the MILLTURN Edge

SolidCAM Training Course

Turning & Mill-Turn
iMachining 2D & 3D | 2.5D Milling | HSS | HSM | Indexial Multi-Sided | Simultaneous 5-Axis | Turning & Mill-Turn | Solid Probe

SolidCAM + SOLIDWORKS
The Complete Integrated Manufacturing Solution
 SolidCAM 2019
Turning & Mill-Turn
Training Course

©1995-2019 SolidCAM

All Rights Reserved.

 Contents

Contents

1. Introduction
1.1 About this Course.....................................................................................................3
1.2 Turning Module Overview......................................................................................5
1.3 Mill-Turn Module Overview...................................................................................8
1.4 Basic Concepts...........................................................................................................9
1.5 Process Overview......................................................................................................9

2. CAM-Part Definition
Exercise #1: CAM-Part Definition in Turning.................................................. 14
Exercise #2: CAM-Part Definition in Mill-Turn............................................... 28

3. Machine Preview
3.1 Understanding the Toolbar buttons.................................................................... 44

4. Turning Operations
4.1 Basic Turning.......................................................................................................... 50
Exercise #3: Turning Operations on Turning CNC-Machine........................ 54
Exercise #4: Button Lock Machining............................................................... 108
Exercise #5: Guided Ejector Bushing Machining........................................... 110
Exercise #6: Guide Pillar Machining................................................................ 112
Exercise #7: Bearing Bush Machining.............................................................. 114
4.2 Advanced Turning: Rest Material...................................................................... 117
Exercise #8: Wheel Machining.......................................................................... 118
4.3 Advanced Turning: Partial machining............................................................... 131
Exercise #9: Long Shaft Machining.................................................................. 132
4.4 Turning on Mill-Turn CNC Machines.............................................................. 142
Exercise #10: Turning Operation on Mill-Turn CNC-Machine.................. 145

v
5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines
Exercise #11: Facial Milling................................................................................ 172
5.1 Using MCO on Mill-Turn CNC-machines....................................................... 185
Exercise #12: Machining with Back Spindle.................................................... 187
Exercise #13: Control of Machine Devices.................................................... 198

6. Advanced Mill Turn

Advanced Mill-Turn: Exercise #1..................................................................... 206
Advanced Mill-Turn: Exercise #2..................................................................... 304
Advanced Mill-Turn: Exercise #3..................................................................... 312

7. Channel Synchronization
7.1 Understanding the Buttons on the Ribbon...................................................... 319
7.2 Applying color to Synchronization label and submachines........................... 324
7.3 General Rules of Channel Synchronization..................................................... 326
7.4 Working with the operation of Channel Synchronization............................. 328

8. Swiss-Type Exercise
Swiss-Type: Exercise #1...................................................................................... 334

Document number: SCMTTCENG1900SP1

vi
Introduction 1
2
 1. Introduction

1.1 About this Course

The goal of this course is to teach you how to use SolidCAM to machine various parts using
Turning and Mill-Turn CNC-machines. This tutorial covers the basic concepts of Turning
and Mill-Turn machining and is a supplement to the system documentation and online help.
Once you have developed a good foundation in basic skills, you can refer to the online help for
information on the less frequently used options.

Prerequisites
Students attending this course are expected to have basic knowledge of the SolidCAM software.
The SolidCAM 2.5D Milling Training Course is recommended but not necessary to be studied
before this course for better understanding of Milling with the SolidCAM software.

Course design
This course is designed around a task-based approach to training. The guided exercises will
teach you the necessary commands and options to complete a machining task. The theoretical
explanations are embedded into these exercises to give an overview of the SolidCAM Mill-Turn
capabilities.

Using this book

This tutorial is intended to be used in a classroom environment under the guidance of an
experienced instructor. It is also intended to be a self-study tutorial.

Exercises
The Training Materials archive supplied together with this book contains copies of the various
files that are used throughout this course. The Exercises folder contains the files that are
required for doing guided and laboratory exercises. The Built Parts folder inside the Exercises
contains completed manufacturing projects for each exercise. Copy the Exercises folder to your
hard drive. The SOLIDWORKS files used for the exercises were prepared with SOLIDWORKS
2018.
The Machine files folder contains a number of pre-processors (CNC-controller configuration
file) used through the exercises of this book. Copy the content of this folder into your
..\SolidCAM2019\Gpptool folder.

3
The CNC-machine folder contains the CNC-machines definition files used for Machine
Simulation. Copy the contents of the CNC-machine folder into the machine definition folder on
your hard drive (the default location is C:\Users\Public\Documents\SolidCAM\SolidCAM2019\
Tables\MachSim\xml).

Windows® 10
The screenshots in this book were made using SolidCAM 2019 integrated with SOLIDWORKS
2018 running on Windows® 10. If you are running on a different version of Windows, you may
notice differences in the appearance of the menus and windows. These differences do not affect
the performance of the software.
Conventions used in this book
This book uses the following typographic conventions:

This style is used to emphasize SolidCAM

Bold Sans Serif options, commands or basic concepts. For
example, click the Change to opposite button.
The mouse icon and numbered sans serif bold
10. Define CoordSys Position text indicate the beginning of the exercise
action. The action explanation is as follows.
This style combined with the lamp icon is used
for the SolidCAM functionality explanations
Explanation embedded into the guided exercises. The lamp
icon is also used to emphasize notes.

4
 1. Introduction

1.2 Turning Module Overview

The SolidCAM Turning module enables you to prepare the tool path for the following operations:

Face Turning
SolidCAM enables you to perform turning of facial
profiles. The principal working direction is the X-axis
direction.

Turning
SolidCAM enables you to prepare the tool path for all
types of external and internal turning operations: long
external, long internal, face front, and face back.

Drilling
SolidCAM enables you to perform all drilling cycles to
machine the holes coincident with the revolution axis
of the part.

5
 Threading
SolidCAM enables you to prepare the tool path for all
types of external and internal threading.

Grooving
SolidCAM enables you to prepare the tool path for all
types of external and internal grooving and parting.

Angled Grooving
SolidCAM enables you to perform inclined grooves. The
geometry defined for this operation must be inclined
relative to the Z-axis of the CAM-Part Coordinate
System..

Cutoff
SolidCAM enables you to perform cutoff machining.
This operation is used to cut the part or to perform a
groove whose width is exactly the same as the tool width.
The cutting can be performed using CNC-machine
cycles; chamfers and fillets can also be generated.

6
 1. Introduction

Trochoidal Turning
SolidCAM enables you to turn complex profiles using
the Trochoidal cutting strategy. The cutting passes are
rounded in the beginning and in the end to result in
smooth optimized tool path that enables you to use
high cutting speed and reduce tool wear.
Balanced Rough
SolidCAM enables you to work with two tools
performing roughing cuts at the same time. The Master
submachine and Slave submachine should have the
same Table.

Manual Turning
SolidCAM enables you to perform turning according to
your own geometry regardless of a stock model, target
model, or envelope.

Sim. tilted turning

SolidCAM enables you to perform machining of curve-
shaped tool paths using tilting capabilities of tools with
round insert. The tool tilting is defined by specifying
lines that indicate the tool vector change.

7
1.3 Mill-Turn Module Overview

The Mill-Turn module is intended for programming of 3-, 4- and 5-axis multi-task machines
that combine several capabilities into one machine and especially for programming of 5-axis
milling CNC-machines with turning capabilities (e.g. DMU FD-series of DMG, Okuma,
Mazak, Nakamura, Index, Chiron). This functionality provides you with a number of significant
advantages:
• The Mill-Turn module provides you with full functionality of the Coordinate System
definition, identical to that of SolidCAM Milling.
• You can use the same coordinate system for milling as well as for turning without
additional definition.
• You can define a Stock model to be used in SolidCAM Milling as well as in SolidCAM
Turning operations.
• The Mill-Turn module enables you to perform all types of Milling and Turning
operations using the same post-processor.
• The Mill-Turn module enables multi-turret and multispindle programming, with
turret synchronization and full machine simulation.
• Using the Mill-Turn module, you do not need to learn new rules; you just work in
regular milling environment and can add turning operations as needed.

8
 1. Introduction

1.4 Basic Concepts

Every manufacturing project in SolidCAM contains the following data:

CAM-Part

The CAM-Part defines the general data of the workpiece. This includes the model name,
the coordinate system position, tool options, CNC-controller, etc.
Geometry

By selecting Edges, Curves, Surfaces or Solids, define what and where you are going to
machine. This geometry is associated with the native SOLIDWORKS model.
Operation

An Operation is a single machining step in SolidCAM. Technology, Tool parameters

and Strategies are defined in the operation. In short, operation means how you want to
machine.

1.5 Process Overview

Three major stages of the SolidCAM Manufacturing Project creation process are:

CAM-Part definition

This stage includes the definition of the global parameters of the Manufacturing Project
(CAM-Part). You have to define Coordinate Systems that describe the positioning of the
part on the CNC-machine. Optionally, you can define the Stock model that will be used
for milling operations and the Target model that has to be obtained after the machining.
Machine Setup definition

When the part is to contain Turning operations, the clamping fixture has to be defined
in order to supply SolidCAM with the information about fixing the part on the CNC-
machine and the part position relative to the machine.
Operations definition

SolidCAM enables you to define turning and milling operations. During the operation
definition, you have to select the Geometry, choose the tool from the Part Tool Table (or
define a new one), define a machining strategy and a number of technological parameters.

9
10
CAM-Part Definition 2
The CAM-Part definition process consists of the following stages:

CAM-Part creation

CNC-Machine definition

Coordinate System definition

Stock model definition

Target model definition

Setup

• CAM-Part creation. According to default settings, the CAM-Part name and location
are defined automatically. However, you can define them manually, if you choose
the manual option. At this stage, SolidCAM defines the necessary system files and a
folder to allocate the place to store SolidCAM data.
• CNC-Machine definition. It is necessary to choose the CNC-controller. The controller
type influences the Coordinate System definition and the Geometry definition.
• Coordinate System definition. You have to define the Coordinate System, which is
the origin for all machining operations of the CAM-Part. You can create multiple
CoordSys positions and in each machining step select which CoordSys you want to
use for the operation.
• Stock model definition. It is necessary to define a boundary of the stock that is used
for the CAM-Part machining.
• Target model definition. SolidCAM enables you to define the model of the part in its
final stage after the machining.
• Setup. You have to define the clamping fixture, the initial stock position on main or
back spindle and the position of the part zero with reference to the main or back
spindle.
The following exercises describe the full process of the CAM-Part definition. It is recommended
to complete the stages in order to understand how the CAM-Part features are built. For this
purpose, you have to turn off the automatic CAM-Part definition.

12
 2. CAM-Part Definition

Before you start, select SolidCAM Settings command from the SolidCAM main menu.

In the left pane, click CAM-Part. Ensure that Auto select project location and name(skip New
CAM-Part dialog) check box is unselected.

In the left pane, click Automatic CAM-Part definition.

In the right pane, click the Turning tab and clear the following check boxes: Create machine
setup, Definition of Stock, and Definition of Target.

Click OK to confirm your choice.

These settings can be turned back on at any time.

13
Exercise #1: CAM-Part Definition in Turning

This exercise illustrates the process of the CAM-

Part definition in SolidCAM.
In this exercise, you have to create the CAM-Part
for the model displayed on the illustration and
define the Coordinate System, the Machine Setup,
the Stock and Target model, which are necessary
for the part machining. The CAM-Part will be used
in the exercises further on.

1. Load the SOLIDWORKS model

Load the Exercise1.sldprt model located in the Exercises folder.
This model contains a number of features forming the solid body and several sketches
used for the CAM-Part definition.

2. Start SolidCAM

To activate SolidCAM, select SolidCAM in the Tools menu of SOLIDWORKS and

choose Turning from the New submenu.

Or, click the Turning button on the SolidCAM New toolbar.

The CAM-Part is saved in the default
location defined in the CAM Settings.
To learn more about saving projects,
refer to the Turning Online Help.
During this process, the structure of the
CAM-Part is created.

14
 2. CAM-Part Definition

The structure of the CAM-Part

The CAM-Part includes a number

of data files represented on the
illustration that displays the data
included in the CAM-Part named
Turning.
The Turning.prt file is located in
the SolidCAM User directory. The
Turning subdirectory contains all the
data generated for the CAM-Part.
SolidCAM copies the original SOLIDWORKS model to the Turning
subdirectory and creates a SOLIDWORKS assembly that has the same
name as the CAM-Part ( Turning.sldasm). There are two components in
this assembly:
• DesignModel.sldprt – a copy of the SOLIDWORKS model file.
• CAM.sldprt – a file that contains SolidCAM Coordinate System data
and geometry data.
The SolidCAM CAM-Part uses the assembly environment of
SOLIDWORKS. This enables you to create auxiliary geometries (e.g.
sketches) without making changes in the original design model. You can
also insert some additional components into the assembly file such as
stock model, CNC-machine table, clamping and other tooling elements.

The New Turning Part dialog box is displayed.

Click

15
 3. Choose CNC-Machine

Define the CNC-machine controller. Click the arrow in the

CNC-Machine area to display the list of post-processors
installed on your system.
In this exercise, choose the T_4X_Haas_ST30_HaasCNC CNC-
Machine from the list.

4. Define the Coordinate System

Click CoordSys in the Define area of the Turning Part Data

dialog box to define the Machine Coordinate System.

The Machine Coordinate System defines the origin for all machining
operations on the CAM-Part. It corresponds with the built-in controller
functions. It can be used for various clamping positions in various
operations on the CAM-Part.
Usually Turning CNC-machines have only one machine Coordinate
System; its Z-axis is the rotation axis of the spindle. The Machine
Coordinate System enables you to perform all turning operations.

16
 2. CAM-Part Definition

The CoordSys dialog box enables you to define the location of the Coordinate System
and the orientation of the axes.
You can define the position of the Coordinate System origin
and the axes orientation by selecting model faces, vertices,
edges or SOLIDWORKS Coordinate Systems. The geometry
for the machining can also be defined directly on the solid
model.

SolidCAM offers the following methods of CoordSys definition:

• Select Face

This method enables you to define a new CoordSys by selecting a

face. The face can be planar or cylindrical/conical. For planar faces,
SolidCAM defines CoordSys with the Z-axis normal to the face. For
cylindrical or conical faces, the Z-axis of the CoordSys is coincident
with the axis of revolution of the specified cylindrical/conical surface.
• Define

This method enables you to define the CoordSys by picking points.

You have to define the origin and the directions of the X- and Y-axes.

• Select Coordinate System

This method enables you to choose the SOLIDWORKS Coordinate

System defined in the design model file as the CoordSys. The
CoordSys origin and the orientation of the axes is the same as in the
original SOLIDWORKS Coordinate System.
• By 3 points (associative)

This method enables you to define the CoordSys Origin and axes by
selecting any three points.

Choose the High precision option.

17
 High precision

When the High precision check box

is selected, the Coordinate System
is defined using the faceted model,
which results in more precise
definition, but may take more time
to generate. When this check box is
not selected, the Coordinate System
is defined using CAD tools without
facetting.

Choose the Center of revolution face option. With this option, the origin is placed
automatically on the axis of revolution face.
With the Select Face mode chosen, click on the
model face as shown.
The Z-axis of the CoordSys is coincident with
the axis of revolution. Note that the CoordSys
origin is automatically defined on the model back
face and the Z-axis is directed backwards.
Click Change to opposite.

This button enables you to change the Z-axis direction to the opposite along the
revolution axis.
Now the CoordSys origin is located on the front
face of the model, and the Z-axis is directed
forward along the revolution axis.
Confirm the selection by clicking . The
Coordinate System is defined.
The Turning Part Data dialog box is displayed
again.

18
 2. CAM-Part Definition

Coordinate Systems for Turning

This Machine CoordSys is used for the turning operations. The turning
tool movements are located in the ZX-plane.

All the machining geometries are defined in the ZX-plane of the defined
Coordinate System.

5. Define the Stock model

For each Turning project, it is necessary to define the boundaries of the stock material
(Stock) used for the CAM-Part.
Click the Stock button. The Stock dialog box is displayed.

19
 This dialog box enables you to define the Stock model of the CAM-Part to be
machined.

The following methods of Stock definition are available:

• Cylinder

This option enables you to define the

Stock boundary as a cylinder surrounding
the selected solid model. You can define
the cylindrical stock by specifying Offsets
of the cylinder faces from the selected
solid body or coordinates of its boundaries
relative to the CAM-Part Coordinate
System.
The Create 3D sketch button enables you
to add a 3D sketch of the cylinder stock to
the CAM component of the part assembly.
The Create 3D model button enables you
to add a 3D model of the cylinder stock to
the CAM component of the part assembly.

The above two options are available only

when the stock is selected on the part.
• Box

This option enables you to define the

Stock boundary as a box surrounding the
selected solid model. When you click on the solid body, SolidCAM
generates a 3D box around it. This box defines the geometry of the
Stock.
• Revolved boundary around Z

This option enables you to define the Stock boundary as a wireframe

geometry chain using one of the model sketches.

20
 2. CAM-Part Definition

When the chain is selected, perpendiculars are dropped from its end
points to the axis of rotation to define the material boundary.
The Revolved Selected chain

boundary around Z
option enables you to
define only one chain,
either opened or closed.
When more than
one chain is defined,
the error message is
displayed.
• 3D Model

This method enables you to define the Stock boundary by selecting

the 3D Model of the stock. SolidCAM automatically generates a
sketch that contains the envelope of the selected solid body. The
Stock boundary is defined automatically on this sketch.
Envelope
Consider the revolution body surrounding the specified
solid bodies. The section of this revolution body by the ZX-
plane of the Coordinate System is the envelope. The envelope
line is the profile of the part that has to be turned in order to
obtain the model geometry.

21
 Choose the Cylinder mode from the Defined by list and click on the solid body to select
it as shown in the image.
In the Mode section, choose Relative to model.
In the Offsets dialog section, define the following
offsets:
• Set +Z to 2 and -Z to 25 to define the front
and back offsets from the model
• Set the External offset to 2
• Set the Internal diameter offset to 0

SolidCAM defines a cylinder.

Left (-Z) Right (+Z)

External

Internal
diameter

22
 2. CAM-Part Definition

The Mode section enables you to define the offsets Relative to model or define the
Stock boundaries in the Absolute coordinates.

When the Internal diameter value is different from 0, SolidCAM defines

a tube.

Click to confirm the Stock selection.

6. Define the Target model

Now you have to define the Target model.

The Target model is the final shape of the CAM-Part after the machining.
It is used for gouge checking in the SolidVerify simulation.
During the Target model definition, SolidCAM creates an Envelope
sketch in the CAM component of the CAM-Part assembly. This sketch
contains the geometry automatically generated by the Envelope function
of SolidCAM. This function creates the envelope line of the specified
solid bodies. Consider the revolution body surrounding the solid body.
The section of this revolution body by the ZX-plane of the Turning
Machine CoordSys is the envelope. This envelope is a profile of the part
that has to be turned in order to create the model geometry.

23
 The Envelope function takes into account all external model faces as well
as the internal faces. The geometry created by the Envelope function
can be used for the Geometry definition in SolidCAM operations.
In addition to the Envelope, SolidCAM enables you to generate
a sketch containing a Section of the Target model by the ZX-plane. The
Section sketch is created in the CAM component of the SolidCAM Part
Assembly.

In the Turning Part Data dialog box, click the Target button. The Target dialog box is
displayed. This dialog box enables you to define a 3D Model for the Target.
Click on the solid body. The wireframe model is displayed.

Set the Facet tolerance to 0.01.

This parameter defines the accuracy of the triangulation
of the stock model, target model and fixtures. The
triangulated models are used later in the tool path
simulation. The tighter is the tolerance, the better is the
performance of the simulation.
Confirm the dialog box with

24
 2. CAM-Part Definition

In the process of the Target model definition, SolidCAM creates the Envelope sketch
in the CAM component of the CAM-Part assembly. The
Envelope sketch is used later for the machining geometry
definition.

7. Save the CAM-Part data

Click in the Turning Part Data dialog box.

The defined CAM-Part is saved. The dialog box is closed,
and the SolidCAM Manager tree is displayed.

SolidCAM Manager

The SolidCAM Manager tree is the main interface feature of SolidCAM

that displays complete information about the CAM-Part.

The SolidCAM Manager tree contains the following elements:

25
 • CAM-Part header

This header displays the name of the current CAM-Part. By right-

clicking on it, you can display the menu to manage your CAM-Parts.
The Machine subheader is located under the CAM-Part header.
Double-click this subheader to display the Machine ID Editor dialog
box that enables you to preview the machine parameters.
The CoordSys Manager subheader is located under the CAM-Part
header. Double-click this subheader to display the CoordSys Manager
dialog box that enables you to manage your Coordinate Systems.
The Stock subheader is located under the CAM-Part header. Double-
click this subheader to load the Stock dialog box that enables you to
edit the definition of the Stock model.
The Target subheader is located under the CAM-Part header. Double-
click this subheader to load the Target dialog box that enables you to
edit the definition of the Target model.The Updated Stock subheader
is located under the CAM-Part header. Right click this subheader to
save the updated stock in the STL format.
The Settings subheader is also located under the CAM-Part header.
Double-click this subheader to load the Part Settings dialog box that
enables you to edit the settings defined for the current CAM-Part.
• Tool header

This header displays the name of the current Tool Library. Double-
click this header to display the Part Tool Table, which is the list of
tools available to use in the current CAM-Part.
• Machining Process header

This header displays the name of the current Machining Process

table.
• Geometries header

This header displays all SolidCAM geometries that are not used in
the operations.
• Fixtures header

This header displays all SolidCAM fixtures that are not used with the
current CAM-Part.

26
 2. CAM-Part Definition

• Operations header

This header displays all SolidCAM operations defined for the current
CAM-Part.

At this stage, the definition of the CAM-Part is finished. The definition of Turning
operations is covered in the following exercises where this CAM-Part is used.

8. Close the CAM-Part

Right-click the CAM-Part
header in SolidCAM Manager
and choose Close from the
menu. The CAM-Part is
closed.

27
Exercise #2: CAM-Part Definition in Mill-Turn

This exercise illustrates the process of the CAM-Part definition in Mill-Turn module of
SolidCAM.
In this exercise, you have to create the CAM-Part for the model
displayed on the illustration and define the Coordinate System, the
Stock model and the Target model, which are necessary for the part
machining. The CAM-Part will be used in the exercises further on.

Before you start, select the SolidCAM Settings command from the
SolidCAM menu. In the left pane, select Automatic CAM-Part
definition. In the right pane, click the Mill-Turn tab and clear the following check boxes: Definition
of Stock, and Definition of Target.

In the left pane, expand Tool path simulation. Select Machine

simulation. Click the Collision Control tab and set the values
and parameters as shown in the image.

28
 2. CAM-Part Definition

Then you have to turn off the default templates loading for Milling operations. In the left pane,
select Defaults > Template. In the right pane, under 2.5D Milling, clear all check boxes next to the
templates names.

Click OK to confirm your choice. These settings can be turned back on at any time.

1. Load the SOLIDWORKS model

Load the Exercise2.sldprt model located in the Exercises folder.

29
 2. Start Mill-Turn project

Click the SolidCAM item in the Tool menu of SOLIDWORKS and choose Mill-Turn
from the New submenu.

Or, click the Mill-Turn button on the

SolidCAM New toolbar.
The CAM-Part is defined, and its structure
is created.

The New Mill-Turn Part dialog box is displayed.

Click
The Mill-Turn Part Data dialog box is displayed.

30
 2. CAM-Part Definition

3. Choose the CNC-controller

Click the arrow in the CNC-Machine area to display

the list of post-processors installed on your system.
Choose the 00282_MT_4.5X_HT_NTX2000_FANUC31i
CNC-controller from the list.

4. Define the Coordinate System

Definition of the Machine Coordinate System is a mandatory step in the process of

CAM-Part definition. This step can be performed automatically if the corresponding
option is chosen in SolidCAM settings.

The Machine Coordinate System defines the origin for all machining
operations on the CAM-Part. It corresponds with the built-in controller
functions and can be used for various clamping positions in a variety of
operations on the CAM-Part.
The Machine
Coordinate System
#1 (Position #1) can
be used for turning
operations as well
as for all types of
milling operations.
In the Turning mode,
SolidCAM uses the Turning Coordinate System created by rotating of
the Machine Coordinate System #1 (Position #1) around the Z-axis.
The axes orientation for the Turning Coordinate System
are defined in the CoordSys item of the submachine in
the Machine ID file of the chosen CNC-controller. At
the stage of operation definition, you will need to make
sure that you choose an appropriate submachine to
generate the correct GCode.

Click the CoordSys button in the Define area of the Mill-Turn Part Data dialog box to
define the Machine Coordinate System.

31
 The CoordSys dialog box enables you to define the Coordinate System location
and the orientation of the axes. You can define the position of the Coordinate
System origin and the axes orientation by selecting model faces, vertices, edges or
SOLIDWORKS Coordinate Systems.

SolidCAM enables you to define the CoordSys using the following

methods:
• Select face

This method enables you to define

a new CoordSys by selecting a face.
The face can be planar or cylindrical/
conical. For planar faces, SolidCAM
defines CoordSys with the Z-axis
normal to the face. For cylindrical
or conical faces, the Z-axis of the
CoordSys is coincident with the axis of
revolution of the specified cylindrical/
conical surface.
When the High precision check box
is selected, the Coordinate System is
defined using the faceted model, which
results in more precise definition but
may take more time to generate. When
this check box is not selected, the
Coordinate System is defined using
CAD tools without facetting.
• Define

This method enables you to define the

CoordSys by picking points. You have
to define the origin and the directions
of the X- and Y-axes.
• Select Coordinate System

This method enables you to choose the SOLIDWORKS Coordinate

System defined in the design model file as the CoordSys. The
CoordSys origin and the orientation of the axes is the same as in the
original SOLIDWORKS Coordinate System.

32
 2. CAM-Part Definition

• Normal to current view

This option enables you to define the Coordinate System with the
Z-axis normal to the model view you are facing on your screen.
The CoordSys origin will lie in the origin of the SOLIDWORKS
Coordinate System, and the Z-axis will be directed normally to the
chosen view of the model.
• By 3 points (associative)

This option enables you to define the CoordSys Origin and axes by
selecting any three points.

5. Select the model face

Make sure that the Center of revolution
face option is chosen for Place CoordSys
origin to. With this option, the origin
is placed automatically on the axis of
revolution face. With the Select Face
mode chosen, select the High precision
check box and click on the model face
as shown.
The CoordSys origin is located on the
front face of the model, and the Z-axis
is directed forward along the revolution
axis.

Click to confirm the selection.

Click the CoordSys button in the Define area of the Mill-Turn Part Data dialog box.

33
 Click the Edit button in the Coordsys Manager.
The CoordSys Data dialog box is displayed.

6. Define the CoordSys data

The CoordSys Data dialog box enables you to define the Coordinate System values
and machining levels such as Tool start level, Clearance level, Part upper level, etc.

CoordSys Data dialog box

The MAC Number defines the number of the CoordSys in the CNC-
machine. The default value is 1. If you use another number, the GCode
file contains the G-function that prompts the machine to use the
specified number stored in the controller of your machine.
The Position field defines the sequential number of the Coordinate
System. For each Machine Coordinate System, several Position values
can be defined for different positions; each such Position value is related
to the Machine Coordinate System.

34
 2. CAM-Part Definition

• X shows the X-value of the CoordSys.

• Y shows the Y-value of the CoordSys.
• Z shows the Z-value of the CoordSys.
The Create planar surface at Part Lower level option enables you to
generate a transparent planar surface at the minimal Z-level of the part
so that its lower level plane is visible. This planar surface provides you
the possibility to select points that do not lie on the model entities. It
is suppressed by default and not visible until you unsuppress it in the
FeatureManager Design tree.
The Levels section is divided into three parts: Planar, Radial and Rear.
The Levels: Planar section displays levels for milling from the positive
Z-direction.
The Levels: Radial section contains a set of machining levels describing
the virtual cylinders situated around the Z-axis.
Tool Z-level

Tool Start Level

Clearance level
Part Upper Level

CoordSys

Part Lower Level

35
 The Levels: Rear section displays levels for milling from the negative
Z-direction.

CoordSys
X

Part
Lower Level
Z

Part Upper Level

Clearance level
Tool Start Level

Tool Z-level

These tabs contain the following parameters:

• The Tool Z-level is the height to which the tool moves before the
rotation of the 4/5 axes to avoid collision between the tool and the
workpiece. This level is related to the CoordSys position and you
have to check if it is not over the limit switch of the machine. It is
highly recommended to send the tool to the reference point or to a
point related to the reference point.
• The Tool start level defines the Z-level at which the tool starts
working.
• The Clearance level is the Z-level to which the tool moves rapidly
from one operation to another (in case the tool does not change).
• The Part upper level defines the height of the upper surface of the
part to be machined.
• The Part lower level defines the lower surface level of the part to be
machined.

36
 2. CAM-Part Definition

• The Tool Z-level is the height to which the tool moves before the
rotation of the 4/5 axes to avoid collision between the tool and the
workpiece. This level is related to the CoordSys position and you
have to check if it is not over the limit switch of the machine. It is
highly recommended to send the tool to the reference point or to a
point related to the reference point.

Tool Start level

Rapid Movements area
Part
Clearance level Feed Movements area Upper level

Part
Lower level

The Translation Data option enables you to set the Shift and Rotation
values.
Shift is the distance from the Machine Coordinate System to the
location of the Position in the coordinate system and the orientation of
the Machine Coordinate System.
Rotation is the angle of rotation around the main axes X, Y and Z.
In the Mill-Turn module, facial and radial milling is performed using
the same Coordinate System. But since the part levels used for facial
milling are measured along the Z-axis, whereas those used for radial
milling are measured around the Z-axis, the CoordSys data must be
defined separately.
The Plane box defines the default work plane for the operations using
this CoordSys, as it is output to the GCode program. In the SolidCAM
CAM module, you must always work on the XY-plane. Some CNC-
machines, however, have different axes definitions and require a GCode
output with rotated XY-planes.

Confirm the CoordSys Data dialog box with

37
 The CoordSys Manager dialog box is displayed.
This dialog box displays one Machine Coordinate System.
Confirm the CoordSys Manager dialog box by clicking .
The Mill-Turn Part Data dialog box is displayed.

7. Define the Stock model

Define the boundaries of the stock material used for the

CAM-Part.
Click the Stock button.
The Stock dialog box is displayed. This dialog box enables
you to define the Stock model of the CAM-Part to be
machined.

The following methods of Stock definition are available:

• Cylinder

The Stock boundary is defined as a cylinder

surrounding the selected solid model. When
you click on the solid body, SolidCAM
generates a cylinder around it. This cylinder
defines the geometry of the Stock.
You can define the cylindrical stock by
specifying offsets of the cylinder faces from
the selected solid body or coordinates of
its boundaries relative to the CAM-Part
Coordinate System.
• Box

The Stock boundary is defined as a box

surrounding the selected solid model. When
you click on the solid body, SolidCAM
generates a 3D box around it. This box defines
the geometry of the Stock.
You can define the box stock by specifying
offsets of the box faces from the selected solid body or coordinates
of its boundaries relative to the CAM-Part Coordinate System.

38
 2. CAM-Part Definition

• Revolved boundary around Z

The Stock boundary is defined as a wireframe geometry chain using

one of the model sketches in the ZX-plane. When the chain is
selected, perpendiculars are dropped from its end points to the axis
of rotation to create the 2D geometry that will be revolved around
the Z-axis to define material boundary.
• Extruded boundary

The Stock boundary is defined as a closed wireframe geometry

chain using one of the model sketches in the XY-plane. This chain is
extruded by the Z-axis to define the material boundary.

• 3D Model

The Stock boundary is defined by selecting a 3D model.

• STL

The Stock model is defined based on a STL file that exists in your
system. When you choose this mode and click the Browse button in
the STL file section, the Browse dialog box is displayed. This dialog
box enables you to choose the STL file for the stock definition.
When the Generate envelope check box is selected, SolidCAM generates
a sketch containing the envelope of the selected solid body. The Stock
boundary is defined in this sketch.

