Principle View

menu button, click the Front button.

12 • Introduction to 2.5D milling FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 3 Click the Isometric button to return to the isometric view.

Simulating the toolpaths

Now you have created the features, FeatureCAM automatically:
 Selects the most appropriate tools and operations;
 Recommends machining strategies;
 Calculates speeds and feeds;
 Generates toolpaths and creates the NC code.
To view the simulated toolpath:

1 Click the Toolpaths step in the Steps panel. This displays the
Simulation toolbar.

2 Select the 3D Simulation option, and then click Play to

start the simulation. If the Automatic Ordering Options dialog
appears, click OK to close it. This accepts the default ordering
options.
This displays a solid 3D rendering of the cutting process.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to 2.5D milling • 13

 If all tools are displayed in gray in the simulation, select
Options > Simulation > General from the menu, and select
the Tool Colors option, then click OK to close the dialog.
This displays tools in different colors so you can see which
features are machined by each tool.

Click the Play button on the Simulation toolbar to see

the changes.

3 Click the Play to Next Operation button. This displays the spot
drill operation.

4 Repeat step 3 to view each subsequent operation until you

complete the simulation.

5 Click Eject . This removes the Simulation toolbar.

14 • Introduction to 2.5D milling FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 Order of manufacturing operations
The Op List tab in the Results window shows all of the operations
needed to machine the features. A yellow warning sign next to an
operation indicates a potential problem with that operation. In this
case, if you see any warnings ignore them.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to 2.5D milling • 15

 This section looks at:
 The automatic ordering options. (see page 16)
 The manual ordering options. (see page 18)

Automatic ordering operations

You can control the automatic ordering of operations by using either
rules or operation templates. The turning tutorial looks at operation
templates (see page 38).
1 Select the Automatic Ordering option on the Op List tab. This
ensures the automatic ordering rules are applied to the
operations.
2 Change the automatic ordering to group together the operations
which use the same tool.

a Click the Ordering Options button.

b In the Automatic Ordering Options dialog, select Minimize tool
changes, deselect everything else, and click OK.

3 Simulate the part.

a Select the Toolpaths step from the Steps panel.

This displays the Simulation toolbar.

b Click the 3D Simulation button.

c Click the Play button.

If the Automatic Ordering Options dialog appears, click OK to
close it. Notice that the simulation first performs all the spot-
drills, then the drills, and then the rough and finish milling for
the pockets.

d Click the Stop button when simulation is complete to exit

the simulation mode.
4 Change the automatic ordering to move the finish operations to
the end of the list.

16 • Introduction to 2.5D milling FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 a Click the Ordering Options button.
b In the Automatic Ordering Options dialog, select Do finish cuts
last, deselect everything else, and click OK.

This changes the order of operations in the Operation List.

5 Simulate the part.

a In the Simulation toolbar, click Play .

The finish cuts for the two pockets are now cut last.

b Click Stop when simulation is complete.

6 Change the automatic ordering to match the order of the
features in the Part View panel.

a Click the Ordering Options button.

b Deselect everything, and click OK.
c Open the Part View panel by clicking on .
The tree view contains all the setups and features you have
created.
d Click the rect_pock2 item in the Setup1 node, and drag it up
above hole2.

7 Simulate the part.

a In the Simulation toolbar, click Play .

The second pocket is cut as the second feature.

b Click Stop .

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to 2.5D milling • 17

 Manual ordering options
The automatic ordering of operations determined the order by a set
of rules. You can also specify an exact ordering of operations
manually.
1 Select the Manual Ordering option on the Op List tab.
2 In the Fixed Operation Ordering dialog, select Do Not Show This
Warning Again, and click OK.

3 Select the spotdrill operation for hole2 from the list, and drag it
up ahead of the drill operation for hole1.

4 Simulate the part.

a In the Simulation toolbar, click Play . The simulation

performs the operations in the new order.

b Click Stop when simulation is complete.

5 Selecting Automatic Ordering to return to automatic ordering.
6 Click OK to close the Automatic Operation Ordering dialog.

If you want to erase the simulation and remove the

Simulation toolbar, click Eject .

18 • Introduction to 2.5D milling FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 Part documentation
As well as simulating the part manufacture, the simulation
generates tool and operation lists. The tools selected are based on
your tool database. You can print this information to use as an
operator's checklist, using the File > Print menu option.
1 Click the Details tab in the Results window to display the
Manufacturing Operations sheet.

2 Select the Tool List option at the top of the Details tab to show
the Manufacturing Tool Detail sheet. It contains all of the tools
used to create the part based on the tool crib you selected.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to 2.5D milling • 19

 Controlling the strategies
You can control the strategies used to manufacture the part from
the properties dialog.
1 Open the Part View panel.
2 Right-click on hole1 under the Setup1 node, and select the
Properties option.

3 In the Properties dialog:

a Select the Strategy tab

b Deselect the Spot Drill option
c Click OK.

4 Select the Toolpaths step from the Steps panel.

5 In the Simulation toolbar, click the 3D Simulation button, and

then click Play to start the simulation.

20 • Introduction to 2.5D milling FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 There is no spot drilling for the first hole. If you look
through the operations list, there is only one spotdrill
operation listed. FeatureCAM optimizes the part
manufacturing process, but you control the level of
automatic optimization.

6 Click Eject . This removes the Simulation toolbar.

Generating NC code
FeatureCAM generates the NC code to manufacture parts on a CNC
machine. You can generate NC code after you have simulated the
part, and therefore calculated the toolpaths.

