SAMPLE MastercamX6 Handbook Vol-3 PDF

Handbook Volume 3
To order more books:
Call 1-800-529-5517 or
Visit www.emastercam.com or
Contact your Mastercam dealer

Mastercam X6 Handbook Volume 3 for Mastercam X6
Copyright: 1998 -2012 In-House Solutions Inc. All rights reserved
Software: Mastercam X6
Author: In-House Solutions
ISBN: 978-1-926955-47-6
Revision Date: April 20, 2012
Notice
In-House Solutions Inc. reserves the right to make improvements to this manual at any time and without
notice.
Disclaimer Of All Warranties And Liability
In-House Solutions Inc. makes no warranties, either express or implied, with respect to this manual or
with respect to the software described in this manual, its quality, performance, merchantability, or
fitness for any particular purpose. In-House Solutions Inc. manual is sold or licensed "as is." The entire risk
as to its quality and performance is with the buyer. Should the manual prove defective following its
purchase, the buyer (and not In-House Solutions Inc., its distributer, or its retailer) assumes the entire
cost of all necessary servicing, repair, of correction and any incidental or consequential damages. In no
event will In-House Solutions Inc. be liable for direct, indirect, or consequential damages resulting from
any defect in the manual, even if In-House Solutions Inc. has been advised of the possibility of such
damages. Some jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of implied warranties or liability for
incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
Copyrights
This manual is protected under International copyright laws. All rights are reserved. This document may
not, in whole or part, be copied, photographed, reproduced, translated or reduced to any electronic
medium or machine readable form without prior consent, in writing, from In-House Solutions Inc.
Trademarks
Mastercam is a registered trademark of CNC Software, Inc.
Microsoft, the Microsoft logo, MS, and MS-DOS are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation;
N-See is a registered trademark of Microcompatibles, Inc.; Windows, Windows XP, Windows Vista,
Windows 7 and Windows NT are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
This document complies with Mastercam X6 as of October 2012. Requires Mastercam Mill Level 1 and s
Solids for chapter 5.
Contents
Legend ........................................................................................................................................1
Tutorials
Chapter 1: Introduction To Multiaxis Machining .........................................................................3
Chapter 2: Multiaxis Curve Machining ........................................................................................43
Chapter 3: Multiaxis Swarf Machining ........................................................................................81
Chapter 4: Multiaxis Flow Machining..........................................................................................97
Chapter 5: Multiaxis Msurf Machining......................................................................................111
Chapter 6: Multiaxis Port Machining ........................................................................................123
Chapter 7: Rotary 4-axis Machining ..........................................................................................133
Chapter 8: Multiaxis Drilling & Circle Mill ................................................................................145
Chapter 9: Advanced Multiaxis Common Parameters ..............................................................163
Chapter 10: Multiaxis Wireframe Family Toolpaths ...................................................................227
Chapter 11: Multiaxis Surface/solid Family Toolpaths ...............................................................237
Chapter 12: Custom Application Family Toolpaths.....................................................................249
Handbook Volume 3 Files
The Handbook Volume 3 MCX-6 files that are referenced throughout the entire book can be found online by
visiting www.emastercam.com/files
Handbook Volume 3
Handbook Volume 3
Legend
Icons
Icons are used to alert, inform, and enhance your learning experience. The following icons are
found in the margins of the book:
Remember reminds you of important information that will help you work safely and
productively.
Tips are suggestions from experienced CAD/CAM users that will guide your learning and use of
Mastercam.
Step by Step are detailed instructions on how to use a specific function or perform a task.
On The CD alerts you that a file exists on the CD included with this manual that may be necessary
for accomplishing a task.
Warning is used to emphasize situations that can cause damage to machines, property, bodily
injury or death. Machining can be dangerous. Take these warnings seriously and do not proceed
unless you are certain your methods and setup are completely safe.
Handbook Volume 3 Page |1

INTRODUCTION1
Conventions
Key words and Mastercam menu items are shown in bold the first time they are used. Columns on
the outside edges of each page and note pages at the end of each chapter provide ample space for
taking notes.
Useful tips, recommended settings, best practices, and detailed instruction on the most important
features are included when possible.
An accompanying CD ROM contains files needed to complete all exercises in this handbook, as well
as movie (.WMV) files to demonstrate certain topics and examples.
You will need Windows Media Player with the appropriate CODEC, an Audio Card, and speakers or
headset to play these movies. These files provide detailed step-by-step instructions on how to use
Mastercam.
Extra credit exercises are included on the student CD in PDF format. These will help build your skill
to a higher level.
How To Use The Book
The following terms are used throughout this book.
Left Click means to click once on the left mouse button.
Click means the same as left click.
Right Click means to click once on the right mouse button.
Scroll means to roll the mouse scroll wheel, or move the scroll index in a list.
Options are Mastercam functions selected from the main menu.
Enter means to select the <Enter> key on your computer keyboard.
Press means to press on a keyboard key.
Choose means to select a menu option or button.
Open/Close means to open or close a dialog or information box.
Dialog Box is a window that opens to allow input of information and setting of defaults.
Drop Down/Fly Out Menus are menus that expand down, left, right, or up, to reveal more menu
lists.
A Function is the same as a menu option or command.
Help means the Mastercam help files loaded with your software.
Page |2 Handbook Volume 3