Choose the Cylinder mode from

the Defined by list and click
on the solid body to select it.
SolidCAM defines a cylinder.
In the Offsets section, define
the following offsets:
• Set +Z to 2 and -Z to 1 to
define the front and back
offsets from the model.
• Set the External offset to 1.
• Set the Internal diameter
offset to 0.

39
 When the Internal diameter value is different from 0, SolidCAM defines
a tube.

The defined offsets are added to the cylindrical stock.

In the Facet tolerance section, set the value to 0.1. This parameter defines the
accuracy of triangulation of the Stock model. The triangulated model is used later in
the tool path simulation. The tighter the tolerance, the better is the performance of
the simulation.
Click to confirm the Stock dialog box.
The Stock envelope sketch is added to the CAM component of the CAM-Part
assembly and is displayed on the solid model.

8. Define the Target model

Now you have to define the Target model. The Target model is the final shape of the
CAM-Part after the machining. It is used for gouge checking in the SolidVerify
simulation.
The Target options are similar to those
used for Turning CAM-Part definition.
Click the Target button. The Target
dialog box is displayed.
Click on the solid body. The model is
highlighted.
Make sure the Envelope option is selected
in the Generate Envelope/Section area.
Confirm the Target dialog box with

40
 2. CAM-Part Definition

The envelope sketch is added to the CAM component of the CAM-Part assembly and
is displayed on the solid model. This sketch will be used later for the turning geometry
definition.

9. Save the CAM-Part

In the Mill-Turn Part Data dialog box, click . The dialog box is closed and the
SolidCAM Manager tree is displayed. The defined CAM-Part is saved.
At this stage, the definition of the CAM-Part is finished.
The definition of Milling and Turning operations is covered in the coming exercises
using this CAM-Part.

10. Close the CAM-Part

Right-click the CAM-Part header in the SolidCAM Manager tree and choose Close
from the menu.
The CAM-Part is closed.

41
42
Machine Preview 3
The Machine Preview window allows you to visualize the schematic position of the machine
devices without entering the Machine Simulation mode. This window is displayed in the
following ways:
• When you click the Preview ( ) button in the Machine ID Editor.

• When you click the Machine Preview ( ) button in the Setup and MCO dialog
boxes.
• When you click the Mounting button in the Tool Table window.

3.1 Understanding the Toolbar buttons

The toolbar enables you to control the machine parameters in the graphic area. The toolbar
buttons may vary depending on the type of the dialog box where you click the Machine Preview
button.

Machine Preview from Machine ID Editor

Machine Preview from MCO

Machine Preview from Setup

Machine Preview from Tool Table

Machine Preview from Operations

44
 3. Machine Preview

The table below mentions all the buttons available in the machine preview windows:

The Show/Hide STLs Machine button enables you to toggle between

showing and hiding the machine scheme represented by STL files.

Update Machine button

Update Stock button

Update Fixtures button

Update Tools button

Show/Hide Stock button

Show/Hide Target button

Focus Target button enables you to focus only on the target model

These buttons allow you to change the tool direction along the chosen
axis.

The Flip button enables you to turn the tool around its axis.

The Focus Tool button enables you to set the current view focused on
the tool.

The Show/Hide CoordSys button enables you to toggle between

showing and hiding Coordinate Systems of machine devices and tools.

45
 The Show/Hide Text button enables you to toggle between showing
and hiding the names of the machine devices.

The Show/Hide All Tools button enables you to toggle between

showing and hiding the tools mounted on turrets.

These buttons enable you to manage the

machine views related to the orientation of the
selected CoordSys position.

Axes

This section enables you to browse and edit positions of each particular machine axis. You can
type the value in the edit box or change it gradually by scrolling the mouse wheel. If a position
value causes collision with another devices, the edit box and the colliding device are highlighted
red.
The following additional buttons enable you to use data related to the machine axis:

The Home Reference Axes button enables you to set axes to Home
Reference values.

The Set All Axes to Zero button enables you to set all axes values to 0
regardless of their original value.

The Return to Initial Axes Value button enables you to reset all axes values
to the original value defined in VMID.

The Paste Axes Values button enables you to paste current position values
into specified edit boxes.

46
 3. Machine Preview

The Add Axes Values button enables you to add a new row to the Movement
list in an MCO operation and paste current position values into specified
edit boxes.

When you are defining a turning operation, the original MAC position is displayed in machine
preview. For example, if you are using MAC1 (1-Position) for turning operation, it will be
displayed in machine preview. If the additional angle is changed in tool orientation, it also
updates the coordinate position. When you are defining a milling operation, the original MAC
position is displayed in the machine preview. For example, if you are using MAC2 (1-Position)
for milling operation, it will be displayed in machine preview.
The station coordinate systems rotate/move along with the respective device movement. The
benefit is that you can keep a track of which station coordinate system is used for which device.

47
48
Turning Operations 4
4.1 Basic Turning

SolidCAM enables you to perform the following types of Turning operations.

Turning Operation types

Face Turning Cutoff

Turning Trochoidal Turning

Drilling Balanced Rough

Threading Manual Turning

Grooving Sim. tilted turning

Angled Grooving

Face Turning Operation

This operation enables you to perform turning of facial profiles. The
principal working direction is the X-axis direction.

Turning Operation
This operation enables you to turn a longitudinal or facial profile.
The resulting tool path can either use the turning cycles of the CNC-
machine, if they exist, or it can generate all the tool movements. If the
tool movements are generated by the program, then minimum tool
movements length is generated taking into account the material boundary
in the beginning of the particular operation. The profile geometry is
adjusted automatically by the program, if needed because of the tool
shape, to avoid gouging of the material.

50
 4. Turning Operations

Drilling Operation
This operation enables you to perform a drilling action along
the rotation axis. There is no geometry definition for this type of
operation since it is enough to define the drill start and end positions.

Threading Operation
This operation enables you to perform threading. The threading can
be either longitudinal (internal or external) or facial. This operation
can be used only if the CNC-machine has a thread cycle. SolidCAM
outputs the tool path for the threading exactly with the same length
as the defined geometry without any checking for material collision.

Grooving Operation
This operation enables you to perform a groove either on
a longitudinal geometry (internal or external) or a facial geometry. The
resulting tool path can either use a single machine cycle, generate all the
tool movements (G0, G1) or generate several machine cycles.

Angled Grooving Operation

This operation enables you to perform inclined grooves. The geometry
defined for this operation must be inclined relative to the Z-axis of the
CAM-Part Coordinate System. The Tool angle parameter enables you to
adjust the angle of the tool cutting the material.

51
Cutoff Operation
This operation enables you to perform cutoff machining. This
operation is used to cut the part or to perform a groove whose width
is exactly the same as the tool width. The cutting can be performed
using CNC-machine cycles; chamfers and fillets can also be generated.

Trochoidal Turning
This operation enables you to turn complex profiles using the
Trochoidal cutting strategy.
The cutting passes are rounded in the beginning and in the end to
result in smooth optimized tool path that enables you to use high cutting speed and reduce
tool wear.

The CNC-machine cycle cannot be used with this Operation.

Balanced Rough Operation

This operation enables you to work with two tools performing
roughing cuts at the same time. The Master submachine and Slave
submachine should include the same Table.

Manual Turning Operation

This operation enables you to perform turning according to your
own geometry regardless of a stock model, target model, or envelope.
The Reverse cutting path option enables you to machine undercuts
effectively.

52
 4. Turning Operations

Sim. tilted turning

This operation enables you to perform machining of curve-shaped
tool paths using tilting capabilities of tools with round insert. The
tool tilting is defined by specifying lines that indicate the tool vector
change. This operation is useful for machining of undercut areas in
a single machining step.

For more detailed explanation on the Turning operations, refer to the SolidCAM Turning
Online Help.

53
Exercise #3: Turning Operations on Turning CNC-Machine

In this exercise, you have to define the machine setup and

clamping fixture and to perform a number of Turning
operations to conclude the machining of the CAM-Part.
The exercise uses the CAM-Part created in Exercise #1. First,
you have to define the machine setup and clamping fixture that
holds the machined workpiece on the CNC-machine table.

1. Load the CAM-Part

Click Tools > SolidCAM > Open, or click the Open button on the SolidCAM toolbar.

In the browser window, choose Exercise1.prz to load the CAM-Part that has been
prepared earlier.

The CAM-Part is loaded.

54
 4. Turning Operations

2. Define the machine setup

Right-click the Operations header in SolidCAM Manager and choose the Machine
Setup ( ) > Add at start of operations tree command.
The Machine setup dialog box is displayed. This dialog box enables you to define the
relations between fixtures, submachines, and the Machine Coordinate System.

Machine Setup

The Machine Setup definition is an optional step in definition of CAM-

Parts that contain Turning operations. Using the Setup feature, you can
define the fixtures and their location relative to the Coordinate Systems
associated with certain submachines.
This unified representation of all setup data allows you to get a more
realistic picture during simulation and check possible collisions between
the cutting tools and fixtures. Selecting the Skip machine limit warnings
check box enables SolidCAM to check the machine limits in G-code
output or during machine simulation. This check box can be enabled by
changing the settings in the .VMID file.

At this stage, you have to define a fixture that helps to prevent a possible collision of
tools during machining.
The Fixture column enables you to choose or define a
fixture to be used with the specified submachine. To
define the fixture, click > New.
The Model dialog box is displayed. This dialog box
enables you to define the fixture geometry.
Make sure that the Chuck (Standard) option is chosen in
the Defined by section.

55
 This option enables you to define a standard three-step chuck by specifying the
clamping method, chuck position and dimensions.

Clamping method

This section enables you to define how

the clamping device will be attached to
the workpiece.

Chuck position

The chuck positioning is defined with

the Clamping diameter.
The Clamping diameter (CD) is defined
by picking on the model. When the
model is picked, SolidCAM measures the X distance from the CoordSys
origin to the picked position and displays the value in the corresponding
edit box.

The default Chuck position is defined on the stock envelope created during the Stock
model definition. Set the Clamping diameter as 94.
Now you need to define the dimensions of the chuck.

Chuck sizes library

SolidCAM enables you to define and store fixtures as libraries for reuse
in fixture definition. Click the Take from library button to open the
Fixture library dialog box. This dialog box enables you to create and
manage the fixture library.

Jaws parameters Step

Width

Jaw
• The Jaw width (JW) parameter defines Height

the overall width of a single jaw. Step

Height

Jaw Width

56
 4. Turning Operations

• The Jaw height (JH) parameter defines the overall height of a single jaw.

• The Step width (SW) parameter defines the width of the lower step.

• The Step height (SH) parameter defines the height of the lower step.

Associativity is not maintained for chucks defined by

parameters.

Set the values in the Jaws parameters section as follows:

• Set the Jaw width (JW) value to 50.
• Set the Jaw height (JH) value to 50.
• Set the Step width (SW) value to 20.
• Set the Step height (SH) value to 20.
The clamping fixture is defined.

For the options of 3D options, Configurations, Rotation, and

Visualisation, refer to the SolidCAM Turning Online Help.
Click to confirm the Model dialog box.
The Machine setup dialog box is displayed again.
Now you have to define the model
position relative to the submachine
coordinate system.
Click the Table name in the tree view.
Click the Z column field. Set the
value to -8.000.

57
 Click the Position name in the tree view.
Click the Z column field. Set
the value to 92.000.
Select the check box before
the table name in the tree
view to display the fixture
directly on the model.

This is how the fixture now looks.

The Machine Preview button enables you to display the machine preview dialog
box to quickly visualize the schematic position of the machine devices without
entering the machine simulation mode.
Click the Machine Preview button. The Machine Preview window opens.

58
 4. Turning Operations

For more information on Machine Preview, refer to the Machine Preview chapter.
Confirm the Setup definition with OK. The Setup
subheader is added to the SolidCAM Manager tree under
the Operations header.

3. Add a Turning Operation

Right-click the Operations header in the SolidCAM Manager tree and choose Turning
from the Add Turning Operation submenu.

The Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

4. Define the Geometry

Make sure the Wireframe option is selected in the
Geometry section.

Turning geometry can be defined by selecting wireframe elements or by

picking solid model entities such as faces, edges and vertices.
The following geometry definition options are available:
• Wireframe

This option enables you to define the turning geometry by wireframe

geometry selection.
• Solid

This option enables you to define the turning geometry by selecting

model entities such as faces, edges, vertices, origin and sketch points.
When model entities are picked, SolidCAM automatically defines
the geometry on the envelope/section segment corresponding to the
selected model elements.

59
 You have to define the machining geometry for the external roughing operation using
the Envelope sketch. The sketch was automatically generated in
the Target model definition process described in Exercise #1.
Click . The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed. This
dialog box enables you to define and edit geometry chains.
SolidCAM enables you to choose the mode of the geometry
selection in the Chain section of the Geometry Edit dialog box.

Chain options

You can define the geometry by selecting edges, sketch segments and
points on the contour. The following options are available:
• Curve

You can create a chain of existing curves

and edges by selecting them one after
the other.

Associativity: SolidCAM keeps the

associativity to any edge or sketch entity.
Any change made to the model or sketch
automatically updates the selected geometry.
The Curve option offers the following
options:
Up to Entity: The chain is selected by
specifying the start curve, the direction
of the chain and the element up to
which the chain is created. SolidCAM
enables you to choose any model edge,
vertex or sketch entity to determine the
chain end.
When the end item is chosen, SolidCAM
determines the chain according to
the chosen selection mode (Tangent
propagation, Constant Z Propogation).

The chain selection is terminated when

the selected end item is reached.
If the chosen end item cannot be reached by the chain flow, the chain
definition is terminated when the start chain segment is reached. The
chain is automatically closed.

60
 4. Turning Operations

Tangent propogation: A tangent entity following the current one and

not located at the same Z-level is chosen.
Constant Z propogation: You are required to enter a positive and
negative Z-deviation into the Delta Z Tolerance edit box. Only entities
within this range are identified as the next possible entity of the chain.
• Curve + Close Cornerss

This option enables you to close the gaps between successive chain
entities irrespective of the Gap Minimum and Gap Maximum values
by virtually extending the entities up to their intersection.
• Point to point

This option enables you to connect specified points; the points are
connected by a straight line.
Associativity:
SolidCAM does not keep the associativity to any selected
point. SolidCAM saves the X-, Y- and Z-coordinates of the
selected points. Any change made to the model or sketch
does not update the selected geometry.

• Arc by points

This option enables you to create a chain segment on an arc up to a

specific point on the arc.
Associativity: SolidCAM does not keep the associativity to
any selected arcs by points. SolidCAM saves the X-, Y- and
Z-coordinates of the selected points. Any change made to
the model or sketch does not update the selected geometry.
Make sure that the default Curve mode is chosen. Unselect the check boxes of Up to
Entity, Tangent propagation and Constant Z Propagation.
Select the sketch segments as shown.
The order of the geometry selection is important,
since it defines the direction of machining.
Operations in SolidCAM use the direction of the
chain geometry to calculate the tool path. The
arrow at the start point of the chain indicates the
direction of the chain.
In the Chain section of the Geometry Edit dialog
box, choose the Point to point option. This option
enables you to connect the specified points with
a straight line.

61
 Click on the sketch point as shown.

The linear geometry segment is defined.

Pick the rest of the sketch entities as

shown in the image.
The geometry chain is defined for
the external roughing operation.
Confirm the chain definition with
.

62
 4. Turning Operations

Add Selected Element

This button enables you to add the entity highlighted with the direction
arrow to the current chain.

Change Direction

This button enables you to toggle between available chain entities

following the current segment.

Undo step

This button enables you to undo the last selection of a chain element.

Reverse

This button enables you to reverse the direction of the selected chain..

Reject chain

This button cancels the single chain selection.

The chain icon is displayed in the Chain List section.

Close the Geometry Edit dialog box with and return to the Turning Operation
dialog box.
In the Edit Geometry section, click the Modify Geometry button.
The Modify Geometry dialog box is displayed. It enables you to modify geometries
defined for SolidCAM operations: extend/trim and assign offsets, and also choose
the geometry chains to be used in the operation (in case of multiple chain geometry).

The Start Extension/trimming and End Extension/

trimming sections enable you to define the length of
the extension/trimming applied to the start/end of
the geometry chain.
The Distance option enables you to define the
extension/trimming distance: when a positive value
is defined, the chain is extended from the start/end
point with straight lines of the specified length.

63
 When a negative value is defined, the chain is trimmed from the start/
end point up to the specified distance measured along the geometry
chains.
End Extension

Start
Extension

Clear the Auto extend Start to Stock section, and set 3 asthe Distance value to extend
the geometry outside the material. In the End Extension/trimming section, set the
Distance value to 5.
Click the Apply to all button to confirm the chain selection.
Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with . The Turning Operation dialog box
is displayed again.

5. Define the Tool

After the geometry definition, you have to define the tool for the operation. Switch to
the Tool page of the Turning Operation dialog box and click the Select button.
The Part Tool Table is
displayed.
The Part Tool Table
is a tool library that
contains all the tools
available for use with
a specific CAM-Part.
The Part Tool Table
is stored within the
CAM-Part.

Click to start the definition of a new tool.

64
 4. Turning Operations

Available composite and solid tools are displayed in the right pane of the dialog box.

From the Composite

Tools section, choose
the Ext. Turning tool.

Click the Insert tab

and enter the tool
parameters as shown
in the image.

Click the Shank tab

and enter the tool
parameters as shown
in the image.

65
 Click the Holder check box. Select 8_251_11_004 as the holder.
Click the Mounting button.
The Mounting dialog box is
displayed.

Using the Flip Tool and

axes rotation buttons, set the
tool in the position as shown.

The Z-, Z+, X-, X+ buttons enable you to set the tool direction parallel
to the corresponding axis of the station.

The Flip button enables you to turn the tool around its axis.
The Focus Tool button enables you to set the current view focused
on the tool.
The Show/Hide CoordSys button enables you to toggle between
showing and hiding Coordinate Systems of machine devices and tools.
The Show/Hide Text button enables you to toggle between showing
and hiding the names of the machine devices.
The Show/Hide All Tools button enables you to toggle between
showing and hiding the tools mounted on turrets.

66
 4. Turning Operations

The Show/Hide STLs Machine button enables you to toggle

between showing and hiding the machine scheme represented by STL
files.
The buttons enable you to manage the machine
views related to the orientation of the selected CoordSys position.
The Additional angle parameter enables you to add a certain angle
value to the chosen orientation if the tool must be mounted.
The Tool tip position option enables you to define the tool tip position
relative to the station Coordinate System for Machine Simulation.
When your tool holder supports multiple tools, Position in Multi-
tool holder option provides the possibility to rotate the turret around
the Spindle axis in angle increments defined by the Min. Angle Step
Around Spindle Axis parameter in the Machine ID file (*.vmid).
Click the Mounting button again to close the dialog box.
Switch to the Tool Data tab. This page enables you to define the general technological
parameters. These parameters are associated with the current tool and applied to
every operation where this tool is used.

Spin finish
This field defines the Spin value for Finish turning.
Generally, the Spin value can be calculated using the following formula
for metric system:
Spin=(1000*V)/(π*D), where V is the cutting speed and D is the diameter.
And for inch system:
Spin=(12*V)/(pi*D), where V is the cutting speed and D is the diameter.

67
 In this exercise, it is recommended to use the cutting speed of
210 m/min.
The diameter used for spin calculation is 90 mm (maximal diameter of
the part).
According to the formula above, Spin≈750.

Choose V (m/min) as Spin units. Define the Spin parameters. Set the Spin normal and
Spin finish values to 750.
Click to choose the tool for the operation. At this stage, the tool is defined in the
Part Tool Table.

6. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Turning Operation dialog box. Make sure that
the default option is chosen in the Mode area.
This option enables you to execute external longitudinal turning (the principal
working direction is the Z-axis direction).
In the Work type area, use the default Rough option.

Work type

This option enables you to choose the method of the machining:

• Rough

The tool path movements are parallel to

the Z-axis (longitudinal turning) or to the
X-axis (facial turning). Semi-finish and
finish passes are performed, if chosen, at
the end of the rough stage.
• Copy

The finish pass is performed, if chosen,

at the end of the copy stage.

• Finish only

This option is used for the final turning

of the CAM-Part. When this option is
chosen, only the semi-finish or finish pass
is executed.

68
 4. Turning Operations

In the Rough tab, choose Smooth from the Rough type drop-down list.
Set the Step down value to 2.

In the Rough offset section, choose the ZX-ABS option.

Set the Distance X value to 0.4 and the Distance
Z value to 0.1.

Rough offset

This drop-down list has three options:

• Distance

This option defines the constant

offset distance from the geometry.
You are prompted to enter the
Distance value.

69
 • ZX
dz
SolidCAM enables you to define
different offsets in the X and
Z directions. You are prompted
to enter both Distance X and
Distance Z.

dx

• ZX-ABS

This option is similar to the ZX

option, except that the program
chooses the sign of each vector
component (dx, dz) so that the
offset geometry does not intersect
with the profile geometry.

In the Semi-finish/finish tab, select the No option in the Semi-finish and Finish
sections.
The finishing operation will be performed later.

7. Calculate the tool path

At this stage, all of the operation parameters are defined.
Click in the Turning Operation dialog box to save the operation data and calculate
the tool path.
The preview of the tool path is displayed on the solid model.

8. Simulate the tool path

Use the simulation to check and view the generated tool path after you have defined
and calculated your machining operations.
If you have made mistakes in the definition of operations or used unsuitable
turning strategies, the simulation helps you avoid problems that you would otherwise
experience during the actual production running.

70
 4. Turning Operations

Click in the Turning Operation dialog box. The Simulation control panel is
displayed.
Switch to the Turning page. This simulation mode enables you to display the 2D
simulation of the turning tool path.
In the Show section, choose the Both option. This option displays both the tool path
and the material.
Click . The simulation is displayed.

When the simulation is finished, switch to the SolidVerify page of the Simulation
control panel. This simulation mode enables you to view the tool path on the 3D
Model.
Rotate the model to the isometric view with the button.
Click to start the simulation.

SolidVerify simulation mode

This mode enables the

simulation of machining on
the solid model. The solid
stock model defined as Stock
is used in this mode. The
Fixture is displayed.

71
 During the machining simulation, SolidCAM subtracts the tool
movements from the solid model of the stock using solid Boolean
operations. The remaining machined stock is a solid model that can be
dynamically zoomed or rotated.
When the simulation is finished, click . The Turning Operation
dialog box is displayed. Click to close the dialog box.

9. Add a Face Turning operation

Right-click the Turning operation defined in the previous steps and choose Face from
the Add Turning Operation submenu to add a new facing operation.
The Face Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

10. Define the Geometry

Define the geometry as shown on the illustration to
machine the end face.
Click in the Geometry page.
The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.

Click on the sketch segment as shown.

In this operation, the geometry must be directed to the
rotation axis of the model.

Note the direction of the geometry. When you pick the first chain entity
on the solid model, SolidCAM determines the start point of the picked
entity closest to the picked position.

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 4. Turning Operations

The direction of the picked first chain Picked position

entity is defined automatically from Geometry chain Direction

the start point to the picked position. Start point

Accept the chain and get back to the Face Turning Operation dialog box.
Click the Modify Geometry button. In the Start Extension/ trimming section, set 4 as
the Distance value to extend the geometry outside the material. In the End extension/
trimming section, set the Distance value to 20.

Confirm the geometry modification with .

11. Define the Tool

Use the tool defined in the previous turning operation. Click the Select button in the
Tool page to choose the tool from the Part Tool Table.
The Part Tool Table is displayed.
Choose the Ext. turning tool used in the first operation and click . The tool is
chosen for the operation.
Click the Data tab in the Tool page of the Turning Operation dialog box to customize
the tool parameters such as Spin and Feed for the operation.
Set the Spin rate and the
Spin finish to 1100.
Set the Feed normal to
0.2.
The tool is defined for
the operation.

73
 12. Define the technological parameters
Switch to the Technology page of the Face Turning Operation dialog box.
Make sure that option is
chosen in the Mode area. This
option enables you to machine
the front end face.
SolidCAM enables you
to perform roughing and
finishing in a single operation.
Make sure that the Rough
option is selected. In the
Rough type section, select the
Smooth option. In the Offset
section, set Offset Z value to
0.1.
Select the Finish option to
execute a finishing pass in the
direction of the geometry.

13. Save and Calculate

At this stage, all the operation parameters are defined.
Click in the Face Turning Operation dialog box to save the operation data and
calculate the tool path.

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 4. Turning Operations

14. Simulate

Click in the Face Turning Operation dialog box. The Simulation control panel is
displayed.
Simulate the tool path in the Turning mode.
When the simulation is finished, switch to the SolidVerify mode and simulate the tool
path again.
Close the Simulation control panel with
.
The Face Turning Operation dialog box
is displayed. Close it with .

In the following operation, you have to perform rough machining of the internal faces using
a Drilling operation. The U-Drill tool is used to machine
the internal hole without center drilling and to increase the
machining speed by avoiding the pecking. Using the U-Drill,
you can also avoid the preliminary drilling and operate the tool
with the largest diameter.

15. Add a Drilling operation

Right-click the Face Turning operation and choose Drilling from the Add Turning
Operation submenu to add a new Drilling operation.
The Drilling Operation dialog box is displayed.

16. Define the Tool

Click the Select button in the Tool page to start the tool definition.
The Part Tool Table is displayed.

Click to start the definition of a new tool.

Select the DRILL tool for this operation.

75
 Set the following parameters of the U-Drill tool that will be used for the operation:
• Set the D parameter to 28
• Set the A parameter to 118
• Set the AD parameter to 28
• Set the TL parameter to 150
• Set the OHL parameter to 100
• Set the SL parameter to 90
• Set the CL parameter to 85
Switch to the Tool Data page to define
the Spin and Feed parameters of
drilling.
Set the Spin rate and Spin finish values to 3500.
Set the Feed XY value to 1000 mm/tooth.
Click the Holder check box. Select BT 40 ER 32x60 as the holder.
Confirm the tool definition with The Drilling Operation dialog box is displayed.

17. Define the Drill start position

The geometry for drilling is defined by two points: start and end positions. Switch
to the Technology page of the
Drilling Operation dialog box.
Click the Drill start button in
the Positions section.
The Pick Start point dialog
box is displayed.

Click on the front face of the

part as shown.

76
 4. Turning Operations

The coordinates of the selected point are displayed in the Pick Start point dialog box.
Confirm this dialog box with .
The Drilling Operation dialog box is displayed again.

18. Define the Drill end position

Define the end position of the drilling.
Click the Drill end button in the Positions section.
The Pick End point dialog box is displayed.
Click on the back face of the part.

The coordinates of the selected point are displayed in the Pick End point dialog box.
Confirm the dialog box with .
The Drilling Operation dialog box is displayed again.
In the Depth type section, select the Full diameter option.

19. Save and Calculate

At this stage, all the parameters of the operation are defined.
Click in the Drilling Operation dialog box to save the operation data and calculate
the tool path.

20. Simulate

Click in the Drilling Operation dialog box. Simulate the tool path in the Turning
mode.
Simulate the tool path in the SolidVerify mode.

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 The simulation is performed.

Close the Simulation control panel with . Close theDrilling Operation dialog box
with .

21. Add an External Finishing operation

Right-click the last defined Drilling operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose
Turning from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

22. Copy data from the existing operation

SolidCAM enables you to use an already existing operation as a template for the
current operation. All the operation data is copied from the template to the current
operation. This feature enables you to save the programming time.
In the Operation name section, choose the first turning operation as a template.
The data is copied.
In the current operation, use the same geometry that you used for the external
roughing.

23. Define the Tool

Click the Select button in the Tool page. The Part Tool Table is displayed with the data
of the earlier tool copied from the template operation. Now you have to define a new
tool in the Part Tool Table and choose it for the operation.
Click to start the definition of the new tool. From the Composite Tools section,
choose the Ext. Turning tool.

78
 4. Turning Operations

In the Insert tab, enter the parameters as shown in the image:

In the Shank tab, enter the parameters as shown in the image:

Click the Holder check box and select 8_251_11_004 as the holder.

79
 Click Mounting and set the tool in the vertical position as shown.
Click the Select icon to confirm
the tool definition and choose it
for the operation.
Now you have to define the Spin
and Feed values. Click the Data
tab in the Tool page of the Turning
Operation dialog box.

Generally, the Spin value can be calculated using the following formula:
Spin=(1000*V)/(π*D), where V is the cutting speed and D is the diameter.
In this case, the differences of diameters through the tool path do not
enable you to use the common Spin value.
The V ( Velocity) option is used. This option enables you to define the
cutting speed. The number of revolutions per minute is calculated
automatically according to the actual diameter. Using this option, you
can maintain the constant cutting speed along the tool path. In the areas
of the smallest diameter, the number of revolutions is greater and vice
versa.

Under Spin, choose the V(m/min)

option in the Spin rate and Spin
finish sections.
Set the cutting speed value of 240
for the Spin rate and the Spin
finish.
Set the Reference diameter value
to 100. Set the Min. Spin (rpm)
value to 100. Set the Max. Spin
(rpm) value to 3000.

80
 4. Turning Operations

With this value, SolidCAM limits the number of revolutions per minute.

The gear drop down list provides you the list of gear units as defined in
the VMID file.
When V(m/min) option is used in either Spin rate or Spin finish sections,
the Auto Gear-switching section is enabled. This allows you to override
the gear units and define the min. and max. rpm in order to maintain a
constant surface speed. The Reference diameter parameter allows you
to define the value used for calculating the minimum rpm. The Min. and
Max. spin parameters allow you to define the min and max spin values
of the current gear unit. Selecting the Stay in gear limits check box, uses
the Min. and Max. spin values according to the defined machine gear
unit. If you select the Auto Gear-switching check box, the gear drop
down list is not available for use.

24. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Turning Operation dialog box.
Under the General tab, in the Work type area of the Technology page, choose the
Finish only option.
This option is used for the finish turning of the CAM-Part. When this option is
chosen, only the semi-finish or finish pass is executed.
In the Semi-finish/finish tab, choose the ISO-Turning method option in Finish area.
This option enables you to perform the finishing pass in the direction of the geometry.

25. Save and Calculate

Click in the Turning Operation dialog

box to save the operation data and calculate
the tool path.

26. Simulate

Click in the Turning Operation dialog

box. Simulate the tool path in the Turning
mode.

81
 Simulate the tool path in the SolidVerify mode.

Close the Simulation control panel with . Close the Turning Operation dialog box
with .

27. Add an Internal Turning operation

Right-click the last defined Turning operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose
Turning from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

28. Define the Geometry

The following geometry has to be defined in order to perform the internal turning.

Click in the Geometry page. The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.
Select the chamfer segment as shown.

Note the direction of the geometry. The

geometry defined for this operation must
be directed in the negative direction of
the Z-axis.

In the Chain section of the Geometry Edit dialog box, switch to the Point to point
mode.

82
 4. Turning Operations

Click on the end point of the geometry as shown.

The geometry chain is selected.
In the Modify Geometry section, set Distance to 3
in Start Extension/trimming. Confirm your
selection by with .
The Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

29. Define the Tool

Click the Select button in the Tool page to start the definition of a new tool for the
operation. The Part Tool Table is displayed. Click to define a new tool.
From the Composite Tools section, choose the Int. Turning type to define the tool for
the internal finish.
In the Insert tab, enter the
parameters as shown in the image.

In the Shank tab, enter the

parameters as shown in the image.
Click the Holder check box and
select S20R SCLCR-09_LT as the
holder.

83
 Click Mounting and set the tool position as shown.
Click to confirm the
tool definition and choose
it for the operation.
Click the Data tab in the
Tool page of the Turning
Operation dialog box to
define the Spin data for
the operation.
Set the Spin normal and
Spin finish to 1800.

30. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page. Make sure option is chosen in the Mode area.
This option enables you to perform the internal radial turning.
In the Work type area, choose the Finish only option. This option is used for finish
turning of the CAM-Part. When this option is chosen, only a semi-finish or a finish
pass is executed.
Choose the ISO-Turning method option for Finish in the Semi-finish/finish tab.
At this stage, all relevant technological parameters are defined.

