Delcam enhances FeatureCAM system

Delcam has launched the latest version of its FeatureCAM knowledge-based machining software.

FeatureCAM 2009 incorporates enhancements that reflect the increased investment in product development following Delcam's acquisition of the software in 2005.

An important area for the new release is increased support for mill-turn equipment.

These machines are becoming more popular because of their ability to complete parts in a single set-up on one machine instead of having to use multiple set-ups on different pieces of equipment.

FeatureCAM development has focused on support for the more complex machines, those featuring multiple turrets and/or multiple spindles.

Additional post-processors for these types of machine have also been introduced.

Work has continued on extending the range of five-axis options introduced in FeatureCAM 2008.

The software now supports both positional and continuous five-axis operation, five-axis trimming and five-axis drilling.

All these options allow productivity to be improved by enabling parts to be produced in one or two set-ups that would otherwise require multiple set-ups and/or special fixturing.

Another key area for development has been four-axis simultaneous milling.

This provides programming for milling machines with rotary tables and gives a more comprehensive solution than the existing options that were available in previous versions of FeatureCAM.

Like the mill-turn and five-axis enhancements, this new functionality will allow users to tackle the programming of more sophisticated parts.

Developments have also continued with the more fundamental machining operations.

The main enhancement to the Featureturn module has been the addition of support for form tools.

Other improvements include more efficient threading, better control of undercutting, and extra options for pre-drilling before boring.

Similarly, 2D machining has been enhanced with improvements to thread milling, easier control of feeds and speeds, and support for a wider range of engraving tools.

Enhancements have been made to the Featurewire module, the highlight being faster and easier recognition of four-axis wire features.

Three-axis milling has also been made more efficient, for example, when machining pre-forms like castings or parts that have already been rough machined.

FeatureCAM 2009 minimises air cutting due to the ability to limit toolpaths to the stock model.

Since no cutting moves are generated outside this boundary, an efficient toolpath strategy can be created quickly and easily.

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