FeatureCAM

Training Course
 FeatureCAM 2012

Training Course
FeatureMILL 3D 5axis simultaneous
FeatureCAM

Copyright © 1995-2011 Delcam plc. All rights reserved.

Delcam plc 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 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 plc 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: 2012 Date: 03 August 2011 11:10

Contents
FeatureCAM overview 7

Finishing Basics 9
Leave Allowance .......................................................................................................9
Tolerance.............................................................................................................. 10
Stepover ................................................................................................................. 11

Parallel Finish Machining 12

Overview............................................................................................................... 12

3D Spiral & Z Level Finishing 18

Introduction ..............................................................................................................18
Z Level machining .................................................................................................19
3D Spiral machining ................................................................................................25
Interleaved Z Level machining ................................................................................30
Horizontal and Vertical machining ..........................................................................31

Corner & Pencil Finishing 36

Introduction ............................................................................................................. 36
Pencil Finishing .................................................................................................... 37
Corner Along Finishing ......................................................................................... 42
Corner Across Finishing ......................................................................................... 48
Combo Along and Across Corner Finishing .......................................................... 49
Corner Multi Pencil Finishing ................................................................................. 51

Isoline Finish Machining 52

Introduction ............................................................................................................. 52

Radial and 2D Spiral Finishing 65

Introduction ............................................................................................................. 65
Radial Finish Machining ....................................................................................... 65
2D Spiral Finishing ............................................................................................... 72

Flowline Finish Machining 77

Introduction ..............................................................................................................77
Flowline Example ....................................................................................................77
Undercut Flowline Machining ................................................................................83

FeatureCAM 2012 Contents • i

Between 2 Curves Finishing 90
Introduction ..............................................................................................................90
Between 2 Curves Finish Machining ....................................................................90

3-Axis Swarf Finishing 94

Introduction ..............................................................................................................94
3-Axis Swarf Finishing.............................................................................................94
3-Axis Swarf – Multiple passes .............................................................................103

4-Axis Rotary Finish Machining 107

Overview................................................................................................................107
4-Axis Finishing .....................................................................................................107

Wall tolerance for Z-Level 116

Overview................................................................................................................116

FeatureCAM 2012 Contents • i

2 • Introduction FeatureCAM 2012
FeatureCAM overview

FeatureCAM is a CAD/CAM software suite that automates machining

and minimizes programming times for parts on mills, lathes, and
wire EDM. Unlike operations-based CAM systems, 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. The selections
made can be based on the built-in machining knowledge that
Delcam supplies 'out-of-the-box' with FeatureCAM, or from
experience captured from your company, project or individual users'
preferences.
FeatureCAM includes five stand-alone modules:
 2.5D Milling - 2.5D design and toolpath generation for 2- and 3-
axis mills.
 3D Milling - 3D surface modeling and 3-axis toolpath generation.
 3D Lite - a limited version of 3D milling.

3D Lite lets you mill only one surface per feature, but you
can create multiple features. The strategies available in 3D
Lite are Z-level rough, Parallel rough, Parallel finish, Isoline,
and 2D spiral.
 Turning - 2-axis design and toolpath generation for 2-axis lathes.
 Turn/Mill - Supports lathes with C and Y-axis milling capabilities.
 Wire EDM - 2- and 4-axis wire EDM toolpath creation.
The following add-on modules are also available:
 RECOGNITION - 3D surface and solid import and the recognition
of 2.5D features from solid models. Accelerates making 2.5D and
turned parts from solid models.
 Tombstone - Multiple part manufacturing for horizontal or vertical
milling machines with indexers.

FeatureCAM 2012 FeatureCAM overview • 3

  Solid Modeling - Solid modeling and tools for creating molds from
solid models.
 5-Axis Positioning - Manufacture 2.5D features from 5-axis
orientations.
 Native Import Modules - Native data can be read directly from
SolidWorks, SolidWorks Assemblies, Autodesk Inventor,
SolidEdge, Catia, NX, Pro-Engineer, and Step files.
 Machine Simulation - Modeling and simulation of a CNC machine.
 Advanced Turn/Mill (MTT) - Includes support for Turn/Mill in
addition to support for B-axis (5-axis positioning) and multiple
turret synchronization.
 Network Database and Licensing - Flexible product licensing allows
sharing FeatureCAM licenses across a network.
 5-Axis Simultaneous - Manufacture 3D features while changing
the tool axis.

Why creating toolpaths is so fast

FeatureCAM has the unique ability to generate toolpaths and create
NC code to run the machines with a minimum amount of user input.
Traditional CAM systems are operations-based and require you to
program every operation, one at a time, to create your part.
FeatureCAM is feature-based; this means the part is created using
features that describe that part, from simple holes, to complex
pockets, to turned grooves. Machinable features contain information
and rules describing how and where material removal should occur,
cutting depths, whether to use climb cutting, whether to spot drill or
center drill, and preferred machining strategies for roughing and
finishing. This means that after you import or draw the part and
identify its features, FeatureCAM automatically:
 Selects the most appropriate tools and operations;
 Recommends machining strategies;
 Calculates speeds and feeds;
 Generates toolpaths and creates the NC code.

You can customize this built-in 'intelligence' to your own style

of cutting.

4 • FeatureCAM overview FeatureCAM 2012

FeatureMILL3D 5-Axis Introduction

5-Axis Introduction
Introduction
This module will provide the user with an introduction to the 5-axis tool orientations
available in FeatureCAM. In 5-axis positioning machining, the user can position the tool
along a fixed alternative axis giving a number of benefits. With 5-Axis simultaneous
machining, the orientation of the tool axis can be continuously varied which allows much
greater flexibility. By changing the tool axis we can avoid collisions with the part allowing
the use of shorter, more rigid tooling giving a better surface finish.

The use of 5-Axis machining gives a number of benefits:

A part can be cut in a single setup including undercuts which would normally require the part
to be dismounted from the machine and set up in a different orientation. This reduces the
setup time and errors that can be introduced by having to do multiple setups.

By allowing the tool to be tilted relative to the surfaces being machined, the contact point of
the tool on the surface can be changed giving better cutting conditions.