31. Save and Calculate

Click in the Turning Operation dialog box to save the operation data and calculate
the tool path.

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 4. Turning Operations

32. Simulate

Click in the Turning Operation dialog box. The Simulation control panel is
displayed. Simulate the tool path in the Turning mode.
Simulate the tool path in the SolidVerify
mode.
Close the Simulation control panel with
. Close the Turning
Operation dialog box with .

33. Add an External Grooving operation

Right-click the last defined Turning operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose
Grooving from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Grooving Operation dialog box is displayed

34. Define the Geometry

The following geometry has to be defined in order to perform
the machining of the external groove.
Click in the Geometry page.
The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.
Choose the Curve option in the Chain section and select the
sketch segments as shown. Ensure that the Up to Entity,
Tangent propagation and Constant Z Propagation checkboxes are unselected.

85
 Confirm the chain definition with .
In the Modify Geometry dialog box, set the Distance values to 1 in the Start Extension/
trimming and End Extension/ trimming areas.

Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with .

35. Define the Tool

Click the Select button in the Tool page. The Part Tool Table is displayed.

Click to start a new tool definition.

From Composite Tools, add an Ext. Grooving tool for the operation.
In the Insert tab, enter the parameters as shown in the image.

In the Shank tab, enter the parameters as shown in the image.

86
 4. Turning Operations

Click Mounting and set the tool as shown in the image:

Click icon to confirm the tool definition and choose it for the operation.
Click the Data tab in the Tool page of the Grooving Operation dialog box. These
parameters allow you to define the Feed values.
Set the Feed normal to 0.18 and the Feed finish to 0.12.
Set the Safety angle value to 0.

Safety angle

This parameter defines the angle

between the material and the
cutting edge of the tool. It prevents
Modified geometry
the cutting edge of the tool from Geometry
coinciding with the material.
​
Safety angle

36. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page. Make sure that option is chosen in the Mode
area. This option enables you to perform the External grooving tool path.
SolidCAM enables you to combine roughing and finishing in one operation. Make
sure that the Rough option is chosen in the Work type area.
Click the Rough tab to define the rough grooving parameters.
In the Rough offset area, choose the Distance option. This option enables you to
define a constant offset distance from the geometry. Set the Distance value to 0.2.

87
 In the Step over area, set the Value to 2.8.

Step over

This field defines the sideways distance between

ea ch two successive groove-cut steps. This
di stance must be smaller than the tool width.

Switch now to Semi-finish/Finish tab. Make sure that the Turn-Groove method option
is chosen in the Finish area.

Turn-Groove method

The finishing pass is executed. The tool movements are generated in

such way that only the bottom of the tool cuts the material. This can
cause the tool to move against the direction of the geometry, while the
movement of the tool on the geometry is not continuous.

From the Finish on box, select the Entire geometry option.

This option performs finishing on the entire profile geometry.
Switch to the Groove parameters tab and set the Finish value to 0 in the Delta
compensation area.

Delta compensation

For good surface finishing and better cutting conditions, the tool should
be allowed to bend slightly during the side cutting. This is important so
that only the corner radius of the tool will touch the material. This field
defines the distance the tool retreats before going sideways.
• Rough

Enter the distance the tool should retreat before moving sideways in
the roughing operation.
• Finish

Enter the distance the tool should retreat before moving sideways in
the finishing operation.

88
 4. Turning Operations

37. Save and Calculate

Click in the Grooving Operation dialog box
to save the operation data and calculate the tool
path.

38. Simulate

Click in the Grooving Operation dialog box.

Simulate the tool path in the Turning mode.
Simulate the tool path in the SolidVerify mode.
Close the Simulation control panel. Close the Grooving Operation dialog box.

39. Add an Internal Grooving operation

Right-click the last defined Grooving operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose
Grooving from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Grooving Operation dialog box is displayed.

40. Define the Geometry

The following geometry has to be defined in order

to perform machining of the internal groove.

Click in the Geometry page.

The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.

With the Curve option chosen, select the sketch

segments as shown. Ensure that the Up to Entity,
Tangent propagation and Constant Z Propagation
check boxes are unselected.

Confirm the chain definition with .

The Grooving Operation dialog box is displayed.

89
 Click the Modify Geometry button.
Set the Distance values in the Start Extension and the End Extension areas to 1. Close
the Modify Geometry dialog box with .

41. Define the Tool

In the Tool page, click the Select button. The Part Tool Table is displayed.

Click to start the definition of a new tool.

From the Composite Tools section, choose the Int.Grooving tool type.
In the Insert tab, enter the parameters as shown in the image.

In the Shank tab, enter the parameters as shown in the image.

90
 4. Turning Operations

Click the Holder check box and select C5 ADI 25 as the holder.
Click Mounting and set the tool as shown in the image.

Click to confirm the tool definition and choose it for the operation. Click the Tool
Data tab to define the feeds and safety angle.
• Set Feed normal to 0.1 and Feed finish to 0.05
• Set the Safety angle to 0

42. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page. Make sure that

option is chosen in the Mode area. This
option enables you to perform the internal radial
grooving.

Select the Rough option in the Work type area.

Click the Rough tab to define roughing parameters.
Make sure that the ZX-ABS option is chosen in the Rough offset area.
• Set the Distance X to 0.2
• Set the Distance Z to 0.05
• In the Step over area, set the Value to 2.8

At this stage, the technological parameters of the operation are defined.

91
 43. Save and Calculate

Click in the Grooving Operation dialog box to save the operation data and
calculate the tool path.

44. Simulate

Click in the Grooving Operation dialog box.

Simulate the tool path in the Turning mode.
Simulate the tool path in the SolidVerify mode. Click to see the section of the
machined part as shown.
Close the Simulation control panel. Close the Grooving
Operation dialog box.

45. Add an Angled Grooving operation

Right-click the last defined Grooving operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose
Angled Grooving from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Angled Grooving Operation dialog box is displayed.

46. Define the Geometry

The following geometry has to be defined in order to
perform the machining of the angled groove.
Click in the Geometry page.
The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.

92
 4. Turning Operations

With the Curve option chosen, select the sketch segments as shown. Ensure that the
Up to Entity, Tangent propagation and Constant Z Propagation check boxes are
unselected.

Close the Geometry Edit dialog box with .

47. Define the Tool

In the Tool page, click the Select button. The Part Tool Table is displayed.

Click to start the definition of a new tool.

From the Composite Tools section, choose the Ext.Grooving tool type.
In the Insert tab, enter the parameters as shown in the image.

93
 In the Shank tab, enter the parameters as shown in the image.

For this operation you must use a new holder Tool External Grooving Angular. Add
and select this holder from the Training Materials folder.
Click Mounting and set the tool as
shown in the image:
Click to confirm the tool
definition and choose it for the
operation. Click the Tool Data
tab to define the feeds and safety
angle.

48. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page. Make sure that option is chosen in the Mode
area. This option enables you to perform the angled grooving.
Make sure that the Rough option is chosen in the Work type area and click the Rough
tab to define the roughing parameters.
Make sure that Single is chosen in the Step down section. This option allows you to
machine the groove in a single step down.

94
 4. Turning Operations

Set Step over value to 0.2.

Switch to Semi-finish/Finish tab. Choose the ISO-Turning method in the Finish
section.

49. Save and Calculate

Click in the Angled Grooving Operation dialog box to save the operation data
and calculate the tool path.

50. Simulate

Click in the Angled Grooving Operation dialog box.

Simulate the tool path in the Turning mode.
Simulate the tool path in the SolidVerify mode.

Close the Simulation control panel. Close the Angled Grooving Operation dialog box.
In the next stage, you have to perform machining of the external thread using a Threading
operation. The minimal diameter of the thread is 56 mm, and the pitch is 1.5 mm.

51. Add a Threading operation

Right-click the last defined Angled Grooving operation in SolidCAM Manager and
choose Threading from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Threading Operation dialog box is displayed.

52. Define the Geometry

The geometry as shown in the image has to be defined to
machine the external thread.

Click in the Geometry page.

The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.

95
 With the Curve option chosen, select the sketch segment as shown. Ensure that the
Up to Entity, Tangent propagation and Constant Z
Propagation check boxes are unselected. Confirm
the selected geometry with .

Notice the direction of the geometry.

The geometry for this operation must
be directed in the negative direction of
the Z-axis.
In the Modify Geometry dialog box, set the Distance
to 2 in Start Extension/trimming and End Extension/
trimming. This extension enables the tool to approach the geometry from outside.
Confirm the modification with .

53. Define the Tool

In the Tool page, click the Select button.
The Part Tool Table is displayed. Define a new tool for the external threading.
Click and choose the Ext.Threading tool from the Composite Tools section.
In the Insert tab, enter the parameters as shown in the image.

96
 4. Turning Operations

In the Shank tab, enter the parameters as shown in the image.

Click the Holder check box and select 8_251_11_004 as the holder.
Click Mounting and set the tool as shown in the image.

Click to confirm the tool definition and choose it for the operation. Click the Tool
Data tab.
The cutting speed chosen for the operation is 110 m/min.

97
 The Spin value can be calculated with the following formula:
Spin=(1000*V)/(π*D), where V is the cutting speed and D is the diameter.
Spin=(1000*110)/(π*58)≈600 rev/min.

Set the Spin normal and Spin finish to 600.

Click the Select button to confirm the tool selection. The Threading Operation
dialog box is displayed.

54. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page. Make sure that option is chosen in the Mode
area. This option enables you to perform the radial external threading

Make sure that the Multiple option is chosen in the Work type area.

SolidCAM enables you to choose between two main Work type options:
• Single – the threading is performed in a single pass (G33).
• Multiple – the threading is performed in several passes according
to the machine cycle.

In the Pitch unit area, set the Value to 1.5.

In the Minor Diameter area, set the Value to 56.

Minor diameter

This option is available with Long external mode. It

defines the minimum diameter of the thread at the
first point of the geometry. The thread depth is the
difference between the diameter of the first geometry
point of the thread and the minimum diameter value.

Choose Yes under External finish. This option enables you to perform the finishing
pass on the tips of the threads.

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 4. Turning Operations

55. Save and Calculate

Click in the Threading Operation dialog box to save the operation data and
calculate the tool path.

56. Simulate

Click in the Threading Operation dialog box.

Simulate the tool path in the Turning mode.
Simulate the tool path in the SolidVerify mode.

Close the Simulation control panel. Close the Threading Operation dialog box.

At this stage, you have to perform machining of the internal thread using the Threading
operation. The maximal diameter of the thread is 33.5 mm and the pitch is 1.5 mm.

57. Add a Threading operation

Right-click the last defined Threading operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose
Threading from the Add Turning Operation submenu.

58. Define the Geometry

The following geometry has to be defined to machine the
internal thread.
Click in the Geometry page. The Geometry Edit dialog
box is displayed.

99
 Select the sketch segment as shown.

Notice the direction of the geometry.

The geometry for this operation must
be directed in the negative direction of
the Z-axis.

Confirm the selected geometry with .

In the Modify Geometry dialog box, set the Distance values to 2 in the Start Extension/
trimming and End Extension/ trimming. This extension enables the tool to approach
(and retreat from) the geometry from outside.
Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with .

59. Define the Tool

In the Tool page, click the Select button to define a new tool in the Part Tool Table and
choose it for the operation.
In the Part Tool Table, click .
In the Composite Tools section, choose the Int.Threading tool type.
In the Insert tab, enter the parameters as shown in the image.

100
 4. Turning Operations

In the Shank tab, enter the parameters as shown in the image.

Click the Holder check box. Select SIL 0013 M16B_UT as the holder.
Click Mounting and set the tool as shown in the image.

Switch to the Tool Data tab. Set the spin and feed data.
Set the Spin normal and Spin finish to 1000.
Click to choose the tool for the operation.

101
 60. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page. Make sure that option is chosen in the Mode
area. This option enables you perform the internal radial threading.
Make sure that the Multiple option is chosen in the Work type area. Set the Step down
to 0.1.
• In the Pitch unit area, set the Value to 1.5
• In the Major Diameter area, set the Value to 33

Major Diameter

This option is available with the Long internal mode.

It defines the maximum diameter of the thread at the
first point of the geometry. The thread depth is the
difference between the maximal diameter value and
the diameter of the first geometry point of the thread.

At this stage, all the technological parameters of the Threading operation are defined.

61. Save and Calculate

Click in the Threading Operation dialog box to save the operation data and
calculate the tool path.

62. Simulate

Click in the Threading Operation dialog box.

Simulate the tool path in the Turning mode.
Simulate the tool path in the SolidVerify mode. Use th
button to see the section of the machined part as
shown.

Close the Simulation control panel. Close the Threading

Operation dialog box.

At this stage, you have to perform parting (cutting off) of the

machined part using a Cutoff operation.

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 4. Turning Operations

63. Add a Cutoff Operation

Right-click the last defined Threading operation and choose Cutoff from the Add
Turning Operation submenu.

64. Define the Geometry

The following geometry has to be defined to perform the
parting (cutting off).
In the Geometry page, click to start the geometry
definition. The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.
Select the sketch segment as shown.

Note the direction of the geometry. In this operation, the geometry

directed to the model rotation axis should be used.

In the Modify Geometry dialog box, set the Distance values to 2 in Start Extension/
trimming and End Extension/trimming.

65. Define the Tool

Click the Select button in the Tool page to start the definition of a new tool.

The Part Tool Table is displayed. Click to define a new tool.

Choose the Ext. Grooving tool from the Composite Tools section.

103
 Click the Insert tab and enter the parameters as shown in the image.

Click the Shank tab and enter the parameters as shown in the image.

Click the Holder check box and select 8_251_11_004 as the holder.

104
 4. Turning Operations

Click Mounting and set the tool as shown in the image.

Click to choose the defined tool for the operation.

Click the Data tab in the Tool page of the Cutoff Operation dialog box. Define the
spin and feed data.

In this case, the differences of diameters through the tool path do not
enable you to use the common spin value.
The V (m/min) option is used. This option enables you to define the
cutting speed. The number of revolutions per minute is calculated
automatically according to the actual diameter. You can maintain the
constant cutting speed along the tool path. In the areas of the smallest
diameter, the number of revolutions is greater and vice versa.

Switch to the V (m/min) option in the Spin section.

Set the cutting speed value of 100 for Spin normal.
Set the Feed normal value to 0.08.

66. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page. This page enables you to define the parting (cutting
off) technological parameters.

105
 Make sure option is chosen in the Mode area. Choose the Left option in the Tool
side section.
In the Corner section, choose the Chamfer option. In the Location
area, choose the Right option. The chamfer is machined as shown.

The Location options enable you to define

the tool position relative to the defined
geometry:
• Left

The tool cuts to the left of the geometry.

Left Both Right
• Right

The tool cuts to the right of the geometry.

• Both

The tool center is located on the geometry.

In the Chamfer parameters section, select the Distance option and set the Distance X
and Distance Z values to 1.
At this stage, the definition of the technological parameters of the parting operation
is finished.

67. Save and Calculate

Click in the Cutoff Operation dialog box to save the operation data and calculate
the tool path.

68. Simulate

Click in the Cutoff Operation dialog box. Simulate the tool path in the Turning
mode.

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 4. Turning Operations

Simulate the tool path in the SolidVerify mode.

At this stage, the exercise is finished.

107
Exercise #4: Button Lock Machining

Define the CAM-Part and operations for the

machining of the button lock shown below on
a Turning CNC-machine.
This exercise reinforces the following skills:
• Turning CAM-Part definition
• External rough turning
• External finishing
• Parting (cutting off)

The SOLIDWORKS model of the Button Lock (Exercise4.sldprt) is located in the Exercises
folder.
The following steps have to be implemented in order to reach the final CAM-Part:

1. Define the CAM-Part

At this stage, you have to define the CAM-Part, the CNC-controller, the Machine
Coordinate System, the Stock model, the Clamp and the Target model.
The OKUMALL CNC-controller has to be chosen for this exercise.

2. External roughing
Define a Turning operation to perform the rough
machining of the part.

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 4. Turning Operations

3. External finish
Perform the finishing of the front faces of the
part as shown.

4. Back side finish

Perform the finishing of the back faces of the
part.

5. Parting
Define a Cutoff operation for cutting off the
part and machining of the chamfer.

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Exercise #5: Guided Ejector Bushing Machining

Define the CAM-Part and operations for the

machining of the guided ejector bushing shown
below on Turning CNC-machine.
This exercise reinforces the following skills:
• Turning CAM-Part definition
• External turning with a groove tool
• Facial turning
• Drilling
• Internal turning
• Parting (cutting off)

The SOLIDWORKS model of the Guided Ejector Bushing (Exercise5.sldprt) is located in the
Exercises folder.

The following steps have to be implemented in order to reach the final CAM-Part:

1. Define the CAM-Part

At this stage, you have to define the CAM-Part, the CNC-controller, the Machine
Coordinate System, the Target model, the Clamp and the Target model.
The OKUMALL CNC-controller has to be chosen for this exercise.

2. External turning
Define the Turning operation to perform the machining
of the external radial faces. Use the grooving tool to
machine the grooves located radially.

3. Facial turning
Perform the facial turning of the front face as shown.
Note that it is not necessary to machine the whole face
because of the next Drilling operation.

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 4. Turning Operations

4. Grooves machining
Define a Grooving operation to machine three grooves.

5. Drilling
Drill the preliminary hole that will be finally turned at the
next stage. Use a flat drill tool (see Exercise #3).

6. Internal finish
Perform the internal finish of the center hole including
chamfers.

7. Parting
Define a Cutoff operation for cutting off the part and
machining of the chamfer.

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Exercise #6: Guide Pillar Machining

Define the CAM-Part and operations for the

machining of the guide pillar shown below on the
Turning CNC-machine.
This exercise reinforces the following skills:
• Turning CAM-Part definition
• External rough turning
• External finish turning
• Facial turning
• Grooving
• Parting (cutting off)
The SOLIDWORKS model of the Guide Pillar (Exercise6.sldprt) is located in the Exercises
folder.
The following steps have to be implemented in order to reach the final CAM-Part:

1. Define the CAM-Part

At this stage you have to define the CAM-Part, the CNC-controller, the Machine
Coordinate System, the Stock model, the Clamp and the Target model.
The OKUMALL CNC-controller has to be chosen for this exercise.

2. External rough turning

Define a Turning operation to perform the rough
machining of the external radial faces.

3. Facial turning
Perform the facial turning of the front face as shown.
External finish turning
Define a Turning operation to machine the external model
faces except for grooves that will be machined in one of
the next stages.

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 4. Turning Operations

4. External finish turning

Define a Turning operation to machine the external model
faces except for grooves that will be machined in one of
the next stages.

5. Grooves machining
Define a Grooving operation to machine four grooves.

6. Parting
Define a Cutoff operation for cutting off the part and
machining of the chamfer.

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Exercise #7: Bearing Bush Machining

Define the CAM-Part and operations for the

machining of the bearing bush on the Turning
CNC-machine.
This exercise reinforces the following skills:
• Turning CAM-Part definition
• External turning
• Internal turning
• Facial turning
• Drilling
• Parting (cutting off)

The SOLIDWORKS model of the Bearing Bush (Exercise7.sldprt) is located in the Exercises
folder.
The following steps have to be implemented in order to reach the final CAM-Part:

1. Define the CAM-Part

At this stage you have to define the CAM-Part, the CNC-controller, the Machine
Coordinate System, the Material boundary, the Clamp and the Target model.
The OKUMALL CNC-controller has to be chosen for this exercise.

2. Facial turning
Perform the facial turning of the front face as
shown.

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 4. Turning Operations

3. External faces turning

Define a Turning operation to perform the machining of
the external cylindrical faces.

4. Center drilling
Define a Drilling operation to perform the preliminary
center drilling of the center hole.

5. Drilling
Define two Drilling
operations to machine
the center hole segments
as shown.

6. Internal turning
Define a Turning operation to machine the internal model
faces.

7. Back side grooving

Define a Grooving operation to machine the back faces
as shown.

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 8. Parting
Define a Cutoff operation for cutting off the part and
machining of the chamfer.

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 4. Turning Operations

4.2 Advanced Turning: Rest Material

SolidCAM automatically recognizes the rest material

areas left unmachined after the previous operations.
Consider the longitudinal turning of the geometry
presented on the illustration with an external roughing
Geometry
tool.
According to its geometry, the tool cannot reach some
areas of the part in the process of machining.

Geometry

In SolidCAM, these unmachined areas are called Rest Material areas.

Rest
Material
Geometry

SolidCAM offers you a number of methods to determine and machine Rest Material areas.
The following exercise illustrates SolidCAM functionality of the Rest Material turning.

117
Exercise #8: Wheel Machining

The following exercise illustrates SolidCAM

functionality of Rest Material machining during
longitudinal and facial rough/finish turning
operations performed on the Wheel part.

1. Load the model

Load the Exercise8.sldprt model located
in the Exercises folder.

2. Define the CAM-Part

Since the CAM-Part definition process
was explained earlier, the details of the
CAM-Part definition process are omitted.

20 2

Define the Coordinate System in the pierce point of

the revolution axis and the front face of the model.
Choose the OKUMALL CNC-controller.
Define the material boundary sketch on the Plane 1 as
shown. Make sure that the end points of the sketched
line are coincident to the model front and back sides.
Select the sketched line for the definition of the Stock.

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 4. Turning Operations

Create a new sketch for the clamp on the same

plane.
Sketch the clamp geometry as shown.
Define the SolidCAM Clamp geometry using
this sketch.
Define the Target model by selecting the solid
body.

When defining the Target model in the Model dialog box, set the Facet tolerance
value to 0.01 to get better performance during the simulation.
SolidCAM automatically generates the Envelope geometry that will be used later in
the definition of operations.
Confirm the CAM-Part definition.

3. Perform the external roughing

Define a new Turning operation to perform the rough
machining of the external model faces.
Define the geometry for the operation using the Envelope
sketch as shown below.

5 2

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 Define an Ext. Turning tool for the operation.
Use the following Insert and Shank parameters:

Select 8_251_11_004 as the Holder.

Set the Mounting as shown in the image:

Choose the defined tool for the operation.

Define the technological parameters. Ensure the Long external mode is selected.
Select Rough from the Work type area in the General tab. Switch to the Rough tab to
define roughing parameters:
In the Step down section, select the Adaptive step down option.
Make sure that the default ZX-ABS option is chosen in the Rough offset area.
• Set the Distance X value to 0.3
• Set the Distance Z value to 0.1
The defined offset remains unmachined
till the next finishing operation.
Switch to the Semi-finish/finish tab.
Make sure that the No option is selected
under Finish and Semi-finish.

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 4. Turning Operations

The finish machining will be performed later in a separate operation.

Save the operation data and calculate the tool path.
Simulate the tool path in Turning mode.
Some areas of the current geometry are
unreachable for the tool. These areas are left
unmachined.

The next operation uses the Rest material option

to perform the additional machining only in the
unmachined area.

4. Perform the rest material roughing

In the previous operation, the tool with the Left orientation was moving in the
negative Z-direction.
In the Rest material roughing operation, the tool moves in the positive direction of
the Z-axis. The Right orientation of the tool must be chosen.

Add a new Turning operation to perform the rough machining of the Rest material
area.

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 SolidCAM enables you to use an already existing operation as a template for the
current operation. All the data is copied from the template to the current operation.
This feature enables you to save the programming time.
In the Operation name section, choose the first operation
(TR_contour) as a template.
The data is copied. This operation contains the same
geometry and technological parameters as the previous
Turning operation.
Define a new Ext. Turning tool for the operation.
Use the following Insert and Shank parameters:

Use the default geometric parameters of the tool.

Select 8_251_11_004 as the Holder.
Set the Mounting as shown. The tool orientation enables you to use this tool for
cutting in the positive Z-direction.

Choose the defined tool for the operation.

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 4. Turning Operations

Save the operation data and calculate the tool path.

Simulate the tool path in Turning mode.

During the tool path calculation, SolidCAM automatically determines the Rest material
area suitable for machining with the defined tool and technological parameters. The
machining is performed in this Rest material area only.
At this stage, the rough machining of the external faces is completed. At the next
stage, you have to perform the finish machining.

5. Perform the external finishing

Perform the finishing of the external faces that were rough machined in the previous
steps.
Add a new Turning operation.
Define the geometry for the operation as shown.
2 2

Define a new Ext. Turning tool for the operation.

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 Use the following Insert and Shank parameters:

Select 8_251_11_004 as the Holder.

Set the Mounting as shown.

Confirm the tool definition and choose the tool for the operation.
In the Technology page, choose the Finish only option
under Work type. This option enables you to perform the
finishing of the external faces.
Switch to the Semi-finish/finish tab. Make sure that the
ISO-Turning method is chosen for Finish. With this option,
the finishing tool path is performed in the direction of the
geometry.
Note that the default Rest material only option is chosen
in the Finish on section. This option enables you to
perform finishing only in Rest material areas.
In this case, the Rest material area is the allowance left
unmachined in the previous operations.
Save the operation data and calculate the tool path.

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 4. Turning Operations

Simulate the tool path in Turning mode.

At this stage, the external faces turning is complete.

6. Perform the facial roughing

Perform the facial rough turning of the end faces of the
wheel.
Add a new Turning operation and define the geometry as
shown. Use the Envelope sketch automatically generated by
SolidCAM during the Target model definition.
Envelope

22

Define the tool for the operation. Add a new Ext. Grooving tool.

125
 Use the following Insert and Shank parameters:

The tool Cutting edge direction is automatically set to Right.

This option enables you to use the tool for the facial turning directed from outside
to the revolution axis.
Set the Mounting as shown.

Confirm the tool data and choose the tool for the current operation.
In the Technology page, choose the Face front option in the Mode area. With this
option, SolidCAM performs the
facial turning of the front faces.
Choose the Rough option in the
Work type. The finish machining
is performed later in a separate
operation.

126
 4. Turning Operations

Save the operation data and calculate the tool path.

Simulate the tool path in Turning mode.

There is an area of the geometry that is not reachable for the tool during the machining.
This area will be machined in a separate operation using the Rest material strategy.

7. Perform the facial Rest material machining

At this stage, you have to perform an additional

roughing operation that removes the bulk of material in
the area left unmachined after the previous operation.
In this operation, the Rest material is removed with a
left-oriented tool in a number of cuts in the positive
X-direction (from the revolution axis to the outside).
Add a new Turning operation.
Define the tool for the operation. Add a new Ext.
Grooving tool.
Use the following Insert and Shank parameters:

127
 Set the Mounting as shown.

Confirm the tool definition and choose the tool for the operation.
On the Technology page, ensure that the Face Front mode is selected. In the Work
type list choose the Finish only option. This type enables you to perform the finish
machining along the geometry.
Make sure that the ISO-Turning method option is chosen in the Finish area of the
Semi-finish/finish tab.

In the Finish on box select the option of Entire geometry. With this option, SolidCAM
performs the machining on the entire geometry.
Save the operation data and calculate the tool path. Simulate the tool path in Turning
mode.

At this stage, the facial machining of the front faces is finished.

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 4. Turning Operations

8. Hole machining

At the first stage, sketch a line as shown below to define

the start and the end points for drilling.
Envelope

3 1

Define a new Drilling operation to machine the hole.

Set the parameters as shown in the image:

129
 Define the Drill start and the Drill end at the end points of the line.
Save the operation data and calculate the tool path.
Simulate the tool path in Turning mode.

At this stage, the exercise is finished.

130
 4. Turning Operations

4.3 Advanced Turning: Partial machining

This functionality supports rough, semi-finish and finish machining of long turning parts. In
long turning parts the machining of the whole geometry all at once might cause problems due
to the deformation of the workpiece under the cutting tool. Partial machining provides the
capability to machine the geometry by dividing it into several segments.

Segment #5 Segment #4 Segment #3 Segment #2 Segment #1

131
Exercise #9: Long Shaft Machining

The following exercise illustrates SolidCAM

functionality of Partial machining in turning
operations performed on the Long Shaft part.

1. Load the part file

Load the Exercise9.prz file located in the Exercises folder.
This file contains the pre-machined part with two Turning operations in which the
machining of the front face and the first step is performed.

2. Machine the first segment of the geometry

Add a new Turning operation in SolidCAM Manager.
Define the full machining geometry as shown.

This geometry will be machined in several segments in a number of Turning

operations.
In the Part Tool Table, define a new Ext. Turning tool.
Use the following Insert and Shank parameters:

In the Geometry page, select the Partial machining check box.

Click the Data button that becomes available. The Partial Machining dialog box is
displayed, and the geometry chain is highlighted on the model.

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 4. Turning Operations

This dialog box enables you to define the geometry segment that will be machined in
the operation and related parameters such as its initial and final points, distance and
approach/retreat data.

First point/Second point

The First point and Second point sections enable you to define the profile
segment that will be machined in the operation and the parameters of
the tool approach/retreat movements.
The generated partial cutting pass is performed between the first and
second points; the cutting pass direction is determined according to the
Profile direction option state.

Second
point First
point

SolidCAM automatically generates the approach and retreat passes at

the First point and Second point according to the machining direction.
In the illustration above, the approach movement is performed at the
First point and the retreat movement is performed at the Second point.

133
 The approach/retreat pass consists of an arc tangential to the partial
machining geometry at the First/Second point, and a line connected to
the arc. The line direction is automatically chosen according to the Tool
type, Tool tip angle and Safety angle parameters.

By default, the Distance along

axis parameter located in the
First point and Second point
sections displays the minimal/
maximal Z-coordinate of the
geometry. Since the first segment
to be machined starts at the
beginning of the geometry, do
not change the default value of
this parameter for the First point.
Pick the final point of the segment to be machined by clicking approximately in the
middle of the edge as shown.

The Distance along axis value for this point is

calculated automatically (-135.61) and displayed in
the X,Y,Z dialog box. Round it down manually to
-135.

When the point has been picked, SolidCAM calculates the Distance
along axis and Diameter values for the picked point and displays them
in the X,Y,Z dialog box.
The Distance along axis parameter displays the distance from the
CoordSys to the First/Second point along the Z-axis. When the Pick
option was used, the value is calculated automatically. It can also be
used as an alternative to the Pick option to define the First/Second
point locations. Even if the Pick option was already used, you can edit
the value received from the model and thus change the First/Second
point locations.

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 4. Turning Operations

The Diameter parameter displays the value of the part diameter at

the specified location and is calculated automatically according to
the geometry and the Distance along axis value. When there are
several Diameter values for a single Distance along axis value,
SolidCAM chooses the maximal Diameter value determined.
Diameter Diameter

Second
point First
point

CoordSys
Z
Distance along axis

Distance along axis

Now you need to define the approach and retreat parameters.

Approach/Retreat parameters

The Radius parameter defines the radius of the approach/retreat

arc tangential to the profile at the First/second point.
The Line length parameter defines the length of the straight line
tangential to the arc. The direction of the approach/retreat lines,
connected to the approach and retreat arcs, is chosen according to
the Tool type.

Approach
Retreat line
line length
length Retreat Approach
radius radius

Second
point First
point

135
 For External Rough tools, the approach line is determined as
follows:

Approach line
direction

Second
point First
point

When the approach/retreat lines are located inside the Material

boundary of the pre-machined stock, SolidCAM automatically
extends them till the Material boundary.

Approach
line length

Second
point First
point

Make sure that the Radius value for both First

point and Second point is 0.5. It must be equal
to the tool nose radius (Ra).
Select the Modify point to avoid collision check
box for both First point and Second point.

136
 4. Turning Operations

Modify point to avoid collision

When this check box is selected, automatic modification of the

defined First and Second points is performed according to the
geometry. The point modification enables you to avoid possible
collisions during the approach and retreat movements.
When the First point is not modified, the approach is performed as
follows:

Second
point First
point

The possible collision during the approach movement can be

avoided by the automatic point modification.

Second
point First
point

Note the Modify contour to avoid

collision check box at the bottom of the
Partial Machining dialog box.