2
CHAPTER 2 Multiaxis Curve Machining
OBJECTIVES
The purpose of this chapter is to introduce Multiaxis Curve toolpaths. Upon completion of this
chapter, you should able to do the following:
• Understand the concept of Multiaxis curve machining and recognize applications where it
should be considered.
• Understand the difference between 3, 4, and 5-axis output formats.
• Know how to control the toolpath using 3D curves or surface edges.
• Know how to control the tool axis orientation using all available methods.
• Understand tool tip compensation as it relates to Multiaxis curve machining.
• Know the difference between Surface and Plane projection.
• Be able to define and set tool lead/lag and side tilt angle.
• Understand all parameters and settings related to Entry/Exit and be skilled in their use.
INTRODUCTION
Curve toolpaths are used to move the tip of the tool along a 3D curve while controlling the tool
axis as shown in Figure 1. This toolpath has many applications. The illustration below shows a
Curve toolpath being used to control a laser to trim cut a molded manifold.
Figure 1
See Laser Trim Cut.MCX-6.

CURVE TOOLPATH
Begin by selecting the Multiaxis icon or Toolpaths, Multiaxis.
TOOLPATH TYPE
Toolpath type controls the options available as you proceed down the tree structure. The options
are based on the toolpath family selected using the Calculation based on buttons, as well as by
selecting the picture of the toolpath you wish to create.
From the Toolpath Type select Curve in the Classic toolpath family.

Multiaxis Curve Machining CHAPTER 21
Mastercam toolpath dialog boxes have three distinct areas: Tree View, Page, and Quick View
Settings as shown in Figure 2.
Figure 2

Tool
The Tool page allows you to select a tool, set the feeds and speeds, enter a comment about the
operation, and set other general toolpath parameters as shown in Figure 3. This dialog box is
identical to that used throughout Mastercam 2D toolpaths. For questions regarding parameters on
this dialog, consult the online help (Alt-H) or refer to the Mastercam Handbook Volume 1 or
Volume 2.
Figure 3

Cut Pattern
Cut Pattern settings determine the geometry the tool follows and how it travels along that
geometry as shown in Figure 4.
Figure 4
Item Definition
Curve type Curve type can be chosen between 3D curves (lines, arcs or splines)
or Surface edges when you are not using chained geometry.
Compensation Type Allows you to choose how you want to handle cutter compensation.
This option is identical to that used in 2D and 3D toolpaths.
Compensation Gives you the choice to offset the tool to the right or left of the
direction toolpath.
Tip Comp Sets the amount of offset to the tool's center or tip.
Distance increment The value is a linear distance along the path taken by the tool. An
additional vector will be added to the toolpath when the distance
between calculated vectors is greater than the distance increment
value.
Radial offset Sets the distance that the center of the tool is offset (left or right)
based on the Compensation direction.
Distance Select to use a distance value to limit tool motion. The specified value
is the distance between generated vectors along the selected
geometry.

Item Definition
Cut tolerance Cut tolerance determines the accuracy of the Multiaxis toolpath.
Maximum step Maximum step sets the largest step that can be made between tool
moves so the tool moves can be kept closer together in flat areas of
the part.
Projection Projection set to Normal to plane projects the curves to the tool axis
surface using the current construction plane as the projection
direction.
Projection set to Normal to surface projects the curves normal to the
tool axis control surfaces.
Curve Type 3D Curves
The path of the tool is controlled with the Curve Type group. Clicking on the 3D Curves button
brings up the Mastercam chaining menu. Use this menu to select the curves to machine.
Curves can be composed of lines, arcs, and NURBS splines. Parametric splines and surface curves
are not allowed as shown in Figure 5.
Figure 5
See Curve 5 Axis Curve Type 3D Curves.MCX-6.

The best results are achieved with quality data. When possible, model the curves using the
simplest geometry possible using lines instead of straight splines, arcs instead of circular splines,
etc.
Avoid splines with excessive control points, reversals, or other undesirable characteristics. If
necessary, reduce the splines or remodel them. The Mastercam Handbook, Volume 2,
Chapter 1, Splines, provides information on spline modeling and troubleshooting.
Curve Type Surface Edge
The Surface Edge option allows selected surface edges to control the toolpath instead of 3D curves.
The All setting drives the tool around all surface edges. The system prompts you to select the
surface, and then to select the cut direction as shown in Figure 6.
Figure 6
See Curve Type Surface Edge All.MCX-6.

Use the Single setting to drive the tool around one edge of a surface or group of surfaces as shown
in Figure 7.
Figure 7
See Curve Type Surface Edge One.MCX-6.
When more than one surface is selected, the system prompts you to pick the first surface, and then
the edge to use as shown in Figure 8. It then prompts you to select the edge to use for the next
adjacent surface. This is repeated for each subsequent surface until one edge of each surface is
selected.
Figure 8
See Curve5ax Surface Edge One Multiple Surfaces2.MCX-6.