1 Select the NC Code step from the Steps panel. This displays
the NC Code dialog.

2 Click the NC Program button to generate the code.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to 2.5D milling • 21

 Tool mapping
To change the location of the tools in the tool changer:

1 Select the NC Code step from the Steps panel. This displays
the NC Code dialog.

2 Click the Tool Mapping button. This displays the Tool Mapping
showing the current tool order.

3 To move the center drill to the 5th position in the tool changer:
a Select Center_5 in the table.
b Enter a Tool Number of 5 in the Slots frame.
c Click Set.

You cannot change the number in the table.

4 Click OK to save the changes, and close the Tool Mapping dialog.

Changing the post processor

To change the post processor:
1 Select Manufacturing > Post Process from the menu. This displays
the Post Options dialog.
2 Click Browse to view available post processors.
The default folder for posts is C:\Program
Files\Delcam\Examples\Posts.

22 • Introduction to 2.5D milling FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 3 Select your post processor and click Open.
The new post processor is displayed in the CNC File field.
4 Click OK to exit the Post Options dialog and use the new post
processor; click Cancel to exit the dialog and keep the original
post processor.

5 Select the Toolpaths step from the Steps panel.

6 Run a simulation of the part to regenerate the NC code.

Saving the NC code

To save an NC program:

1 Select the NC Code step from the Steps panel. This displays
the NC Code dialog.

2 Click the Save NC button in the NC Code dialog.

3 In the Save NC dialog, accept the default filename and folder,
and click OK.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to 2.5D milling • 23

Introduction to turning

This tutorial shows you how to create a simple part, generate

toolpaths and output the toolpaths used to machine the part.
1 Start FeatureCAM (see page 2).
2 Create a new file (see page 4), but select a Type of Turn/Mill
Setup or Turning Setup.
3 Create the stock (see page 24).
4 Preparatory steps (see page 26).
5 Defining the geometry (see page 27).
6 Creating the features (see page 30).
7 Viewing the part (see page 35).
8 Simulating the toolpaths (see page 37).
9 Order of manufacturing operations (see page 38).
10 Part documentation (see page 40).
11 Changing the post processor (see page 22).
12 Generating NC code (see page 41).
13 Saving the NC code (see page 23).

Defining the stock

The stock is the initial material from which you cut your part. By
default, the Stock wizard (Dimensions page) opens on the screen as
soon as you create a new part. It enables you to set the shape and
dimensions for the stock, the stock material, part program zero, and
the coordinate system for modeling.

24 • Introduction to turning FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 1 On the Dimensions page of the Stock wizard:

a Enter an OD (outside diameter) of 4 (100 mm).

b Enter a Length of 5 (125 mm).
c Enter an ID (inside diameter) of 0 (0 mm).
d From the Finish menu button select the Finish and Edit
Properties option.

This displays the Stock Properties dialog.

2 In the Stock Properties dialog enter a Z of 0.0625 (1.5 mm), and
click OK.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to turning • 25

 Preparatory steps
The preparatory steps determine the coordinate system and tool
crib.
1 Select Options > Turning Input Modes > 3D (XYZ) from the menu to
enable you to enter coordinates as X, Y, and Z values.
2 Select Manufacturing > Set Tool Crib from the menu to display the
Select Active Tool Crib dialog.
3 Select the tools option from the Crib List, and click OK.
4 To display the complete part:

a Click the Rotate View menu button to display the View

menu:

b Click Center All .

26 • Introduction to turning FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 Defining the geometry
This shows you how to design your part.

1 Draw two lines:

a Click the Geometry step in the Steps panel. This displays

the Geometry Constructors dialog.

b Select the Create more than 1 option, and click the Line from
two points button. This displays the Feature/Geometry Edit
bar.

c Create two lines that define the outer profile, in the

Feature/Geometry Edit bar:
For point 1, enter an XYZ 1 of X 2 (50 mm), Y 0, Z -3.5 (-88
mm).
For point 2, enter an XYZ 2 of X 1 (25 mm), Y 0, Z -3.5 (-88
mm).

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to turning • 27

 Press Enter. This draws a line in the graphics window.

d Create a second line:

For point 1 enter an XYZ 1 of X 1 (25 mm), Y 0, Z -3.5 (-88
mm).
For point 2 enter an XYZ 2 of X 1 (25 mm), Y 0, Z 0.
Press Enter to create a second line.

2 Create a chamfer to trim your lines.

a Click the Geometry step in the Steps panel.

b In the Geometry Constructors dialog, in the list of Fillet options
click the Chamfer button.
c In the Feature/Geometry Edit bar, enter:
A width of 0.25 (6 mm).
A height of 0.25 (6 mm).
d Position your mouse pointer close to the chamfer location. The
chamfer snaps into place.

28 • Introduction to turning FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 e Click to place the chamfer on your drawing. The chamfer
automatically trims your lines.
3 To turn the part you need to convert these three individual lines
into a single curve (chain the curve).

a Select the Curves step from the Steps panel.

b In the Curves Creation dialog, select the Pick Curve Pieces

button.
c In the graphics window, click locations , , and . Each
line segment changes color when selected.

d In the Feature/Geometry Edit bar, name the curve turn, and

press Enter.
4 Create third line which you will use to create a Bore feature.

a Click the Geometry step in the Steps panel.

b In the Geometry Constructors dialog, click the Line from two
points button.
c In the Feature/Geometry Edit bar:
For point 1 enter an XYZ 1 of X 0.625 (16 mm), Y 0, Z 0.
For point 2 enter an XYZ 2 of X 0.625 (16 mm), Y 0, Z -3.75 (-94
mm).
d Press Enter.
5 To chain the bore curve:

a Select the Curves step from the Steps panel.

b In the Curves Creation dialog, select the Pick Curve Pieces

button.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to turning • 29

 c In the graphics window, click locations 4 and 5 (you select the
same line twice).

d In the Feature/Geometry Edit bar, name the curve bore, and

press Enter.