137
 Modify contour to avoid collision

This check box enables you to

perform the modification of the Non-modified contour
partial machining geometry.
When this check box is selected,
the geometry modification is
performed according to the
tool shape. The modification
enables you to avoid possible
collisions between the tool
and the geometry during Modified contour
the machining. During the
geometry modification, the
machining geometry is changed
in areas where the possible
collisions are detected. The
geometry is changed taking into
account the tool shape.
The Modify contour to avoid collision check box affects
only the finish and semi-finish tool path when the
Profile option is chosen for the Work type. When the
Rough option is chosen, the geometry modification is
automatically performed, irrespective of the state of the
Modify contour to avoid collision check box.

Click the Show button to check the machining geometry and the updated partial
geometry between the First point and the Second point with the tangential arcs and
connected lines.

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 4. Turning Operations

Confirm the Partial Machining check box by clicking the OK button.

Click the Save & Calculate icon in the Turning Operation dialog box.
Simulate the tool path in the Turning mode.

3. Machine the second segment of the geometry

Click the Save & Copy icon in the Turning Operation dialog box. An additional Turning
operation is added in SolidCAM Manager. This operation is a copy of the previous
one and contains the same geometry and tool data. Define the Partial machining
parameters to machine the next geometry segment.
Switch to the Geometry page. Check the Partial Machining check box and click on the
Data button. The Partial Machining dialog box is displayed.
Define the first point of the segment in such way that there will be an overlap
between the surface machined in the previous operation and the one to be machined.
In the previous operation, the length of the machined segment was 135 mm, i.e. the
Distance along axis value for the Second point was -135. Set the Distance along axis
value for the First point to -134 to perform the 1 mm overlap in the machined surface.
Click the Pick button in the Second point section. Pick the point as shown.

The Distance along axis value for the Second point is calculated: -250.

139
 Confirm the Partial Machining dialog box. Click the Save & Calculate icon in the
Turning Operation dialog box.
Simulate the tool path in the Turning mode.

4. Machine the third segment of the geometry

In the same manner as explained in the previous step, add a new Turning operation
by saving and copying the last one. Open the Partial Machining dialog box and set the
Distance along axis value for the First point to -249. To define the Second point, click
on the Pick button and select the point on the model as shown.

The Distance along axis value for the Second point is calculated: -350.
Confirm the Partial Machining dialog box. Click the Save & Calculate icon in the
Turning Operation dialog box.

140
 4. Turning Operations

Simulate the tool path in the Turning mode.

5. Machine the rest of the geometry

In the same manner as explained in the previous steps, machine the rest of the
geometry in two segments.
Simulate all of the Partial machining operations in the Turning mode.

141
4.4 Turning on Mill-Turn CNC Machines

SolidCAM supports all types of Mill-Turn CNC-machines. The Mill-Turn CAM-Part is not
strictly associated with the only type of machine on which it is intended to be manufactured.
In the Mill-Turn module, the flexibility of CAM-Part definition in terms of CNC-machine usage
enables you to easily change the type of machines for parts. The type of the chosen CNC-
machine though applies certain restrictions on the technology: for example, if your programming
is intended for a 3-axis CNC-machine that supports the XZC coordinates, the tool path is
not supposed to contain movements along the Y-axis (except for the movements that can be
translated into the available axes of the machine). Such functionality enables you to create a
required machining technology and then to adapt it for usage on a certain CNC-machine.
All types of Mill-Turn CNC-machines enable you to perform turning operations.

The following types of milling operations are supported according the CNC-machine type:

3-Axis Mill-Turn machine

142
 4. Turning Operations

This type of machine enables you to perform facial, indexial and simultaneous milling operations
using the XZC axes.
C

4-Axis Mill-Turn machine

This type of machine enables you to perform facial, indexial and simultaneous milling operations
using the XYZC axes.
C

Y
X

143
5-Axis Mill-Turn machine

X
B

Z
Y

This type of machine enables you to perform facial, indexial and simultaneous milling operations
using the XYZCB axes.
B
C

Y
X

144
 4. Turning Operations

Exercise #10: Turning Operation on Mill-Turn CNC-Machine

In this exercise, you have to define the machine setup and clamping
fixture. Then you have to perform two Turning operations to
machine the external faces of the model and prepare it for the next
Milling operations.
The exercise uses the CAM-Part created in Exercise #2. In the
process of operation definition, you have to define the machining
geometry, the tool and the technological parameters.

1. Load the CAM-Part

Open the Exercise2.prz CAM-Part prepared earlier.

2. Define the machine setup

Right-click the Operations header in SolidCAM Manager and choose Machine Setup
( ) > Add at start of operation tree.
The Machine setup dialog box is displayed.

145
 This machine setup shows two Tables, Main_SP and Back_SP, associated with the
Machine Channels.

The Fixture section enables you to choose or define a fixture to be used on a particular
table. Select the Main Spindle Main_SP. To define the fixture, click > New.
The Model dialog box is displayed. This dialog box enables you to define the fixture
geometry.
In the Name section, change the fixture name to Main.
Make sure that the Chuck (Standard) option is chosen in the
Defined by section.
In the Clamping method section, use the default clamping
option.
The default Chuck position is defined on the edge of the stock
envelope created during the Stock model definition.
• Set the Clamping diameter to 52
Set the values in the Jaws parameters section as follows:
• Set the Jaw width (JW) value to 50
• Set the Jaw height (JH) value to 70
• Set the Step width (SW) value to 15
• Set the Step height (SH) value to 20
The clamping fixture is defined.
Click to confirm the Model dialog box.

146
 4. Turning Operations

The Machine setup dialog box is displayed again.

Now you have to define the model position relative to the part mounting coordinate
system of fixture.
Click the Table name MAIN_SP in the tree view.
Click the Z column field. Ensure that the value in Z column is 0.
Click the Position name MAIN_SP_Pos1 in the tree view.
Click the Z column field. Set the value to 91.00.
Click the Table name BACK_SP in the tree view.
Click the Z column field. Ensure that the value in Z column is 0.
Click the Position name BACK_SP_Pos1 in the tree view.
Click the Z column field. Set the value to -51.00
Confirm the Setup definition with OK. The Setup subheader is added to the SolidCAM
Manager tree under the Operations header.

3. Add a Face turning operation

Right-click Setup in SolidCAM Manager and choose Face from the Add Turning
Operation submenu.
The Face Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

4. Define the Geometry

Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen on the
Geometry page of the Face Turning Operation dialog
box.

The turning geometry has to be located in the ZX-plane and can be

defined by selecting wireframe elements or solid model entities such as
faces, edges and vertices.
The following geometry definition options are available:
• Wireframe

This option enables you to define the turning geometry by wireframe

geometry selection.
• Solid

This option enables you to define the turning geometry by selecting

model entities such as faces, edges, vertices, origin and sketch points.

147
 When model entities are picked, SolidCAM automatically defines
the geometry on the envelope/section segment corresponding to the
selected model elements.

You have to define the machining geometry for the turning operation using the
Envelope sketch that was automatically generated during the Target model definition
described in Exercise #2.
Click .
The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed in the SOLIDWORKS PropertyManager
area. This dialog box enables you to define and edit geometry
chains.
The default Curve option enables you to create a chain by
selecting model edges or wireframe sketch elements one after
the other.
In this operation, the geometry must be directed opposite to
the X-axis direction.
Click on the entity of the Envelope sketch as shown. The
selected entity is highlighted.

Click to finish the chain definition and confirm the Geometry Edit dialog box
with .
In this exercise, the geometry has to be extended in order to enable the tool approach
and retreat outside of the machining geometry. On the Geometry page of the Face
Turning Operation dialog box, click the Modify Geometry button.
The Modify Geometry dialog box is displayed.

148
 4. Turning Operations

Make sure that the Auto extend Start to Stock and Auto
extend End to Stock option are selected.

Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with .

5. Define the Tool

Now you have to define the tool for the turning operation.
Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Face Turning Operation dialog box.

149
 The Part Tool Table is displayed.

Click . The Part Tool Table provides you with a choice of tools available for the
current operation. For this operation, a composite tool is used.

Composite tool

Composite tool is a cutting tool where the

cutting edge consists of a separate piece of
material, either brazed, welded or clamped
on to a separate body.
For a more detailed explanation of the
composite tools parameters, refer to the
SolidCAM Turning Online Help.

Choose the Ext. Turning tool from the

Composite Tools section.
Ensure that UP_TR is selected in the
Turret section.
For Insert, the default parameters will be
used.
In the Shank page, define the following
parameters:
• Set the Insert Lead Angle to A (90 deg)
• Set the Total Length (L) value to K(125) mm

150
 4. Turning Operations

Select the tool holder. Switch to the Holder page. The Global tab displays the Global
holders table. Choose the HSK A63WH-ASHR 25 holder from the Turning holders
under the Global tab.

The Global holders table is supplied within SolidCAM. This table

contains a number of frequently used tool holder components. The
Global holders table can be modified by the user.
Using the buttons in the Flip section, set the correct position of the tool holder.
Click the Mounting button and
adjust the Tool tip position in
the Mounting dialog box.
Close the Mounting dialog box.
Click to choose the defined
tool for the current Turning
operation.
The Face Turning Operation
dialog box is displayed.

6. Define the machining levels

Switch to the Levels page of the Face Turning Operation dialog box. This page enables
you to specify the machining levels for the operation.
Use the default Safety distance value (2).

Safety distance

This parameter defines the

Safety
distance from the workpiece, distance
until which the tool
movements are performed
in the Rapid mode. Upon
reaching the Safety distance,
the tool switches to the
working feed and performs
Safety
machining of the part. distance

151
 In this manner, the tool path passes are extended to ensure that the tool
does not drop into the material in the Rapid mode in the beginning of
machining and between one step down to another.
When the Custom safety distance check box is selected, SolidCAM
enables you to define the distance at which the tool is positioned relative
to the material in the beginning and in the end of the operation.
The Distance X and Distance Z parameters enable you to define different
distance values in the X- and Z-directions.

Distance X

Distance Z

7. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Face Turning Operation dialog box.
Make sure that option is chosen in the Mode area. This option enables you to
perform face turning (the principal working direction is the X-axis direction).

8. Calculate the operation

Click in the Face Turning Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and
the tool path is calculated.

9. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Face Turning Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed.

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 4. Turning Operations

Host CAD simulation mode

This mode enables you to display the tool path directly on the
model in the SOLIDWORKS window. Since all the View options of
SOLIDWORKS are available during the simulation, you can see the
tool path from different perspectives and zoom in on a certain area of
the model.

Rotate the model to the side view by clicking in the CAM Views toolbar and click
on the Simulation control panel.
The tool path is simulated in the SOLIDWORKS window.

Note that the lead in and lead out movements and work feed movements
are displayed with different colors.

10. Simulate the operation in the Turning mode

Switch to the Turning page on the Simulation control panel.

Turning simulation mode

This mode enables you to display the section view simulation of the
turning tool path.

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 Click . The tool path is simulated.

11. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.

SolidVerify simulation mode

This mode displays the simulation of machining on the solid model.

The 3D Stock model is used in this mode with the clamping fixture
displayed. During the machining simulation, SolidCAM subtracts the
tool movements from the solid model of the stock using solid Boolean
operations. The remaining machined stock is a solid model that can be
dynamically zoomed or rotated.

The stock model is displayed in

the simulation window. Rotate
the model with the mouse and
click .
The simulation is performed.

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 4. Turning Operations

During the SolidVerify simulation, you can use the View buttons to
place the simulation model properly on the screen.

The Isometric View button displays the isometric view of

the simulation model.
The Top View button displays the top view of the simulation
model.
The Front View button displays the front view of the
simulation model.
The Move button moves the simulation model to any point
on the screen. This operation is also available by click-and-
drag of the middle mouse button.
The Rotate button rotates the simulation model. This
operation is also available by applying the combination of
the Ctrl button and click-and-drag of the middle mouse
button.
The Zoom button zooms in and out the image on the
screen. This operation is also available by applying the
combination of the Shift button and click-and-drag of the
middle mouse button.

12. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel to close the simulation.

The Face Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

13. Close the Face Turning Operation dialog box

In the Face Turning Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.
The following operations will be performed with the tools mounted on the lower turret. This
turret is a rotary turret having ten tool positions (stations). The CAM-Part stays on the main
spindle.

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 14. Add an operation

Click the Face Turning operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose Turning from the
SolidCAM Turning ribbon.

The Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

15. Define the Geometry

Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen in the Geometry section and click
. The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.
The default Curve option enables you to create a chain by selecting model edges or
wireframe sketch elements one after the other.
In this operation, the geometry must be directed opposite to the Z-axis direction.
Click on the entity of the Envelope sketch as shown. The selected entity is highlighted.

In the Geometry Edit dialog box, choose the Up to Entity option and select the last
chain entity as shown.

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 4. Turning Operations

The complete selected chain is highlighted.

Click to finish the chain definition and confirm the Geometry Edit dialog box with
.

In this exercise, the geometry has to be extended in order to enable the tool approach
and retreat outside of the machining geometry. On the Geometry page of the Turning
Operation dialog box, click the Modify Geometry button.
The Modify Geometry dialog box is displayed.
In the Start Extension/trimming section, set the Distance
value to 0. In the End Extension/trimming section, set the
Distance value to 10. Click the Auto extend End to Stock
check box and select (X+).

Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with .

16. Define the Tool

Now you have to define a new tool mounted on the lower
turret.
Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Turning
Operation dialog box.
The Part Tool Table is displayed.

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 Click . Choose the Ext. Turning tool from the Composite Tools section.
Use the default tool parameters for the insert. For the shank, set the Insert Lead Angle
to A (90deg).
In the Turret section, select LW_TR.
Click to choose the tool for operation.
For this tool, a new STL holder will be used. To export the STL holder, click .
Click SolidCAM Part on the ribbon, choose the Tool Library Options submenu and
select Tool STL Holders option.
The STL Holders Table dialog box is displayed.
This dialog box enables you to manage the library of STL holders. The holders are
presented in the categories according to certain criteria. The default STL holders
library contains two categories: Milling and Turning.
Right-click the Milling entity and choose the Add STL Holder option.
The Browse dialog box is displayed. Find the T00225_sc_Main.stl file stored in the
Exercises folder and click Open.

The holder is successfully imported to your library.

Click the Save icon and close the STL Holders Table dialog box.
Open the last Turning operation.
In the Tool page, click Select and switch to the Holder tab. In the Global holders table,
select the T00225_sc_Main holder.
Click the Save icon to choose the tool for operation.

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 4. Turning Operations

17. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Turning Operation dialog box.
In the General tab, make sure that the Rough option is chosen in the Work type area.

Rough Work type

The tool path movements are parallel to the Z-axis (longitudinal

turning) or to the X-axis (facial turning). Semi-finishing and finishing
passes are performed, if chosen, at the end of the rough stage.

Make sure that option is chosen in the Mode area. This option enables you to
perform longitudinal turning (the principal working direction is the Z-axis direction).

To define the parameters of the Rough machining, switch to the Rough tab on the
Technology page of the Turning Operation dialog box.
Select the Smooth option in the Rough type section.
Define the Step down for roughing. This parameter
enables you to define the distance between each
two successive roughing passes. Select the Equal
steps options and use the default value of 1.
Define the offset from the geometry that will
remain after the roughing stage of the operation.
In the Rough offset section, choose the ZX-ABS Step down

option. This option enables you to define different

offsets from the geometry in the X- and Z-axis
directions. The program chooses the sign of the delta-X and delta-Z vector
components in such a way that the offset geometry does not intersect with the profile
geometry. Distance Z

Use the default Distance X value of

0.6 and Distance Z value of 0.2.
Distance X

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 Switch to the Strategies tab. Select the Non-descending motions option to leave the
groove unmachined.

18. Calculate the operation

Click in the Turning Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

19. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Turning Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed.
Play the simulation in the Host CAD mode.

20. Simulate the operation in the Turning mode

Switch to the Turning page on
the Simulation control panel.
Play the simulation in the
Turning mode.

21. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the
Simulation control panel. Play the
simulation in the SolidVerify mode.

22. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control

panel.
The Turning Operation dialog box is
displayed.

23. Close the Turning Operation dialog box

In the Turning Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.

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 4. Turning Operations

24. Add an External Grooving operation

Right-click the last defined Turning operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose
Grooving from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Grooving Operation dialog box is displayed.

25. Define the Geometry

The following geometry has to be defined in order to perform the machining of the
external groove.

Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen in the Geometry section and click
.
The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.
Using the Up to Entity option, select the first and the last chain entities.
Confirm the chain definition with and click .
In the Modify Geometry dialog box, select both Auto extend Start to Stock and Auto
extend End to Stock options.

Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with .

26. Define the Tool

Click the Select button in the Tool page. The Part Tool Table is displayed.

Click to start a new tool definition.

From Composite Tools, add an Ext. Grooving tool for the operation.
Use the default parameters for both the Insert and the Shank.
Use the same T00225_sc_Main tool holder as in the previous operation.
In the Turret section, select LW_TR.
The tool parameters are defined. Click .

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 27. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page. Make sure that option is chosen in the Mode
area. This option enables you to perform the External grooving tool path.
SolidCAM enables you to combine roughing and semi-finishing in one operation.
Make sure that the Rough option is chosen in the Work type area.
Click the Rough tab to define the rough grooving parameters.
In the Step down area, choose the Single option. This option enables you to perform
machining in a single step down.
In the Step over area, set the Value to 3.
Switch to Semi-finish/Finish tab. In the Semi-finish section, choose the Down only
option. In the Semi-finish offset, choose the ZX-ABS option.
In the Finish section, choose the No option. External finishing of the part surface will
be completed in a separate operation.

28. Calculate the operation

Click in the Grooving Operation dialog box to save the operation data and
calculate the tool path.

29. Simulate

Click in the Grooving Operation dialog box.

Simulate the tool path in the Turning mode.
Simulate the tool path in the SolidVerify mode.

Close the Simulation control panel. Close the Grooving Operation dialog box.
At this stage, the exercise is finished.
The definition of Milling operations is covered in the following chapter.

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 5
Milling on Mill-Turn
CNC-Machines
The Mill-Turn module enables you to use all types of milling operations to generate the tool
path for the driven tools.
Milling Operations

Face Milling ToolBox Cycles Sim. 5-Axis Milling

Profile Engraving Rotary Machining 4 axis

Contour 3D Pocket Recognition 3 to 5 axis Conversion

Pocket Chamfer Recognition Contour 5-Axis Machining

Drilling Drill Recognition Multiaxis Drilling

Thread Milling HSS SWARF Machining

Slot 3D HSR Screw Machining

T-Slot 3D HSM Multiaxis Roughing

Translated Surface Turbo 3D HSM Multiblade Machining

Port Machining

2D iMachining

3D iMachining

Face Milling Operation

This operation enables you to machine large flat surfaces with face
mill tools.

Profile Operation
You can mill on or along a contour. The profile geometry can
be open or closed. In profile milling you can optionally use tool
radius compensation to the right or to the left side of the geometry.
SolidCAM offers two types of profiling:
• Milling a single profile to the specified constant or
variable depth in one step or in several user-defined
down steps.

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

• Concentric profiles to the specified constant or variable depth; this type of profiling
generates several concentric profiles that start from the defined clear offset distance
from the profile, and finish on the profile geometry, thus clearing the area around the
profile to a constant depth.
Contour 3D Operation
This operation enables you to utilize the power of the 3D Engraving
technology for the 3D contour machining. In this operation,
SolidCAM enables you to prevent the gouging between the tool
and the 3D contour.

Pocket Operation
In pocket milling, you remove material from the interior of a closed
geometry. SolidCAM offers two types of pocketing:
• Pocket without islands. When a profile geometry
consists of one or more profiles and none of them are
enclosed or intersect with one another, each is milled as
a separate pocket without islands.
• Pocket with islands. When a profile geometry consists of
several profiles, any profile that is enclosed or intersects
with another profile is treated as an island. You can
define an unlimited number of islands within a single pocket.

Drilling Operation
This operation enables you to perform 2D and 3D drills and other canned
drill cycles. SolidCAM supports the canned drill cycles provided by your
particular CNC-machine such as threading, peck, ream, boring, etc. If
your CNC-machine has no canned drill cycles of its own, they can be
defined using the General Pre- and Post-processor program (GPPTool).
With 3D drills, SolidCAM takes into account the solid model geometry.

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The program uses the holes prepared in this operation for the descent during 3D Model
roughing.

Thread Milling Operation

This operation enables you to generate a helical tool path for the
machining of internal and external threads with thread mills.

Slot Operation
This operation generates a tool path along the centerline to the right
or to the left of one or more profiles. Two types of slots can be
defined: the Slot with constant depth operation machines the slot
in several steps until the final depth is reached. In Slot with variable
depth, the depth profile is also defined by a 2D section. The slot
can be pre-machined using rough and semi-finish cycles. The finish
cut produces a tool path according to the specified scallop height
on the floor of the slot. With available parameters for the right and
left extension and the side step, you can mill a slot wider than the
tool diameter.

T-Slot Operation
This operation enables you to machine slots in vertical walls with a
slot mill tool.

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

Translated Surface Operation

A translated surface is generated by moving a section along a
profile geometry. Limit geometries can be projected on the
translated surface. You can machine the resulting translated
surface inside, outside or along the limit geometry.

ToolBox Cycles
ToolBox sub-operations are a set of 2.5D Milling operations,
and each one of these operations is intended for a specific
machining case. For example, a number of operations cover
different strategies of the counterbore machining. Each
operation provides you with a specific machining strategy
optimal for a particular machining case.

Engraving Operations
You can mill text or any other profile on a 2D or 3D geometry. The
profile is projected on the surface, engraving the contour at a specified
depth.

Pocket Recognition Operation

This operation enables you to recognize the pocket features on the
solid model and perform the machining of these features.

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Chamfer Recognition Operation
This operation recognizes automatically chamfer features at the
target model and creates the necessary machining.

Drill Recognition Operation

This operation performs powerful drill feature recognition and
automatic Drill geometry creation using the AFRM module
functionality. This operation enables you to handle separate sets
of Milling levels for each drill position. The initial values of the
Milling levels sets are automatically recognized from the model;
they can be edited by the user.

HSS Operation
SolidCAM HSS module is a high speed surface machining
module for smooth and powerful machining of localized
surface areas in the part, including undercuts. It provides
easy selection of the surfaces to be machined, with no need
to define the boundaries. It supports both standard and
shaped tools.

3D HSR/ 3D HSM Operation

SolidCAM HSR/HSM module smooths the paths of both
cutting moves and retracts wherever possible to maintain a
continuous machine tool motion – an essential requirement
for maintaining higher feed rates and eliminating dwelling. The
retracts to high Z-levels are kept to a minimum. Angled where
possible, smoothed by arcs, retracts do not go any higher than
necessary, thus minimizing air cutting and reducing machining
time. The result of HSM is an efficient, smooth, and gouge-free
tool path.

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

Sim. 5 Axis Operation

This operation enables you to perform simultaneous 5-axis
machining. 5-axis machining strategies enable the use of
SolidCAM for machining of complex geometry parts such
as mold cores and cavities, aerospace parts, cutting tools,
cylinder heads, turbine blades and impellers. SolidCAM
enables collision checking between the tool and the machine
components.

Rotary Machining 4 axis Operation

This operation is designed to generate rotary tool path to mill parts
on a 4-axis machine. It can be used to mill cylindrical parts like
bottle molds and core, electrodes, and wood work. The tool paths
are directly calculated on 3D geometry and not wrapped around.

3 to 5 axis Conversion
In some machining cases, there is a need to perform machining
of 3D parts using the 5-axis capabilities. For example, 3D
machining of deep cavities requires the use of tools of great
length, which can cause tool breakage; the same cavities can be
machined using a tool of smaller length while tilting this tool to
follow the same tool path.

Contour 5 -Axis Machining Operation

This machining strategy tilts the tool along a chained 3D profile

drive curve, while aligning the tool axis according to defined
tilt lines, making it ideal for generating 5-axis tool path for
deburring and trimming.

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Multiaxis Drilling Operation
This operation enables you to machine a series of drills that have
different orientations.

SWARF Machining Operation

SWARF (Side Wall Axial Relief Feed) machining is one of 5-Axis
Simultaneous milling operations. The purpose of the operation is
to produce the target surface with only one cut, while the whole
flute length of the tool is used.

Screw Machining Operation

SolidCAM’s Screw Machining technology is used to create a tool path
that is designed to mill parts/screws on a 4-Axis machine. The Screw
Machining operation is used to machine parts that have a variable
pitch and are difficult to machine using the standard 5-Axis tools.

Multiaxis Roughing Operation

This operation creates a multiaxis tool path used to rough out
pocket shaped geometries. You can specify the inputs for floor,
wall and ceiling surfaces which are used by SolidCAM to create the
roughing tool path.

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

Multiblade Machining Operation

This operation easily handles impellers and bladed disks, with
multiple strategies to efficiently rough and finish each part of these
complex shapes. Multibladed parts are used in many industries and
this operation is specifically designed to generate the necessary tool
paths for the different multiblade configurations.

Port Machining Operation

This operation is an easy-to-use method for machining ports with tapered
lollipop tools, and has collision checks for the entire tool. It provides both
roughing and finishing tool paths to make ports from castings or billet.

2D iMachining / 3D iMachining
SolidCAM iMachining is an advanced technology of high
speed machining that generates optimized tool paths,
efficient cutting and high material removal rates, while
reducing machining time and tool wear. The iMachining
Technology Wizard enables you to define the optimum
cutting conditions for sustainable high speed machining.
Using the cutting conditions produced by the Wizard, the
iMachining Tool Path Generator calculates all the tool paths necessary to efficiently produce the
target geometry from the given stock geometry.

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Exercise #11: Facial Milling

This exercise illustrates the capabilities of facial mil-ling.

The CAM-Part prepared in the previous exercises is used.
During the facial milling, the front pocket and the adjacent
chamfer faces are machined using the Pocket and Profile
operations.

1. Load the CAM-Part

Load the Exercise10.prz CAM-Part prepared in
the previous exercises.

2. Add an MCO
Right-click the first Face Turning operation in the SolidCAM Manager tree and choose
Add Machine Control Operation from the submenu.
The Machine Control Operation dialog box is displayed.
From the Action on pane, drag LW_TR to the Process pane.
Select the Submachine as Lw_main.
Select the CoordSys as MAC 1 (1-Position).
Click the LW_TR entity.
In the Unload Tool column, ensure Station_10 (empty) parameter is selected in the
Value section and Yes is the default option in New Line section.
In the Movement column, ensure Yes is the default option in New Line section.
Save and Exit the Machine Control Operation dialog box.
Save and Exit the Machine Control Operation dialog box.

3. Add an operation
Right-click the defined MCO in the SolidCAM Manager tree and choose Pocket from
the Add Milling Operation submenu.
The Pocket Operation dialog box is displayed.

4. Define the Geometry

Make sure that MAC 1 (1-Position) is chosen for the Coordinate System. Click
on the Geometry page.

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

The Geometry section enables you to choose the appropriate Coordinate

System for the operation and define the machining geometry.
The Machine CoordSys #1 is chosen by default for the operation. This
Coordinate System enables you to perform the facial milling operation.
The tool axis is parallel to the Z-axis of the Machine CoordSys #1.
The Geometry has to be located in the plane parallel to the XY-plane of
the Machine CoordSys #1.

The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.

In the Multi-chain section, click the Add button.
The Chains Selection dialog box is displayed in the
SOLIDWORKS PropertyManager area.

This dialog box enables you to define several chains by

selecting the model elements. The chains are created automatically from the selected
elements.

173
 Click on the floor of the front pocket as shown.
The surface is selected.
Click to confirm your selection.
The chain is generated, and the chain
icon is displayed in the Geometry Edit
dialog box.
Confirm the chain definition by clicking
. The geometry is defined for the
operation.

5. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page.
The Part Tool Table is displayed. It shows all the tools that can be used in the CAM-
Part machining. Currently, the Part Tool Table displays the tool used in the Turning
operation. Define a new Milling tool.

Click in the Part Tool Table. From the Milling tools section, select the End mill
tool.
In the Turret section, ensure UP_TR is selected.

6. Edit the Tool parameters

By default, SolidCAM offers you a Ø6 End mill tool. Edit the tool definition as follows:
• Set the Diameter to 8
• Set the Arbor diameter to 10
• Set the Total
length to 80
• Set the Outside
holder length to
49
• Set the Shoulder
length to 45
• Set the Shoulder
angle to 90
• Set the Cutting
length to 43

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

Now you need to define the tool holder.

In the Part Tool Table, switch to the Holder page. Expand the HSK A 63 header and
choose the HSK A63 ER 16x80 tool holder from the list.
Click in the Part Tool Table to confirm the tool definition.

7. Define the Machining depth

Switch to the Levels page and click the Pocket depth
button.
The Pick Lower level dialog box is displayed.

SolidCAM enables you to define the Lower

level directly on the model. The Pocket
depth is calculated automatically relative to the Upper level.

Click on the pocket floor as shown. The picked

value (-40) is displayed in the Pick Lower level
dialog box. Confirm your selection by clicking
. The Pocket Operation dialog box is
displayed.
The Pocket depth value is calculated automatically
as the difference between the Upper level and the
Lower level values.

The Lower level parameter is associative to the solid model. Associativity

enables SolidCAM to be synchronized with the solid model changes;
SolidCAM automatically updates the CAM data when the model is
modified. The Profile depth parameter is indirectly associative. The
associativity is established for the Lower level. When the Upper level or
the Lower level is synchronized, the Depth is updated. The background
of the parameter box defined associatively to the solid model changes to
the color chosen in SolidCAM setting > Defaults > Colors for associative
fields (by default, green).

Set the Step down value to 5.

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 8. Define the Technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Pocket Operation dialog box.

Use the Contour option with the default parameters.

Offsets

The Wall offset and Floor offset parameters enable you to define the
allowances that remain on the walls and the floor of the machined part
till the profile finish machining.
These allowances can be removed with the finish passes in the same
Profile operation or in an additional Profile operation with another tool.

Step down
Wall offset
Profile depth

Floor offset

9. Define the Lead in and the Lead out

Switch to the Link page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
In the Ramping section, choose the Vertical option. With this option, the tool enters
material vertically at a user-defined position. From this position, the tool moves to the
pocket start point, calculated by the pocket algorithm.
Click the Points button to define the initial tool position. The
Ramping points dialog box is displayed.
Click the Set default button to define an appropriate ramping
point.
Click
Then you have to define a lead out strategy.

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

This page enables you to define the way the tool retreats from the pocket
wall. The lead out strategy enables you to perform the retract movements
outside the material.
The following options are available:
• None

The tool leads in to and out from

the milling level exactly adjacent
to the start point of the profile.

• Normal
Normal
The tool leads in to and out from Length
the profile from a point normal
to the profile. The length of the Tangent
Extension
normal can be set in the Value
field.

• Arc
Radius
The tool leads in to and
out from the profile with a
tangential arc. The arc radius Tangent
Extension
can be set in the Value field.

• Tangent

The tool leads in/out on a line Length

tangent to the profile. The length of

Tangent
the tangent can be set in the Value Extension
field.

177
 • Point

The tool leads in/out from a picked

position. From this position, the
tool moves on a straight line to the Tangent
Extension
start point of the profile. When you
select this option, the Pick button
is activated so that you can select a
position directly on the solid model.
• User-defined

The tool’s leads in/out trajectory is specified by a user-defined

wireframe chain similar to the geometry definition.
When the Same as lead in check box is selected, the strategy and
parameters defined for Lead in are used for Lead out.

Under Lead out, choose the Arc option from the list, set the Radius value to 60, Arc
angle to 45. Choose the Center option.

10. Define the technological parameters of facial milling

Switch to the Motion control page and select the 4th Axis check box. This check box
enables you to define the technological parameters of facial milling on Mill-Turn
CNC-machines.

4th axis type

When the Diameter option is chosen, you

receive the GCode output for the part
machining in standard linear coordinates
(X, Y, Z). The Face option enables you to perform milling using the
rotary axis by translating the linear movements in the XY-plane into the
rotary XC-movements.

