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CNC Software, Inc., Tolland, CT, released Mastercam X4 Lathe, a suite of CAD/CAM tools for machining jobs. Each piece of geometry created in the application is “live,” allowing modification. Other features include
• “Quick Toolpaths” for programming parts with a few clicks;
• Optimized facing including roughing and finishing;
• Complete threading with multiple starts, diameter calculation, and user customizable thread tables;
• Full 3- to 5-axis milling, including machines with B-axis tooling arms, in addition to turning;
• Grooving with multiple depth cuts and pecking;
• Simplified assignment of groove depth, width, wall angles, corner radius, chamfer, and corner dwells;
• Stock recognition for optimized turning toolpaths with minimal user interaction;
• Comprehensive lead-in/lead-out controls to minimize the need to modify the CAD model to control tool motion; and
• Steady rest option that supports long work pieces, minimizing deflection from tool pressure and material weight.
For more information about Mastercam X4 Lathe, visit www.mastercamlathe.com
Good, affordable (doesn’t have to be free) 3d CAD is stieohmng I’ve looked for any been very frustrated about. Some of my pain is self inflicted since I don’t have a windows machine, Mac and Linux only. I’ve found freeCad and BRL cad not very usable. A friend of mine really likes google sketch-up. I think PTC may have a student/hobby edition for windows only. VariCAD is more affordable, but I’ve not really played with it. The really high end ones like Catia, Hyperworks, or unigraphics seem to be right-out for hobbyists.