Creating the features

This shows you how to create the turning features.

1 Select the 2D Turned Profiles button, on the Display Mode

toolbar, to switch to a simplified 2D representation of the part.

To open the Display Mode toolbar, select the View > Toolbars
menu option, select the Display Mode option, then click OK.
2 Create a Turn feature.

a Click the Features step in the Steps panel.

30 • Introduction to turning FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 b If you have the Turn/Mill module, the New Feature wizard asks
you which type of feature you want to create. Select the
Turning option, and click Next.

c Select Turn in the From Curve section, and click Next.

d In the Curve field select turn from the list.

Click the Pick Curve button to select the curve graphically.

The dialog minimizes to reveal the graphics window beneath.
Click the curve you named turn earlier.
In this particular case, two objects are available for selection:
a line and a curve. Whenever your selection needs to be
clarified, FeatureCAM opens the Select dialog.
In the Select dialog, select turn, and click OK.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to turning • 31

 e From the Finish menu button, select the Finish and Create
More option to continue creating features.

3 Create a Face feature.

a In the New Feature wizard, select the Turning option, and click
Next.
b In the From Dimensions frame, select Face, and click Next.
c On the Dimensions page:
Enter a Thickness of 0.0625 (1.5 mm).
Enter an Outer Diameter of 4 (100 mm).
Enter an Inner Diameter of 0.
Click Next.
d Click Finish and Create More.
4 Create a Hole feature.

32 • Introduction to turning FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 a In the New Feature wizard, select the Turning option, and click
Next.
b In the From Dimensions frame, select Hole, and click Next.
c On the Dimensions page:
Enter a Depth of 3.75 (94 mm).
Enter a Diameter of 1.0 (24 mm).
Click Next.
d On the Location page enter a Z of 0.
e Click Finish and Create More.

5 Create a Bore feature by using the same process you used to

create the Turn feature. Use the curve named Bore.

6 Create a Groove feature.

a In the New Feature wizard, select the Turning option, and click
Next.
b In the From Dimensions frame select Groove, and click Next.
c On the Dimensions page:
Select a Location of ID.
Select an Orientation of X axis.
Enter a Diameter of 1.25 (31 mm).

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to turning • 33

 Enter a Depth of 0.125 (3 mm).
Enter a Width of 0.25 (6 mm).
Leave the other settings at 0.
Click Next.
d On the Location page enter a Z of -3 (-75 mm).
e Click Finish and Create More.

7 Create a Thread feature.

a In the New Feature wizard, select the Turning option, and click
Next.
b In the From Dimensions frame, select Thread, and click Next.
c On the Dimension page:
Select Get the thread dimensions from a standard thread.
Select OD.
In the Designation field select the 2.0000- 4.5 UNC (M50-15 for
metric).
Click Next.
d On the Dimensions page:
Select a Thread of Right hand.
Enter a Thread Length of 1.0 (24 mm).
Click Next.

34 • Introduction to turning FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 e Click Finish and Create More.

8 Create a Cutoff feature.

a In the New Feature wizard, select the Turning option, and click
Next.
b In the From Dimensions frame select Cutoff, and click Next.
c On the Dimensions page:
Enter a Diameter of 4 (100 mm).
Enter an Inner Diameter of 0.
Enter a Width of 0.122 (3 mm).
Click Next.
d On the Location page enter a Z of –4.5 (–112 mm).
e Click Finish.

Viewing the part

You have been working in a 2D view.
To look at the part in a different orientation you can select one of
the standard predefined views. These options are available from the
Standard toolbar:

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to turning • 35

 1 To return to a 3D view of the model, click the 2D Turned Profiles
button, on the Display Mode toolbar.

2 Click the Isometric View button on the Standard toolbar.

3 Shade the part.

a Open the Part View panel, and select bore1 under the Setup1
node.

b Click the Shade Selected button on the Display Mode

toolbar.
c Select thread1 in the Part View panel.

d Click the Shade Selected button again.

4 Click the Unshade All button on the Display Mode toolbar to

return to the wireframe view.

36 • Introduction to turning FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 Simulating the toolpaths
Now you have created the features, FeatureCAM automatically:
 Selects the most appropriate tools and operations;
 Recommends machining strategies;
 Calculates speeds and feeds;
 Generates toolpaths and creates the NC code.
To view the simulated toolpath:

1 Click the Toolpaths step in the Steps panel. This displays the
Simulation toolbar.

2 Select the 3D Simulation option, and then click Play to

start the simulation. If the Automatic Ordering Options dialog
appears, click OK to close it. This accepts the default ordering
options.
This displays a solid 3D rendering of the cutting process. By
default, the 3/4 view is shown when cutting or drilling the ID of
the part.

If the 3/4 view is not displayed, select Options > Simulation

> Round Stock from the menu, select the 3/4 view with lathe
ID work option, then click OK to close the dialog. Click the
Play button on the Simulation toolbar to see the
changes.

3 Click the Play to Next Operation button. This displays the face
operation.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to turning • 37

 4 Repeat step 3 to view each operation until the whole part is cut.

5 Click Eject . This removes the simulation.

Order of manufacturing operations

The Op List tab in the Results window shows all of the operations
needed to machine the features. A yellow warning sign next to an
operation indicates a potential problem with that operation. In this
case, if you see any warnings ignore them.