In cases where multiple edges of a single surface are used as edges, first split the surface using the
Create, Surface, Trim/extend, Split function as shown in Figure 9.
Figure 9
Surfaces With Seams
Surfaces generated from cross sections, such as Revolved or Net, have a seam as shown in
Figure 10. The toolpath will drive along this seam and the perimeter of the surface when using the
Surface Edge function.
Consider using the 3D Curves option rather than Surface Edge to avoid machining the surface seam.
Figure 10
See Curve Type Surface Edge All-With Seam.MCX-6.

Radial offset
Radial offset is in relation to the cut direction as shown in Figure 11. Set this to the radius of the
cutter.
Figure 11
Curve Following Method
Curve following method allows you to set the accuracy of the Multiaxis toolpath.
Item Definition
Distance Select to use a distance value to limit tool motion. The specified value
is the distance between generated vectors along the selected
geometry. A smaller value creates a more accurate toolpath, but may
take longer to generate and may create a longer NC program.
Cut tolerance Cut tolerance determines the accuracy of the Multiaxis toolpath. A
smaller cut tolerance value creates a more accurate toolpath, but
may take longer to generate the toolpath and create a longer NC
program. This value is also used to eliminate duplicate positions and
as a tolerance when compensating to surfaces. When the Distance
check box is deselected, Mastercam uses the cut tolerance you
specify as a tolerance to fit tool positions to the surface based on the
curvature of the surface. Otherwise, Mastercam uses the Distance
value as an absolute distance for the space between each tool
position.
Maximum step Maximum step sets the largest step that can be made between tool
moves so the tool moves can be kept closer together in flat areas of
the part.

Projection
Projection determines how the curves are projected onto the surface.
Item Definition
Normal to plane Causes the curve to be projected normal to the active construction
plane.
Normal to surface Projects the curve onto the surface along the surface normals.
Maximum distance Controls how far the system looks to find the surface on which to
project the curve.
To reduce calculation time, set this value a little more than the
maximum distance between the curve and the surface projected to.
If the curve lies directly on the surface, a setting of.05 inches or less
may be used.
Use this setting also to prevent unwanted multiple projections that

result when the surface wraps so that the projected curve intersects
the surface more than one, as in the case of a curve projected
through a cylinder.

Normal to Plane, as shown in Figure 12, projects the curve straight along the axis of the active
construction plane until it encounters the selected surface, as long as this distance is less than the
Maximum Distance setting.
In most cases, the drive curves already lie on the surfaces, and so the toolpath will not physically
move. However, the projection process is required for Mastercam to find the surface normal's at
every point along the curve.
Figure 12
Normal to Plane projections do not work when projecting onto walls that are vertical in relation
to the construction plane. In this case, use Project to Surface.

Normal to Surface projects the curve onto the surface along the surface normal's as shown in
Figure 13.
Figure 13
See Curve Project Normal_Surface.MCX-6.

Projecting Curves
If the curve does not lie on the tool axis control surface, consider projecting the curve onto the
surface using Xform, Project, before creating the toolpath. This allows use of the Normal to Plane
projection option, which is more reliable than Normal to Surface.
Projecting curves is a common requirement for many Multiaxis toolpaths. Curves can be composed
of lines, arcs, and splines. They can be projected onto a single surface or a landscape of surfaces.
Open the file, Curve Project Normal_Plane.MCX, which in on your student CD.
Step 1: Select the function Xform, Project from the menu or from the Xform toolbar.
Step 2: Select the curve to project and then select <Enter> or End Selection.
Step 3: Select the Project onto Surface option and View options on the Project dialog box.
Select the surface(s) to project the curve onto, and then select <Enter> or End Selection again.

Tool Axis Control
Tool Axis Control page allows you to set the tool’s orientation in relation to the geometry being cut
and to determine the output format that can be choose between 4-Axis and 5-Axis as shown in
Figure 14.
Figure 14
Item Definition
Tool axis control Determines how the tilt of the tool is controlled as it moves along the
trajectory.
Output format Determines if the output code is 3-axis only (no rotations), 4-axis (one
rotary axis), or full 5-axis (two rotary axes).
Lead/lag angle Tilts the tool forward/backward in the direction of the toolpath.
Side tilt angle Tilts the tool right or left while traveling in the direction of the
toolpath.
Angle increment Angle increment is an angular measurement between adjacent tool
vectors. An additional vector will be added to the toolpath when the
angle between calculated vectors is greater than the angle increment
value.
Tool vector length Tool vector length value controls the toolpath display by determining
the length of the tool axis at each tool position. It is also used as the
vector length in the NCI file.