Note that the technology offered by SolidCAM is universal:

there is no limitations in terms of machines on which the
part can be milled. But if you use the GCode output in the
XYZ coordinates (the Diameter this GCode is limited to
machines with possibility of movements along three linear
axes (X, Y, Z).

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

Therefore, to enable the possibility of milling the part on

3-axis Mill-Turn CNC-machines that support only the
XZC coordinates where the movements along the Y-axis is
impossible, you need to choose the Face option.

Choose the Face option.

Coordinate type

This option enables you to determine whether the GCode will consist
of blocks in polar/Cartesian coordinates:
• Polar

When this option is chosen, the tool path is calculated in polar

coordinates.
• Cartesian

The tool path lines and arcs are calculated in Cartesian coordinates;
the CoordSys position is zero for linear coordinates. The milling is
processed using the rotary axis by translating the linear movements
into the rotary-linear movements according to the plane.

In the Coordinate type section, choose the Polar option to obtain the tool path in
polar coordinates.

Plane

This option offers you the choice of plane in which the translated
rotary-linear movements are performed.

Make sure XC is chosen for Plane to perform all movements in these coordinates.
Define the Tolerance.

Tolerance

The tool path lines and arcs are split into

many blocks that do not exactly generate the
required tool path.

179
 The tolerance value in the Approximate arcs by lines within tolerance
option defines the maximum allowed error; the smaller is the value of
this field, the greater is the number of GCode blocks generated.

Set the Tolerance value to 0.01.

The definition of the basic technological
parameters of the profile milling is finished.

11. Calculate the Tool path

Click . The operation data is saved, and the tool path is calculated.

12. Simulate the operation

Click in the Pocket Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Switch to the SolidVerify page and start the
simulation with .

When the simulation is finished, click the Stop on next button on the Simulation
control panel. The Stop on Next dialog box is displayed.
This dialog box enables you to define specific points where
the simulation process is stopped.
Select the Z Change check box. This option stops the
simulation at every change of the Z-coordinate of the tool.
Play the simulation again. Every time the simulation stops
on Z Change, click to continue. The Z Change option
enables you to see the tool path simulation in detail.
Exit the simulation.

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

13. Close the operation dialog box

Click . The Pocket Operation dialog box is closed.

Next, define a profile operation to perform machining of the pocket chamfer.

14. Add a Profile operation

Right-click the Pocket operation in the SolidCAM Manager tree and choose Profile
from the Add Milling Operation submenu.
The Profile Operation dialog box is displayed.

15. Define the Geometry

Make sure that MAC 1 (1-Position) is chosen for the Coordinate System. Click
on the Geometry page.
The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.
Using the Tangent Propagation option, select the geometry as shown.

Confirm the chain definition by clicking . The geometry is defined for the
operation.

16. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page.

The Part Tool Table is displayed. Click .

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 Define a new Chamfer Mill with default parameters. Choose the same tool holder HSK
A63 ER 16x80 as in the previous
operation.
In the Turret section, ensure UP_TR
is selected.
Click to confirm the tool
definition.

17. Define the Machining depth

Switch to the Levels page and click the Profile

depth button.
The Pick Lower level dialog box is displayed.
Click on the model vertex as shown. The picked
value (-2) is displayed in the Pick Lower level
dialog box. Confirm your selection by clicking
.
The Profile Operation dialog box is displayed.
The Profile depth value is calculated automatically
as the difference between the Upper level and the
Lower level values.

18. Define the Technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Profile Operation dialog box.

Tool side

The Tool side option enables you to determine the tool position relative
to the geometry.
Right –the tool cuts on the right side of the profile geometry.

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

Left –the
tool cuts on the left side of the profile geometry.
Center–the center of the tool moves on the profile geometry
(No compensation G4x can be used with this option).

Right Left Center

The Geometry button displays the Modify Geometry dialog

box that enables you to define the modification parameters
of the geometry and to choose which geometry chains are
active in the operation (in case of multiple chain geometry).
The chain geometry of the profile is displayed on the model with the
chain direction indicated and a circle representing the tool relative to
the geometry.

In the Modify section, click the Geometry button to check the tool location relative to
the selected geometry.
The Modify Geometry dialog box is displayed.
The tool side offered by default is suitable: the
tool is located inside the defined geometry.
Confirm the Modify Geometry dialog box with
.
Make sure that the default Finish option is
selected. This option enables you to perform the
chamfer machining in one cutting pass.

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 In the Rest material/Chamfer section, choose the Chamfer option. The Chamfer page
is automatically displayed. Set the Cutting diameter value to 2.

19. Define the Lead in and the Lead out

Switch to the Link page of the Profile Operation dialog box.

In the Ramping section, select the Feed option. With this option, the tool moves
rapidly to the Upper level minus the Safety distance. Then the tool descends to the
approach plane with the given Z Feed rate.
Under Lead in, choose the Normal option from the list and set the Normal length
value to 1. Select the Same as Lead in check box under Lead out.

20. Calculate the Tool path

Click . The operation data is saved, and the tool path is calculated.

21. Simulate the operation

Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode.

At this stage, the exercise is completed.

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

5.1 Using MCO on Mill-Turn CNC-machines

SolidCAM supports the use of the back spindle in the Mill-Turn module. This functionality
enables you to use the back spindle of your CNC-machine for Turning and Milling machining
with the part clamped in the main or back spindle. The part is transferred between the spindles,
thus enabling you to complete the part machining from both sides in a single setup.

Each milling or turning operation can be performed with the part clamped in the main or back
spindle.
Operation sequence #1: General use
There are two optional stages in this operation sequence:

1. SolidCAM Operations with Main spindle. At this stage, only the main
spindle is used for milling and turning operations; this is the standard way
of working in SolidCAM when the back spindle does not exist.

2. SolidCAM Operations with Back spindle. At this stage, the operations are
performed with the back spindle only.

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Operation sequence #2: Optimized tool use
SolidCAM enables you to define a combined sequence of operations that uses intermittently the
main and back spindles. Each operation in the sequence is related either to the main or to the
back spindle. The Machine Control Operation enables you to define the transfer of the machined
part between the main and back spindles.
In this sequence, the combined operations with the main and back spindle use enable you to
avoid unnecessary tool change (in cases when the same tool can work with the main and back
spindles). In the beginning or end of all operations, the finished part is ejected from the back
spindle and the partly machined part is transferred from the main spindle to the back spindle.

Machining with the main and back spindle

Transferring the part to the back spindle

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

Exercise #12: Machining with Back Spindle

This exercise covers the process of Machine Control

Operation definition in order to transfer a part from the
main spindle to the back spindle.

1. Load the CAM-Part

Load the Exercise11.prz CAM-Part prepared in

the previous exercise.

2. Add a Machine Control Operation (MCO)

At this stage, you have to move upper turret to safety position and transfer the part
from the main spindle to the back spindle, after completion of the finishing turning
operation performed on the front of the CAM-Part.
Right-click the profile operation defined on Up_main in SolidCAM Manager and
choose Add Machine Control Operation from the menu.
The Machine Control Operation dialog box is displayed.

Machine Control Operation

This operation enables you to manage and use the devices of the CNC-
machine.
• Action on

This section contains a list of available CNC-machine devices.

Choose the device to be managed and drag-and-drop it into the
Process section.
• Process

In this section the various machine devices are added for performing
actions such as movements, opening/closing the chuck jaws, tool
change, etc.
• Properties

This section contains a list of parameters of devices to be modified.

From the Action on pane, drag UP_TR to the Process pane.

Select the Submachine as Up_main.
Select the CoordSys as MAC 1 (1-Position).

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 Click the UP_TR entity.
In the Movement column, ensure Yes is the default option in New Line section.
Save and Exit the Machine Control Operation dialog box.

3. Add a Machine Control Operation (MCO)

At this stage, you have to transfer the part from the main spindle to the back spindle,
after completion of the finishing turning operation performed on the front of the
CAM-Part.
Right-click the added MCO in SolidCAM Manager and choose Add Machine Control
Operation from the menu.
Using this operation, the part will be moved from the main spindle to the back
spindle. The procedure is as follows:
The jaws of the back spindle chuck open, the back spindle approaches the part, its
jaws take the part and close, the jaws of the main spindle chuck open to release the
part, the back spindle is returned to the working position.
In the Operation name field, type in a new name: Part Transfer. The name of the
MCO will appear later in the SolidCAM Manager tree.
Click the Start definition entry. Under Properties, select MAC-1 Position #1 for
CoordSys. The CAM-Part is located in the main spindle, and you have to choose the
Lw_main for the Submachine.
First, the Back Spindle should approach the part at a safety distance with the rapid
speed.
To start the action definition, drag and
drop the BACK_SP item from the Action
on pane to the Process pane. You can
also double-click an item to add it to the
Process pane.
Select the Movement item located under the
BACK_SP item and define the movement
properties in the right pane as follows:
• In the Mode cell, choose MA–Machine
Coordinate mode ( )
• In the A (Z) cell, type in -1390.
• In the C1 (-Rz) cell, type in 60.
• In the Feed cell, choose RAPID.
At the same time, the clamp should be
open. Select the Clamp item located under
the BACK_SP item and define the properties.

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

• In the Value cell, choose OPEN.

• In the New Line cell, choose Yes.

You can use the option of dynamic preview to display the changes made with the
Machine Control Operation. Choose the Movement item under BACK_SP and double
click the MCO dialog box title.
The dialog box is minimized, the Back Spindle movement is shown in the graphic
area.

Then the Back Spindle should reach the part with the defined Feed and close the the
clamp on the part. Add one more BACK_SP item to the Action on list and define the
following parameters for Movement:
• In the A (Z) cell, type in -1445.
• In the Feed cell, type in 200.
For the Clamp item, define the following properties:
• In the Value cell, choose CLOSE ON STOCK.
• In the New Line cell, choose Yes.
Next, the clamp of the main spindle should be opened.
Add the MAIN_SP item and select the Clamp item with following properties:
• In the Value cell, choose OPEN.

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 Now the Back Spindle can return to the Home Reference position with the rapid
speed.
Add the BACK_SP item and select the Part Move item with the following parameters:
• In the Mode cell, choose MA–Machine Coordinate mode ( )
• In the A (Z) cell, choose Home Ref.’
• In the Feed cell, choose RAPID.
For the Clamp item, define the following properties:
• In the Value cell, choose CLOSE ON STOCK.
Click the save icon. Click to close the Machine Control Operation dialog box.

The Part Transfer operation appears in SolidCAM Manager.

Now when the part has moved to the Back Spindle, the rest of the operations can be defined.
The operations performed by the Lower turret tools are set on the Lw_back submachine; the
operations performed by the Upper turret tools are set on Up_back submachine.

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

4. Perform face turning with the back spindle

Right click the Part Transfer operation and add a Face turning operation from the
Add Turning Operation submenu to machine the back face.

Choose the Machine Coordinate System #2 Position #1.

Define the geometry as shown.

Add a new Ext. Turning composite tool. For Insert, the default parameters will be
used.
In the Shank page, define the following parameters:
• Set the Insert Lead Angle to A (90 deg)
• Set the Tool Length as 100 mm.

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 Use the VDI_40_4025_20_LD tool holder by selecting in from the Tool STL Holders
list.
In the Turret section, ensure LW_TR is selected.
The tool parameters are defined. Click .
In the Technology page, select the Back mode.
Save, calculate and simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode.

5. Perform longitudinal turning with the back spindle

Add a new Turning operation to machine the external back surface.
Choose the Machine Coordinate System #2 Position #1.
Define the geometry as shown.

Add a new Ext. Turning composite tool.

For Insert, the default parameters will be used.
In the Shank page, define the following parameters:
• Set the Insert Lead Angle to L (95 deg).

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

Use the same VDI_40_4025_20_LD tool holder as in the previous operation.

In the Turret section, ensure LW_TR is selected.
The tool parameters are defined. Click .

In the Technology page, select .

In the Work type section, use the deafult Rough option.
In the Rough tab, select Smooth as the Rough type.
In the Semi-finish/finish tab, select No in the Semi-finish and Finish sections.
Save, calculate and simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode.

6. Perform turning with the back spindle

Add a new Turning operation to machine the back surface.
Choose the Machine Coordinate System #2 Position #1.
Define the geometry as shown.

Select the same Ext. Turning composite tool used for the previous operation.

In the Technology page, select .

In the Work type section, use the deafult Rough option.
In the Rough tab, select Smooth as the Rough type.

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 In the Semi-finish/finish tab, select No in the Semi-finish and ISO -Turning method in
Finish sections.
Save, calculate and simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode.

7. Perform grooving with the back spindle

Add a new Grooving operation to machine the back groove.
Choose the Machine Coordinate System #2 Position #1.
Define the geometry as shown.

Add a new Ext. Grooving composite tool with default parameters.

In the Turret section, ensure LW_TR is selected.
Use the same holder as in the previous operation.

In the Technology page, select .

In the Work type section, use the deafult Rough option.
In the Rough tab, set the Step down type to Single. Set the Step over value to 3.
In the Semi-finish/Finish tab, select the Down only option in the Semi-finish section.

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

In the Finish section, choose No. The finishing machining will be performed in the
next operation.
Save, calculate and simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode.

8. Perform finish turning with the back spindle

Add a new Turning operation to machine the back face.
Choose the Machine Coordinate System #2 Position #1.
Use the same geometry as in Step #4.
Add a new Ext. Grooving composite tool with default parameters:
In the Turret section, ensure LW_TR is selected.
Use the same holder as in the previous
operation.

In the Technology page, select .

In the Work type section, use the Finish
only option.
In the Semi-finish/finish tab, use the
defualt finishing options.
Save, calculate and simulate the
operation in the SolidVerify mode.

9. Perform pocket machining with the back spindle

Add a new Pocket operation to machine the second pocket on the back side.
Add a new coordinate system Machine Coordinate System #2 Position #2 Choose the
Machine Coordinate System #2 Position #2.

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 Define the geometry as shown.

Use the same Ø8 End Mill as in the Pocket operation defined for the front side.
In the Turret section, ensure UP_TR is selected.
Define the Pocket depth by clicking on the floor of the pocket. Set the Step down
value to 5.
In the Technology page, select the Contour strategy with the same parameters as
defined for an earlier operation.
In the Link page select the option of Vertical in Ramping section and Arc in Lead out
section. The Lead out parameters are the same as in Step #8 on page page 176.
Save, calculate and simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode.

10. Perform chamfer machining with the back spindle

Double-click the Profile operation defined for the main spindle. Click the Save &
Copy button to create a copy of the operation.
Paste the copied operation after the just defined pocket operation. Double click the
copied operation. This operation should be edited to complete chamfering on the
back spindle.
Choose the Machine Coordinate System #2 Position #2.
Use the same geometry as in the previous Pocket operation.
On Tool page, in the Turret section, ensure UP_TR is selected.

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

In the Technology page, check the tool side.

Save and calculate the operation.

Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode.

11. Close the CAM-Part

Right-click the CAM-Part header in SolidCAM Manager and choose Close from the
menu.
The CAM-Part is closed.
At this stage, the exercise is finished.

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Exercise #13: Control of Machine Devices

This exercise covers the process of Machine Control Operations definition for adjustment of
various machine devices and preparing correct visualization in Machine Simulation.

12. Load the CAM-Part

Load the Exercise12.prz CAM-Part prepared in the previous exercise.

13. View Machine Devices

The CNC-machine used with the CAM-Part consists of various machine devices.
Double-click the Machine header in the SolidCAM Manager to open the Machine ID
Editor dialog box and see the full list of the machine devices.

Close the Machine ID Editor dialog box.

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

14. Add an MCO to move Lower Turret to safe position

Before the start of machining the CAM-Part, the lower turret should move to safe
position.
Right-click Setup in SolidCAM Manager and choose Add Machine Control Operation
from the menu.
In the Operation name field, type in a new name: lt safe_2.
Click the Start definition entry. Under Properties, select MAC-1 Position #1 for
CoordSys. Choose the Lw_main for the Submachine.
Add the LW_TR entry to the Process pane. Double-click the entry to expand the
options. Select the Movement option and define the following properties:
• In the Mode cell, select
• In the X2 (-X) cell, type in 0
• In the Feed cell,select RAPID
• Click the No. cell below cell 1
• In the Mode cell, select
• In the Z2 (-Z) cell, type in -680

Click the Save and Exit button to save the operation.

The MCO operation appears in SolidCAM Manager tree after the first turning
operation. Drag and drop it to be the first operation in the tree.

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Before performing turning operations with the lower turret, the upper turret should retract to
the safe position.

15. Add an MCO to retract the Upper Turret

Right-click the profile operation in
SolidCAM Manager and choose Add
Machine Control Operation from the menu.
In the Operation name field, type in a new
name: ut safe.
Click the Start definition entry. Under
Properties, select MAC-1 Position #1 for
CoordSys. Choose the Up_main for the
Submachine.
Add the UP_TR entry to the Process pane.
Define the following properties for Movement:
• In the Mode cell, select
• In the X1 (X) cell, select Home Ref
• In the Feed cell,select RAPID
• Click the No. cell below cell 1
• In the Mode cell, select
• In the X1 (X) cell, select type in 0
• In the Y1 (Y) cell, select Home Ref
• In the Z1 (Z) cell, select Home Ref
• Click the No. cell below cell 2
• In the B (Ry) cell, select type in -90

Click the Save and Exit button to save the operation.

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

Before the part transfer operation, you have to ensure that the lower turret is in the safe position.
Then you will be able to perform the part transfer. Add an MCO before the part transfer
operation.

16. Add an MCO to retract the Lower Turret

Right-click the grooving operation in
SolidCAM Manager and choose Add
Machine Control Operation from the menu.
In the Operation name field, type in a new
name: lt safe.
Click the Start definition entry. Under
Properties, select MAC-1 Position #1 for
CoordSys. Choose the Lw_main for the
Submachine.
Add the LW_TR entry to the Process
pane. Define the following properties for
Movement:

• In the Mode cell, select

• In the X2 (-X) cell, type in 0
• In the Feed cell,select RAPID
• Click the No. cell below cell 1
• In the Mode cell, select
• In the Z2 (-Z) cell, type in -680
Click the Save and Exit button to save the operation.
When the turning operations on the back spindle are completed, the lower turret should be
again retracted to a safe position.

17. Add an MCO to retract the Lower Turret

Right-click the turning operation in SolidCAM
Manager and choose Add Machine Control
Operation from the menu.
In the Operation name field, type in a new name: lt
safe_1.
Click the Start definition entry. Under Properties,
select MAC-1 Position #1 for CoordSys. Choose the
Lw_main for the Submachine.

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 Add the LW_TR entry to the Process pane. Define the following properties for
Movement:

• In the Mode cell, select

• In the X2 (-X) cell, type in 0
• In the Feed cell,select RAPID
• Click the No. cell below cell 1
• In the Mode cell, select
• In the Z2 (Z) cell, type in -680

Click the Save and Exit button to save the operation.

After completion of the milling operations with the upper turret, the turret should be returned
to the safe position.

18. Add an MCO to retract the Upper Turret

Double-click the Upper safe MCO operation in SolidCAM Manager. Click the Save
and Copy button to create a new machine control operation.
In the Operation name field, type in a new name: ut safe_1.
Click the Start definition entry. Under Properties, select MAC-1 Position #1 for
CoordSys. Choose the Up_main for the Submachine.
Edit the UP_TR entry in the Process pane and define the following properties for
Movement:

• In the Mode cell, select

• In the X1 (X) cell, select Home Ref
• In the Feed cell,select RAPID
• Click the No. cell below cell 1
• In the Mode cell, select

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 5. Milling on Mill-Turn CNC-Machines

• In the X1 (X) cell, select type in 0

• In the Y1 (Y) cell, select Home Ref
• In the Z1 (Z) cell, select Home Ref
• Click the No. cell below cell 2
• In the B (Ry) cell, type in -90

Click the Save and Exit button to save the operation.

Now the SolidCAM Manager tree contains all the operations that should be distributed between
two machine Channels using the Channel Synchronization process.
At this stage, the exercise is finished.

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204
Advanced Mill Turn 6
Advanced Mill-Turn: Exercise #1

This exercise illustrates the entire capabilities of the mill

turn process for machines with two spindles, B axis head,
and lower turret.

1. Load the SOLIDWORKS Part

Browse to open the SOLIDWORKS part AMT_
Exercise1.SLDPRT.

2. Define SolidCAM Settings

Click Tools > SolidCAM> SolidCAM
Settings.
In the left pane, click CAM -Part.
Ensure you keep the settings as shown in
the image.

Click Automatic CAM -Part definition.

Click the Mill-Turn tab. Ensure you keep
the settings as shown in the image.
Click OK.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Click the SolidCAM item in the Tool menu of SOLIDWORKS and choose Mill-Turn
from the New submenu or click the Mill-Turn button on the SolidCAM New toolbar.
The Mill - Turn Part Data window displays.

3. Define the CAM Part

In the CNC -Machine list, click IntIV200ST.
Click the CoordSys button in the Define section.
The CoordSys window displays.
In the Place Coordsys origin to list, click Center of revolution face.
Select the face as shown in the image.
Click
Click the CoordSys button in the Define section.
Right click MAC 1 1-Position > Edit.
The CoordSys Data window displays.

Set the values as shown in the image.

Click
Right click MAC 1 1-Position > Add.
In the Place Coordsys origin to list, click CoordSys # 1.
Select the same face that was used for position 1.
Ensure that the direction of axes is as shown in the
image.

Click

207
 Set the values as shown in the image.
Click
Right click MAC 1 2-Position > Add.
In the Place Coordsys origin to list, click CoordSys # 1.
Select the highlighted face.

Ensure that the direction of axes is as shown in the

image.

Click
Set the values as shown in the image.
Click
Right click MAC 1 3-Position > Add.
In the Place Coordsys origin to list, click CoordSys # 1.
Select the highlighted face.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Ensure that the direction of axes is as shown in the above image.

Click
Set the values as shown in the image.
Click
Click to close the CoordSys Manager window.
The Mill - Turn Part Data window displays.

4. Define the Stock and Target

Click the Stock button in the Define section.
In the Defined by list, click Cylinder.
Select the face as shown in the image.

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 Set the Offsets and other values as follows:
• Set the Right (+Z): to 2
• Set the Left (-Z): to 400
This value is required as you will define a cutoff operation and the machining of the
next part will start on the same bar.
• Set External: to 2
• Set Internal diameter: to 0
• Set the Facet tolerance to 0.01
Click
Click the Target button in the Define section.
Select the model as shown in the image.
• Set the Facet tolerance to 0.01
• Select the Envelope and Envelope-Mirror
check box in the Generate Envelope/
Section area.

Click

5. Define the iMachining Data

Click Edit iMachining Database in the iMachining Data section.
The iDatabase window displays.
Right click Machines > New
Machine.
The New Machine is added in
the Machines list.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Right click New Machine > Rename.

Enter the machine name as
IntIV200ST.
Click once next to the machine
name you entered.

Enter the machine parameters

as shown in the image.
Right click Materials > New
Material.
The New Material is added in
the Materials list.
Enter the material name as
Alloy Steels_140BHN-77HRB.
Click once next to the material
name you entered.

Enter the material parameters as shown in the image.

Click Save & Exit.
In the Mill - Turn Part Data
section, select the Machine and
Material Database according to
the machine and material you
just defined.
Set the Machining Level as 3.
Click

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 6. Define the Machine Setup
In the CAM tree, right click Operations > Machine Setup > Add at start of operations
tree.
Click MAIN_SP [None]
Click > New.
The Model window displays.
In the Defined by list, click Chuck
(Standard).
Set the Chuck position values as
follows:
• Set the Clamping diameter
(CD): to 89
Set the Jaws parameters values as follows:
• Set the Jaw width (JW): to 70
• Set the Jaw height (JH): to 50
• Set the Step width (SW): to 20
• Set the Step height (SH): to 20
Set the 3D options values as follows:
• Set the Thickness: to 20
• Set the Number of jaws: to 3
The defined fixture must look as shown in the
image.
Click to confirm the Model dialog box.
The Machine setup dialog box is displayed again.
Click the Table name MAIN_SP in the tree view.
Click the Z column field. Setthe value in Z column
to -3.
Click the Position name MAIN_SP_Pos1 in the tree view.
Click the Z column field. Set the value to 120.00
Select the check box in front of the table name, to directly display the defined fixture
on the model.
This is how the fixture must look:
Click Back_SP [None]
Click > New.
In the Defined by list, click Chuck (Standard).

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Set the Chuck position values as follows:

• Set the Clamping diameter (CD): to 60
Set the same Jaws parameters values and 3D options values you set while defining
the first fixture.
Click to confirm the Model dialog box.
Click the Table name BACK_SP in the tree view.
Click the Z column field. Set the value in Z column to 20.
Click the Position name BACK_SP_Pos1 in the tree view.
Click the Z column field. Set the value to -92.00
Select the check box in front of the table name, to directly display the defined fixture
on the model.
This is how the fixture must look:
Click OK.

7. Add a Machine Control Operation (MCO)

The first operation you have to add is an MCO to keep the lower turret in safe
position as the first operations you will define are on upper turret main spindle.
Right click Setup and choose Add Machine Control
Operation from the menu.
The Machine Control Operation dialog box is
displayed.

In the Operation name field, type in a new name: LT safe1.

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 Click the Start definition entry. Under Properties, select MAC-1 Position #1 for
CoordSys. Choose the Lw_main for the Submachine.
To start the action definition, double click the LW_TR item in the Action on pane.
Select the Movement item located under the LW_TR item and define the movement
properties in the right pane as follows:
• In the Mode cell, choose MA–Machine Coordinate mode ( )
• In the X2 (-X) cell, choose Home Ref
• In the Z2 (Z) cell, choose Home Ref
• In the Feed cell, choose RAPID
Select the Tool change item located under the LW_TR item and define the tool change
properties in the right pane as follows:
• In the Tool Change cell, select Next tool on Turret
• In the Tool Change Position cell, select As in Current Position
Click to save the operation. Click to close the Machine Control Operation
dialog box.

Now when the lower turret has moved to the safe position, the rest of the operations can be
defined.

8. Face Roughing with main spindle

Right-click the defined MCO operation in SolidCAM Manager Tree and choose Face
from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Face Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

9. Define the Geometry

Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen on the Geometry page of the Face
Turning Operation dialog box.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Click .
The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.
Select the contour as shown in the image.
Click to finish the chain definition and
confirm the Geometry Edit dialog box with
. On the Geometry page of the Face Turning
Operation dialog box, click the Modify Geometry
button.
In the Modify Geometry window, ensure that the
Auto extend Start to Stock and Auto extend End
to Stock options are selected.
Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with
.

10. Define the Tool

Now you have to define the tool for the face turning operation.
Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Face Turning Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the Ext. Turning tool from the Composite Tools section.
Ensure that UP_TR is selected in the Turret section.
For Insert, use the parameters as defined in the image.
In the Shank page, define
the following parameters:
• Set the Insert
Clamping to C
• Set the Insert Shape
to C (80 deg)
• Set the Insert Lead
Angle to L (95 deg)
• Set the Cutting
Direction to L
• Set the Shank Height
to 25
• Set the Shank Width (A) to 25
• Set the Shank Length (L) to N (160.00 mm)
Click the Insert, page, and select the Insert only check box. Ensure that Insert lead
angle value is set as 5.

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 Click to choose the tool for operation.
For this tool, a new STL holder will be used.
To export the STL holder, click .
Click SolidCAM Part tab and choose the Tool Library Options submenu. Select Tool
STL Holders option.
The STL Holders Table dialog box is displayed.
Right-click the Turning entity and choose the Add STL Holder option.
The Browse dialog box is displayed. Find the DCLNL 2525 M12 CAPTO C6.stl file
stored in the Exercises folder and click Open. The holder is successfully imported to
your library.
Click OK to close the STL Holders Table dialog box.
Open the Face Turning operation.
In the Tool page, click Select and switch to the Holder tab. In the Global holders
table, select the DCLNL 2525 M12 CAPTO C6 holder.
Click the Mounting button.
Ensure that the tool is mounted in the way as shown in the image.

Close Mounting window.

Click to choose the defined tool for the current operation.

11. Define the machining levels

Switch to the Levels page of the Face Turning Operation dialog box. This page enables
you to specify the machining levels for the operation.
Use the default Safety distance value (2).

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12. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Face Turning Operation dialog box.
Make sure that option is chosen in the Mode area.
Select the Stock option in the Working area section.
Choose the Direction as One way.
Select the Rough check box and choose the option of Stairs in the Rough type section.
Set the Equal step over value to 1.
In the Offset section, set the values as shown in the image.

13. Calculate the operation

Click in the Face Turning Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and
the tool path is calculated.

14. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Face Turning Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.
The tool path is simulated in the SOLIDWORKS window.

15. Simulate the operation in the Turning mode

Switch to the Turning page on the Simulation control panel.

Click . The tool path is

simulated.

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 16. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode
Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

17. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Face Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

18. Close the Face Turning Operation dialog box

In the Face Turning Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.
The next operation is for the face finishing of the part.

19. Face Finishing with main spindle

Right-click the previous defined face turning operation in SolidCAM Manager and
click Copy.

Right-click the previous defined face turning operation in SolidCAM Manager and
click Paste.

Right-click the pasted operation and click Edit.

20. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Face Turning Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the Ext. Turning tool from the Composite Tools section.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

For Insert, use the parameters as defined in the image.

In the Shank page, define the
following parameters:
• Set the Insert Clamping to C
• Set the Insert Shape to C (80 deg)
• Set the Insert Lead Angle to L (95
deg)
• Set the Cutting Direction to L
• Set the Shank Height to 25
• Set the Shank Width (A) to 25
• Set the Shank Length (L) to N
(160.00 mm)
Switch to the Holder tab. In the Global holders
table, select the HSK A63WH-ASHR-25-45 holder from the Turning list.
Click the Mounting button.
Ensure that the tool is mounted in the way as shown in the image.

Close the Mounting window.

Click to choose the defined tool for the current operation.

21. Calculate the operation

Click in the Face Turning Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and
the tool path is calculated.

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 22. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Face Turning Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.
The tool path is simulated in the SOLIDWORKS window.

23. Simulate the operation in the Turning mode

Switch to the Turning page on the Simulation control panel.

Click . The tool path is simulated.

24. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in
the simulation window.
Click .
The simulation is performed.

25. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Face Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

26. Close the Face Turning Operation dialog box

In the Face Turning Operation dialog box, click .

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

The dialog box is closed.

The next operation is by using Balanced Rough for machining. In this operation, both the tools
are used to perform roughing cuts simultaneously.

27. Add a Balanced Rough operation

Right-click the previous defined face turning operation in SolidCAM Manager and
choose Balanced Rough from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Balanced Rough operation dialog box is displayed.

28. Define the Geometry

Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen on the Geometry page of the Balanced
Rough operation dialog box.

Click .
The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.
Select the contour as shown in the image.

Click to finish the chain definition and confirm the Geometry Edit dialog box
with . On the Geometry page click the Modify Geometry button.
In the Modify Geometry window, ensure that the Auto extend Start to Stock and Auto
extend End to Stock option are selected.
Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with .

29. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Balanced Rough operation dialog box.
Select the same Ext. Turning tool that was used for the first face roughing operation.

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 30. Define the Slave Tool

As you are defining a balanced rough operation in which a master and slave submachine
is used, you must also define a slave tool. It is mandatory to keep the corner radius of
both (master and slave) tools same even if the inserts used are different.
Click the Select button on the Slave Tool page of the Balanced Rough operation
dialog box.

Click . Choose the Ext. Turning tool from the Composite Tools section.
Ensure that LW_TR is selected in the Turret section.
For Insert, use the parameters as defined in the image.
In the Shank page, define the
following parameters:
• Set the Insert Clamping to D
• Set the Insert Shape to C (80 deg)
• Set the Insert Lead Angle to L (95
deg)
• Set the Cutting Direction to L
• Set the Shank Height to 25
• Set the Shank Width (A) to 25
• Set the Shank Length (L) to K (125.00 mm)
Click the Mounting button.
Ensure that the tool is mounted in the way as shown in the image.

