Buy Mastercam 2023 Price: The major carbide cutting tool manufacturers have created a special line of tools that are designed specifically for high speed machining. The dynamics of this unique precision machining operation requires the right tool holder, precision end mills and adequate software to do the job.
It might be tempting to take a conventional CNC milling machine and add a high speed spindle, get some CAD programs to process the vast amounts of data, and start cutting. This is very likely to fail, and be quite disappointing in the end.
Some requirements for high speed machining
- Adequate CNC machine tool. There must be consideration for the vibration, speeds and feeds.
- Software that is able to process quickly enough. The vast amounts of data required for the toolpaths is formidable.
- Tool holders must be rigid, balanced and vibration free, with no runout. You may need a shrink fit holder, or maybe a hydraulic system will work. The vendor can suggest HSK, CAT or BT30 or BT40.
- Carbide cutters must be precision in order to do the job. If the shanks are inconsistent, the results will also be lacking. It does not work well to try and save a few dollars in cutters and fight the process.
One area that is often overlooked is the use of carbide router bits. These versatile tools can do so much work and are available in a huge variety of shapes. Most applications are in the woodworking industry, but there are also uses in aluminum machining, porcelain, stone, and steel.
Many global manufacturers carry an extensive line of cutters to meet almost any need. Sandvik, for example boasts an inventory of over 25,000 different cutters. These companies can be located nearly anywhere in the world as well. Sweden, Israel, Germany, United States, Japan, and now China.
Amazingly, the fits of all these tools from all over the world actually work. You can buy a holder from one country and use a cutter form another and they fit, very well. International standards have enabled a producer to comply with dimensions and tolerances that are compatible anywhere.
Software developments
One company, Delcam, has developed numerous processes for HSM. Raceline machining allows faster cutting, lowers cutter wear and diminishes machine tool stress. Trochoidial machining adjusts the toolpath so machining is safe and efficient. Other processes are Automatic Trochoidial Machining, Rest Roughing, High Speed Machining, and Constant Z.