Tool Axis Control
The Tool Axis Control group sets how the tool axis orientation is controlled.
The tool axis is defined as a line passing through the center line of the tool and pointing away from
the tip as shown in Figure 15.
Figure 15

Lines
Tool axis control lines set the tool axis normal to lines spaced along the toolpath. Lines point in the
direction of the tool axis as the tool passes the line.
Control lines are a very effective way of precisely controlling the tool axis. NC code generated
using the line method is usually very efficient, producing fewer moves than most other control
methods.
Control lines can be the edges of a surface or solid, as shown in the graphic on the following page.
Most 3D models have extrusion lines that can be selected for tool axis control as shown in
Figure 16.
Figure 16
See Curve 5 Axis Tool Axis Control Lines.MCX-6.
Select the Lines button and pick the tool axis control lines using the Lines Tool Axis Control dialog
box as shown in Figure 17. By default, the tool axis is rotated to align with these control lines.
Selecting Relative to Direction causes the tool axis to be only set relative to the toolpath direction.
Figure 17

Path Between Lines
As the tool moves along the curve between the selected control lines, the tool axis changes
gradually as shown in Figure 18.
Figure 18
Surface
Surface sets the tool axis normal to a surface, or landscape of surfaces, at each point along the
curve as shown in Figure 19.
Figure 19
See Curve 5ax Tool Axis Control Surface.MCX-6.

Plane
Plane keeps the tool axis normal to a plane. This type of tool control is referred to as 5 Axis
positioning, since the tool is oriented about the rotary axis, and then moves in a 3-axis mode in
relation to the plane as shown in Figure 20.
Figure 20
Curve 5 Axis Tool Axis Control Plane.MCX-6.
From Point
From Point selection orients the tool axis so it remains aligned with a control point. The graphic
below shows how the tool axis is aligned with a line extended between the control point and the
control curves as shown in Figure 21.
Figure 21
See Curve 5 Axis Tool Axis Control From Point.MCX-6.

To Point
To Point is similar to From Point, except the projection is from the tool to the point, rather than
from the point as shown in Figure 22.
Figure 22
See Curve 5 Axis Tool Axis Control To Point.MCX-6.

Chain
Chain controls the tool axis using control curves. As the tool moves along its path, the shank of the
cutter passes through the control curves.
The graphic below shows control curves used to orient the tool so the shank of the cutter does not
collide with the sides of the turbine blades as it finishes the root fillet of the blade as shown in
Figure 23.
Figure 23
See Curve 5 Axis Tool Axis Control Chains.MCX-6.
After picking Chain and selecting the control curves, the Chain Options dialog box as shown in
Figure 24 is presented. Select chain can be used to reselect the control curves.
Figure 24

Item Definition
Step along whole Causes the tool axis direction to gradually transition along the
chain selected chain.
Closest point on chain Finds the closest point on the selected control chain and aligns the
tool with this point.
Visualize this setting like this:
As the tool tip moves to its next position along its path, it constantly
looks at the control curve, and calculates the shortest straight line
distance between the tip of the tool and that curve.
That line becomes the tool axis control line at that point. This process
is repeated for every step increment along the path. Step increment
is set by the 5 Axis Curve Parameters dialog box, covered later in this
chapter.
Output Format
5 Axis Curve output can be set to control 3, 4, or 5 machine axes simultaneously.

The illustrations below show the tool in two positions along the curve using each of the three
output formats as shown in Figure 25, Figure 26 and Figure 27.
Figure 25
Figure 26
Figure 27

3 - Axis Output Format
The illustration below shows multiple views of tool path using the 3 axis output setting as shown in
Figure 28.
Notice that this setting produces no rotary motion. The tool remains aligned with the machine
Z-axis as it moves along the curve. These results are identical co using Surface Project toolpaths.
Figure 28

4 - Axis Output Format
Setting the output format to 4 Axis allows a single rotary axis to be controlled. The other rotary axis
remain stationary as shown in Figure 29. Use this output type to control machines with a single
rotary axis, such as a rotary table mounted along the X or Y axis of a vertical mill.
Figure 29
5 Axis Curve toolpaths using the 4 Axis output option are different from other rotary axis control
toolpaths. To understand how these are different, it helps to know how the tool positions are
calculated for this tool path output type:
a.A 5-axis tool axis vector is generated by the specified Tool Axis Control method.
b.The tool axis that is not being rotated is removed.
c. Tool position is adjusted as defined by the Tip Control setting.
d.The Tool Control offsets are applied.

Simple rotary axis toolpaths can be created using Contour and Pocket tool paths with Mastercam
by selecting the Rotary Axis Control from the tree list.
Both simple rotary positioning and axis substitution, where a rotary axis is substituted for a linear
axis to "wrap" flat geometry around a constant diameter cylinder, are supported with this
function. These rotary tool paths are covered in the Mastercam Handbook, Volume 1, Chapter 9.
Surface machining using a rotary table is created using the 4 Axis Rotary Toolpath described in
Chapter 8, Rotary 4-Axis Machining, of this Handbook.
5-Axis Output Format
5-Axis Output Format allows the tool to be rotated about two rotary axes, in addition to three
linear axes. The graphic below shows tool rotation about both the X and Y axes as shown in
Figure 30.
Figure 30

Lead/Lag Angle
A lead angle means the shank of the cutter will be tilted forward of the tool tip. Lead/lag is used to
move the contact point of the tool away from the tip (Figure 31). Since the radial velocity of the
tool increases as the contact point is moved away from the tip, lead/lag can greatly improve the
cutting efficiency of the tool.
A lag angle means the tool is canted backward. This value is entered as an angle in degrees, with a
positive value for lead angle and a negative value for lag angle as shown in Figure 31.
Figure 31
Side Tilt Angle
Side tilt angle works similar to lead/lag angle. This setting is most often used to provide tool to
part clearance.
This value is entered as an angle in degrees. A positive value cants the tool to the left in relation to
the cut direction. A negative value tilts it to the right.
The following graphic shows side tilt angle. The view is looking from the back of the tool, straight
along the cut path, with the tool moving away as shown in Figure 32.
Figure 32