Close the Mounting window.

Click to choose the defined tool for the current operation.

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31. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Balanced Rough operation dialog box.
Make sure that is chosen in the Mode area.
Select the Rough option in the Work type section.
Select the Trailing option in the Balanced mode section.
Set the Distance value to 2.
Click the Rough tab.
Enter the values as shown in the
image.
Click the Strategies tab.
Select the option of Non-
descending motions.

32. Calculate the operation

Click in the Balanced rough operation dialog box. The operation data is saved,
and the tool path is calculated.

33. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Balanced Rough operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.
The tool path is simulated in the SOLIDWORKS window.

34. Simulate the operation in the Turning mode

Switch to the Turning page on the Simulation control panel.

Click . The tool path is

simulated.

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 35. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode
Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

36. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Balanced rough operation dialog box is displayed.

37. Close the Balanced Rough operation dialog box

In the Balanced rough operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.
The next operation is again defining an MCO as the lower turret is not required for the outer
diameter finishing and grooving operations defined on the Upper Turret Main Spindle.

38. Add a Machine Control Operation (MCO)

Right click the previous defined balanced rough operation and choose Add Machine
Control Operation from the menu.
The Machine Control Operation dialog box is displayed.
In the Operation name field, type in a new name: LT safe2.
Click the Start definition entry. Under Properties, select MAC-1 Position #1 for
CoordSys. Choose the Lw_main for the Submachine.
To start the action definition, double click the LW_TR item in the Action on pane.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Select the Movement item located under the LW_TR item and define the movement
properties in the right pane as follows:
• In the Mode cell, choose MA–Machine Coordinate mode ( )
• In the X2 (-X) cell, choose Home Ref
• In the Z2 (Z) cell, choose Home Ref
• In the Feed cell, choose RAPID
Select the Tool change item located under the LW_TR item and define the tool change
properties in the right pane as follows:
• For Tool Change, in the Value cell, choose the Next Tool on Turret
• For Tool Change Position, in the Value cell, choose As in Current Position
Click to save the operation. Click to close the Machine Control Operation
dialog box.

Now when the lower turret has moved to the safe position, the finishing and grooving operations
for outside diameter can be defined.

39. External Diameter Finishing with main spindle

Right-click the defined MCO operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose Turning
from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

40. Define the Geometry

Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen on the Geometry page of the Turning
Operation dialog box.

Click .
The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.

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 Select the contour as shown in the image.

Click to finish the chain definition and confirm the Geometry Edit dialog box
with . On the Geometry page click the Modify Geometry button.
In the Modify Geometry window, ensure that the Auto extend Start to Stock option
is selected.
Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with .

41. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Turning Operation dialog box.
Select the same Ext. turning tool that was used for the earlier face finishing operation.

42. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Turning Operation dialog box.

Make sure that is chosen in the Mode area.

Select the Finish only option in the Work type section.
Click the Semi-finish/finish tab.
Enter the parameters as shown
in the image.
Click the Strategies tab.
Select the option of Non-
descending motions.

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43. Calculate the operation

Click in the Turning Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

44. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Turning Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.
The tool path is simulated in the SOLIDWORKS window.

45. Simulate the operation in the Turning mode

Switch to the Turning page on the Simulation control panel.

Click . The tool path is

simulated.

46. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

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 47. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

48. Close the Turning Operation dialog box

In the Turning Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.
The next operation is defining a grooving operation on the Upper Turret Main Spindle.

49. External Grooving with upper turret main spindle

Right-click the defined finish operation for outer diameter in SolidCAM Manager and
choose Grooving from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Grooving Operation dialog box is displayed.

50. Define the Geometry

Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen on the Geometry page of the Turning
Operation dialog box.

Click .
The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.
Select the contour as shown in the image.

Click to finish the chain definition and confirm the Geometry Edit dialog box
with . On the Geometry page click the Modify Geometry button.
In the Modify Geometry window, ensure that the Auto extend Start to Stock and Auto
extend End to Stock option are selected.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with .

51. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Grooving Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the Ext. Grooving tool from the Composite Tools section.
Ensure that UP_TR is selected in the Turret section.
For Insert, use the parameters as defined
in the image:
In the Shank page, define the following
parameters:
• Set the Shank type to Straight
• Set the Cutting Direction to L
Switch to the Holder tab. In the Local
holders table, select the HSK A63WH-
ASHR-25-45 holder.
Click the Mounting button.
Ensure that the tool is mounted in the way as shown in the image.

Close the Mounting window.

Click to choose the defined tool for the current operation.

52. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Grooving Operation dialog box.
Make sure that option is chosen in the Mode area.
Select the Rough option in the Work type section.

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 Click the Rough tab.
Enter the parameters as shown
in the image.
Click the Semi-finish/finish tab.
In the Semi-finish list, choose
No.
In the Finish list, choose ISO-
Turning method.
In the Finish on list, choose
Entire geometry.
Select the Compensation check
box.
Click the Groove parameters
tab.
In the Plunging conditions section, set the Spin (100%) and Feed (100%) values as
100.

53. Calculate the operation

Click in the Grooving Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

54. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Grooving Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.
The tool path is simulated in the SOLIDWORKS window.

55. Simulate the operation in the Turning mode

Switch to the Turning page on
the Simulation control panel.

Click . The tool path is

simulated.

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56. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

57. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Grooving Operation dialog box is displayed.

58. Close the Grooving Operation dialog box

In the Grooving Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.
The next operation is defining a grooving operation on the Lower Turret Main Spindle.

59. External Grooving with lower turret main spindle

Right-click the defined grooving operation for outer diameter in SolidCAM Manager
and choose Grooving from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Grooving Operation dialog box is displayed.

60. Define the Geometry

Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen on the Geometry page of the Turning
Operation dialog box.

Click .
The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.

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 Select the contour as shown in the image.
Click to finish the chain definition and
confirm the Geometry Edit dialog box with
.

On the Geometry page click the Modify Geometry button.

In the Modify Geometry window, ensure that the Auto extend Start to Stock option
is selected.
Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with .

61. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Grooving Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the Ext. Grooving tool from the Composite Tools section.
Ensure that LW_TR is selected in the Turret section.
For Insert, use the parameters as defined
in the image:
In the Shank page, define the following
parameters:
• Set the Shank type to Straight
• Set the Cutting Direction to L
Click the Mounting button.
Ensure that the tool is mounted in the
way as shown in the image.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Close the Mounting window.

Click to choose the defined tool for the current operation.

62. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Grooving Operation dialog box.
Make sure that option is chosen in the Mode area.
Select the Rough option in the Work type section.
Click the Rough tab.
Enter the parameters as shown in the image:

Click the Semi-finish/finish tab.

In the Semi-finish list, choose No.
In the Finish list, choose ISO-Turning method.
In the Finish on list, choose Rest material only.
Select the Compensation check box.
Click the Groove parameters tab.
In the Plunging conditions section, set the Spin (100%) and Feed (100%) values as
100.

63. Calculate the operation

Click in the Grooving Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

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 64. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Grooving Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.
The tool path is simulated in the SOLIDWORKS window.

65. Simulate the operation in the Turning mode

Switch to the Turning page on the Simulation control panel.

Click . The tool path is simulated.

66. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

67. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Grooving Operation dialog box is displayed.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

68. Close the Grooving Operation dialog box

In the Grooving Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.
The next operation is again defining an MCO as the lower turret is not required for the outer
diameter grooving operation defined on the Upper Turret Main Spindle.

69. Add a Machine Control Operation (MCO)

Right click the previous defined grooving operation and choose Add Machine Control
Operation from the menu.
The Machine Control Operation dialog box is displayed.
In the Operation name field, type in a new name: LT safe3.
Click the Start definition entry. Under Properties, select MAC-1 Position #1 for
CoordSys. Choose the Lw_main for the Submachine.
To start the action definition, double click the LW_TR item in the Action on pane.
Select the Movement item located under the LW_TR item and define the movement
properties in the right pane as follows:
• In the Mode cell, choose MA–Machine Coordinate mode ( )
• In the X2 (-X) cell, choose Home Ref
• In the Z2 (Z) cell, choose Home Ref
• In the Feed cell, choose RAPID
Select the Tool change item located under the LW_TR item and define the tool change
properties in the right pane as follows:
• For Tool Change, in the Value cell, choose the Next Tool on Turret
• For Tool Change Position, in the Value cell, choose As in Current Position
Click to save the operation. Click to close the Machine Control Operation
dialog box.

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Now when the lower turret has moved to the safe position, the grooving operation for outside
diameter can be defined.

70. External Grooving with upper turret main spindle

Right-click the defined MCO operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose Grooving
from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Grooving Operation dialog box is displayed.

71. Define the Geometry

Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen on the Geometry page of the Turning
Operation dialog box.

Click .
The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.
Select the contour as shown in the image.

Click to finish the chain definition and confirm the Geometry Edit dialog box
with . On the Geometry page click the Modify Geometry button.
In the Modify Geometry window, ensure that the Auto extend Start to Stock and Auto
extend End to Stock option are selected.
Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with .

72. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Grooving Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the Ext. Grooving tool from the Composite Tools section.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Ensure that UP_TR is selected in the Turret section.

For Insert, use the parameters as defined
in the image:
In the Shank page, define the following
parameters:
• Set the Shank type to Straight
• Set the Cutting Direction to L
Switch to the Holder tab. In the Local
holders table, select the HSK A63WH-
ASHR-25-45 holder.
Click the Mounting button.
Ensure that the tool is mounted in the way as shown in the image.

Close the Mounting window.

Click to choose the defined tool for the current operation.

73. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Grooving Operation dialog box.
Make sure that option is chosen in the Mode area.
Select the Rough option in the Work type section.

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 Click the Rough tab. Enter the parameters as shown in the image.
Click the Semi-finish/finish tab.
In the Semi-finish list, choose No.
In the Finish list, choose ISO-Turning
method.
In the Finish on list, choose Entire
geometry.
Select the Compensation check box.
Click the Groove parameters tab.
In the Plunging conditions section,
set the Spin (100%) and Feed (100%)
values as 100.

74. Calculate the operation

Click in the Grooving Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

75. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Grooving Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.
The tool path is simulated in the SOLIDWORKS window.

76. Simulate the operation in the Turning mode

Switch to the Turning page on the Simulation control panel.

Click . The tool path is simulated.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

77. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

78. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Grooving Operation dialog box is displayed.

79. Close the Grooving Operation dialog box

In the Grooving Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.
The next operation is defining an MCO to move the upper turret in the safe position as the next
operations will be defined using lower turret main spindle.

80. Add a Machine Control Operation to retract the upper turret

Right click the previous defined grooving operation and choose Add Machine Control
Operation from the menu.
The Machine Control Operation dialog box is displayed.
In the Operation name field, type in a new name: B home1.
Click the Start definition entry. Under Properties, select MAC-1 Position #1 for
CoordSys. Choose the Up_main for the Submachine.
To start the action definition, double click the UP_TR item in the Action on pane.
Select the Movement item located under the UP_TR item and define the movement
properties in the right pane as follows:
• In the Mode cell, choose MA–Machine Coordinate mode ( )
• In the X1 (X) cell, choose Home Ref
• In the Y1 (Y) cell, choose Home Ref

239
 • In the Z1 (Z) cell, choose Home Ref
• In the B (Ry) cell, choose Home Ref
• In the Feed cell, choose RAPID
Click to save the operation. Click to close the Machine Control Operation
dialog box.

Now when the upper turret has moved to the safe position, the pocket, drilling, and turning
operations for outside diameter can be defined.

81. Shaped Grooved Roughing with lower turret main spindle

Right-click the defined MCO operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose Turning
from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

82. Define the Geometry

Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen on the Geometry page of the Turning
Operation dialog box.

Click .
The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.
Select the contour as shown in the image.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Click to finish the chain definition and confirm the Geometry Edit dialog box
with . On the Geometry page click the Modify Geometry button.
In the Modify Geometry window, ensure that the Auto extend Start to Stock and Auto
extend End to Stock option are selected.
Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with .

83. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Turning Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the Ext. Turning tool from the Composite Tools section.
Ensure that LW_TR is selected in the Turret section.
For Insert, use the parameters as
defined in the image:
In the Shank page, define the
following parameters:
• Set the Insert Clamping to C
• Set the Insert Shape to V (35
deg)
• Set the Insert Lead Angle to V
72.5 deg)
• Set the Cutting Direction to N
• Set the Shank Height to 25
• Set the Shank Width (A) to 25
• Set the Shank Length (L) to K (125.00 mm
Click the Mounting button.
Ensure that the tool is mounted in the way as shown in the image.

Close the Mounting window.

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 Click to choose the defined tool for the current operation.

84. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Turning Operation dialog box.
Make sure that option is chosen in the Mode area.
Select the Rough option in the Work type section.
Click the Rough tab.
Enter the parameters as shown in the image.

Click the Semi-finish/finish tab.

In the Semi-finish list, choose No.
In the Finish list, choose ISO-Turning method.
In the Finish on list, choose Entire geometry.
Click the Strategies tab.
Select the Descending motions option.

85. Calculate the operation

Click in the Turning Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

86. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Turning Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.
The tool path is simulated in the SOLIDWORKS window.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

87. Simulate the operation in the Turning mode

Switch to the Turning page on the Simulation control panel.

Click . The tool path is simulated.

88. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

89. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

90. Close the Turning Operation dialog box

In the Turning Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.

243
The next operation is defining a drilling operation on lower turret main spindle to machine the
internal diameter of the part.

91. Internal Drilling with lower turret main spindle

Right-click the defined turning operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose Drilling
from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Drilling Operation dialog box is displayed.

92. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Drilling Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the DRILL tool from the Drilling Tools section.
Ensure that LW_TR is selected in the Turret section.
Enter the parameters as shown in the image.

Switch to the Holder page. Choose integrex lt holder.

Click the Mounting button.
Ensure that the tool is
mounted in the way as
shown in the image.
Close the Mounting window.
Click to choose the
defined tool for the current
operation.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

93. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Drilling Operation dialog box.
Select the Drill end button.
Select the point as shown in
the image.
Click
Select the option of Full
diameter in the Depth type
section.
Select the Use cycle check
box.

94. Calculate the operation

Click in the Drilling Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

95. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Drilling Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.
The tool path is simulated in the SOLIDWORKS window.

96. Simulate the operation in the Turning mode

Switch to the Turning page on the Simulation control panel.

Click . The tool path is simulated.

245
 97. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode
Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

98. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Drilling Operation dialog box is displayed.

99. Close the Drilling Operation dialog box

In the Drilling Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.
The next operation you will define is a drilling operation on lower turret main spindle to machine
the internal diameter of the part.

100. Internal Diameter Roughing with lower turret main spindle

Right-click the defined turning operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose Turning
from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

101. Define the Geometry

Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen on the Geometry page of the Turning
Operation dialog box.

Click .
The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Select the contour as shown in the image.

Click to finish the chain definition and confirm the Geometry Edit dialog box
with . On the Geometry page click the Modify Geometry button.
In the Modify Geometry window, ensure that the Auto extend Start to Stock option
is selected.
Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with .

102. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Turning Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the Int. Turning tool from the Composite Tools section.
Ensure that LW_TR is selected in the Turret section.
For Insert, use the parameters as defined in the image:

247
 In the Shank page, use the parameters as defined in the image.

Click the Mounting button.

Ensure that the tool is mounted in the
way as shown in the image.
Close the Mounting window.
Click to choose the defined tool
for the current operation.

103. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Turning Operation dialog box.
Make sure that option is chosen in the Mode area.
Select the Rough option in the Work type section.
Click the Rough tab.
Enter the parameters as shown in
the image.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Click the Semi-finish/finish tab.

In the Semi-finish list, choose No.
In the Finish list, choose ISO-Turning method.
In the Finish on list, choose Entire geometry.
Select the Compensation check box.
Click the Strategies tab.
Select the Non-descending motions option.

104. Calculate the operation

Click in the Turning Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

105. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Turning Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.
The tool path is simulated in the SOLIDWORKS window.

106. Simulate the operation in the Turning mode

Switch to the Turning page on the Simulation control panel.

Click . The tool path is simulated.

107. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .

249
 The simulation is performed.

108. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

109. Close the Turning Operation dialog box

In the Turning Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.
The next operation you will define is an MCO to move the lower turret in the safe position. You
will define the next operations on upper turret main spindle using MAC1 2-Position.

110. Add a Machine Control Operation to retract the lower turret

Right click the previous defined turning operation and choose Add Machine Control
Operation from the menu.
The Machine Control Operation dialog box is displayed.
In the Operation name field, type in a new name: LThome.
Click the Start definition entry. Under Properties, select MAC-1 Position #1 for
CoordSys. Choose the Lw_main for the Submachine.
To start the action definition, double click the LW_TR item in the Action on pane.
Select the Movement item located under the LW_TR item and define the movement
properties in the right pane as follows:
• In the Mode cell, choose MA–Machine Coordinate mode ( )
• In the X2 (-X) cell, choose Home Ref
• In the Z2 (Z) cell, choose Home Ref
• In the Feed cell, choose RAPID
Select the Tool change item located under the LW_TR item and define the tool change
properties in the right pane as follows:
• For Tool Change, in the Value cell, choose Next Tool on Turret

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

• For Tool Change Position, in the Value cell, choose As in Current Position
Click to save the operation. Click to close the Machine Control Operation
dialog box.

Now when the lower turret has moved to the safe position, the profile operations for machining
the outside diameter can be defined.

111. Profile Roughing with upper turret main spindle

Right-click the defined MCO in SolidCAM Manager and choose Profile from the Add
Milling Operation submenu.
The Profile Operation dialog box is displayed.

112. Define the Geometry

On the Geometry page choose MAC 1 (2-Position) from the CoordSys list.
Make sure that the General option is chosen on the Geometry selection section of the
Profile Operation dialog box.
Click .
The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.

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 Select the contour as shown in the image.

Click to finish the chain definition and confirm the Geometry Edit dialog box
with .
Save the operation.
Click
In the Operations Transformation window, click 4 Axis.
In the Rotate List, select the Include original operation check box.
In the Angle field, set a value of 180.
In the Steps list, select 1.
Click Insert.
Click OK.
Click Save in the Operations Transformation window.

113. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Profile Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the END MILL tool from the Milling Tools section.
Ensure that UP_TR is selected in the Turret section.
Use the parameters as defined in the image.
Switch to the Holder page.
Select HSK A 63 ER16X100 as the holder.
Click the Mounting button.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Ensure that the tool is mounted in the way as shown in the image.

Close the Mounting window.

Click to choose the defined tool for the current operation.

114. Define the level parameters

Switch to the Levels page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
Make sure that option is chosen in the Depth area.
Set the Clearance level value to 100.
Set the Safety distance value to 5.
Set the Profile depth value to 18.
Select the Upper level button in the Milling levels section.
Select the point as shown in the image.
Click

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 115. Define the technological parameters
Switch to the Technology page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
• Choose Left in the Tool side: list
• Choose Helical in the Depth type list
• Choose None in the Rest material/Chamfer list
• Set the Wall offset to 0.5
• Select the Rough check box.

116. Define the link parameters

Switch to the Link page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
Use the parameters as shown in the image.

117. Define the misc. parameters

Switch to the Misc. parameters page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
Set the Tolerance value to 0.1.
Select the Material boundary connected to current fixture check box.

118. Calculate the operation

Click in the Profile Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

119. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Profile Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

The tool path is simulated in the SOLIDWORKS window.

120. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

121. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Profile Operation dialog box is displayed.

122. Close the Profile Operation dialog box

In the Profile Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.

123. Profile Finishing with upper turret main spindle

Right-click the defined profile operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose Profile
from the Add Milling Operation submenu.
The Profile Operation dialog box is displayed.

124. Define the Geometry

Make sure that the General option is chosen on the Geometry selection section of the
Profile Operation dialog box.
Click .
The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.

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 Select the contour as shown in the image.

Click to finish the chain definition and confirm the Geometry Edit dialog box
with .
Save the operation.
Click .
In the Operations Transformation window, click 4 Axis.
In the Rotate List, select the Include original operation check box.
In the Angle field, set a value of 180.
In the Steps list, select 1.
Click Insert.
Click OK.
Click Save in the Operations Transformation window.

125. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Profile Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the END MILL tool from the Milling Tools section.
Ensure that UP_TR is selected in the Turret section.
Use the parameters as defined in the image:
Switch to the Holder page.
Select HSK A 63 ER16X100 as the holder.
Click the Mounting button.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Ensure that the tool is mounted in the way as shown in the image.
Close the Mounting window.
Click to choose the
defined tool for the current
operation.

126. Define the level parameters

Switch to the Levels page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
Make sure that option is chosen in the Depth area.
Set the Clearance level value to 100.
Set the Safety distance value to 5.
Set the Profile depth value to 18.
Select the Upper level button in the Milling levels section.
Select the point as shown in the
image.
Click

127. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
• Choose Left in the Tool side: list
• Choose Constant in the Depth type list
• Choose None in the Rest material/Chamfer list.
• Select the Finish check box.

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 • Set the Number of passes value to 1.
• Set the Step down value to 18.

128. Define the link parameters

Switch to the Link page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
• Use the parameters as shown in the image.

129. Define the misc. parameters

Switch to the Misc. parameters page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
Set the Tolerance value to 0.1.
Select the Material boundary connected to current fixture check box.

130. Calculate the operation

Click in the Profile Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

131. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Profile Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.
The tool path is simulated in the SOLIDWORKS window.

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132. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

133. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Profile Operation dialog box is displayed.

134. Close the Profile Operation dialog box

In the Profile Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.

135. Open Pocket Roughing and finishing with iMachining

Right-click the defined profile operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose 2D

iMachining from the Add Milling Operation submenu.
The iMachining Operation dialog box is displayed.

136. Define the Geometry

In the Technology list, choose iRough + iFinish from the list.
On the Geometry page choose MAC 1 (3-Position) from the CoordSys list. Ensure
that the Advanced check box is selected.
In the Material boundary section, select the option of In Geometry.
In the Modify finishing geometry fillet section, select the option of Percentage.
Click under CoordSys.

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 Select the contour as shown in the image.

Click to finish the chain definition.

In the Geometry Edit window, click the Upper button in the Levels section.
Select the point as shown in the
image.
Click
The upper level value must be 28.284.
Click the Depth button in the Levels
section.

Select the face highlighted in blue color.

Click
The lower level value must be 3.284.
Click and confirm the Geometry
Edit dialog box with .
Save the operation.
Click

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

In the Operations Transformation window, click 4 Axis.

In the Rotate List, select the Include original operation check box.
In the Angle field, set a value of 180.
In the Steps list, select 1.
Click Insert.
Click OK.
Click Save in the Operations Transformation window.

137. Define the Tool

Select the same END MILL tool that you had defined for the profile operation for
roughing the outer diameter using upper turret main spindle.

138. Define the levels parameters

Switch to the Levels page of the iMachining Operation dialog box.
Set the Clearance level value to 67.5.
Set the Safety distance value to 2.

139. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the iMachining Operation dialog box.
• Set the Wall / island offset value to 0.3
Switch to the Channels tab. Ensure that in the Island moating section, the option of
Off is selected.

140. Define the link and motion control parameters

Switch to the Link page of the iMachining Operation dialog box.
• Select the Center cutting check box
• Set the Z clearance value to 0.08
Switch to the Motion control page of the iMachining Operation dialog box.
• Select the Approximate arcs by lines within tolerance check box and set the value
to 0.01

141. Calculate the operation

Click in the iMachining Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and
the tool path is calculated.

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 142. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the iMachining Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.
The tool path is simulated in the SOLIDWORKS window.

143. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

144. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The iMachining Operation dialog box is displayed.

145. Close the iMachining Operation dialog box

In the iMachining Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.

146. Drilling on Diameter with upper turret main spindle

Right-click the defined iMachining operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose

Drilling from the Add Milling Operation submenu.
The Drilling Operation dialog box is displayed.

147. Define the Geometry

In the Technology list, choose 2D drill from the list.
On the Geometry page choose MAC 1 (4-Position) from the CoordSys list.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Click under Coordsys.

In the Select centers by section, click the option of 3 Points on circumference. Select
the face highlighted by the black arrow.
Click to confirm the
geometry.
Save the operation.

Click .
In the Operation Transformations window, click 4 Axis.
In the Rotate List enter the parameters as shown in the
image.
Click Insert.
Click OK.
Click Save in the Operation Transformations window.
This will add the same geometry to all the 10 holes that
need to be machined.

148. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Drilling Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the DRILL tool from the Drilling Tools section.
Ensure that UP_TR is selected in the Turret section.

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 Use the parameters as defined in the image.

Switch to the Holder page.

Select HSK A 63 ER16X100 as the holder.
Click the Mounting button.
Ensure that the tool is mounted
in the way as shown in the
image.
Close the Mounting window.
Click to choose the
defined tool for the current
operation.

149. Define the levels parameters

Switch to the Levels page of the Drilling Operation dialog box.
Set the Clearance level value to 100.
Set the Safety distance value to 5.
Select the option of Cutter tip in the section of Depth type.
Select the Upper level button in the Milling levels section.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Select the point as shown in the image.

Click

Select the Drill depth button in the Milling levels section.

Select the point as shown in the image.
Click

150. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Drilling Operation dialog box.
Select the option of Shortest distance.
Select the Use cycle check box.

151. Calculate the operation

Click in the Drilling Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

152. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Drilling Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.
The tool path is simulated in the SOLIDWORKS window.

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 153. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode
Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

154. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Drilling Operation dialog box is displayed.

155. Close the Drilling Operation dialog box

In the Drilling Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.

156. Internal Drilling with upper turret main spindle

Right-click the defined drilling operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose Drilling
from the Add Milling Operation submenu.
The Drilling Operation dialog box is displayed.

157. Define the Geometry

In the Technology list, choose 2D drill from the list.
On the Geometry page choose MAC 1 (4-Position) from the CoordSys list.
In the list choose the geometry defined for the previous drilling operation. Use the
transformation method explained in the previous exercise.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

158. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Drilling Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the CHAMFER MILL tool from the Milling Tools section.
Ensure that UP_TR is selected in the Turret section.
Use the parameters as
defined in the image.
Switch to the Holder
page.
Select HSK A 63
ER16X100 as the holder.
Click the Mounting
button.

Ensure that the tool is mounted in the way as shown in the below image.

Close the Mounting window.

Click to choose the defined tool for the current operation.

159. Define the levels parameters

Switch to the Levels page of the Drilling Operation dialog box.
Set the Clearance level value to 100.
Set the Safety distance value to 5.

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 Select the option of Cutter tip in the section of Depth type.
Select the Upper level button in the Milling levels section.
Select the point as shown in the image.
Click

Select the Drill depth button in the Milling levels section.

Select the point as shown in the
image.
Click

160. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Drilling Operation dialog box.
Select the option of Shortest distance.
Select the Use cycle check box.

161. Calculate the operation

Click in the Drilling Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

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162. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Drilling Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.
The tool path is simulated in the SOLIDWORKS window.

163. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

164. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Drilling Operation dialog box is displayed.

165. Close the Drilling Operation dialog box

In the Drilling Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.

166. Chamfer generation using Profile machining

Right-click the defined drilling operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose Profile
from the Add Milling Operation submenu.
The Profile Operation dialog box is displayed.

167. Define the Geometry

On the Geometry page choose MAC 1 (2-Position) from the CoordSys list.
Select the option of General in the Geometry selection section.
Click under Coordsys.

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 Select the contour highlighted in the image.
Click to confirm the geometry.
Use the transformation method to apply the
same geometry to both the holes.

168. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Profile Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the CHAMFER MILL tool from the Milling Tools section.
Ensure that UP_TR is selected in the Turret section.
Use the parameters as defined in the image.

Switch to the Holder page.

Select HSK A 63 ER16X100 as the holder.
Click the Mounting button.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Ensure that the tool is mounted in the way as shown in the image.

Close the Mounting window.

Click to choose the defined tool for the current operation.

169. Define the levels parameters

Switch to the Levels page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
Set the Clearance level value to 100.
Set the Safety distance value to 5.

Click in the Depth section.

Select the Upper level button in the Milling levels section.
Select the point as shown in the image.
Click
Set the Upper level value as 30.

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 Click Profile depth.
Select the point as shown in the image.
Click
Set the Profile depth value as 0.2.

170. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
Choose Left in the Tool side list.
Choose Constant in the Depth type list.
Select the option of One way in Depth cutting type section.
Choose Chamfer in the Rest material\Chamfer list.
Select the Finish check box.
Set the Number of passes value to 1.
Set the Extension/Overlap value to 0.5.

171. Define the link parameters

Switch to the Link page of the
Profile Operation.
Set the parameters as shown in
the image.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

172. Calculate the operation

Click in the Profile Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

173. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Profile Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.

174. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

175. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Profile Operation dialog box is displayed.

176. Close the Profile Operation dialog box

In the Profile Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.
The next operation is to define an MCO to move the upper turret to safe position.

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 177. Add an MCO to retract the Upper Turret
Right click the previous defined profile operation and choose Add Machine Control
Operation from the menu.
The Machine Control Operation dialog box is displayed.
In the Operation name field, type in a new name: B home2.
Click the Start definition entry. Under Properties, select MAC-1 Position #1 for
CoordSys. Choose the Up_main for the Submachine.
To start the action definition, double click the UP_TR item in the Action on pane.
Select the Movement item located under the UP_TR item and define the movement
properties in the right pane as follows:
• In the Mode cell, choose MA–Machine Coordinate mode ( )
• In the X1 (X) cell, choose Home Ref
• In the Y1 (Y) cell, choose Home Ref
• In the Z1 (Z) cell, choose Home Ref
• In the B (Ry) cell, choose Home Ref
• In the Feed (Unit/Min) cell, choose RAPID
Click to save the operation. Click to close the Machine Control Operation
dialog box.

The next operation is to define an MCO to move the lower turret to safe position.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

178. Add an MCO to retract the Lower Turret

Right click the previous defined MCO and choose Add Machine Control Operation
from the menu.
The Machine Control Operation dialog box is displayed.
In the Operation name field, type in a new name: LT safe5.
Click the Start definition entry. Under Properties, select MAC-1 Position #1 for
CoordSys. Choose the Lw_main for the Submachine.
To start the action definition, double click the LW_TR item in the Action on pane.
Select the Movement item located under the LW_TR item and define the movement
properties in the right pane as follows:
• In the Mode cell, choose MA–Machine Coordinate mode ( )
• In the X2 (-X) cell, choose Home Ref
• In the Z2 (Z) cell, choose Home Ref
• In the Feed cell, choose RAPID
Select the Tool change item located under the LW_TR item and define the tool change
properties in the right pane as follows:
• For Tool Change, in the Value cell, click Select Turning Tool and choose tool
number 6 from the tool table.
• For Tool Change Position, in the Value cell, choose As in Current Position.
You added this LW_TR operation to ensure that the lower turret is in home position.
Now will add another operation to move lower turret to the safe position so that is
does not collide with the back spindle.
Click the LW_TR item once more in the Action on pane.
Select the Movement item located under the LW_TR item and define the movement
properties in the right pane as follows:
• In the Mode cell, choose MA–Machine Coordinate mode ( )
• In the Z2 (Z) cell, set a value of -454
• In the Feed cell, choose RAPID
Click to save the operation. Click to close the Machine Control Operation
dialog box.

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Now when the lower turret has moved to the safe position, you must add another MCO
for performing the bar feed operation. The bar feed operation will ensure that you can start
machining on the front of another part with main spindle while the back machining is continued
of the part done so far using back spindle.