Using shorter tools increases the rigidity of the tool, reducing deflection and chatter giving
improved surface finish and accuracy.

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 1

FeatureMILL3D 5-Axis Introduction

Turning on 5-Axis
By default in FeatureCAM, the tool is oriented along the setup Z axis. In order to use 5-Axis
simultaneous machining, we first need to enable 5-Axis simultaneous in the Evaluation
options. Once this is enabled, we also need to change the stock properties to allow 5-axis
indexing.

• Open FeatureCAM but DO NOT open an FM document

On the main toolbar you should only have two options, File and Help.

• Click on File and then select Evaluation Options

• Check 5 Axis Simultaneous

FeatureCAM will give a warning that the product component has not been licensed. This
just means that it has not yet checked the license file and dongle to see if you have the
rights to use 5 Axis Simultaneous positioning.

• Click Apply

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FeatureMILL3D 5-Axis Introduction

If you have the correct options in your license file, you will then see the word Licensed next
to the 5 Axis Simultaneous option. If you do not see this, then your license file is not set up
to license this option on the dongle you are using. In this case, you can either continue to use
FeatureCAM in Evaluation mode which does not allow you to save, or you can contact your
dealer to arrange a license.

• Click OK to close the Evaluation Options form

FeatureCAM now has the 5-Axis Simultaneous option enabled. In order to create a 5-Axis
program, we also need to set up 5-Axis indexing in the stock properties.

• Create a new Inch Milling document

• On the Dimensions form click Finish
• Select the Indexing tab
• Check 5th Axis Positioning

• Click Apply and then OK

The new document is now ready for programming of a 5-Axis part. There are a number of
other things that need to be set up in order to position the part relative to the axes of rotation
of the machine so that the program will produce the part correctly. This is rather more
involved that the setup for a 3-Axis part, and differs depending upon the machine
configuration and includes some variables which are machine specific. We will look into the
machine specific setup variables later in this module.

Now that we have FeatureCAM set up to use 5-Axis positioning we will briefly look at the
options that are available before we continue to look at each in detail.

• Import the part Phone.igs

• Resize the stock to the part
• Create a Parallel toolpath using the default values

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FeatureMILL3D 5-Axis Introduction

• Click Finish
• Click on the Parallel operation

There is now an extra tab in the feature properties called 5-Axis; this allows us to select
which tool axis orientation we want to use. Each of the options will be examined in detail in
separate modules later on, for now a brief description follows:

Vertical
The vertical tool axis option will align the axis of the tool with the Z axis of the active setup
and so is identical to normal 3-axis machining.

Fixed
This option allows the user to define the tool axis direction as a vector.

Lead and Lean

The tool can be tilted at a specified angle relative to the direction of tool travel. The Lead
angle tilts the tool forwards or back along the travel direction, Lean tilts the tool to the left or
right of the travel direction.

Other
This activates a pulldown menu giving access to further tool axis options:

From Point
With this option, the centerline of the tool will pass through a user defined point with the tool
axis directed from the specified point towards the surfaces to be machined.

To Point
With this option, the centerline of the tool will be directed towards a user defined point with
the tool axis passing through the surfaces to be machined.

From Line
With this option, the centerline of the tool will pass through a user defined line with the tool
axis directed from the specified line towards the surfaces to be machined.

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FeatureMILL3D 5-Axis Introduction

To Line
With this option, the centerline of the tool will pass through a user defined line with the tool
axis directed towards the specified line through the surfaces to be machined.

From Curve
The tool axis passes through a user defined curve towards the surfaces to be machined; this
allows complex 3D control of the tool axis.

To Curve
With this option, the centerline of the tool will pass through the surfaces to be machined and
towards a user defined curve.

Not all machining strategies support all 5-Axis Simultaneous tool axis options. For instance,
no roughing strategies are 5-Axis at present. The matrix below shows which tool axis options
are available for each machining strategy.

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 5

FeatureMILL3D Fixed Axis Tool Alignment

Fixed Axis Tool Alignment

Introduction
Fixed Axis tool alignment allows the tool to be aligned to a specified vector. This gives a 3+2
machining toolpath without the necessity of creating multiple setups. The vector is the
direction from the tool tip back up the spindle of the machine. The vector is expressed as a
value in X, Y, and Z separated by commas. For example, the vector (0,0,1) shown below
indicates that the tool is pointing vertically down in the Z direction and is equivalent to a
normal 3-Axis orientation.

To point the tool downwards at 45 degrees in the XZ plane as shown below the vector would
be (1,0,1).

We will now look at an example where a short tool will be used to finish machine a round
part. In order to avoid collisions with the model, the tool will need to be tilted over away
from the part.

• Open the file Fixed.fm

• Select the tool crib Fixed.fm_tools_from_last_save
• Run a 3D simulation

The roughing operation works OK, but on the finishing operation the tool is too short so that
the holder collides with the part.

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 1

FeatureMILL3D Fixed Axis Tool Alignment

• Eject the simulation and select a Top View

• Select a shaded view

We want the finishing tool to approach the part from the lower left quadrant (-X, -Y) and
from above (+Z) as indicated by the arrows in the images below.

To make the tool come in at 45 degrees in the XY plane and from a steeper angle from above
we shall now set a fixed tool axis vector of (-1,-1,2).

• Edit the properties of the fixed feature

• Click on the Z Level operation and select the 5-Axis tab
• Check Fixed and enter the vector (-1,-1,2) as shown

• Click Apply and then OK

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FeatureMILL3D Fixed Axis Tool Alignment

• Run a 3D Simulation

The tool is now tilted away from the part so that the surfaces can be machined without the
holder colliding with the model.

• As an exercise, now machine the remaining two recesses on the part using
a similar strategy

Hint: Looking from above, the fixed axis vectors required are (-0.25,1,2) for
the upper left recess and (1,-0.25 2) for the lower right.

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 3

FeatureMILL3D Lead and Lean Tool Alignment

Lead and Lean Tool Alignment

Introduction
The Lead and Lean tool axis option enables the user to tilt the tool over at an angle relative
to its direction of travel along the tool path. The Lead and Lean angles can be set separately
to achieve the desired tool orientation.