Tool Vector Length
Tool vector length is a display setting that controls the length of the lines indicating the tool axis
direction during Backplot and toolpath display as shown in Figure 33.
This setting has no effect on the output code. Its only purpose is to aid in visualizing the tool path
during Backplot.
Figure 33
Angle increment
Evaluates the tool motion using an angle setting. When the tool axis angle between points in the
toolpath exceeds the angle, additional control points are inserted between the points.

Axis Limits
Axis Limits are used to restrict rotary motion output. An axis may need to be restricted because of
the physical rotational limits of the machine or to prevent the tool, holder, or machine head from
colliding with the machine or fixture as shown in Figure 34.
Figure 34
Item Definition
DELETE Removes all tool motion that exceeds the limit.
MODIFY Alters the toolpath so that the machine does not exceed the set limit.
WARNING Alerts the operator that an axis limit has been exceeded.

Collision Control
Collision Control settings determine tip compensation, establish check and compensation surface
behavior, the depth at which the tool cuts along the curve and set gouge process settings as shown
in Figure 35.
Figure 35
Item Definition
Tip control Determines how the tip of the tool is controlled. If surfaces are used,
the contact point of the tool can be compensated to the surface.
Otherwise, the center-tip of the tool moves along the curve without
compensation.
Stock to leave Enter the amount of material to leave on the comp surfaces. A
negative value cuts the toolpath into, or below, the surface. Only
applicable when comp surfaces have been selected.
Vector depth Sets the depth at which the tool cuts along the curve.
Check surfaces Allows you to select Check surfaces if you need them.
Gouge process Infinite look ahead allows you to evaluate the tool positions along the
entire toolpath. Generally recommended for use for all but the largest
of toolpaths.
Look ahead allows you to enter a specific number of tool moves to

evaluate ahead of the tool position. The maximum value is 32000.
Enter a value of 0 to disable gouge processing.

Tip Control
Tip Control sets how the tool moves along the curves.
Item Definition
On Selected Curve Causes the tip of the tool to follow the drive curves or surface edges.
On Projected Curve Causes the tip of the tool to follow the curve after it is projected onto
the Tool Axis Control surfaces. This setting is only available if the Tool
Axis Control is set to Surface.
Comp to Surfaces Compensate to Surfaces causes the tool tip to be compensated based
on the surface normals of the Tool Axis Control surfaces.
Vector Depth
Vector depth sets how far the tip of the tool extends above or below the curve as shown in
Figure 36. 5 Axis Curve tool paths that are projected onto a surface can be tip compensated so
that the contact point of the tool is on the surface.
All other methods control only the tip of the tool, since there is not enough information in the
model to compensate for the contact point.
Figure 36

Check Surface(s)
Check Surface(s) allows selection of one or more surfaces for the tool to avoid. Check surfaces in
Multiaxis toolpaths work exactly as they do for 3-axis toolpaths as shown in Figure 37. To learn
more about check surfaces, refer to the online help, or to the Mastercam Handbook, Volume 2.
Figure 37
Gouge Processing
The Gouge Processing group checks the toolpath to detect or protect against gouging.
Infinite look ahead looks along the entire profile to check for gouging.
Look ahead sets the number of entities the system will look ahead. Using this option can greatly
reduce toolpath calculation time.

Linking
Linking settings determine how the tool moves when it is not cutting material. In this page you can
set the Clearance, the Retract, the Feed plane heights and force the tool to move directly between
the passes at the feed rate. Linking parameters are similar to other Linking parameter dialogs such
as those for contouring and pocketing.
Note that the Absolute depth settings are not selectable for Multiaxis toolpaths as shown in
Figure 38.
For questions regarding parameters on this dialog, consult the online help (Alt-H) or refer to the
Mastercam Handbook Volume 1 or Volume 2.
Figure 38
Keep Tool Down Within
Gap settings control how the tool moves as it steps between cuts. Most settings are not available
for 5 Axis Curve toolpaths since the tool does not step between cuts.
Gap size sets the maximum distance between cuts to which gap settings apply. Stepovers greater
than this distance will force a tool retract move. Gap size can be set as a Distance or as a
percentage of the tool diameter. If you are having trouble with the tool staying down between
cuts, increase the 300.0 value.

Entry/Exit
Entry/Exit sets the tool motion at the start and end of the toolpath. The curve(s) defined by this
dialog box are tacked on to the start or end of the Multiaxis toolpath as shown in Figure 39.
Use Entry/Exit to blend the toolpath into the cut or for collision avoidance.
Figure 39
Entry/Exit Settings
Entry parameters are set by parameters on the left side of the dialog box. Exit parameters are set
by parameters on the right side of the box. Settings can be copied from one to the other by clicking
on the left or right arrows in the area between the groups.
Item Definition
Entry Sets entry curve parameters.
Exit Sets exit curve parameters.
Length Sets the length of the entry curve.
Thickness Sets the distance of the entry/exit curve away from the cut.
Height Sets the distance of the entry/exit curve away from the floor.
Direction Places the entry/exit curve to the left or right, depending on the
setting, in relation to the toolpath direction.
Pivot angle Cants the angle of the entry/exit curve.
Curve tolerance Sets the chordal deviation for the entry/exit motion.