179. Add an MCO to control the Bar Feeder

Right click the previous defined MCO and choose Add Machine Control Operation
from the menu.
The Machine Control Operation dialog box is displayed.
In the Operation name field, type in a new name: BAR FEED.
Click the Start definition entry. Under Properties, select MAC-1 Position #1 for
CoordSys. Choose the Up_main for the Submachine.
To start the action definition, double click the MAIN_SP item in the Action on pane.
Select the Rotation item located under the MAIN_SP item and define the rotation
properties in the right pane as follows:
• For Direction Rotation, in the Value cell, choose OFF
• For Spin (RPM), in the Value cell, choose 0
Select the Working Mode item and define the properties in the right pane as follows:
• For Working Mode in the Value cell, choose MILLING
• In the New Line cell, choose Yes
Double click the BACK_SP item in the Action on pane.
Select the Rotation item located under the BACK_SP item and define the Rotation
properties in the right pane as follows:
• For Direction Rotation, in the Value cell, choose OFF
• For Spin (RPM), in the Value cell, choose 0
Select the Clamp item and define the properties in the right pane as follows:
• For Clamp in the Value cell, choose OPEN
• In the New Line cell, choose Yes
Select the Movement item and define the movement properties in the right pane as
follows:
• In the Mode cell, choose MA–Machine Coordinate mode ( )
• In the Z(B) (Z) cell, set a value of -990
• In the Feed (Unit/Min) cell, choose RAPID
In the second row define the movement properties as follows:
• In the Mode cell, choose MA–Machine Coordinate mode ( )
• In the C1 (-Rz) cell, set a value of 45

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

• In the Feed (Unit/Min) cell, set a value of 200

Select the Working Mode item and define the movement properties in the right pane
as follows:
• For Working Mode in the Value cell, choose MILLING
• In the New Line cell, choose Yes
Double click the BACK_SP item in the Action on pane.
Select the Clamp item and define the properties in the right pane as follows:
• For Clamp in the Value cell, choose CLOSE ON STOCK
• In the New Line cell, choose Yes
Double click the MAIN_SP item in the Action on pane.
Select the Clamp item and define the properties in the right pane as follows:
• For Clamp in the Value cell, choose OPEN
• In the New Line cell, choose Yes
Double click the BACK_SP item in the Action on pane.
Select the Part Move item and define the properties in the right pane as follows:
• In the Mode cell, choose MA–Machine Coordinate mode ( )
• In the Z(B) (Z) cell, set a value of -787
• In the Feed (Unit/Min) cell, choose RAPID
Double click the MAIN_SP item in the Action on pane.
Select the Working Mode item and define the properties in the right pane as follows:
• For Working Mode in the Value cell, choose TURNING
• In the New Line cell, choose Yes
Select the Clamp item and define the properties in the right pane as follows:
• For Clamp in the Value cell, choose CLOSE ON STOCK
• In the New Line cell, choose Yes
Select the Spindles Synchronization item and define the properties in the right pane
as follows:
• For Spindles synchronization in the Value cell, choose ON
• In the New Line cell, choose Yes
Select the Rotation item and define the rotation properties in the right pane as follows:
• For Direction Rotation, in the Value cell, choose CW
• For Spin (RPM), in the Value cell, choose 300

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 Click to save the operation. Click to close the Machine Control Operation
dialog box.

Now when the MCO to control the bar feeder is defined, you must add the Cutoff operation.

180. Add a Cutoff Operation

Right click the previous defined MCO and choose Cutoff from the Add Turning
Operation submenu.
The Cutoff Operation dialog box is displayed.

181. Define the Geometry

On the Geometry page choose MAC 1 (1-Position) from the CoordSys list.
Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen.
Click under Coordsys.
Select the contour highlighted in the image.
Click to confirm the
geometry.
On the Geometry page click the
Modify Geometry button.
In the Modify Geometry
window, ensure that the Auto
extend Start to Stock and Auto
extend End to Stock option are
selected.
Close the Modify Geometry
dialog box with .

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182. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Cutoff Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the Ext. Grooving tool from the Composite Tools section.
Ensure that UP_TR is selected in the Turret section.
For Insert, use the parameters as
defined in the image:
In the Shank page, define the
following parameters:
• Set the Shank type to Straight
• Set the Cutting Direction to R
Switch to the Holder tab. In the Global
holders table, select the HSK A63WH-
TBK-32R _ CGHN 32-5DG holder from
the Turning list.
Click the Mounting button.
Ensure that the tool is mounted in the way as shown in the image.

Close the Mounting window.

Click to choose the defined tool for the current operation.

183. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Cutoff Operation dialog box.

Select in the Mode section.

Choose Left in the Tool side list.

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 Choose Constant in the Step down list.
Select the option of Inside in the Release distance section.
Set the Value as 0.2.
Set the Offset Z value to 2.
Choose None in the Corner list.

184. Calculate the operation

Click in the Cutoff Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

185. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Cutoff Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.

186. Simulate the operation in the Turning mode

Switch to the Turning page on the Simulation control panel.

Click . The tool path is simulated.

187. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

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188. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Cutoff Operation dialog box is displayed.

189. Close the Cutoff Operation dialog box

In the Cutoff Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.
The next operation you will define is the part transfer operation. You have to transfer the
part from the main spindle to the back spindle, as you have completed the turning and milling
operations for the front of the CAM-Part. Now, on the back spindle, the operations will be
performed on the back of the CAM-Part.

190. Add an MCO for part transfer

Right click the previous defined cutoff operation and choose Add Machine Control
Operation from the menu.
The Machine Control Operation dialog box is displayed.
In the Operation name field, type in a new name: Transfer.
Click the Start definition entry. Under Properties, select MAC-1 Position #1 for
CoordSys. Choose the Up_back for the Submachine.
To start the action definition, double click the MAIN_SP item in the Action on pane.
Select the Rotation item located under the MAIN_SP item and define the rotation
properties in the right pane as follows:
• For Direction Rotation, in the Value cell, choose OFF
• For Spin (RPM), in the Value cell, choose 0
Double click the BACK_SP item in the Action on pane.
Select the Rotation item located under the BACK_SP item and define the Rotation
properties in the right pane as follows:
• For Direction Rotation, in the Value cell, choose OFF
• For Spin (RPM), in the Value cell, choose 0
Select the Clamp item and define the properties in the right pane as follows:
• For Clamp in the Value cell, choose CLOSE ON STOCK
• In the New Line cell, choose Yes
Select the Part Move item and define the properties in the right pane as follows:
• In the Mode cell, choose MA–Machine Coordinate mode ( )
• In the Z (B) (Z) cell, choose Home Ref

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 • In the Feed (Unit/Min) cell, choose RAPID
Click to save the operation. Click to close the Machine Control Operation
dialog box.

191. Face Roughing with back spindle

Right click the previous defined MCO and choose Face from the Add Turning
Operation submenu.
The Face Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

192. Define the Geometry

On the Geometry page choose MAC 2 (1-Position) from the CoordSys list.
Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen.
Click under Coordsys.
Select the contour highlighted in the image.
Click to finish the chain
definition and confirm the
Geometry Edit dialog box with
. On the Geometry page
click the Modify Geometry
button.
In the Modify Geometry
window, ensure that the Auto
extend Start to Stock and Auto
extend End to Stock option are
selected.
Close the Modify Geometry
dialog box with .

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

193. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Face Turning Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the Ext. Turning tool from the Composite Tools section.
Ensure that LW_TR is selected in the Turret section.
For Insert, use the parameters as defined in the image:

In the Shank page, use the parameters as defined in the image:

Click the Mounting button.

Ensure that the tool is mounted
in the way as shown in the
image.
Close the Mounting window.
Click to choose the
defined tool for the current
operation.

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 194. Define the technological parameters
Switch to the Technology page of the Face Turning Operation dialog box.

Select in the Mode section.

Choose Z-ABS in the Offset list.
Select the Finish and Compensation check boxes.

195. Calculate the operation

Click in the Face Turning Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and
the tool path is calculated.

196. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Face Turning Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.

197. Simulate the operation in the Turning mode

Switch to the Turning page on the Simulation control panel.

Click . The tool path is simulated.

198. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

The simulation is performed.

199. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Face Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

200. Close the Face Turning Operation dialog box

In the Face Turning Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.

201. External diameter roughing with back spindle

Right click the previous defined face turning operation and choose Turning from the
Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

202. Define the Geometry

On the Geometry page choose MAC 2 (1-Position) from the CoordSys list.
Make sure that the Wireframe
option is chosen.
Click under Coordsys.
Select the contour highlighted
in the image.
Click to finish the chain
definition.

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 Confirm the Geometry Edit dialog box with .

203. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Turning Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the Ext. Turning tool from the Composite Tools section.
Ensure that LW_TR is selected in the Turret section.
For Insert, use the parameters as
defined in the image.

In the Shank page, use the parameters

as defined in the image.
Click the Mounting button.

Ensure that the tool is mounted

in the way as shown in the
image.
Close the Mounting window.
Click to choose the
defined tool for the current
operation.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

204. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Turning Operation dialog box.

Select in the Mode section.

Choose Rough in the Work type list.
Click the Rough tab.
Enter the parameters as defined in the image.

Click the Semi-finish/finish tab.

Select No in the Semi-finish list.
Select ISO Turning method in the Finish list.
Select Entire geometry in the Finish on list.
Select the Compensation check box.
Click the Strategies tab.
Select the Non-descending motions option.

205. Calculate the operation

Click in the Turning Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

206. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Turning Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.

207. Simulate the operation in the Turning mode

Switch to the Turning page on the Simulation control panel.

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 Click . The tool path is simulated.

208. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

209. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

210. Close the Turning Operation dialog box

In the Turning Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

211. External grooving with back spindle

Right click the previous defined face turning operation and choose Grooving from
the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Grooving Operation dialog box is displayed.

212. Define the Geometry

On the Geometry page choose MAC 2 (1-Position) from the CoordSys list.
Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen.
Click under Coordsys.
Select the contour highlighted
in the image.
Click to finish the chain
definition and confirm the
Geometry Edit dialog box with
.
On the Geometry page click the
Modify Geometry button.
In the Modify Geometry
window, ensure that the Auto extend Start to Stock option is selected.
Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with .

213. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Grooving Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the Ext. Turning tool from the Composite Tools section.
Ensure that LW_TR is selected in the Turret section.
For Insert, use the parameters as defined in the image.

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 In the Shank page, use the parameters as defined in the image.

Click the Mounting button.

Ensure that the tool is mounted
in the way as shown in the
image.
Close the Mounting window.
Click to choose the
defined tool for the current
operation.

214. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the
Grooving Operation dialog box.

Select in the Mode section.

Choose Rough in the Work type list.
Click the Rough tab.
Enter the parameters as defined in the
image.
Click the Semi-finish/finish tab.
Choose No in the Semi-finish list.
Choose ISO Turning method in the
Finish list.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Choose Entire geometry in the Finish on list.

Select the Compensation check box.
Click the Groove parameters tab.
In the Spin and Feed fields, enter a value of 100.

215. Calculate the operation

Click in the Grooving Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

216. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Grooving Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.

217. Simulate the operation in the Turning mode

Switch to the Turning page on the Simulation control panel.

Click . The tool path is simulated.

218. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page
on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in
the simulation window. Click
.
The simulation is performed.

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 219. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Grooving Operation dialog box is displayed.

220. Close the Grooving Operation dialog box

In the Grooving Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.

221. External grooving with back spindle

Right click > Copy the previous defined grooving operation.
Right click > Paste the operation.
Right click > Edit the pasted operation.

222. Define the Geometry

On the Geometry page click under Coordsys.

Select the contour highlighted in the image.
Click to finish the chain
definition and confirm the
Geometry Edit dialog box with
.

223. Calculate the operation

Click in the Grooving Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

224. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Grooving Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Click on the Simulation control panel.

225. Simulate the operation in the Turning mode

Switch to the Turning page on the Simulation control panel.

Click . The tool path is simulated.

226. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

227. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Grooving Operation dialog box is displayed.

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 228. Close the Grooving Operation dialog box

In the Grooving Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.

229. Pocket Roughing using Wrapping Method

Right click the previous defined grooving operation and choose Pocket from the Add
Milling Operation submenu.
The Pocket Operation dialog box is displayed.

230. Define the Geometry

On the Geometry page choose MAC 2 (1-Position) from the CoordSys list.
Click under Coordsys.
Select the contour highlighted in the image.
Click to finish the chain
definition and confirm the
Geometry Edit dialog box with
.

231. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on
the Tool page of the Pocket
Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the BULL

NOSE MILL tool from the
Milling Tools section.
Ensure that UP_TR is selected
in the Turret section.
Enter the parameters as shown
in the image.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Switch to the Holder page.

Select HSK A 63 ER16X100 as the holder.
Click the Mounting button.
Ensure that the tool is
mounted in the way as
shown in the image.
Close the Mounting
window.
Click to choose the
defined tool for the current
operation.

232. Define the levels parameters

Click the Levels page of the Pocket Operation dialog box.
Enter the parameters as shown in the image.

233. Define the technological parameters

Click the Technology page of the Pocket Operation dialog box.

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 Enter the parameters as shown in the image.
Click the Contour tab.
Select the option of Inside in the
Start from section.
Choose Fillet in the Corner list.
Set the Corner radius value to
1.049.
Set the Min. corner radius value to
0.1049.
Select the option of Climb in the
Direction section.
Choose Linear in the Adjacent
passes connection list.

234. Define the link parameters

Click the Link page of the Pocket Operation dialog box.
Enter the parameters as shown in
the image.

235. Define the motion control and miscellaneous parameters

Click the Motion control page of the Pocket Operation dialog box.
Choose Polar in the Coordinate type list.
Select the option of First Angles Pair in the 5th Axis section.
Click the Misc. parameters page of the Pocket Operation dialog box.
Set the Tolerance value to 0.1.
Select the Material boundary connected to current fixture check box.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

236. Calculate the operation

Click in the Pocket Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

237. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Pocket Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.

238. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

239. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Pocket Operation dialog box is displayed.

240. Close the Pocket Operation dialog box

In the Pocket Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.

241. Internal Drilling with lower turret back spindle

Right click the previous defined pocket operation and choose Drilling from the Add
Turning Operation submenu.
The Drilling Operation dialog box is displayed.

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 242. Define the CoordSys parameters
Choose MAC 2 (1-Position) from the CoordSys list.

243. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Drilling Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the DRILL tool from the Drilling Tools section.
Ensure that LW_TR is selected in the Turret section.
Enter the parameters as
shown in the image.
Switch to the Holder page.
Select integrex lt holder as the
holder.

Click the Mounting button.

Ensure that the tool is mounted in the way as shown in the image.

Close the Mounting window.

Click to choose the defined tool for the current operation.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

244. Define the technological parameters

Click the Technology page of the Drilling Operation dialog box.
Select the Cutter tip option in the Depth type section.

245. Calculate the operation

Click in the Drilling Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

246. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Drilling Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.

247. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

248. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Drilling Operation dialog box is displayed.

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 249. Close the Drilling Operation dialog box

In the Drilling Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.

250. Internal diameter roughing with lower turret back spindle

Right click the previous defined drilling operation and choose Turning from the Add
Turning Operation submenu.
The Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

251. Define the Geometry

On the Geometry page choose MAC 2 (1-Position) from the CoordSys list.
Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen.
Click under Coordsys.
Select the contour highlighted in the image.
Click to finish the chain
definition and confirm the
Geometry Edit dialog box
with .
On the Geometry page click
the Modify Geometry button.
In the Modify Geometry
window, ensure that the Auto
extend Start to Stock option is selected.

Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with .

252. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Turning Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the Int. Turning

tool from the Composite Tools section.
Ensure that LW_TR is selected in the
Turret section.
Enter the Insert parameters as shown
in the image.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Enter the Shank parameters as shown in the image.

Switch to the Holder page.
Select integrex lt holder BB as the holder.
Click the Mounting button.

Ensure that the tool is mounted

in the way as shown in the
image.
Close the Mounting window.
Click to choose the
defined tool for the current
operation.

253. Define the technological parameters

Click the Technology page of the Turning Operation dialog box.
Select in the Mode section.
Choose Rough in the Work type section.
Click the Rough tab.
Enter the parameters as shown in the
image.
Click the Semi-finish/finish tab.
Choose No in the Semi-finish list.
Choose ISO Turning method in the
Finish list.
Choose Entire geometry in the Finish
on list.

301
 Click the Strategies tab.
Choose the option of Descending motions.

254. Calculate the operation

Click in the Turning Operation dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the
tool path is calculated.

255. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Turning Operation dialog box.

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.
The tool path is simulated in the SOLIDWORKS window.

256. Simulate the operation in the Turning mode

Switch to the Turning page on the Simulation control panel.

Click . The tool path is simulated.

257. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .
The simulation is performed.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

258. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.

The Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

259. Close the Turning Operation dialog box

In the Turning Operation dialog box, click .

The dialog box is closed.
You have completed machining of the part. Now the last operation you will add is of stock
release.

260. Add an MCO for stock release

Right click the previous defined turning operation and choose Add Machine Control
Operation from the menu.
The Machine Control Operation dialog box is displayed.
In the Operation name field, type in a new name: Stock release.
Click the Start definition entry. Under Properties, select MAC-1 Position #1 for
CoordSys. Choose the Up_back for the Submachine.
To start the action definition, double click the BACK_SP item in the Action on pane.
Select the Clamp item located under the BACK_SP item and define the properties in
the right pane as follows:
• For Clamp, in the Value cell, choose RELEASE STOCK
• In the New Line cell, choose Yes
Click to save the
operation. Click to close
the Machine Control
Operation dialog box.

At this stage, the exercise is finished. In the next chapter, you will see how this CAM Part is used
for channel synchronization.

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Advanced Mill-Turn: Exercise #2

Define the CAM-Part and operations for the machining of the advanced mill turn part as shown
below on a Mill-Turn CNC-machine.
This exercise gives you further practice in entire capabilities
of the mill turn process and channel synchronization.
The SOLIDWORKS model of this exercise (AMT_
Exercise2.SLDPRT) is located in the Exercises folder.

The following steps have to be implemented in order to

reach the final CAM-Part:

1. Define the CAM-Part

At this stage, you have to define the CAM-Part, the CNC-controller, the Machine
Coordinate System, the Stock model, the Clamp and the Target model.
The 00282_MT_4.5X_HT_NTX2000_FANUC31i CNC-controller has to be chosen for
this exercise.
The following sequence of operations should be followed while defining the operations:
On Upper Turret Main Spindle

2. Face turning
Define a Turning operation to perform the rough
machining of the part.

3. Balanced Rough
Define a Balanced Rough operation to perform the
roughing using two tools simultaneously.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

4. Machine Control Operation

Define an MCO to move the upper turret in safe position.
On Lower Turret Main Spindle

5. Machine Control Operation

Define an MCO to move the lower turret in safe position.

6. Turning operation
Define a Turning operation for outer profile
finishing of the CAM-part.

7. Profile operation
Define a milling operation for outer profile
roughing of the CAM-part.

8. Profile operation
Define a milling operation for outer profile
finishing of the CAM-part.

305
 9. Machine Control Operation
Define an MCO to move the lower turret in safe position.
On Upper Turret Main Spindle

10. Drilling operation

Define a Drilling operation for central hole
drilling.

11. Profile operation

Define a diameter 5 counter bore rough milling
operation..

12. Profile operation

Define a diameter 8 counter bore rough milling
operation.

13. Profile operation

Define a diameter 5 counter bore finishing operation.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Profile operation
Define a diameter 8 counter bore finishing
operation.

14. Machine Control Operation

Define an MCO to move the upper turret in safe
position.

15. Profile operation

Define an external chamfer milling operation.

16. Drilling operation

Define an angular drilling operation to machine
the holes on the CAM-Part.

17. Machine Control Operation

Define an MCO to move the upper turret in safe
position.

On Lower Turret Main Spindle

18. Machine Control Operation

Define an MCO to move the lower turret in safe position.

307
On Upper Turret Main Spindle

19. Machine Control Operation

Define an MCO for part transfer.

On Lower Turret Back Spindle

20. Face turning

Define a Turning operation for face roughing
with back spindle.

On Lower Turret Main Spindle

21. Machine Control Operation

Define an MCO to move the lower turret to the safe position.

On Lower Turret Back Spindle

22. Turning operation

Define a Turning operation for rough machining
with back spindle.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

On Upper Turret Back Spindle

23. Profile operation

Define a groove rough milling
operation using wrap function.

24. Profile operation

Define a groove
finish milling
operation using wrap
function.

25. Pocket operation

Define a slot rough milling operation using wrap
function.

309
 Pocket operation
Define a slot finish milling operation using wrap
function.

26. Face milling operation

Define a flat rough milling operation using wrap
function on the CAM-part.

27. Drilling operation

Define a drilling on diameter operation on the
CAM-Part.

28. Drilling operation

Define a simple drilling operation on flat area of
the CAM-Part.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

Drilling operation
Define a chamfer drilling operation on the CAM-
Part.

29. Drilling operation

Define a thread cutting operation using tapping
function on the CAM-Part.

30. Drilling operation

Define a simple drilling operation using back
spindle.

31. Machine Control Operation

Define an MCO to move the upper turret to the safe position.

32. Machine Control Operation

Define an MCO for stock release.

At this stage the exercise is finished.

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Advanced Mill-Turn: Exercise #3

Define the CAM-Part and operations for the

machining of the advanced mill turn part as shown
below on a Mill-Turn CNC-machine.
This exercise gives you further practice in entire
capabilities of the mill turn process and channel
synchronization.
The SOLIDWORKS model of this exercise (AMT_
Exercise3.SLDPRT) is located in the Exercises folder.

The following steps have to be implemented in order to reach the final CAM-Part:

1. Define the CAM-Part

At this stage, you have to define the CAM-Part, the CNC-controller, the Machine
Coordinate System, the Stock model, the Clamp and the Target model.
The IntIV200ST CNC-controller has to be chosen for this exercise.
The following sequence of operations should be followed while defining the operations:
On Upper Turret Main Spindle

2. Turning operation
Define a Turning operation to perform the
rough machining of the part.

3. Balanced Rough
Define a Balanced Rough operation to perform
the roughing using two tools simultaneously.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

4. Machine Control Operation

Define an MCO to move the lower turret in the safe position.

5. Turning operation
Define a Turning operation for outer profile
finishing of the CAM-Part.

6. Pocket operation
Define a Pocket operation using wrap option.

7. Pocket operation
Define a Pocket operation for floor finishing
using wrap option.

8. SWARF operation
Define a SWARF operation for wall finishing of
the CAM-Part.

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 9. SWARF operation
Define another SWARF operation for wall
finishing of the CAM-Part.

10. Profile operation

Define a Profile operation for flat roughing of
the CAM-Part.

11. Profile operation

Define another Profile operation for spiral
groove machining on the CAM-Part.

12. Profile operation

Define a Profile operation for engraving the word SolidCAM on the CAM-Part.

13. Machine Control Operation

Define an MCO to move the lower turret in the safe position.

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 6. Advanced Mill Turn

14. Machine Control Operation

Define an MCO to move the upper turret in the safe position.

15. Machine Control Operation

Define an MCO for part transfer.

On Lower Turret Back Spindle

16. Cutoff operation

Define a Cutoff operation on the CAM-Part.

17. Turning operation

Define a Turning operation for back side
roughing of the CAM-Part.

On Upper Turret Main Spindle

18. Machine Control Operation

Define an MCO to move lower turret into the home position.

19. Machine Control Operation

Define an MCO for stock release.

At this stage the exercise is finished.

315
316
Channel
Synchronization 7
SolidCAM’s Channel Synchronization operation enables you to synchronize operations in
multi-channels machines and organize the order of operations. Using the operation of channel
synchronization, you can finish machining a part in the following ways:
• In lesser time by simultaneously machining two sides of a part. For example, front
of a part on main spindle and back of the same part on back spindle utilizing either
upper turret or lower turret or both. The advantage is you do not have to keep the
spindle idle, waiting for the primary operation to finish and the secondary one to start.
• Simultaneously performing machining processes on both the spindles.
• In Milling operations, where there is only one spindle, the channel synchronization
operation can be used to synchronize the tool in such a way that without going
back to the home position, the tool can finish machining operation on one part and
immediately start the other operation on the second part.

1. Open the Channel synchronization dialog box

Right click Setup > Channel synchronization.

The Channel Synchronization window opens.

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 7. Channel Synchronization

7.1 Understanding the Buttons on the Ribbon

The buttons available on the Channel synchronization window, enable you to manage the
synchronization.

Synchronize selected operations start to start

The Synchronize selected operations start to start button

enables you to start the selected operations together by adding labels
before the operations selected in the timeframe. The selected operations
must be defined in different turrets.

Synchronize selected operations start to end

The Synchronize selected operations start to end button

enables you to add labels between the operations selected in the
timeframe. The selected operations must be defined in different turrets.

Synchronize selected operations end to end

The Synchronize selected operations end to end button

enables you to add labels at the end of the operations selected in the
timeframe. The selected operations must be defined in different turrets.

Synchronize all operations as in the CAM Manager order

The Synchronize all operations as in the CAM Manager order

button enables you to perform synchronization of the operations one
after another as they appear in the SolidCAM Manager tree.

Insert labels between operations

The Insert labels between operations button enables you to

insert labels between all operations.

319
 Add new Workpiece

The Add new Workpiece button enables you to move the

operations in the Channel Synchronization window to split the CAM-
Tree in order to separate the Machining processes.

Delete synchronization label

The Delete synchronization label button enables you to delete

the synchronization label applied to the selected operations.

Delete all synchronization labels

The Delete all synchronization labels button enables you to

delete synchronization labels from all the operations.

Delete all

The Delete all button enables you to delete all the labels and all
the synchronization relations applied to all the operations.

Operation duration

The Operation duration button displays the Operation duration

dialog box that enables you to manually change the duration of a
certain operation.

Reset operation duration

The Rest operation duration button enables you to reset the

operation duration to its initial values.

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 7. Channel Synchronization

Timeframe view

The Timeframe view button enables you to switch the timeframe

to the state where all the operation boxes are of the uniform size
regardless of the real time that they take.
In the Timeframe view you can only preview the operations. No labels
and synchronization options can be added in this view.

Operations clash view

The Operations clash view button enables you to detect the

impossible combinations of operations intended to be machined at the
same time using the same spindle. The problematic timeframe segments
are highlighted with the red color.

Color operations by Turret

The Color operations by Turret button enables you to see all

the operations that are defined for the turret by highlighting them with
the color defined for the turret.

Color operations by Table

The Color operations by Table button enables you to see all the
operations that are defined for a table by highlighting them with the
color defined for the table.

Color operations by Workpiece

The Color operations by Workpiece button enables you to see

all the operations that are defined for a workpiece by highlighting them
with the color defined for the workpiece.

321
 Import and Export

The Import button enables you use a previously saved

synchronization. While working with channel synchronization, if you
want to use a saved synchronization combination, click the Import
button. The Import window displays and you can see the list of all the
saved synchronizations. Select the required one from the list and click
Import. The synchronization environment will be loaded in channel
synchronization window.

The Export button enables you to save a synchronization setup

to be used later. While working with channel synchronization, if you
want to save a synchronization combination, click the Export button.
The Export window displays. In the Sync Name field, enter a name to
save the synchronization and click Export. Your setup is saved.
The Import and Export windows also have following common buttons:
Delete All: Deletes all the added/saved synchronization setups.
Delete: Deletes the selected synchronization setup.
Exit: Exits the Import/Export window.

Reload

The Reload button enables you to go back to the previous

combination. While working with channel synchronization, if you
delete a label, or a working combination, clicking this button will reload
the previous environment.

Undo and Redo

The Undo button enables you to erase the last change made in
the synchronization window.

The Redo button enables you to bring the deleted change back
in the synchronization window.

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 7. Channel Synchronization

Settings

The Settings button enables you to change numbering style of

synchronization labels. Clicking this button displays the Settings
window. In this window you can change start and delta label numbering
styles for default and alternate labels. When you enter a particular
number in the Start Label or Default Delta field, the label numbering
changes accordingly in the synchronization window. Selecting the
check box in front of Start Label or Default Delta, sets the numbering
style as defined in the VMID file.
Right click on a label and click Change to default/alternative to set the
label number back to the defined default values.

Understanding the Timeframe Buttons

The timeframe buttons available on the Channel synchronization window, enable you to perform
the timeframe scaling.

Show All

The Show All button displays all the operations in the single
timeframe screen. The operations are scaled in/out in such way that
the longest chain of operations fills the whole timeframe.

Zoom to selection

The Zoom to selection button enables you to zoom to selected

operation boxes. This option is relevant only when one or several
operations are selected.

Zoom In/Zoom Out

The Zoom In/Zoom Out buttons enable you to zoom in/out the
timeframe.

Actual size

The Actual size button returns the operation boxes to their

initial scale.

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The Channel Synchronization window also displays the total machining time bar of the
operations and the machining time of the selected operations.

The Channel Synchronization window stores its size, position and

column widths inside the CAM-part. You can resize the Channel
Synchronization window and columns to your liking, and close the
window. It will remember the size, position and column widths (that you
set) next time you open it.

7.2 Applying color to Synchronization label and submachines

The following exercise explains how you can define color for operations by turret ID, table ID,
or workpiece ID.

2. Open the SolidCAM Settings window

Click Tools > SolidCAM > SolidCAM Settings.
In the SolidCAM Settings window,
click Channel synchronization.

3. Define the Synchronization label color

Click the button in front of Synchronization label.
The Color window displays. Click on the color you want to give to the synchronization
label and click OK.

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 7. Channel Synchronization

The color you define here, is applied to the labels that you later define in the Channel
Synchronization window.

4. Define the Manually defined time color

Click the button in front of Manually defined time. Define the color in the same way
as you defined it for Synchronization label.
The color you define here, will be applied when you manually define the calculation
time of an operation in the Channel Synchronization window.

5. Define the color for various submachines

In the CAM tree,
double click the
Machine button. The
MACHINE ID EDITOR
window displays. Click
the Working Style
tab. Click Channel
Synchronization in the
left pane. In the right
pane, you can see the
RGB values of the
selected color displayed
in the columns. Click in
the column next to Up_
TR. Click the ... icon.

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 The Color window displays. Define the color in the same way as you defined it for
Synchronization label. Click the Save button and close the MACHINE ID EDITOR
window.
The color you define here, will be applied when you select the Color operations by
Turret button in the Channel Synchronization window.
You can define the color for lower turret, main spindle, back spindle, and workpieces
in the same manner. The color you define here, will be applied when you select the
Color operations by Table or Color operations by Workpiece buttons in the Channel
Synchronization window respectively.

7.3 General Rules of Channel Synchronization

The following rules apply to the channel synchronization operation:

• When you right click Setup and select Channel Synchronization from the
submenu, the synchronization order you see is according to the operations
defined in the CAM Tree. The order of the operations defined in the CAM Tree
cannot be changed in the synchronization window for the same turret. If you
want to change the order, you must change the sequence in the CAM Tree.
• To start sequencing the operations on the back spindle, right click the first
operation defined on the lower turret and click Add new Workpiece.

The Add new Workpiece operation can be defined on the operation of

your choice to start the machining from there. However, it is a general
practice to add it on the first operation defined on the lower turret.

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 7. Channel Synchronization

You can split the CAM Tree order to create separate Workpieces
(Machining processes) for continuous machining process on CNC
machine (loop machining).
• In the Channel Synchronization window, Setup should always be the first
operation. Setup is loading new Stock, according to the Setup table. When you
open the Channel Synchronization window, and if the Setup operation is not
seen as the first operation, then you must drag and place is at the top of the
operations as the defined stock must be visible in the first operation.
• The operation of stock release cannot be moved below the part transfer operation.
However, it can be moved after the last operation on back spindle in the Channel
Synchronization window. Stock release is a machine control operation with
Release Stock command which deletes the stock from the active table.
• The operation of stock transfer is a machine control operation with two or more
tables involved. As a result of this operation, the stock changes the holding Table.
You can achieve this by Manual Part Transfer or Close on Stock command.
• The MCOs cannot be synchronized if same axis is used in both the channels. If
you try to synchronize such an operation, an error message is displayed stating
same axis is used in both the channels.
• On Setup, if you the traffic light symbol as
shown in the image; it means there is an error
in channel synchronization and one of the
following must be done to correct it:
• Add, delete or reorder operation
in the CAM-Tree Manager.
• Reorder setup for Stock (start
work from back spindle and transfer
part to the main spindle).
• Change cutting condition (change spin/feed rate) for the
synchronized operation.
• Add labels in channel synchronization window to remove clashes.
• Calculate the uncalculated jobs in CAM-Tree Manager
• Each operation in the Channel Synchronization window is connected to one table
in the following manner:
• In non MCO operations it is connected to the Table used in
operation Submchine.
• In MCO operations without Stock Management it is connected to
the current table.

