CAM Software Extends Support for Multitasking Machines

PartMaker Inc., a division of Delcam PLC, releases the 2015 version of its PartMaker CAM software for programming CNC mills, lathes, wire EDMs, turn-mill machines and Swiss-type lathes. Updates to the software include improved support for multitasking machine tools, more powerful milling and turning capabilities, and changes to post processing for multi-axis turn-mills and Swiss-type lathes.

A new approach for post processing multitasking machine tools includes improvements to the software’s existing post-processing technology as well as new functionality to guide users to take advantage of their specific multitasking machine tools. The software includes support for programming, simulating and post processing of vertical turn-mill machines, which provide turning functionality typically found on a vertical-turret lathe, as well as added support for turret-based Swiss-type lathes with programmable B-axis live tooling attachments. According to the company, it also offers more intuitive handling of angled live tooling attachments with simulation.

Additional enhancements include better control over feeds and speeds, improvements to hole-making and canned cycles, and updated turning toolpath strategies. ConfigPost supports more variables, user conditions and canned cycle types. Additionally, support for five-axis mills with tilting tool heads and rotary tables, including nutating heads, has been updated. Post-processor reference guides including machine tool diagrams and explanations of the multi-axis post processor’s capabilities can be generated in either HTML or Microsoft Word formats.