Study the following diagrams carefully as shown in Figure 40. The first shows the Top view of an
entry curve when a Length, Thickness, and Pivot Angle are specified.
The second diagram shows the Front view of and entry curve when a Length, Approach Height, and
Height are specified.
Figure 40

Figure 41 shows a 3D Entry move created using the settings on the Entry/Exit dialog box in
Figure 39.
Figure 41

WHAT YOU LEARNED
This chapter provided with the basic overview of Multiaxis Curve machining, including:
• Concepts of Multiaxis curve machining and recognize applications where it should be
considered.
• How to control the toolpath using 3D curves or surface edges.
• How to control the tool axis orientation using all available methods.
• The difference between 3, 4, and 5-axis output formats.
• About tool tip compensation as it relates to Multiaxis curve machining.
• The difference between Surface and Plane projection.
• How to define and set tool lead/lag and side tilt angle.
• Understand all parameters and settings related to Entry/Exit and be skilled in their use.
STUDENT EXERCISES
Exercise 2-1: Curve 5 Axis Curve Type 3D Curves.MCX
Create a toolpath along the curve, offset to the right, and normal to the surface.
Exercise 2-2: Curve Type Surface Edge All.MCX
Drive the tool along the edges of the surface using the Surface Edge, All function.
Exercise 2-3: Curve Type Surface Edge One.MCX
Drive the tool along the bottom edge of one side of the part using the Surface Edge, One function.
Exercise 2-4: Curve5ax Surface Edge One Multiple Surfaces2.MCX
Drive the tool along the lower edge of the part using the edges of multiple surfaces and the Surface
Edge, One function.
Exercise 2-5: Curve5ax Split Trimmed Surface.MCX
Drive the tool along the lower edges of the part. You will need to split the large surface to create
two edges along the bottom.
Exercise 2-6: Curve Type Surface Edge All-With Seam.MCX
Drive the tool along the outside of the surface using the Surface Edge, All function. Notice that the
tool also moves along the seam of the revolved surface. Redo the toolpath so it does not machine
the seam using a curve instead of the surface edge.
Exercise 2-7: Curve 5 Axis Tool Axis Control Lines.MCX
Create a toolpath along the curve using the Lines option to control the tool axis.

Exercise 2-8: Curve 5 Axis Tool Axis Control Surface.MCX
Create a toolpath along the curve using the Surface option to control the tool axis. Try applying a
Lead/Lag and a Tilt Angle.
Exercise 2-9: Curve 5 Axis Tool Axis Control Plane.MCX
Create a toolpath along the curve using the Plane option to control the tool axis.
Exercise 2-10: Curve 5 Axis Tool Axis Control From Point.MCX
Create a toolpath along the curve using the From Point option to control the tool axis.
Exercise 2-11: Curve 5 Axis Tool Axis Control To Point.MCX
Create a toolpath along the curve using the To Point option to control the tool axis.
Exercise 2-12: Curve 5 Axis Tool Axis Control Chains.MCX
Create a toolpath along the fillet of the turbine blade. Use the Chains method to control the tool
axis to prevent the shank of the cutter from impacting the adjacent blade.
Exercise 2-13: Output Format.MCX
Create toolpaths for 3, 4, and 5-axis output. Post and check the NC code file for each.

INDEX
Numerics Cross sort ...................................................... 153