You can control the automatic ordering of operations by using either

rules or operation templates. The 2.5D Milling tutorial looks at using
rules (see page 16).
This section changes the automatic ordering by modifying the Turn
Operation template.

To modify the template

1 Select the Automatic Ordering option on the Op List tab. This
ensures the automatic ordering rules are applied to the
operations.
2 Change the automatic ordering to group together the operations
which use the same tool.

a Click the Ordering Options button.

38 • Introduction to turning FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 b In the Automatic Ordering Options dialog, select Use template.

c Click Edit template.

3 In the Feature Order dialog:

a Select Rough OD Turn.

b Click until Rough OD Turn is below Finish ID Turn.
c Click OK to close the Feature Order dialog.
4 Click OK to close the Automatic Ordering Options dialog.
5 Simulate the part.

a Select the Toolpaths step from the Steps panel. This

displays the Simulation toolbar.

b Click the 3D Simulation button, and then click the Play

button to start the simulation.
Notice that the OD roughing and finishing now happen after
the hole is drilled.

c Click the Stop button when simulation is complete to exit

simulation mode.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to turning • 39

 Part documentation (Turning)
As well as simulating the manufacturing of the part, the simulation
also generates complete tool and operations lists. The tools selected
are based on your tool database. You can print all of this
information for use as an operator's checklist.
1 Click the Details tab in the Results window to display the
Manufacturing Operations sheet.

You can review this sheet using the scroll bars.

2 Select the Tool List option at the top of the Details tab to show
the Manufacturing Tool Detail sheet. It contains all of the tools
used to create the part based on the tool crib you selected.

You can print this documentation from the File > Print menu
option.

40 • Introduction to turning FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 Generating NC code (Turning)
FeatureCAM generates the NC code to manufacture parts on a CNC
machine. You can generate NC code after you have simulated the
part, and therefore calculated the toolpaths.

1 Select the NC Code step from the Steps panel. This displays
the NC Code dialog.

2 Click the Display the NC Code button to generate the NC

code.

Changing the post processor

To change the post processor:
1 Select Manufacturing > Post Process from the menu. This displays
the Post Options dialog.
2 Click Browse to view available post processors.
The default folder for posts is C:\Program
Files\Delcam\Examples\Posts.
3 Select your post processor and click Open.
The new post processor is displayed in the CNC File field.
4 Click OK to exit the Post Options dialog and use the new post
processor; click Cancel to exit the dialog and keep the original
post processor.

5 Select the Toolpaths step from the Steps panel.

6 Run a simulation of the part to regenerate the NC code.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to turning • 41

 Saving the NC code
To save an NC program:

1 Select the NC Code step from the Steps panel. This displays
the NC Code dialog.

2 Click the Save NC button in the NC Code dialog.

3 In the Save NC dialog, accept the default filename and folder,
and click OK.

42 • Introduction to turning FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

Introduction to turn/mill

This tutorial introduces you to:

 Creating parts for lathes with milling capabilities.
 Mixing turning and milling features.
 Creating milling features on the outside diameter and face of the
part.
 Simulating a turn/mill part.

You must have licensed the Turn/Mill option to run this

tutorial.
1 Start FeatureCAM (see page 2).
2 Create a new file (see page 4), but select a Type of Turn/Mill
Setup.
3 Preparatory steps (see page 44).
4 Defining the geometry (see page 44).
5 Creating the features (see page 47).
6 Viewing the part (see page 48).
7 Creating three radial holes on the face (see page 49).
8 Engraving the face (see page 50).
9 Creating three slots (see page 53).
10 Simulating the toolpaths (see page 54).

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to turn/mill • 43

 Preparatory steps
The preparatory steps define the stock and determine the
coordinate system and view.
1 On the Dimensions page of the Stock wizard:

a Select a shape of Round.

b Enter an OD (outside diameter) of 3.
c Enter a Length of 2.
d Enter an ID (inside diameter) of 0.
2 Click Next until you reach the Part Program Zero page.
3 Select Align to stock face.
4 Click Next.

5 Click to position the datum of the part.

6 From the Finish menu, select the Finish button.

7 From the View menu select Center All .

8 Select Options > Turning Input Modes > Diameter (DZ) from the
menu to enter coordinates as Diameter and Z values.

Defining the geometry

This shows you how to design your part.

44 • Introduction to turn/mill FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 1 Draw three lines:

a Select the Geometry step from the Steps panel. This

displays the Geometry Constructors dialog.

b Select the Create more than 1 option, and click the Connected
Lines button. This displays the Feature/Geometry Edit bar.
c To create two lines that define the outer profile, in the
Feature/Geometry Edit bar:
For point 1 enter a D/Z 1 of D 2.5, Z 0.
For point 2 enter a D/Z 2 of D 2.5, Z -1.5.
Press Enter to create a line.
d Create a second line with the values:
For point 2 enter a D/Z 2 of D 2.75, Z -1.5.
Press Enter to create a second line.
e Create a third line with the values:
For point 2 enter a D/Z 2 of D 2.75, Z -2.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to turn/mill • 45

 Press Enter to create a third line.

2 Create a Fillet to trim your lines.

a Select the Geometry step from the Steps panel.

b In the Geometry Constructors dialog, in the list of Fillet options
click the Corner Fillet button.
c In the Feature/Geometry Edit bar, enter a radius (R) of 0.125.
d Position your mouse pointer in the corner between the first
and second lines, and click to create the fillet. The fillet
automatically trims your lines.

3 To turn the part you need to chain the curves.

a Select the Curves step from the Steps panel.

b In the Curves Creation dialog, select the Pick Curve Pieces

button.
c In the graphics window, click the first line and then the third
line.
d In the Feature/Geometry Edit bar, name the curve Turn, and
press Enter.