The Lead angle tilts the tool either forward or backward along the direction that it is
travelling. A positive lead angle tilts the tool forward, and a negative angle will tilt it
backward.

Positive Lead Angle Negative Lead Angle

The Lean angle tilts the tool either left or right across the direction that it is travelling. A
positive lean angle tilts the tool towards the left, and a negative angle will tilt it to the right.
In the images below, the tool is travelling away from the viewer.

Positive Lean Angle Negative Lean Angle

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 1

FeatureMILL3D Lead and Lean Tool Alignment

For the majority of toolpaths, the Lead and Lean angles are calculated relative to the plane
between setup Z axis and the tool travel direction. The exceptions are Isoline and Flowline
toolpaths. These will be discussed later in this module.

• Open the file Lead_Lean.fm

• Select the tool crib Lead_Lean.fm_tools_from_last_save
• Check the feature contact
• Run a centerline simulation

The tool is oriented along the Z axis by default. If this was a finishing operation removing a
small amount of stock then the surface cutting speed at the point of contact would be very
low as it is near to the centre of rotation of the tool. By tipping the tool over we can change
the contact point of the tool on the surface so that the cutting conditions are more favorable.

• Open the feature properties, click on Parallel and select the 5-Axis tab

• Check Use Lead and Lean and enter a Lead angle of 20 degrees

Note: A lead and lean angle of zero means that the tool will be aligned with the setup Z axis
and is therefore the same as using a normal 3-axis orientation.

• Run a centerline simulation

You will see that the tool is now tilting forwards at an angle of 20 degrees to the vertical as it
moves across the part.

• Open the feature properties, click on Parallel and select the 5-Axis tab
• Enter a Lead and Lean angle of 20 degrees
• Run a centerline simulation

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FeatureMILL3D Lead and Lean Tool Alignment

You will notice that the resulting toolpath looks different to a normal parallel toolpath. It
looks as though the passes are closer on every second pass. This is because the centerline
toolpath is showing the position of the centre of the tool rather than the point of contact on
the surface. The tool tilts over in opposite directions on each pass so the position of the centre
of the tool shifts on each pass.

Note how the tool flips its

direction at the end of each
pass. This will cause
excessive movement on the
machine. When using lead and
lean it is best to use
unidirectional cutting.

• Open the feature and click on the finish1 operation

• Select the Milling tab
• Click on Direction and then check Unidirectional
• Run a centerline simulation

The tool now stays in the same

orientation from pass to pass.
The toolpath is now “cutting air”
more than before but the more
consistent motion of the tool axis
will mean that it can be run at a
higher feedrate.

• Open the feature properties, click on Parallel and select the 5-Axis tab
• Experiment with changing the lead and lean angles to different positive and
negative values to see the effect

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 3

FeatureMILL3D Lead and Lean Tool Alignment

We will now look at another use of Lead/Lean. We will machine the same part but using a
large bull nose end mill. Using this cutter, we can make a large stepover but still get an
acceptable scallop height, however, we do not want to cut on the back edge of the cutter on
the “downhill” parts of the toolpath. We can do this by tilting the tool forwards so that we
always cut on its front edge.

• Uncheck the operation contact and check front edge

• Run a 3D simulation

As the tool passes across the highest point on the part it has to switch from cutting on its front
edge to the back. This may lead to a difference in surface finish and possibly a witness mark
at the changeover point. If there were any recesses on the part they would not be machined as
the flat of the tool could not fit in. We will now tilt the tool over at an angle so that it always
cuts on the leading edge.

• Open the feature and click on the Parallel operation

• Open the 5-axis tab
• Check Use Lead and Lean and enter a Lead angle of 15 degrees
• Run a 3D simulation

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FeatureMILL3D Lead and Lean Tool Alignment

You will see that the cutter is always cutting on its front edge now. Note that the surface
finish is good even though the stepover is large. Tilting the cutter means that the profile
which contacts the part has an elliptical section, this gives it a much larger effective diameter,
so that a small bullnosed cutter or endmill can be equivalent to a very large ball nosed tool.
This is a useful trick which is used to get a good surface finish on surfaces which have a very
shallow curvature.

For most toolpaths, the lead and lean angle are relative to the setup Z axis and the direction of
travel. For isoline toolpaths, the angles are relative to the surface normal.

• Uncheck the operation front edge and check isolead

• Single step a centerline simulation and note how the tool remains
normal to the surface that is being machined

Note: In the case of flowline machining, the lead and lean angles are measured relative to the
normal of the reference surface.

The normal of the toolpath is the direction along which it was originally projected onto the
surface data during creation. For Pattern finishing this will always be vertical and for
Projection Finishing it will vary depending on the defined projection, directional options.

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 5

FeatureMILL3D From Point Tool Alignment

From Point Tool Alignment

Introduction
In From Point alignment, the tool axis is constrained to always pass through a single point.
The tool axis then effectively radiates out from that point towards the surfaces being
machined. This is most useful when machining inside of an approximately hemispherical
cavity or along a curved inside corner on a part.

In this example, we will machine across multiple surfaces using a Flowline strategy. The part
is the bottom of a blow mold for a soda bottle. We shall be using the From Point axis
alignment to prevent the tool holder from colliding with the part.

• Open the file From_Point.fm

• Select the tool crib From_Point.fm_tools_from_last_save
• Run a 3D simulation

You will see that the holder collides with the part during the finish operation. This can be
fixed by making the tool axis radiate from a point above the center of the part thus tilting the
holder away from the stock.

• Eject the simulation

• Open the properties of the flowline operation
• Select the 5-axis tab
• Check Other and then select From Point from the pull-down menu

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 1

FeatureMILL3D From Point Tool Alignment

• Use the Pick Location button or the pull down menu to select the point
“from_point” which is positioned 2” above the center of the part

• Click Apply
• Run a 3D simulation

You will see that the tool axis now passes through the specified point which tilts the tool
away from the stock preventing gouging. In this case, the point is close to the part which
means that the spindle will be leaning over by a large angle at the start of the toolpath.
We will now create another point which is higher above the part to reduce the angle that the
part tilts whilst still ensuring that the tool and holder do not collide with the part.