2d Containment ............................................ 167 Curve ........................................................... 7, 43
3 - Axis Output Format .................................... 66 Curve following method ................................. 52
4 - Axis Output Format .................................... 67 Curve type....................................................... 47
4-axis angle limits ........................................... 91 Curve Type 3D Curves ..................................... 48
5-Axis Output Format ..................................... 68 Curve Type Surface Edge ................................ 49
Custom Application ......................................... 22
A
Custom Applications ..................................... 249
Air Move Safety Distance .............................. 219 Cut Pattern ..................................................... 47
Angle From Curve ......................................... 196 Cut tolerance ...................................... 48, 52, 83
Angle increment ................................. 57, 70, 90 Cuts along curve ..................................... 15, 231
Angle Limits ................................................... 115 Cylinder Length ............................................. 115
Angle Range .................................................. 174 cylinder pattern ............................................ 114
Angle range ................................................... 167 Cylinder Position........................................... 115
Area Type ...................................................... 167
AutoFind ....................................................... 115
D
Automatic ..................................................... 150 Depth Filtering .............................................. 151
Axis dampening length ................................. 139 Determine by number of cuts ....................... 170
Axis Limits ....................................................... 71 Distance .............................................. 47, 52, 83
Axis Positioning................................................. 4 Distance increment................................... 47, 83
Drill ................................................................... 5
B E
Blade expert .................................................. 266 Edit................................................................ 150
Blade Root Machining................................... 264 Electrode Machining 4+1 Axis ....................... 263
Boundary ...................................................... 107 Entities .......................................................... 150
box cut pattern ............................................. 119 Entry/Exit Settings .......................................... 76
by Branch ........................................................ 89 Extend/trim ................................................... 167
by Entity.......................................................... 89
by Node........................................................... 89
F
by Point........................................................... 89 Fan Distance .................................................... 92
Fanning ........................................................... 90
C
Feed Distance ............................................... 219
Cavity tilt curve ............................................. 261 Filter out duplicates ...................................... 150
Cavity Tiltcurve ............................................. 262 first slices ...................................................... 270
Center Axis .................................................... 115 Flip step over ................................................ 175
Chain ............................................................... 63 Flow ................................................................ 10
Change Normals ............................................ 101 Flow Toolpath ................................................. 98
Check Surface ................................................. 95 Flowline Data Visual Cues ............................. 102
Check surfaces ................................................ 72 From Point ...................................................... 61
Circle Mill .......................................................... 5 From Start To End ......................................... 198
Closed walls .................................................... 83 From start to end for each contour .............. 199
Closest Point ................................................. 195 Full, avoid cuts at exact edges ...................... 168
Closest point on chain ..................................... 64 Full, start and end at exact surface edges .... 169
Collision Control .............................................. 93
Collision Issues ................................................ 26
G
Compensation direction ........................... 47, 83 Gouge process ................................................ 72
Compensation surfaces ................................ 109 Gouge Processing ............................................ 74
Compensation Type .................................. 47, 83 Gradual Lead Angle Change .......................... 187
Creating Wall Chains ....................................... 87 Gradual Side tilt Angle Change ..................... 187
Handbook Volume 3 Page|273

INDEX
H Orthogonal line............................................. 219

Horizontal tangential arc .............................. 218 Output format ................................................ 90
I P
Impeller Blade Swarf Finish .......................... 254 Parallel cuts ............................................. 18, 240
Impeller Floor Surface ................................... 255 Parallel to multiple curves ....................... 14, 230
K Parallel to surface ................................... 17, 238
Keep Tool Down Within .................................. 75 Parallel Triangular mesh ............................... 246
Path Between Lines ........................................ 60
L
Pencil Triangular mesh .................................. 247
Last ................................................................ 150 Pivot Length..................................................... 36
Layers ............................................................ 269 Plane ............................................................... 61
Lead/Lag Angle ............................................... 69 Port ................................................................. 12
Lead/lag angle ................................................. 57 Port Expert .................................................... 259
Limit cuts by one or two points .................... 170 Port Toolpath ................................................ 124
Limits ............................................................. 205 Project Curves ................................................. 16
Lines................................................................ 59 Project curves ............................................... 233
M Projecting Curves............................................ 56
Machine by Lanes ......................................... 177 Projection .................................................. 48, 53
Machine by Regions ...................................... 177 R
Machine Inside ............................................. 115 Radial offset.............................................. 47, 52
Machine Limits................................................ 26 Rapid Distance .............................................. 219
Manual ............................................................ 89 Rest Material ................................................ 271
Manual/Density .............................................. 90 Reverse tangential arc .................................. 218
Mask on Arc .................................................. 150 Reverse tangential line ................................. 219
Maximum distance ......................................... 53 Reverse vertical profile ramp ....................... 219
Maximum step .................................... 48, 52, 83 Reverse vertical tangential arc ..................... 218
Maximum/Minimum Radius ......................... 115 Rib cut ........................................................... 100
Minimize corners in toolpath .......................... 91 Right Hand Rule .............................................. 24
Morph between 2 curves........................ 13, 228 Rotary ............................................................. 11
Morph between 2 surfaces............................. 19 Rotary 4-axis toolpaths................................. 133
Msurf ................................................................ 9 Rotary Axes ..................................................... 23
Msurf Toolpath ............................................. 112 Rotary indexing............................................. 134
Multiaxis Basic ................................................ 25 Rotation In Head Only ..................................... 30
Multiaxis Circle Mill ...................................... 159 Rotation In Table And Head ............................ 35
Multiaxis drilling ........................................... 145 Rotation In Table Only .................................... 32
Multiaxis Machine Types ................................ 29 Roughing....................................................... 220
Multiaxis Surface/Solid ................................... 17 Round corners ............................................... 167
Multiaxis toolpaths ........................................... 4 Run Tool ........................................................ 203
Multiaxis Wireframe ............................... 13, 235 S
N Scallop height ................................................ 100
None ............................................................... 89 Select drill point position .............................. 150
Normal to plane .............................................. 53 Servo rotary tables ....................................... 134
Normal to surface ........................................... 53 Side Tilt Angle ................................................. 69
Nutating Head ................................................. 34 Side tilt angle .................................................. 57
O Simultaneous Multiaxis machining ................... 6
ordering ........................................................ 269 Single edge .................................................... 239
Orthogonal arc.............................................. 218 slices ............................................................. 270
Sorting ........................................................... 150