46 • Introduction to turn/mill FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 Creating the features
This example shows you how to create the turning features.

1 Click the 2D Turned Profiles button, on the Display Mode

toolbar, to switch to a 3D representation of the part.
2 Create a Turn feature.

a Click the Features step in the Steps panel.

b In the New Feature wizard, select the Turning option, and click
Next.
c Select Turn in the From Curve section, and click Next.
d In the Curve field select turn from the list.

Click the Pick Curve button to select the curve graphically.

The dialog minimizes to reveal the graphics window beneath.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to turn/mill • 47

 Click the curve you named Turn earlier.
In the Select dialog, select turn, and click OK.
e Click Finish.

Viewing the part

1 On the Standard toolbar select the Isometric View button.

If this displays a 2D representation of the part, click the 2D

Turned Profiles button, on the Display Mode toolbar.
2 Shade the part:
a Open the Part View panel, and select turn1 under the Setup1
node.

b Click the Shade Selected button on the Display Mode

toolbar.

c Click the Unshade All button on the Display Mode toolbar to

return to the wireframe view.

3 To change the view to a top view; from the Principal View

menu button, click the Top button.

48 • Introduction to turn/mill FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 Creating three radial holes on the face
This shows you how to add three Holes to the part.

1 To return to a 2D view of the model, click the 2D Turned Profiles

button, on the Display Mode toolbar.

2 Create a Hole.

a Click the Features step in the Steps panel.

b In the New Feature wizard, select the Turn/Mill option, and click
Next.
c In the From Dimensions field, select Hole and click Next.
d In the Dimensions dialog:
Enter a Chamfer of 0.0.
Enter a Depth of 1.0.
Enter a Diameter of 0.25.
e Click Finish and Create More.
3 Create a Pattern from feature:

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to turn/mill • 49

 a In the New Feature wizard, select the Turn/Mill option, and click
Next.
b In the From Feature field, select Pattern, and click Next.
c Select the hole you just created and click Next.
d Select Radial in the setup XY plane, and click Next.
e On the Pattern - Dimensions page:
Enter a Number of 3.0.
Enter a Diameter of 2.0.
Enter a Spacing Angle of 120.
Enter an Angle of 60.
f Click Finish.
g Click Cancel.
4 View the 3D wireframe representation of the part:

a Click the 2D Turned Profiles button, on the Display Mode

toolbar, to switch to a 3D representation of the part.

b Click the Isometric View button on the Standard toolbar.

Engraving the face

This shows you how to engrave the part by:
 Creating the engraving text.
 Creating a Groove feature.

1 Create a curve.

a Select the Curves step from the Steps panel.

50 • Introduction to turn/mill FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 b In the Curves Creation dialog, select the Curve Wizard
button.
c In the Curve wizard:

Select Other methods as the construction method.

Select Text as the constructor.
Click Next.
d On the Engraving Text page, configure the text properties.

Enter a Text of TURNMILL.

Select a Path type of Linear.
Enter a location of X 0.0, Y -0.045, Z 0.0.
Enter an Angle of -90.
From the Justification list, select Center.
Enter a Scaling of X 0.4, Y 0.4.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to turn/mill • 51

 Click the Font button to display the Font dialog.
From the Font list, select Machine Tool Gothic.
Enter a Size of 72.
Click OK to close the dialog.
e Click Finish to close the wizard.
2 Create a Groove feature.
a Select the TURNMILL text (curve1) in the graphics window.

b Click the Features step in the Steps panel.

c In the New Feature wizard, select the Turn/Mill option, and click
Next.
d In the From Curve field, select Groove, and click Next.
e On the Curve page, click Next (as you have selected the text
in step 2a).
f On the Location page, click Next.
g On the Dimensions page:
Enter a Width of 0.0625.
Enter a Depth of 0.02.
Select Face.
Select Simple (Engrave).
h Click Finish.

52 • Introduction to turn/mill FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 Creating three slots
This shows you how to add three milled slots to the part.

1 Create a Slot feature:

a Click the Features step in the Steps panel.

b In the New Feature wizard, select the Turn/Mill option, and click
Next.
c In the From Dimensions section, select Slot.
Select Make a pattern from this feature, and click Next.
d On the Dimensions page:
Enter a Length of 1.0.
Enter a Width of 0.5.
Enter a Depth of 0.25.
Click Next.
e On the Patterns page select Radial around index axis, and click
Next.
f On the Location page:
Enter a B Angle of 90.
Enter a Radius of 1.25.
Enter a Z to 0.25.
Click Next.
g On the Dimension page:
Enter a Number of 3.
Enter a Spacing Angle of 120.
h Click Finish.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to turn/mill • 53

 Simulating the toolpaths
To view the simulated toolpath:

1 Click the Toolpaths step in the Steps panel. This displays the
Simulation toolbar.
2 Select a CNC file for a machine that supports live tooling. For
example:
..\Examples\Posts\TurnMill\Skeleton\skeleton-1-turret.cnc

3 Click the 3D Simulation button, and then click the Play

button to start the simulation. If the Automatic Ordering Options
dialog appears, click OK to close it. This accepts the default
ordering options.

The toolpaths are accurately simulated including the part

rotations.

4 Click Eject . This removes the Simulation toolbar.

54 • Introduction to turn/mill FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

Introduction to 3D milling

This tutorial introduces you to:

 Modeling 3D surfaces.
 Manufacturing surfaces using surface milling features.
 Manufacturing operations.
 Tool selection.
 3D manufacturing attributes.