• Eject the simulation

• From the main toolbar select Construct and then Point
• At the bottom of the screen enter the coordinates: 0,0,3

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FeatureMILL3D From Point Tool Alignment

• Click Create
• Open the properties of the flowline operation
• Select the 5-axis tab
• Check Other and then select From Point from the pull-down menu
• Use the Pick Location button to select the new point which is located 3”
above the center of the part
• Click Apply
• Run a 3D simulation

The tool axis is now passing through a point which is further away from the part. This means
that the angle through which it moves from the top to the bottom of the part is reduced. In
turn, this will reduce the angle through which the machine must move. You should remember
that in 5-Axis simultaneous machining a small linear movement on the part may translate into
a very large movement of the machine axes, whatever you can do to reduce these movements
will allow you to run the toolpath faster.

• Close the part

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 3

FeatureMILL3D To Point Tool Alignment

To Point Tool Alignment

Introduction
In To Point alignment the tool axis is focused towards a single point through the surfaces
being machined. In this example we will machine the upper part of a model using a To Point
alignment.

• Open the part To_Point.fm

• Run a centerline simulation

You will see that the point of contact of the tool is changing. At the lower edge of the part,
the tool is touching on its side. When it reaches the top of the part, it is touching on its tip.
This means that the surface cutting speed and tool loading are varying by a large amount over
the part. The variation in cutting conditions will give a different surface finish as the tool
moves from the bottom of the part to the top. By changing the tool axis direction, we can give
a more constant cutting condition resulting in a more consistent surface finish.

• Open the properties of srf_mill3

• Click on the spiral operation and then the 5-axis tab

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 1

FeatureMILL3D To Point Tool Alignment

• Check Other and then select To Point from the pull-down menu
• Use the Pick Location button or the pull down menu to select the point
“to_point” which is positioned 2” below the top of the part

• Click Apply
• Run a 3D simulation

Note how the tool axis always points towards the point during the cutting operation.

2 Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012

FeatureMILL3D To Point Tool Alignment

• As an exercise machine the undercut surface indicated below. Use the

same tool as the upper surface. You will need to use an Isoline toolpath
and create a “to point” at (0.2,0.-0.5)

By selecting an appropriate “To Point” we are able to machine the undercut and also ensure
that the tool axis does not dip so low that the machine head would collide with the table. If
the point is too low, we cannot reach the entire undercut. If it is too high, then the head will
tilt over too far. Try experimenting with the point Z position to see the effect.

Hint: If you like a little help with this exercise take a look at the part To_Point_Fin.fm.

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 3

FeatureMILL3D From Line Tool Alignment

From Line Tool Alignment

Introduction
With a From Line alignment the axis of the tool passes through a selected line. The line may
be created using the geometry constructors within FeatureCAM or may be imported from an
external CAD system such as PowerSHAPE.

The line used to control the tool axis can be horizontal, vertical or at any angle in between.

The technique is useful when machining open ended cavities with undercuts as in the
following example.

• Open the part From_Line.fm

• Shade the model
• Take a Left View

The part is to be finish machined using an Isoline strategy. There are two undercut areas on
the part which a ball nosed tool will not be able to reach when aligned vertically. This will
have two effects; the tool will leave material in the undercut areas and the point of contact
will drop abruptly as the tool passes over the edge of the undercut.

• Select an Isometric view

• Uncheck the Roughing operation

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 1

FeatureMILL3D From Line Tool Alignment

• Run a Centerline simulation

As the tool cannot “see” the

point of contact on the upper
edge of the lower surface
consistently there will be
many “lift-offs”.

• Run a 3D simulation

It can be seen that the undercuts in the area indicated below have not been finished and there
are some very heavy cuts as the tool drops over the edge of the upper surface.

• Open the properties of isoline

• Click on the isoline operation and then the 5-axis tab

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FeatureMILL3D From Line Tool Alignment

• Check Other and then select From Line from the pull-down menu
• Use the Pick Location button or the pull down menu to select the line
“ln_1”

• Click Apply
• Run a 3D simulation

The tool now tilts over so that its axis

passes through the selected line. This
allows it to reach the undercut areas of the
lower surface and maintain a constant
stepover. This reduces the tool loading,
gives an improved surface finish, and also
means that the tool is lifting off less
frequently.

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 3

FeatureMILL3D From Line Tool Alignment

• As an exercise, create a new line which is 0.5” lower than the existing one.
Use this to control the tool axis and see the difference in the orientation of
the tool to the part

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FeatureMILL3D To Line Tool Alignment

To Line Tool Alignment

Introduction
With a To Line alignment, the axis of the tool points towards the selected line. The line may
be horizontal, vertical, or inclined at an angle. In the first example, we will use a To Line
alignment to prevent the holder colliding with the part.

• Open the part To_Line.fm

The part is to be roughed out with a Z level rough strategy and the flat areas finished with a
2.5D Face feature. The curved surface will then be finished with an isoline strategy using a
short ball nosed cutter. As the roughing stepdown is large and the finishing cutter is short,
there may be a problem with the shank or holder of the finishing cutter colliding with the
remaining material from the roughing operation.

• Select the tool crib To_Line_Tools_from_last_save

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 1

FeatureMILL3D To Line Tool Alignment

• Run a 3D simulation

Note that the tool holder is colliding with the remaining stock from the roughing operation.
We need to tilt the tool away from the part to prevent this happening. We will now change
the tool alignment to be towards a line to prevent the collisions. Initially we shall use a
horizontal line for the focus of the tool axis.

• Open the properties of isoline

• Click on the isoline operation and then the 5-axis tab
• Check Other and then select To Line from the pull-down menu

• Use the pull down menu to select the line Flatline

• Click Apply and then OK

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FeatureMILL3D To Line Tool Alignment

• Run a 3D simulation

You will now see that the tool inclines so that its axis passes through the horizontal line. This
is tilting the holder clear of the steps left by the roughing operation. Unfortunately, the angle
of tilt is too steep and the holder is now hitting the lower flat area of the model instead. As
the line drops in Z the angle of the tool tilting becomes shallower. By positioning the line
lower, we can avoid this problem. A better solution however, is to use a sloping line so that
we can give a more constant angle of contact between the tool and the part.