INDEX
Sorting Options ............................................. 151 Tip control....................................................... 72

spherical cut pattern ..................................... 116 To Point........................................................... 62
Step across - Distance ................................... 100 Tool ................................................................. 46
Step along - Distance .................................... 100 Tool Axis Control ............................................. 57
Step along whole chain................................... 64 Tool axis control .............................................. 57
Stock to leave .................................................. 72 Tool Axis Tilting Strategies............................ 183
Stock to leave on walls ................................... 83 Tool Length Compensation............................. 27
Surface ............................................................ 60 Tool Vector Length ......................................... 70
Surface quality .............................................. 178 Tool vector length..................................... 57, 91
Surfaces With Seams ...................................... 51 Triangular Mesh .............................................. 20
Swarf ............................................................... 81 Triangular mesh ............................................ 244
Swarf milling ............................................. 8, 251 U
Swarf Toolpath................................................ 82 Use center point ........................................... 138
Sync ................................................................. 88 Use wall surface rulings .................................. 83
T V
Tangential arc ............................................... 218
Tangential line .............................................. 219 Vector depth............................................. 72, 73
Tilt -Tilt Head .................................................. 31 Vertical tangential arc................................... 218
Tilt-Head Rotary Table .................................... 36 W
Tilting tool away with max angle .................. 211 Walls ............................................................... 83
Tilt-Rotary Table ............................................. 33 Wind/unwind .................................................. 27
Tip Comp ................................................... 47, 83 Window Points.............................................. 150
Handbook Volume 3 Page|275

INDEX

Thank you for previewing the
Mastercam X6 Handbook Volume 3.
We hope you like what you see. If you haven’t already, be sure to check out the Table of Contents included at
the beginning of this sample for a full listing of topics covered. If you found this excerpt useful, we’re certain
the rest of the book will help you along your way to mastering Mastercam.
To thank you for considering our Mastercam Training Solutions,
>> We would like to extend a special offer to you.

Take 10% off your next purchase of any Mastercam X6 Handbook (Print or eBook formats) at our eMastercam
Store using coupon code:
X6TRAIN
If you need some help deciding which title is right for you, email us at books@inhousesolutions.com or use our
live chat feature in the store. Likewise, feel free to drop us any suggestions of what you might like to see in
future products.
>> Be in the loop!

Also consider signing up for the eMastercam.com Community Updates email list. You’ll receive more offers like
this and be the first to know about new product releases and free downloads.
Sign me up!

SAMPLE MastercamX6 Handbook Vol-3 PDF

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

SAMPLE MastercamX6 Handbook Vol-3 PDF

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Handbook Volume 3

To order more books:

Contact your Mastercam dealer

Handbook Volume 3 Files

Handbook Volume 3 Page |1

How To Use The Book

The following terms are used throughout this book.

Left Click means to click once on the left mouse button.

Click means the same as left click.

Right Click means to click once on the right mouse button.

Options are Mastercam functions selected from the main menu.

Enter means to select the <Enter> key on your computer keyboard.

Press means to press on a keyboard key.

Choose means to select a menu option or button.

Open/Close means to open or close a dialog or information box.

A Function is the same as a menu option or command.

Page |2 Handbook Volume 3

See Laser Trim Cut.MCX-6.

Handbook Volume 3 Page |43

Begin by selecting the Multiaxis icon or Toolpaths, Multiaxis.

Page |44 Handbook Volume 3

Handbook Volume 3 Page |45

Page |46 Handbook Volume 3

Handbook Volume 3 Page |47

Curve Type 3D Curves

See Curve 5 Axis Curve Type 3D Curves.MCX-6.

Page |48 Handbook Volume 3

Curve Type Surface Edge

See Curve Type Surface Edge All.MCX-6.

Handbook Volume 3 Page |49

See Curve Type Surface Edge One.MCX-6.

See Curve5ax Surface Edge One Multiple Surfaces2.MCX-6.

Page |50 Handbook Volume 3

Surfaces With Seams

See Curve Type Surface Edge All-With Seam.MCX-6.

Handbook Volume 3 Page |51

Curve Following Method

Page |52 Handbook Volume 3

Use this setting also to prevent unwanted multiple projections that

Handbook Volume 3 Page |53

Page |54 Handbook Volume 3

See Curve Project Normal_Surface.MCX-6.

Handbook Volume 3 Page |55

Page |56 Handbook Volume 3

Tool Axis Control

Handbook Volume 3 Page |57

Tool Axis Control

Page |58 Handbook Volume 3

See Curve 5 Axis Tool Axis Control Lines.MCX-6.

Handbook Volume 3 Page |59

Path Between Lines

See Curve 5ax Tool Axis Control Surface.MCX-6.

Page |60 Handbook Volume 3

Curve 5 Axis Tool Axis Control Plane.MCX-6.

See Curve 5 Axis Tool Axis Control From Point.MCX-6.

Handbook Volume 3 Page |61

See Curve 5 Axis Tool Axis Control To Point.MCX-6.

Page |62 Handbook Volume 3

See Curve 5 Axis Tool Axis Control Chains.MCX-6.

Handbook Volume 3 Page |63

Visualize this setting like this:

5 Axis Curve output can be set to control 3, 4, or 5 machine axes simultaneously.

Page |64 Handbook Volume 3