You must have 3D milling to perform the examples in this

chapter. These examples are only specified in inch units. You
must have the basic tool crib installed.
This tutorial shows you how to create a simple part, generate
toolpaths and output the toolpaths used to machine the part.
1 Start FeatureCAM (see page 2).
2 Create a new file (see page 4).
3 Defining the Stock (see page 56).
4 Defining the geometry (see page 56).
5 Creating the bottle surface (see page 60).
6 Viewing the part (see page 61).
7 Creating a surface milling feature (see page 63).
8 Simulating the toolpaths (see page 66).

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to 3D milling • 55

 Defining the Stock
The stock is the initial material from which you cut your part.
1 On the Dimensions page of the Stock wizard:

a Enter a Thickness of 2.
b Enter a Width of 3.
c Enter a Length of 6.25.
d Click Finish.
2 Click OK to accept the default values of the Stock Properties
dialog.

Defining the geometry

This shows you how to design your part.

1 Select View > Toolbars from the menu, in the Toolbars frame:
a Select Advanced.
b Select Geometry.

56 • Introduction to 3D milling FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 c Click OK.
2 Create three vertical lines:

a On the Geometry toolbar, select Vertical from the Line

menu.

b In the Feature/Geometry Edit bar, enter an XYZ of X 1, Z 0, and

press Enter.
c Create a second line by entering an XYZ of X 5.25, Z 0, and
press Enter.
d Create a third line by entering an XYZ of X 6, Z 0, and press
Enter.

3 Create three horizontal lines:

a On the Geometry toolbar, select Horizontal from the Line

menu.
b Enter an XYZ of Y 0.5, Z 0, and press Enter.
c Create a second line by entering an XYZ of Y 1.125, Z 0, and
press Enter.
d Create a third line by entering an XYZ of Y 1.5, Z 0, and press
Enter.

4 Create a through line:

a On the Geometry toolbar, select Point, Angle from the Line

menu.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to 3D milling • 57

 b In the Feature/Geometry Edit bar, enter an angle A of 30.
c In the graphics window, click at the intersection between the
second horizontal and second vertical lines, at point , to
create a through line.

5 Create arcs.

a On the Geometry toolbar, select 2 Pts, Radius from the Arc

menu.
b In the Feature/Geometry Edit bar, enter a radius R of 0.5, and
click the vertical line around point and the horizontal line
around point .

c Create the second arc:

In the Feature/Geometry Edit bar, enter a radius R of 1.0, and
click the horizontal line around point and the through line
around point .

58 • Introduction to 3D milling FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 d Create the third arc by clicking the through line around point
and the horizontal line around point .

6 To mill the part you need to chain the curves.

a Select the Curves step from the Steps panel.

b In the Curves Creation dialog, select the Pick Curve Pieces

button.
c Click at the intersection of the vertical and horizontal line at
point and at the intersection of the vertical and horizontal
line at point .

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to 3D milling • 59

 Creating the bottle surface
1 Select the Surfaces step from the Steps panel.
2 In the Surface wizard, select Surface of Revolution, and click Next.

3 On the Surface of Revolution page:

a Enter a Start Angle of 0.

b Enter an End Angle of 180.
c FeatureCAM automatically selects your chained curve in the
Curve field.

60 • Introduction to 3D milling FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 d In the Axis field, click the Pick line button, and select the
horizontal line around point .

Click Finish.

Viewing the part

1 To change the view to an isometric view, click the Isometric
button on the Standard toolbar.

2 Control how the part is displayed using the Viewing Options.

a Select Options > Viewing from the menu. This displays the
Viewing Options dialog.
b Select the Show surface boundaries only option, and click
Apply.
This displays the surfaces as only their outer boundaries and
trimmed loops. No additional lines are drawn in the interior of
the surface. This makes the display of larger models much
faster.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to 3D milling • 61

 c Deselect the Show surface boundaries only option, and click
Apply.
This displays the surfaces with lines in the interior of the
surface. This aids visualization, but for large models, it makes
the display of the part slower.
d Enter a Surface fineness Wireframe of 20, and click Apply.
This displays the surfaces with more lines. Decreasing the
value of Surface Fineness improves the display quality but
slows down the graphics.
e Click OK to close the dialog.

3 From the Hide menu on the Advanced toolbar, click the Hide
All Geometry button.

4 From the Show menu on the Advanced toolbar, click the

Show all surfaces button.

5 Click the Shade button, on the Standard toolbar, to shade the

part.

62 • Introduction to 3D milling FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 Creating a surface milling feature
This shows you how to create the surface features and select the
toolpath strategies.

1 On the Standard toolbar, click the Select button, and select

the surface (srf1). On selection it turns red.

2 Select the Features step from the Steps panel.

3 In the New Feature wizard, in the From Surface frame, select the
Surface Milling option, and click next.

4 On the Part Surface page click Next.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to 3D milling • 63

 5 On the New Strategy page, select the Choose Rough, Semi Finish,
and Finish… option, and click Next.

6 On the Rough page:

a Select the Z Level Rough option.

b Select Classify slices as 3D Pocket.
c Click Next.

64 • Introduction to 3D milling FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 7 On the Semi-Finish page, select None, and click Next.

8 On the Finish page, select Isoline.

9 Click the Finish button.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to 3D milling • 65

 Simulating the toolpaths
To view the simulated toolpath:

1 Click the Toolpaths step in the Steps panel. This displays the
Simulation toolbar.

2 Click the 3D Simulation button, and then click the Play

button to start the simulation. If the Automatic Ordering Options
dialog appears, click OK to close it. This accepts the default
ordering options.