• Open the properties of isoline

• Click on the isoline operation and then the 5-axis tab

• Use the pull down menu to select the line Slopeline

• Click Apply and then OK

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FeatureMILL3D To Line Tool Alignment

• Run a 3D simulation

At the wide end of the part the tool is pointing to the lower end of the line which makes the
tool axis more vertical than before.

At the narrow end of the part the line is higher which tends to tilt the tool over further. The
net result is to maintain the tool angle to closer the vertical within tighter limits defined by
the slope of the line. The whole part can now be machined without hitting either the
remaining stock from the roughing operation or the model itself.

Try editing the positions of the ends of the line Slopeline to see the effect on
the tool axis during the finishing operation.

4 Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012

FeatureMILL3D From Curve Tool Alignment

From Curve Tool Alignment

Introduction
FeatureCAM has the ability to align the tool axis from a curve. If this option is chosen, the
tool is aligned so that its axis passes through the chosen curve while maintaining the intended
contact point on the surfaces to be machined. This gives the user a very flexible way of
precisely controlling the way that the tool is inclined as it passes over the part.

In this example, we will be machining the curved slot in the part shown below using an
Isoline strategy.

• Open the file From_Curve.fm

• Select the tool crib From_Curve.fm_tools_from_last_save
• Select a shaded view

The slot is deep relative to the tool length. As the sides of the slot are nearly vertical it would
not be possible to use a Lead & Lean orientation. Equally From Point and From Line would
be unsuitable as the slot has several changes in direction.

• Select an Isometric View

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 1

FeatureMILL3D From Curve Tool Alignment

• In the Options menu select Simulation

• Check Show Holder
• Run a 3D simulation

The holder is colliding with the model in the area on the right of the view above. We will
now use a From Curve tool axis orientation to tilt the tool away from the part to remove this
problem.

• Open the properties of srf_mill1

• Click on the isoline operation and then the 5-axis tab
• Check Other and then select From Curve from the pull-down menu

• Use the pull down menu to select the curve igs3

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FeatureMILL3D From Curve Tool Alignment

• Click Apply and then OK

• Run a 3D simulation

The axis of the tool is now following the line from the selected curve to the surfaces being
machined. Because the curve is above the centerline of the slot, the tool is tilted away from
both sides of the part removing all gouges.

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 3

FeatureMILL3D To Curve Tool Alignment

To Curve Tool Alignment

Introduction
The To Curve tool axis alignment aligns the centerline of the tool so that it passes through a
user-defined curve. This gives the user much greater flexibility than other tool axis alignment
options; by modifying the shape of the curve the tool axis can be controlled very precisely
over a given part of the toolpath.

In this example, we will be machining a single surface using an Isoline toolpath. We need to
constrain the toolpath so that the holder does not collide with the central boss of the part or
the machine table.

• Open the file To_Curve.fm

• Select the tool crib To_Curve.fm_tools_from_last_save
• Run a 3D simulation

The tool is oriented along the Z axis by default. This is causing the holder to collide with the
central boss on the part. We will now try using a Lean angle to tilt the tool away from the
part.

• Eject the simulation

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 1

FeatureMILL3D To Curve Tool Alignment

• Open the feature properties, click on Isoline and select the 5-Axis tab
• Set a Lead and Lean angle of Zero degrees

• Click Apply and then OK

• Select the DMG Evo post and the matching MD file
• Run a Machine simulation

When the tool is leaning over to be

perpendicular to the bottom of the
surface being machined, the spindle
is striking the table of the machine.

We could use a different lean angle

to avoid the problem, but this would
need us to change the cutting to
unidirectional. This would mean
that the C-axis of the machine
would continuously cut in the same
direction. With this particular
machine, that would not be a
problem, however, some machines
cannot “wind up”. That is, there is a
limit to the number of rotations an
axis can make. We will now look at
an alternative method of controlling
the tool axis.

2 Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012

FeatureMILL3D To Curve Tool Alignment

• Eject the simulation

• Open the feature properties, click on Isoline and select the 5-Axis tab
• Check Other and then select To Curve from the pull down menu
• Select the curve ig_3

• Click Apply and then OK

• Select a Left view
• Turn off Shaded view
• Step through a Centerline simulation

As you step the tool around the job, you will see that the axis of the tool is always directed to
the selected curve.

• Eject the simulation

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 3

FeatureMILL3D To Curve Tool Alignment

• Open the feature properties, click on Isoline and select the 5-Axis tab
• Check Other and then select To Curve from the pull down menu
• Select the curve3
• Click Apply and then OK
• Step through a Centerline simulation

As the curve is smaller and positioned lower, the tool axis is modified. It is steeper at the
lower edge of the part leaning it further away from the table.

• As an exercise, try moving and changing the size of the curves to see the
effect on the tool axis orientation.

4 Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012

FeatureMILL3D 5-Axis Swarf

5-axis Swarf
Introduction
In swarf machining, the part is cut using the side of the tool rather than the tip. Not all
surfaces can be cut with a single pass swarf toolpath. In order for it to work, the surface must
be singly curved (a section through the surface must be a straight line in one direction) and
developable (a surface which could be opened out flat without deforming it other than by
unwrapping).

In this first example, we will machine a turbine blade using a swarf machining operation.

• Open the file Swarf.fm

• Select the tool crib Swarf.fm_tools_from_last_save
• Run a centerline simulation

The part is being finished using a Z Level finish toolpath. Note how the toolpath is
fragmented at the top and bottom edges of the surface being machined. This results in
multiple lift-offs and a poor finish on these edges. To get a good surface finish, the toolpath
has to make many passes thus increasing the machining time.

• Uncheck the feature srfmill_1

• Select the surface “face_172”
• Create a new surface milling feature
• Create a Single operation

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FeatureMILL3D 5-Axis Swarf

• On the New Strategy page select Swarf then click Next

• Make sure that Gouge check and Follow surface laterals are checked

• Click Finish

In order to make the best use of the Swarf operation, we need to select or create a tool that is
capable of finishing the whole surface in a single pass.

