CAM speeds CNC wood machining of figure

Machined from a laminated wooden block using a 20mm roughing tool, a 20mm bullnose cutter 6mm finishing tool, and latest CAM, a 1.90m gure was produced in just 20h.

The production of a life-size figure of Christ in less than half the time taken by current methods has repaid the faith shown by Spanish machine tool company, Bermaq in selecting Licom's AlphaCAM programming software to demonstrate the capabilities of its latest 5-axis wood working equipment.

Machined from a laminated wooden block using a 20mm roughing tool, a 20mm bullnose cutter and 6 mm finishing tool, the 1.90m high figure was produced in just 20h, a massive 60% saving in the time taken using semi-automatic copy lathes.

The Bermaq/AlphaCAM solution also scored over manually based manufacturing methods by delivering the additional time and cost saving benefits of optional 'lights out' operation.

Further features of the application include the use of extended length cutting tools to avoid clashes between the workpiece and the tool holder on the machine's universal head.

The resulting demonstration piece is a highly detailed machined model, requiring only minimal hand finishing of fine details, such as the texture of the figure's hair.

"AlphaCAM's selection as our preferred programming method reflects both the software's power and ease of use, which perfectly complement the capabilities of our machines," says Bermaq's Carlos Tort.

"It also demonstrates the strong relationship we have established between Bermaq and ourselves during the past few years," adds Ignacio Muino, Head of Licom System's Spanish operations.

"It underlines AlphaCAM's position as the leading stone and woodworking machine programming system in Spain and I am sure will pave the way for us to work closely with Bermaq on further joint projects over the coming months.

* About Licom Systems - Licom Systems, along with Radan Computational, HRS and Cabinet Vision Europe, are principal members of Planit Holdings.

The organisation's product range encompasses design to manufacturing applications and Enterprise Resource Planning software solutions for companies operating throughout the metal, woodworking, stone and sheet metal manufacturing sector.

In addition, Planit International offers leading retail design software.

The group is a multi-million pound global business, with operations in Europe, the Americas, Taiwan and Japan, as well as a network of approved distributors and dealers throughout North and South America, Asia, the Middle East, South Africa and the Pacific Rim.

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