Note how the toolpaths are accurately simulated including

the part rotations.

3 Click Eject . This removes the Simulation toolbar.

66 • Introduction to 3D milling FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

Introduction to wire EDM

This tutorial introduces you to the basics of creating wire EDM

toolpaths. It looks at:
 Setting up your material and wire thickness.
 Creating wire EDM features.
 Specifying a wire EDM cutting strategy.
 Simulating wire EDM toolpaths.

You must have licensed the Wire EDM option to run this
tutorial.
1 Start FeatureCAM (see page 2).
2 Create a new file (see page 4), but select a Type of Wire EDM
Setup.
3 Defining the stock (see page 67).
4 Creating the profile (see page 68).
5 Creating a wire EDM feature (see page 70).
6 Simulating the wire EDM toolpath (see page 71).
7 Generating NC code (Wire EDM) (see page 73).
8 Adding a taper angle (see page 74).

Defining the stock

The preparatory steps define the stock and determine the
coordinate system and view.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to wire EDM • 67

 1 On the Dimensions page of the Stock wizard:

a Enter a Thickness of 0.5.

b Enter a Width of 4.
c Enter a Length of 4.
d From the Finish menu button select the Finish button.

Creating the profile

This step defines the profile.

1 Select the Curves step from the Steps panel.

2 In the Curves Creation dialog, select the Curve Wizard button.

68 • Introduction to wire EDM FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 3 In the Curve Wizard:

a Select a construction method of Other methods.

b Select a constructor of Rectangle.
c Click Next.
4 On the Rectangle page:

a Select Use corner, width, and height.

b Enter corner point of 1, 1, 0.
c Enter a corner radius of 0.5.
d Enter a Width of 2.0.
e Enter a Height of 2.0.
f Click Finish.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to wire EDM • 69

 Creating a wire EDM feature
This shows you how to create a wire EDM feature.

1 Click the Features step in the Steps panel.

2 In the New Feature wizard, select the Die option in the 2 Axis
frame, and click Next.

3 On the Curves page, click the Pick curve or geometry button,

select the curve you created, and click Next.

4 On the Location page, click Next.

5 On the Dimensions page, enter a Thickness of 0.5 and click Next.
6 On the Start page, click Next.

70 • Introduction to wire EDM FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 7 On the Strategies page:

a In the Operations field select Retract.

b Select the Cutoff option.
c Select the Contour option.
d Click Finish.

Simulating the wire EDM toolpath

Now you have created the features, FeatureCAM automatically:
 Selects the most appropriate tools and operations;
 Recommends machining strategies;
 Calculates speeds and feeds;
 Generates toolpaths and creates the NC code.
To view the simulated toolpath:

1 Click the Toolpaths step in the Steps panel. This displays the
Simulation toolbar.

2 Click the 2D Simulation button on the Simulation toolbar.

3 Center the Simulation Speed slider to specify the simulation
rate.

4 From the Simulation Next menu button, select the Play to

Next Operation button to see the retract operation. If the
Automatic Ordering Options dialog appears, click OK to close it.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to wire EDM • 71

 To slow down the simulation, drag the Simulation Speed
slider to the left.

5 Click the Play to Next Operation button again to see the cutoff
operation.

72 • Introduction to wire EDM FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 6 Click the Play to Next Operation button again to see the final
contour operation.

7 Click Eject .

Generating NC code
FeatureCAM generates the NC code to manufacture parts on a CNC
machine. You can generate NC code after you have simulated the
part, and therefore calculated the toolpaths.

1 Select the NC Code step from the Steps panel. This displays
the NC Code dialog.

2 Click the Display the NC Code button to generate the NC

code.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to wire EDM • 73

 Adding a taper angle
This example shows you how to add a draft angle to a wire EDM
part.

1 Open the Part View panel, select the die1 feature from the Setup1

node, and click the Properties button on the

Feature/Geometry Edit toolbar.
2 In the Properties dialog for die1:

a Select Constant.
b Select a taper type of Left.

74 • Introduction to wire EDM FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 c Enter a deg. of 10 as the taper angle.
d Click Apply.

3 Click the Hide Stock button from the Hide menu on the
Advanced toolbar.

4 Click the Isometric View button on the Standard toolbar.

5 Return back to the Properties dialog, set the taper type to Right,
and click Apply.

6 Change the taper type back to Left, and click OK to close the
Properties dialog.

7 Select the Toolpaths step from the Steps panel.

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Introduction to wire EDM • 75

 8 Click the 3D Simulation button, and then click the Play
button.

9 Click the Select button on the Standard toolbar.

10 Click inside the curve. FeatureCAM deletes that part of the stock.

11 Click Eject .

12 From the Show menu on the Advanced toolbar, click the

Show Stock button.

