FeatureCAM 2009 to be Unveiled at IMTS 2008

Delcam will launch the new version of its FeatureCAM feature-based CAM system at IMTS 2008. FeatureCAM 2009 incorporates enhancements across its complete range of functionality, reflecting the increased investment in product development following Delcam's acquisition of the software in 2005, the company said.

"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 two or more different pieces of equipment," said a company spokesperson. "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 setups 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 rotary milling and fourth-axis wrapping options that were in previous versions of FeatureCAM. Like the mill-turn and five-axis enhancements, this new functionality will allow users to tackle more sophisticated parts than could be programmed before.

"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, support for a wider range of engraving tools. In addition, substantial improvements have been made to the FeatureWIRE module, the highlight being faster and easier recognition of 4-axis wire features.

"Finally, three-axis milling has been made more efficient, for example when machining preforms like castings or parts that have already been rough machined. The new version minimizes air cutting thanks 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 more quickly and easily."

For more information contact:

Delcam

877-335-2261

www.delcam.com

E-mail: marketing@delcam.com

Booth #D-3005

Southwest

Blaine Duke

Delcam

Salt Lake City, UT

801-575-6021 ext. 128

E-mail: blaine.duke@delcam.com