• Click on finish1 and select the Tools tab

• Select the Tool Group - Ball End Endmill
• Select the tool Long Endmill B0500 and then click on New tool

2 Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012

FeatureMILL3D 5-Axis Swarf

• Fill in the form exactly as shown below

• Click on Apply and then OK

• Select the DMU Evo post processor and machine design file
• Run a machine simulation

The part is finished to the full depth with a single pass of the tapered tool. This both saves
time and gives an improved surface finish as there are no scallops produced on the surface.

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 3

FeatureMILL3D 5-Axis Swarf

Swarf machining can also be used to finish the edges of manufactured parts. In this type of
application, the side of the tool can be used to remove burrs from machined parts, flash from
molded, cast or forged part and excess material from composite lay-ups. In this example, we
will use a swarf toolpath to cut off excess material from a molding of a motorcycle fender.

• Open the file Fender_Swarf.fm

The model is mounted in a jig ready for the edges to be trimmed. We will trim the excess
material from the part using a tool tilted over at 90 degrees to the edge.

• DO NOT select any surfaces

• Create a new surface milling feature and click Next

We need to select just the edge faces of the part. As they have a different color, it is a simple
matter to use a filter to select only the orange surfaces that we wish to machine.

• From the main tool bar select Edit

• Choose Select by Color/Type

• From the pulldown menu select the Orange color then click OK
• On the New Feature – Part Surfaces form click the green cross to add
the selected surfaces into the feature

4 Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012

FeatureMILL3D 5-Axis Swarf

• Click Next and select Choose a single operation then Next

• Select Swarf and click Finish then OK
• Single step a centerline simulation

By default FeatureCAM chooses to

approach the part from the side that is
nearest to the setup. In this case we
want to bring the cutter in from outside
of the part so we need to flip over the
tool. We can control this from the
Strategy tab of the feature.

• Eject the simulation

• Edit the feature and select the Strategy tab
• Check Reverse tool axis
• Click Apply and then OK
• Single step a centerline simulation

The tool is now approaching

from the correct direction. If
you zoom up on the tool,
you will see that it is
machining exactly to the
inside edge of the part.

When trimming flexible

workpieces such as this, it is
often better to take the tool
past the edge of the part to
ensure that the edge is fully
machined.

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 5

FeatureMILL3D 5-Axis Swarf

• Edit the feature and select the Milling tab

• Set the Axial offset to -0.1”

• Click Apply and then OK

• Single step a centerline simulation

By applying a negative Axial offset, we are forcing the tool to machine with its tip past the
edge of the surface to be finished. This will ensure that there is a good finish on the edge.

6 Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012

FeatureMILL3D 5-Axis Trim

5-axis Trim
Introduction
The 5-Axis trim toolpath is used for trimming up the edge of moldings, castings, lay-ups, etc.
The tool makes two passes around the edge of the selected surfaces to trim off excess
material. Either the face of the surface or its outer edges can be trimmed. If this toolpath is
used on the outside edge of a part with a negative offset, it can be used for de-burring.

In this example, we will trim up the edge of a die-casting with an end mill. The tool axis will
be set to be normal to the surfaces being machine by using a Lead and Lean of zero.

• Open the part Trimming.fm

• From the view menu select Show all

The part contains three solids; the silver one is the part to be machined, the blue one is the
stock, and the orange is the fixture on which the part will be mounted. We will now set up
ready for machining.

• Select the tool crib basic

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 1

FeatureMILL3D 5-Axis Trim

• Open the stock properties, select User defined

• Choose the solid stock from the list as shown

• Click OK and Apply

• Click OK to close the stock properties form
• In the Part view, right click on the solid called stock and Hide selected

We will now register the solid fixture as a clamp so that it appears in the simulation.

• In the Part view right click on the solid fixture

• Select Use solid as a clamp

We are now ready to create the first trim toolpath. This will finish the lower edge of the part.

2 Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012

FeatureMILL3D 5-Axis Trim

• Select the surface that makes up the lower edge of the part as shown

• Create a new surface milling feature

• Select Choose a single operation
• On the New strategy page select 5-Axis trim
• Click Finish
• Select the 5-Axis tab
• Check Use Lead and Lean & set both Lead and Lean angles to Zero
• Click Apply

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 3

FeatureMILL3D 5-Axis Trim

• Select finish1 and then the Tools tab

• Select a 0.375” long reach Flat End Mill as shown

• Click Apply and then OK

• Run a centerline simulation

The tool makes two passes around the selected surface cleaning up the edge. As we have set
lead and lean angles of zero, the tool tilts as it passes around the part maintaining its axis
perpendicular to the surfaces being machine.

We will now repeat this process for the upper edge of the part.

4 Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012

FeatureMILL3D 5-Axis Trim

• Select the surface that makes up the upper edge of the part as shown

• Create a new surface milling feature

• Select Choose a single operation
• On the New strategy page select 5-Axis trim
• Click Finish
• Select the 5-Axis tab
• Check Use Lead and Lean & set both Lead and Lean angles to Zero
• Click Apply

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 5

FeatureMILL3D 5-Axis Trim

• Select finish1 and then the Tools tab

• Select a 0.375” long reach Flat End Mill as before
• Click Apply and then OK
• Select the DMU Evo post and ensure you have the matching MD file
• Run a Machine simulation

To finish off the part we will finally add an Outside edge trim operation to deburr the edges
of the upper surface.

• Eject the simulation

• Open the feature properties of srfmill_2
• Select the Process tab and click on Add new operation
• Choose a 5-Axis trim operation
• Click Next and then choose Outside edge
• Click Finish

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FeatureMILL3D 5-Axis Trim

• Click on the new trim operation and select the 5-Axis tab
• Set the Lead to Zero and the Lean to 45 degrees

• Click Apply and then OK

• Select the finish2 operation and then the Tools tab
• Select a 0.25” long reach Ball Nose Tool
• Select the Milling tab and set the Leave allowance to -0.010”
• Click Apply and then OK
• Zoom in on the upper edge of the part and run a 3D Simulation

Note how the new 5-Axis trim toolpath has neatly deburred the sharp edges left by the
previous operation.

