SolidCAM 2D and 3D adaptive iMachining
| Adaptive toolpaths eliminate sharp corners in the toolpaths to reduce tool loading. SolidCAM has both 2D and 3D operations. |
 |
Original prismatic part file here.
Completed prismatic part file here.
Original 3D part file here.
Completed 3D part file here.
SolidCAM calls their adaptive toolpaths iMachining. These toolpaths do not have sharp corners that present a large, almost shock loads, to the tool. Instead, the tool "swoops" and does circular motions. These separate motions might not leave the surface finish you want on vertical walls, or the floor of the part, so you should think of both 2D and 3D iMachining as roughing operations. One feature of the toolpaths is they use more of the flank of the endmill, extending tool life. |
Since adaptive toolpaths reduce the loads on the spindle and machine, I am very interested in it using in my gantry-style router. This machine is much less stiff than a Haas or even a Tormach, but it can do aluminum and has a 2-foot by 3-foot working area. The SolidCAM salesperson claims they used iMachining at a trade show to machine steel in a gantry router.
SolidCAM includes 2D iMachining in their base package, priced around $5k. To get 3D iMachining, you have to buy an extra-cost module. That is around $2k, but you will probably get a deal, depending on the time of year. VisualMill has clear pricing; all other companies treat pricing like A-bomb plans.
|
|
|
.
When you limit the cuts with boundaries or levels, SolidCAM makes some impressive toolpaths. I would want to see how these work on my machine before passing judgement.