76 • Introduction to wire EDM FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

Index

Arc • 56
Profile • 68
2 Cutoff feature • 30
2.5D milling • 8
2D turned profile • 30, 47, 48
D
Database • 2
3 Material database • 2
3D milling • 55 Tool database • 2
3D toolpath simulation • 13, 37, 54, 66, Display mode tololbar • 30
71 2D turned profile • 30, 47, 48
Draft angle • 74
Duplicate holes • 49
A
Arc • 56 E
Area clearance
Roughing • 63 Engraving • 50
Assistance bar • 5
Automatic ordering • 16, 38
F
Face feature • 30
B Feature
Bore feature • 30 Bore feature • 30
Cutoff feature • 30
Duplicate holes • 49
C Engraving • 50
Face feature • 30
Centre all • 26, 44 Groove feature • 30
Chain curves • 27, 44, 56 Hole feature • 9, 30, 49
Chamfer • 27 Pocket feature • 9
Checklist • 19 Slot feature • 53
Context-sensistive help • 6 Surface milling feature • 63
Controlling operations • 20 Thread feature • 30
Controlling strategies • 20 Turn feature • 30, 47
Coordinate system • 26, 44 Wire EDM feature • 70
Curve • 27, 44, 50, 68

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Index • 77

Feature/geometry edit bar • 5
Fillet • 44
L
Finishing • 63 Line • 27, 44, 56
Front view • 12

M
G Machining operations • 15, 38
Geometry Automatic ordering • 16, 38
Hide all geometry • 61 Controlling operations • 20
Show all surfaces • 61 Controlling strategies • 20
Geometry creation • 27, 56 Finishing • 63
Arc • 56 Manual ordering • 18
Chain curves • 27, 44, 56 Operation template • 38
Chamfer • 27 Ordering options • 16, 38
Curve • 27, 44, 50, 68 Results window • 5, 15, 16, 18, 19,
Draft angle • 74 38, 40
Engraving • 50 Roughing • 63
Fillet • 44 Semi-finishing • 63
Line • 27, 44, 56 Manual ordering • 18
Profile • 68 Manufacturing
Taper • 74 NC code • 21, 41, 73
Text • 50 Post processor • 22
Geometry edit bar • 5 Manufacturing operations • 15, 38
Graphics window • 5 Automatic ordering • 16, 38
Results window • 5, 15, 16, 18, 19, Controlling operations • 20
38, 40 Controlling strategies • 20
Toolbox window • 5 Finishing • 63
Groove feature • 30 Manual ordering • 18
Operation template • 38
Ordering options • 16, 38
H Results window • 5, 15, 16, 18, 19,
Help • 6 38, 40
Context-sensistive help • 6 Roughing • 63
Help links • 6 Semi-finishing • 63
Online help • 6 Material database • 2
Technical support • 6 Menu bar • 5
Help links • 6 Metric tools • 2
Hide all geometry • 61 Metric units • 4
Hole feature • 9, 30, 49 Mill/turn • 43
Milling
2.5D milling • 8
I 3D milling • 55
Surface milling feature • 63
Imperial tools • 2 Milling setup • 4
Imperial units • 4
Inch tools • 2
Inch units • 4 N
Input modes • 26, 44
Isometric view • 12, 35, 48, 61 NC code • 21, 41, 73
Saving NC code • 23

78 • Index FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 Tool mapping • 22 Metric units • 4
Milling setup • 4
Shading • 35, 48, 61
O Show all surfaces • 61
Online help • 6 Simulating toolpaths • 13, 37, 54, 66, 71
Opening a part • 4 3D toolpath simulation • 13, 37, 54,
Operation template • 38 66, 71
Operations • 15, 38 Slot feature • 53
Automatic ordering • 16, 38 Starting FeatureCAM • 2
Controlling operations • 20 Status bar • 5
Controlling strategies • 20 Stock • 8, 24, 44, 56, 67
Manual ordering • 18 Strategy
Operation template • 38 Automatic ordering • 16, 38
Ordering options • 16, 38 Controlling strategies • 20
Operations list • 19 Manual ordering • 18
Operator's checklist • 19 Ordering of operations • 15, 38
Ordering of operations • 15, 38 Ordering options • 16, 38
Automatic ordering • 16, 38 Surface creation • 60
Controlling operations • 20 Surface of revolution • 60
Controlling strategies • 20 Surface milling feature • 63
Manual ordering • 18 Surface of revolution • 60
Operation template • 38
Ordering options • 16, 38
Ordering options • 16, 38
T
Taper • 74
Technical support • 6
P Template
Part Operation template • 38
Opening a part • 4 Text • 50
Part documentation • 19, 40 Thread feature • 30
Pocket feature • 9 Title bar • 5
Post processor • 22 Tool database • 2
Profile • 68 Imperial tools • 2
Inch tools • 2
Metric tools • 2
R Tool mapping • 22
Toolbars • 5
Results window • 5, 15, 16, 18, 19, 38, Assistance bar • 5
40 Display mode tololbar • 30
Roughing • 63 Feature/geometry edit bar • 5
Geometry edit bar • 5
Menu bar • 5
S Status bar • 5
Saving NC code • 23 Title bar • 5
Screen layout • 5 Toolbox window • 5
Semi-finishing • 63 Toolpath
Setup Simulating toolpaths • 13, 37, 54, 66,
Imperial units • 4 71
Inch units • 4 Tools
Imperial tools • 2

FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started Index • 79

 Inch tools • 2
Metric tools • 2
Tool database • 2
Tool mapping • 22
Tools list • 19
Turn feature • 30, 47
Turn/mill • 43
Turning • 24

U
Units
Imperial tools • 2
Imperial units • 4
Inch tools • 2
Inch units • 4
Metric tools • 2
Metric units • 4

V
Viewing the part • 12, 35, 48, 61
Hide all geometry • 61
Shading • 35, 48, 61
Show all surfaces • 61
Views
2D turned profile • 30, 47, 48
Centre all • 26, 44
Front view • 12
Isometric view • 12, 35, 48, 61
Viewing the part • 12, 35, 48, 61

W
Window
Graphics window • 5
Results window • 5, 15, 16, 18, 19,
38, 40
Toolbox window • 5
Wire EDM • 67
Wire EDM feature • 70

80 • Index FeatureCAM 2015 R3 Getting Started

 Feature-based CAM software for mills,
multi-tasking lathes and wire EDM
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