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 7

FeatureMILL3D Collision Avoidance

Collision Avoidance
Introduction
FeatureCAM is capable of detecting when the tool shank or holder will collide with a part. It
is then able to take evasive action provided that the user tells it how it should tilt the tool to
get out of trouble. Any 5-Axis tool alignment can be used as a collision avoidance strategy.
In this module we will look at several ways in which collision avoidance can be applied.

In this first example, a stepped part will be machined. The step is steep and would require a
long reach tool to be machined safely with a 3-Axis toolpath. We will look at using a Lead
and then a Lean avoidance tool axis to allow us to machine the part with a short reach cutter
to finish the part.

• Open the file Avoid_Lead_Lean.fm

• Select the tool crib Avoid_Lead_Lean.fm_tools_from_last_save
• Run a 3D simulation

We are using a short cutter here to minimize chatter and deflection as this will give improved
accuracy and surface finish. It is obvious however that the holder is colliding with the part.
We will now fix the gouge by tilting the tool away from the part along its direction of travel,
That is, we will use a Lead angle tool axis. We could apply a lead angle to the whole
toolpath, however, we only wish to tilt the tool in the area where the collision would occur. In
general, 5-Axis toolpaths take longer to calculate. By using a collision avoidance strategy we
only tilt the tool where it is necessary thus reducing the overall length of time taken to
calculate the toolpath.

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 1

FeatureMILL3D Collision Avoidance

• Open the properties of srf_mill1

• Click on the Parallel operation and then the 5-axis tab

• Use the Tilt Axis pull down menu to select Lead

• Click Apply and then OK
• Run a 3D simulation

The tool tilts away from the part sufficiently to avoid a collision. It is important to note that
the direction of the tilt is independent of the direction in which the tool is moving; this is
unlike a normal Lead tool orientation. FeatureCAM is looking at the surfaces to be avoided
and automatically deciding the Lead angle and whether it needs to be positive or negative.

We will now change to a Y Parallel toolpath and use a Lean angle to prevent gouging.

2 Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012

FeatureMILL3D Collision Avoidance

• Open the feature properties - click on Parallel and select check Y Parallel.

• Select the 5-Axis tab

• Use the Tilt Axis pull down menu to select Lean
• Click Apply and then OK
• Select an Isometric View
• Run a 3D simulation

The tool is now cutting with a bi-directional

parallel toolpath along the Y direction. The
tool is leaning away from the part. As before,
FeatureCAM is automatically deciding the
amount of the lean angle and whether it
needs to be positive or negative.

• As an exercise create a line from (2,0,1) to (2,2,1) and use it to provide a

From Line tilt axis for collision avoidance

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 3

FeatureMILL3D Collision Avoidance

We will now use a Lean avoidance strategy with a Z-Level finish toolpath on a turbine
blade model. In order to better visualize the motions of the machine, we will use a
machine tool simulation.

• Open the file Avoid.fm

• Select the tool crib Avoid.fm_tools_from_last_save
• Run a 3D simulation

The first part of the toolpath is OK, but when the tool gets about three quarters of the way
down the part, the holder collides with the top of the blade. We could fix this by changing
the whole of the toolpath to use a Lean tool axis. The disadvantage of this approach is that
the 5-Axis toolpath will take longer to calculate. By using collision avoidance we can
calculate most of the toolpath quickly using a 3-Axis strategy and only switch to 5_Axis
where it is needed to avoid hitting the part.

• Eject the simulation

• Open the feature properties, click on Z Level
• Select the 5-Axis tab
• Use the Tilt Axis pull down menu to select Toward Surface Normal
• Click Apply and then OK

Lead and Lean are useful collision avoidance options when the obstacles to be avoided are all
aligned in a single direction so that either a Lead or a Lean will allow FeatureCAM to prevent
a gouge. When features on the part have many different orientations, it can be difficult to
avoid a collision using a single tool axis option.

4 Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012

FeatureMILL3D Collision Avoidance

In addition to the normal tool axis alignments available through the “Other” pull down menu,
FeatureCAM has an additional option for collision avoidance; this is Towards Surface
Normal. When this option is selected, FeatureCAM tilts the tool away from surface which it
is cutting. The direction of the tilt is towards the normal to the surface – that is, in a direction
perpendicular to the surface at the point of contact. In most cases, this will tilt the tool in a
safe direction away from the surfaces being machined.

• From the Manufacturing menu select Post Process

• Browse to select the DMG Evo post processor
• In the setup properties ensure that FeatureCAM is going to use the
machine desiggn file that is specified in the post processor

• Select an Isometric View

• Run a Machine Simulation

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 5

FeatureMILL3D Collision Avoidance

The rotary axes of the machine remain stationary at the start of the toolpath. It is only when
the tool shank or holder become too close to the part that the rotary axes are bought into play
to avoid the collision.

6 Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012

FeatureMILL3D Tool Axis Limits

Tool Axis Limits

Introduction
In 5-Axis machining, it is often necessary to limit the motion of the tool relative to the part.
This may be to avoid a collision between the tool holder and the part, work holder, or table,
or to prevent the rotary axes from going over their limits.

In this example, we will be machining a curved surface using an Isoline strategy. In order to
avoid collisions with the stock remaining after roughing, we shall use a Lead & Lean tool
axis orientation. This will cause collisions with the part which we shall then resolve.

• Open the file Limits.fm

• Select the tool crib Limits.fm_tools_from_last_save
• Run a 3D simulation

The tool holder is colliding with the steps left by the roughing operation. In order to prevent
this, we could either use a longer tool or we could tilt the tool away from the part to avoid
hitting the steps. In this case, we will try using a Lead & Lean tool axis with both angles set
to zero, this will align the tool axis with the normal of the surface being machined.

• Eject the simulation

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 1

FeatureMILL3D Tool Axis Limits

• Open the feature Limits, click on Isoline and select the 5-Axis tab
• Select Lead & Lean and set the Lead and Lean angles to Zero

• Click Apply and then OK

• Run a 3D simulation

As you can see, the tool holder is no longer colliding with the steps left by the roughing.
However, as the tool axis is leaning down almost to the horizontal the tool holder is now
hitting the lower, flat areas of the part. We will now use Tool Axis Limits to fix this problem.

2 Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012

FeatureMILL3D Tool Axis Limits

• Eject the simulation

• Open the feature Limits, click on Isoline and select the 5-Axis tab
• Click on Tool Axis Limits

This opens up the Tool Axis Limits form. We will now use some of the options here to
control the way that the tool is allowed to move in order to prevent collisions with the part.

• Select Remove toolpaths

• Set the Minimum elevation to 23 degrees and hit OK

This is telling FeatureCAM that we want to allow the tool to go no lower than 23 degrees
above the XY plane of the selected UCS (in this case the STOCK UCS). When the tool
reaches this limit, any part of the toolpath below that angle will be removed.

• Select a Front view

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 3

FeatureMILL3D Tool Axis Limits

• Run a 3D Simulation; pause when you reach the Isoline toolpath and
single step through the program from there

The tool is now only moving down the part until the normal of the surface being machine
reaches an angle of 23 degrees to the horizontal. When it reaches this limit, it machines no
lower.

As the surface is tapered, the limit of the specified angle is moving up that part as it gets
wider. This means that at the widest end of the part, the finish machining path is missing a
large part of the surface to be machined. We can get around this by using another option on
the Tool Axis Limits form: Leave tool at axis limit. When Leave tool at axis limit is
selected, the tool will remain at the maximum angle but will continue to machine down to the
end of the surface when the tool axis limit is reached.

4 Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012

FeatureMILL3D Tool Axis Limits

• Eject the simulation

• Open the feature Limits, click on Isoline and select the 5-Axis tab
• Click on Tool Axis Limits
• Select Leave tool at axis limit
• Set the Minimum elevation to 30 degrees and then Click OK

• Select a Front view

• Run a 3D Simulation; pause when you reach the Isoline toolpath and
single step through the program from there

By limiting the tool axis to a steeper angle and then maintaining the axis at that angle rather
than removing the toolpath, we have now machined much more of the surface without
colliding with the lower part of the model.

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 5

FeatureMILL3D Tool Axis Limits

5-Axis Trim Exercise

• Open the file Fender_Trim.fm

The model is mounted in a jig ready for the edges to be trimmed. We will trim the excess
material from the part using a tool aligned perpendicular to the surfaces that make up the
edge to be trimmed.

• DO NOT select any surfaces

• Create a new surface milling feature and click Next

We need to select just the edge faces of the part, as there have a different color it is a simple
matter to use a filter to select only the orange surfaces that we wish to machine.

• From the main tool bar select Edit

• Choose Select by Color/Type

• From the pulldown menu select the Orange color then click OK
• On the New Feature – Part Surfaces form click the green cross to add
the selected surfaces into the feature
• Click Next and select Choose a single operation then Next
• Select 5-axis trim and click Finish

6 Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012

FeatureMILL3D Tool Axis Limits

• Select the finish operation and then the Tools tab

• Select a 0.25” Flat End Endmill
• Click Apply and then OK
• Select a Front view
• Single step a centerline simulation

The toolpath is using a Lead and Lean angle of Zero. This would result in the head of the
machine colliding with the part.

• Use Tool axis limits to modify the toolpath so it can trim the part safely

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 7

FeatureMILL3D 4 Axis Simultaneous

4-Axis Simultaneous
Introduction
FeatureCAM has three methods available for cutting 4-axis features:

Wrapped 2.5D Features Requires FeatureMILL 2.5D

Wrapped Surface Milling Feature Requires FeatureMILL 3D.
4-axis Simultaneous Features Requires FeatureMILL 5-Axis Simultaneous.

In this module, we will focus on 4-axis simultaneous features as 2.5D and 3D wrapped
features are covered in separate modules.

FeatureCAM 4-Axis simultaneous is used where it is possible to cut a part by a 5-Axis

strategy, but only a 4-axis machine is available. This gives the user access to a much wider
range of strategies than would be possible using just 2.5D or 3D wrapped features. The
method works by generating a full 5-Axis toolpath and then “locking out” one of the axes to
give a 4-Axis toolpath. This may mean that the part is not cut fully, but this may be what is
required as it is often very difficult to model a part exactly so that it can be machined with
just four axes.

Impeller Example
In this example, a part will be completed using the swarf and isoline 4-axis strategies. The
part is roughed using swarf cutting at multiple levels, and then is finished using swarf and
isoline.

• Open the part Impeller_Start.fm

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 1

FeatureMILL3D 4 Axis Simultaneous

At first glance it may appear that this part can be cut 4th axis, but the straight isolines on the
surface are not perpendicular to the X-Axis. So, it is a 5-Axis part.

• Double click on the stock to edit its properties

• Select the Indexing tab
• Note that we have 5th Axis Positioning selected

• Click Cancel
• Select the Haas-5 axis.cnc post processor from:

C:\Program Files\FeatureCAM\M-Library\5th Axis\

• Run a Centerline simulation

• Check the NC code

2 Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012

FeatureMILL3D 4 Axis Simultaneous

We have a mixture of A and B rotary moves. We want to restrict this to A only. FeatureCAM
can do this by locking out the B axis.

In order to lock an axis, we have to restrict the tool moves to the XY plane of a UCS. In this
case as we want to lock out the B axis, we need to make a new UCS with its Z axis aligned
with the machine X axis.

• Eject the simulation

• On the main menu click on UCS
• Check Create from UCS

• Click OK
• Click Rotate and enter a Y angle of 90 degrees

This has aligned the Z axis of the new UCS with the X axis of the machine. We now need to
change the 5-Axis toolpaths to 4-Axis with the B axis locked out.

Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012 3

FeatureMILL3D 4 Axis Simultaneous

• Select the first srf_mill1 feature in the Parts view and access the
Properties
• Click on Swarf
• Select the 5-Axis tab
• Click on Tool Axis limits
• Check Project to XY Plane (make 4-axis toolpaths)
• Select UCS2 from the pulldown and then click OK then OK again

• Repeat the above procedure for the other features in the part
• Run a Centerline simulation
• Check the NC code

We now have a true 4-axis toolpath.

4 Issue FeatureMILL5AS 2012

 FeatureCAM
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