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 • In the setup and stock release operations, it is connected table that
is used for these specific operations.
• In the part transfer operation, it is related to the table that was
connected to the stock before the part transfer operation.
• To move the operation and change its place in the Channel Synchronization
window, drag the operation and drop it on the lable where you want to place it.
For example, in the below image, the highlighted operation in black color is
dragged and placed on the lable to change its place.

7.4 Working with the operation of Channel Synchronization

6. Labels and drive units

Label is a defined pause you can apply between two operations if a collision is detected.
The labels give you information about all the channels involved in the operation. The
first label in the synchronization window is always numbered 1. The last label is always
the largest and takes into account all the channels involved. For example, if you are
working on a three channel machine, you can apply some labels to two channels, but
the last label will be applied to all three channels.
The labels above and below the Balanced Rough operation are automatically added
and cannot be deleted. For example, when you right click on the label that is above or
below the Balanced Rough operation, the option of deleting the lable is not available
to select.
When two operation are synchronized using the same drive unit, you can define which
channel has control over it.

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 7. Channel Synchronization

If you want to change the control from upper turret to lower turret, right click the
Drive Unit icon and select Make Drive Unit control to ‘LW_TR’ Channel to
transfer the control from upper turret to lower turret.

In the image below, the control is transferred to the lower turret and now selecting
the drive unit icon gives you the option of transferring the control to the upper turret.

In the Balanced Rough operation, the drive unit control cannot be changed as while
defining the operation, master and slave submachines are defined. You can change the
controls by editing the balanced rough operation in the CAM-Tree.
You can use the same Drive Unit by more than one channel at the same time only if
it is a Shared Drive Unit. You need to keep in mind the following things while using
a shared drive unit:
• In Milling operations, the Drive Unit must have same RPM and
rotation direction.
• In Turning operations, the Turning Station, connected to Drive Unit
must have same RPM, rotation direction, and same Spin Type.

7. Removing the clash in operations

When two operations cannot be synchronized, or are arranged in such a manner that
they clash with each other, they are highlighted in red color. Click on the red box to
see with which operation the current operation is clashing. Select both the operations
and add a label as per your requirement i.e. whether you want to synchronize the
operations start to start, start to end or end to end.

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 In the below image, two operations that are clashing (highlighted using dark blue
color) are selected, and on the ribbon available on the Channel Synchronization
window, the buttons of Synchronize selected operations start to start, Synchronize
selected operations start to end, and Synchronize selected operations end to end are
highlighted.

8. Axes sharing and control

In the Channel Synchronization window, you can see a number of axes displayed in
front of each operation. The axes represented with black color, are used in the current
operation. The axes represented by grey color, and italics are not used in the current
operation. However, you can see them in front of the operation because all these axes
are available on that channel.

You can use the same axis on two channels at the same time, only if they are shared
axis. The switching and moving of axis between channels can be done only at the
label level.
Swap axis option is available on an axis which is not used in the operation and is
synchronized end to end with another operation.

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 7. Channel Synchronization

Click on Swap Axis With option to swap the current axis with the axis available in the
Swap Axis With list.

The exercises described above explain the general rules and features of the Channel
Synchronization operation. You can synchronize the operations in the way you consider is best
to utilize the machines for maximum output and minimum machining time.
Channel Synchronization on Single Channel Machines
On Milling machines, where there is only one spindle, SolidCAM’s Channel Synchronization
operation can be used in the following ways:
• Manage the order of operations in the machine.
• Reduce cycle time by optimizing tool change. You can synchronize the tool in
such a way that without going back to the home position, the tool can finish
machining operation on one part and immediately start the other operation on
the second part.

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332
Swiss-Type
Exercise 8
Swiss-type machining provides a cost-effective way to produce small, complex and precision
parts in large quantities. Dimensions of the parts are usually up to Ø38mm and Length/Diameter
ratio bigger than five is possible. A Swiss-type machine has the ability to feed the stock along the
Z-axis through a guide-bush. The purpose of guide bush is to offer additional support to the
stock material when the part is machined. In the following exercise, guide-bush version is used
for CAM-Part programming.

Swiss-Type: Exercise #1

In this exercise, you have to define a number of

mill-turn operations and select the required MCO
cycles using a swiss-type machine to conclude the
machining of the CAM-Part.

1. Load the SOLIDWORKS Part

Browse to open the SOLIDWORKS part Swiss-type.SLDPRT.

2. Define SolidCAM Settings

Click Tools > SolidCAM > SolidCAM Settings.
In the left pane, click Machine simulation.
Ensure that in the Environment section, Show last Axes values check box is selected.
In the left pane, click CAM-Part.
Ensure you keep the settings as shown
in the image.
Click Automatic CAM-Part definition.
Click the Mill-Turn tab.

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

Ensure you keep the settings as shown in the image.

Selecting Create CoordSys for each
station check box automatically creates
machine coordinate system for each
table station (Main and Back Spindle).
Click OK.

Click the SolidCAM item in the Tool menu of SOLIDWORKS and choose Mill-Turn
from the New submenu or click the Mill-Turn button on the SolidCAM New toolbar.
The Mill-Turn Part Data window displays.

3. Define the CAM Part

In the CNC-Machine list, click Star SR-38 type B.
Click the CoordSys button in the Define section.
The CoordSys window displays.
In the Place CoordSys origin to list, click Center of revolution face.
Select the face with the largest diameter
(in order to get correct coordinate
system data) as shown in the image and
ensure that the direction of the axes is
set exactly as in the image in your part
file.
Click
Click the CoordSys button in the Define
section.
Right click MAC 1 1-Position > Edit.
The CoordSys Data window displays.

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 Set the values as shown in the image.
Click
MAC 2 1-Position is automatically created because of the
chosen CAM-settings. Ensure that the direction of the axes
is set exactly as in the image in your part file.

You must add three more coordinate positions that are

required for machining all inclined surfaces on the part.
Right click MAC 1 1-Position > Add.
In the Place Coordsys origin to list, click CoordSys # 1.
Select the face as shown in the image and ensure that the direction of the axes is set
exactly as in the image in your part file.

Click

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

Set the values as shown in the image.

Click
Right click MAC 1 2-Position > Add.
In the Place CoordSys origin to list, click CoordSys # 1.
Select the face as shown in the image and ensure that the
direction of the axes is set exactly as in the image in your
part file.

Click
Set the values as shown in the image.
Click
Right click MAC 1 3-Position > Add.
In the Place CoordSys origin to list, click CoordSys # 1.
Select the face as shown in the image and ensure that
the direction of the axes is set exactly as in the image in
your part file.

Click

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 Set the values as shown in the image.
Click
Click to close the CoordSys Manager window.
The Mill-Turn Part Data window displays.

4. Define the Stock and Target

Click the Stock button in the Define section.
In the Defined by list, click Cylinder.
Select the face as shown in the image.
Set the Offsets and other values as follows:
• Set the Right (+Z): to 0.25
• Set the Left (-Z): to 0.25
• Set External: to 0
• Set Internal diameter: to 0
• Set the Facet tolerance to 0.01
Click
Click the Target button in the Define
section.
Select the model as shown in the image.
• Set the Facet tolerance to 0.05
• Select the Envelope check box and
Speed Optimized option in the
Generate Envelope/Section area.
Click
Click to close the Mill-Turn Part Data
dialog box.

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

5. Machine Setup
Double click the Setup in CAM-Manager. The Machine setup window is displayed.
The table and position values should remain 0 and no fixture must be defined as in
Swiss-Type machines, fixture is not required. The main reason is that the part remains
in the guide bush and does not require a fixture to hold it.

6. Defining Machine Data - Add a Machine Control Operation (MCO)

The first operation you have to define is an MCO with Machining Data, required for
machining process.
Right click on Setup and choose Add Machine Control
Operation from the menu.
The Machine Control Operation dialog box is displayed.

In the Technology list, click Machining Data.

This is a pre-defined MCO cycle where main Machining Data parameters are set.
Parameters of this MCO cycle can vary from machine to machine.
Click the Save & Exit
icon.

Now when the machining data has been added, the rest of the operations can be
defined.

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 7. Face Turning on main spindle

Right-click the defined MCO operation in SolidCAM Manager Tree and choose Face
from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Face Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

8. Define the Geometry

Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen on the Geometry page of the Face
Turning Operation dialog box.

Click
The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.
Select the contour as shown in the image.
Click to finish the chain definition and
confirm the Geometry Edit dialog box with
.
On the Geometry page of the Face Turning
Operation dialog box, click the Modify
Geometry button.
In the Modify Geometry window, ensure
that the Auto extend Start to Stock option
is selected.
Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with .

9. Define the Tool

To define the tool for the face turning operation, click the Select button on the Tool
page of the Face Turning Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the Ext. Turning tool from the Composite Tools section.
Ensure that Turning [T1-T5] is selected in the Turret section and the Station/Position
is set as 3 (T3).
For Insert, use the parameters as defined in
the image.

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

In the Shank page, define the following parameters:

• Set the Insert Clamping to C
• Set the Insert Shape to V (35 deg)
• Set the Insert Lead Angle to A (90 deg)
• Set the Cutting Direction to R
• Set the Shank Height to 20
• Set the Shank Width (A) to 20
• Set the Shank Length (L) to M (150.00 mm)
In the Name and Value box, set the M value as 21 and N value as 35.
Click the Mounting button.
Ensure all the values are set as shown in the image.
Close the Mounting
window.
Click to choose the
defined tool for the
current operation.

In this exercise, brass was used as material. Different cutting conditions are possible.
Ensure that X+ option is
selected in the X output
section on the Tool page.

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 Click the Data tab.
Ensure that the values are set as
shown in the image.

10. Define the machining levels

Switch to the Levels page of the Face Turning Operation dialog box. This page enables
you to specify the machining levels for the operation.
Use the default Safety distance value (2).

11. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Face Turning Operation dialog box.
Make sure that option is chosen in the Mode area.
In the Offset and Retreat distance sections, set
the values as shown in the image.
Select the Finish check box.

12. Calculate the operation

Click in the Face Turning Operation

dialog box. The operation data is saved, and the tool path is calculated.

13. Simulate the operation in the Host CAD mode

Click in the Face Turning Operation dialog box.

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

The Simulation control panel is displayed. Click on the Simulation control panel.
The tool path is simulated in the SOLIDWORKS window.

14. Simulate the operation in the Turning mode

Switch to the Turning page on the Simulation control panel.

Click . The tool path is

simulated.

15. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click
The simulation is performed.

16. Close the simulation

Click on the Simulation control panel.
The Face Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

17. Close the Turning Operation dialog box

In the Face Turning Operation dialog box, click .
The dialog box is closed.

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 18. External Turning on main spindle

Right-click the defined Face Turning operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose
Turning from the Add Turning Operation submenu.

19. Define the Geometry

Choose the Wireframe option on the Geometry page of the Turning Operation dialog
box. Solid geometry can also be used. However, in this particular exercise we will use
wireframe.
Click
The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.
Select the contour
as highlighted by
yellow color in
the image.
Click to
finish the chain
definition.
In the Options
section, set
Spline approx to
0.005.
Confirm the
Geometry Edit
dialog box with
.
On the Geometry page click the Modify Geometry button.
In the Modify Geometry window, ensure that the Auto extend Start to Stock option
is selected.
Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with .

20. Define the Tool

Select the same Ext. turning tool that was used for the face turning operation.

21. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Turning Operation dialog box.

Make sure that is chosen in the Mode area.

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

Select the Finish only option in the Work type section.

Click the Semi-finish/
finish tab.
Enter the parameters as
shown in the image.
Click the Strategies tab.
Select the option of Non-
descending motions.

22. Calculate and simulate the operation

Click to calculate the operation.

Click and simulate the operation in Host CAD mode.

23. Simulate the operation in Turning and SolidVerify mode

The simulation results should look as displayed below.

24. External Grooving on main spindle

Right-click the defined outer diameter operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose
Grooving from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Grooving Operation dialog box is displayed.

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 25. Define the Geometry
Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen on the Geometry page of the Grooving
Operation dialog box.

Click
The Geometry Edit dialog box is
displayed.
Select the contour highlighted by
yellow color in the image.
Click to finish the chain
definition.
In the Options section, set Spline
approx to 0.005.
Confirm the Geometry Edit
dialog box with .
On the Geometry page click the
Modify Geometry button.
In the Modify Geometry window, ensure that the Auto extend Start to Stock option
is selected.
Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with .

26. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Grooving Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the Ext. Grooving tool from the Composite Tools section.
Ensure that Turning [T1-T5] is selected in the Turret section and the Station/Position
is set as 4 (T4).
For Insert, use
the parameters
as defined in the
image.

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

In the Shank page, define the parameters as shown in the image.

Click the Mounting button.

Ensure that the tool is mounted in the way as shown in the image.

Close the Mounting window.

Click to choose the defined tool for the current operation.

27. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Grooving Operation dialog box.
Make sure that option is chosen in the Mode area.

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 Select the Rough option in the Work type section.
Select No in the Use cycle section.
Click the Rough tab.
Enter the parameters as
shown in the image:
Click the Semi-finish/
finish tab.
In the Semi-finish list,
choose No.
In the Finish list, choose
Advanced Down only.
In the Finish on list,
choose Entire geometry.
Click the Groove
parameters tab.
In the Radial conditions
section, set the Spin (100%) and Feed (100%) values as 100.

28. Define the link parameters

Switch to the Link page of the Grooving Operation dialog box.
Set the values as shown in
the image.

29. Calculate and simulate the operation

Click to calculate the operation.

Click and simulate the operation in Host CAD mode.

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

30. Simulate the operation in Turning and SolidVerify mode

The simulation results should look as displayed below.

31. External Threading on main spindle

Right-click the defined grooving operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose

Threading from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Threading Operation dialog box is displayed.

32. Define the Geometry

Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen on the Geometry page of the Threading
Operation dialog box.

Click
Select the contour highlighted by yellow color in the image.
Click to finish the chain
definition.
In the Options section, set
Spline approx to 0.005.
Confirm the Geometry Edit
dialog box with .

33. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Threading Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the Ext. Threading tool from the Composite Tools section.
Ensure that Turning [T1-T5] is selected in the Turret section and the Station/Position
is set as 2 (T2).
For Insert, use the default parameters.

349
 In the Shank page, define the parameters as shown in the image.

Click the Mounting button.

Ensure that the tool is
mounted in the way as
shown in the image.
Close the Mounting
window.
Click to choose the
defined tool for the current
operation.

34. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Threading Operation dialog box.
Make sure that all the
parameters and options are
selected as shown in the
image.

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

35. Define the link parameters

Switch to the Link page of the Threading Operation dialog box.
Set the values and
options as shown in
the image.

36. Calculate and simulate the operation

Click to calculate the operation.

Click and simulate the operation in Host CAD mode.

37. Simulate the operation in Turning and SolidVerify mode

The simulation results should look as displayed below.

38. Profile Milling on main spindle

Right-click the defined threading operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose Profile
from the Add Milling Operation submenu.
The Profile Operation dialog box is displayed.

39. Define the Geometry

Make sure that the General option is chosen in the Geometry Selection section on the
Geometry page of the Profile Operation dialog box.

Click

351
 Select the contour as shown in the image.

Ensure that the values in the Options section

are set as shown in the image.
Click Yes in OK to accept? window.
Click to finish the chain definition.
Confirm the Geometry Edit dialog box with
.

40. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
Click the Add Milling Tool icon. Choose the END MILL tool from the Milling Tools
section.
Ensure that B1->MS [T17-T19] is selected in the Turret section and the Station/Position
is set as 18 (T18-A).
Set the parameters as shown in the image.

Click the Mounting button.

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

Ensure that the tool is mounted in the way as shown in the image.

Close the Mounting window.

Click to choose the defined tool for the current operation.

41. Define the levels parameters

Switch to the Levels page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
Set the values
as shown in
the image.

42. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Profile Operation dialog box.

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 Make sure that all the parameters and options are selected as shown in the image.

43. Define the link parameters

Switch to the Link page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
Make sure that all the parameters are set as shown in the image.

44. Define the Motion Control parameters

This operation will be defined using 4th axis (C-axis). On the Motion control page,
ensure that the 4th Axis check box is selected.
Select the Face option.

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

In the Coordinate type list, click Cartesian.

In the Plane list, click XC.

45. Calculate and simulate the operation

Click to calculate the operation.

Click and simulate the operation in Host CAD mode.

46. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
Click . The simulation is performed.

47. Profile Milling on main spindle

Right-click the defined profile operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose Profile
from the Add Milling Operation submenu.
The Profile Operation dialog box is displayed.

48. Define the Geometry

Make sure that the General option is chosen in the Geometry Selection section on the
Geometry page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
From the list, select the same contour that was used for the earlier profile operation.

49. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Profile Operation dialog box and
select the same END MILL tool that was used for the earlier profile operation.

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 50. Define the levels parameters
Switch to the Levels page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
Set the values as shown in the
image.

51. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
Make sure that all the
parameters and options are
selected as shown in the image.

52. Define the link parameters

Switch to the Link page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
Make sure that all the
parameters are set as shown in
the image.

53. Define the motion control parameters

Switch to the Motion control page of the Profile Operation dialog box.

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

Set the values as shown in the image.

54. Calculate and simulate the operation

Click to calculate the operation.

Click and simulate the operation in Host CAD mode.

55. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
Click . The simulation is performed.

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 56. Pocket Milling on main spindle

Right-click the defined profile finishing operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose
Pocket from the Add Milling Operation submenu.
The Pocket Operation dialog box is displayed.

57. Define the Geometry

Select MAC 1 (3- Position) from
the list.
Click
Select the Smart Face check box
in the Chain section.
Select the face as shown in the
image.

When this option is chosen, the

required geometry is selected
automatically and the open/
close chains are also marked
correctly.
The selected contour and the
marked open edges look as
displayed in the image.

Ensure that the values in the

Options section are set as shown
in the image.
Confirm the Geometry Edit
dialog box with .

58. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Pocket Operation dialog box.
Click the Add Milling Tool icon.

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

Choose the END MILL tool from the Milling Tools section.
Ensure that Milling [T6-T9] is selected in the Turret section and the Station/Position is
set as 7 (T7).
Set the parameters as
shown in the image.
Click the Mounting
button.

Ensure that the tool is

mounted in the way as
shown in the image and all
the values are set similarly
in your part file.
Close the Mounting
window.
Click to choose the
defined tool for the
current operation.

59. Define the levels parameters

Switch to the Levels page of the Pocket Operation dialog box.

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 Set the values as shown in the image.

60. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Pocket Operation dialog box.
Make sure that all the parameters
and options are selected as
shown in the image.
Click the Contour tab.
Click None in the Corner drop
down list.
In the Direction section, select
the option on Climb.
In the Adjacent passes
connection list, click Linear.
Click the Open pocket tab.
Select the Use profile strategy
check box and ensure that the
Zigzag option is selected.
Select the Approach from outside check box.

61. Define the link parameters

Switch to the Link page of the Pocket Operation dialog box.

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

Set the values as shown in the image.

62. Calculate and simulate the operation

Click to calculate the operation.

Click and simulate the operation in Host CAD mode.

63. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
Click
The simulation is performed.

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 64. Radial Drilling on main spindle

Right-click the defined pocket operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose Drilling
from the Add Milling Operation submenu.
The Drilling Operation dialog box is displayed.
In the Technology list, click 2D drill.

65. Define the Geometry

Ensure MAC 1 (3- Position) is selected.
Click .
Select the geometry as shown
in the image.
Ensure that Multi-positions is
selected in the Select centers
by section and All circles is
chosen in Filter for circle/arc
selection.

Click

66. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Drilling Operation dialog box.
Click the Add Milling Tool icon. Choose the DRILL tool from the Drilling Tools section.
Ensure that Milling [T6-T9] is selected in the Turret section and the Station/Position is
set as 6 (T6).
Set the parameters
as shown in the
image.

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

Click the Mounting button.

Ensure that the
tool is mounted in
the way as shown
in the image and all
the values are set
similarly in your part
file.
Close the Mounting
window.
Click to
choose the defined
tool for the current
operation.

67. Define the levels parameters

Switch to the Levels page of the Drilling Operation dialog box.
Set the values as shown in the image.

68. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Drilling Operation dialog box.
In the Sorting section, select the option of Default.
Select the Use cycle check box.

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 69. Calculate and simulate the operation

Click to calculate the operation.

Click and simulate the operation in Host CAD mode.

70. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
Click
The simulation is performed.

71. Radial Tapping on main spindle

Right-click the defined drilling operation in SolidCAM Manager and copy - paste it.
Double click the pasted operation.
The Drilling Operation dialog box is displayed.
In the Technology list, click 2D drill.

72. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Drilling Operation dialog box.
Click the Add Milling Tool icon. Choose the TAP tool from the Drilling Tools section.
Ensure that Milling [T6-T9] is selected in the Turret section and the Station/Position
is set as 8 (T8).

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

Set the parameters as shown in the image.

Click the Mounting button.

Ensure that the
tool is mounted in
the way as shown
in the image and
all the values are
set similarly in
your part file.

Close the Mounting window.

Click to choose the defined tool for the current operation.

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 73. Calculate and simulate the operation

Click to calculate the operation.

Click and simulate the operation in Host CAD mode.

74. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
Click
The simulation is performed.

75. Drilling on main spindle

Right-click the defined drilling operation in SolidCAM Manager and copy - paste it.
Double click the pasted operation.
The Drilling Operation dialog box is displayed.
In the Technology list, click 2D drill.

76. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Drilling Operation dialog box.
Click the Add Milling Tool icon. Choose the DRILL tool from the Drilling Tools section.
Ensure that Milling [T31-T32] is selected in the Turret section and the Station/Position
is set as 32 (T32).

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

Set the parameters as shown in the image.

Click to choose the defined tool for the current operation.

For this tool, a new STL holder will be used. To export the STL holder, click .
Click SolidCAM Part on the ribbon, choose the Tool Library Options submenu and
select Tool STL Holders option.
The STL Holders Table dialog box is displayed.
Right-click the Holder entity and choose the Add STL Holder option.
The Browse dialog box is displayed. Find the Milling Unit ER20 (T31-T32 10168).stl
file stored in the Exercises folder and click Open. The holder is successfully imported
to your library.
Click the Save icon and close the STL Holders Table dialog box.
Open the last drilling operation.
In the Tool page, click Select and switch to the Holder tab. Ensure that the Stl option
is chosen.
Select the Milling Unit
ER20 (T31-T32 10168).
stl holder.

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 Click the Mounting button.
Ensure that the tool is mounted in the way as shown in the image and all the values
are set similarly in your part file.

Close the Mounting window.

Click to choose the defined tool for the current operation.

77. Calculate and simulate the operation

Click to calculate the operation.

Click and simulate the operation in Host CAD mode.

78. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
Click

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

The simulation is performed.

79. Pocket Milling on main spindle

Right-click the defined drilling operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose Pocket
from the Add Milling Operation submenu.
The Pocket Operation dialog box is displayed.

80. Define the Geometry

Select MAC 1 (2- Position) from the list.
Click
Select the Smart
Face option
in the Chain
section.
Select the face
as shown in the
image.

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 The selected contours should look as shown in the image.

Ensure that the values in the Options section

are set as shown in the image.
Click to close the Geometry Edit dialog
box.
In the Open Edges section, set the Offset
value as 0.6.

81. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Pocket Operation dialog box.
Select the 6 MM END MILL that was defined earlier. Ensure that you select the tool
that has BI->MS [T17-T-19] selected in the Turret section and the Station/Position is
set as 18 (T18-A).

82. Define the levels parameters

Switch to the Levels page of the Pocket
Operation dialog box.
Set the values as shown in the image.

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

83. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Pocket Operation dialog box.
Make sure that all the parameters and options are selected as shown in the image.
Click the Contour tab.
Click Inside in the Start from section.Click
None in the Corner drop down list.
In the Direction section, select the option
on Climb.
In the Adjacent passes connection list,
click Linear.
Click the Open pocket tab.
Select the Use profile strategy check box
and ensure that the One way option is
selected.
Select the Approach from outside check
box.

84. Calculate and simulate the operation

Click to calculate the operation.

Click and simulate the operation in Host CAD mode.

85. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
Click
The simulation is performed.

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 86. Pocket Milling on main spindle

Right-click the defined pocket operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose Pocket
from the Add Milling Operation submenu.
The Pocket Operation dialog box is displayed.

87. Define the Geometry

Select MAC 1 (4- Position) from the list.
Click
Select the contour as shown in the
image.
Click Yes in OK to accept? window.

Ensure that the values in the Options

section are set as shown in the image.
Right click the chain > Mark open
edges.

Select the edge that is marked in black

color.
Click
Click to close the Geometry Edit
dialog box.
In the Open Edges section, set the
Offset value as 0.6.

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

88. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Pocket Operation dialog box.
Select the 6 MM END MILL that was defined earlier. Ensure that you select the tool
that has BI->MS [T17-T-19] selected in the Turret section and the Station/Position is
set as 18 (T18-A).

89. Define the levels parameters

Switch to the Levels page of the Pocket Operation dialog box.
Set the values as shown in the image.

90. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Pocket Operation dialog box.
Make sure that all the parameters and
options are selected as shown in the image.
Click the Contour tab.
Click Inside in the Start from section.
Click None in the Corner drop down list.
In the Direction section, select the option
on Climb.
In the Adjacent passes connection list,
click Linear.
Click the Open pocket tab.
Select the Use profile strategy check
box and ensure that the Zigzag option is
selected.
Select the Approach from outside check box.

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 91. Define the link parameters
Switch to the Link page of the Pocket Operation dialog box.
Set the parameters as shown in
the image.

92. Calculate and simulate the operation

Click to calculate the operation.

Click and simulate the operation in Host CAD mode.

93. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
Click The simulation is performed.

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

94. Pocket Milling on main spindle

Right-click the defined pocket operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose Profile
from the Add Milling Operation submenu.
The Profile Operation dialog box is displayed.

95. Define the Geometry

Select MAC 1 (2- Position) from the list.
Ensure that the option of General is selected in the Geometry selection section.
Click
Select the contour as shown in the
image.
Click Yes in OK to accept? window.

Ensure that the values in the

Options section are set as shown in
the image.
Click to close the Geometry
Edit dialog box.

96. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
Select the 6 MM END MILL that was defined earlier. Ensure that you select the tool
that has BI->MS [T17-T-19] selected in the Turret section and the Station/Position is
set as 18 (T18-A).

97. Define the levels parameters

Switch to the Levels page of the Profile Operation dialog box.

375
 Set the values as shown in the image.

98. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
Make sure that all the parameters and options are selected as shown in the image.

99. Calculate and simulate the operation

Click to calculate the operation.

Click and simulate the operation in Host CAD mode.

100. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
Click

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

The simulation is performed.

101. Simultaneous 5-Axis Milling on main spindle

Right-click the defined profile operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose Sim.
5-Axis Milling from the Add Milling Operation submenu.
The Sim. 5-Axis Milling dialog box is displayed.
In the Technology list, click Parallel to curves.
On the CoordSys page, select MAC 1 (1- Position) from the list.

102. Define the Geometry

Switch to the Geometry page of the 5-Axis Milling dialog box.
Click under Drive surface.
Select the face as shown in the
image.
Click to close the Select
Faces dialog box.

377
 Click under Edge curve.
Select the curve as shown in the image.
Click Yes in OK to accept? window.

Ensure that the values in the Options

section are set as shown in the image.
Click to close the Geometry Edit
dialog box.
In the Type list, click Full, start and
end at exact surface edges.

103. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the 5-Axis Milling dialog box.
Select the 6 MM END MILL that was defined earlier.
Ensure that you select the tool that has BI->MS [T17-T-19] selected in the Turret section
and the Station/Position is set as 18 (T18-A).

104. Define the levels parameters

Switch to the Levels page of the 5-Axis Milling dialog box.
Set the values as shown in the image.

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

105. Define the tool path parameters

Switch to the Tool path parameters page of the 5-Axis Milling dialog box.
Set the Maximum step over value as 10.
In the Step over calculation list, click Approximate.
Click the Sorting tab.
Set the parameters as shown in the image.
Select the Start point check box.

Set the values as shown in the image.

Click OK.

106. Define the tool axis control parameters

Switch to the Tool axis control page of the 5-Axis Milling dialog box.
Set the parameters and values as shown
in the image.

107. Define the link parameters

Switch to the Link page of the 5-Axis Milling dialog box.

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 In the First entry and Last exit lists, click Use Lead-In and Use Lead Out.
Click in front of Use Lead-In and set the parameters and values as shown in the
image.
Click OK.

Click in front of Use Lead-Out and set the parameters and values as shown in
the image.
Click OK.

108. Calculate and simulate the operation

Click to calculate the operation.

Click and simulate the operation in Host CAD mode.

109. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
Click

380
 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

The simulation is performed.

110. Drilling with main spindle

Right-click the defined 5-axis milling operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose
Drilling from the Add Milling Operation submenu.
The Drilling Operation dialog box is displayed.
In the Technology list, click 2D drill.

111. Define the Geometry

Select MAC 1 (2- Position) from the list.
Click
Select the point as shown in the
image.
Click

112. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Drilling Operation dialog box.
Click the Add Milling Tool icon. Choose the DRILL tool from the Drilling Tools section.
Ensure that B1->MS [T17-T19] is selected in the Turret section and the Station/Position
is set as 17 (T17-A).

381
 Set the parameters as shown in the image.

Click the Mounting button.

Ensure that the tool is
mounted in the way as
shown in the image and all
the values are set similarly
in your part file.
Close the Mounting
window.
Click to choose the
defined tool for the
current operation.

113. Define the levels parameters

Switch to the Levels page of the Drilling Operation
dialog box.
Ensure that the values are set as shown in the image.

382
 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

114. Calculate and simulate the operation

Click to calculate the operation.

Click and simulate the operation in Host CAD mode.

115. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
Click
The simulation is performed.

116. SolidCAM Logo machining using Profile operation on main spindle

Right-click the defined drilling operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose Profile
from the Add Milling Operation submenu.
The Profile Operation dialog box is displayed.

117. Define the Geometry

Select MAC 1 (1- Position) from the list.
Ensure that the General option is selected in the Geometry selection section.
Click
The Geometry Edit dialog box is displayed.
In the Geometry type section, select the option of Wrapped.

383
 Select all the chains as shown in the image.
Click

118. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
Select the same 3 MM DRILL tool that was used for the earlier drilling operation.
Ensure that you select the tool that is mounted on B1->MS [T17-T19] and the Station/
Position is set as 17 (T17-A).

119. Define the levels parameters

Switch to the Levels page of the Profile
Operation dialog box.
Set the values as shown in the image.

120. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the
Profile Operation dialog box.
Set the parameters as shown in the image.

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 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

121. Define the link parameters

Switch to the Link page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
Set the parameters as shown in
the image.

122. Define the motion control parameters

Switch to the Motion control page of the Profile Operation dialog box.
Set the values as shown in the
image.

123. Calculate and simulate the operation

Click to calculate the operation.

124. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
The stock model is displayed in the simulation window. Click .

385
 The simulation is performed.

125. Performing Part Transfer with MCO Cycles

You must add a group of MCO cycles in order to perform Part Transfer. The MCOs
must be added in the following order:
• Moving B1 Turret to safety
• Z1 position and pre-position Cut-off tool
• Pick-up with Back Spindle
• Cut-Off operation
• Part Transfer to Back Spindle home reference

126. Add an MCO to move B1 Turret to safety

During the machining, part can be located out of the guide bush and tool change to
Cut-Off tool can damage the part. Therefore, in this MCO, part will be moved inside
the guide bush and B1 axis is moved to safety position.
Right click the defined profile operation and choose Add Machine Control Operation
from the menu.
The Machine Control Operation dialog box is displayed.
In the Technology list, click Main Spindle - B1 Safety.

386
 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

This pre-defined MCO cycle has all the parameters defined for this operation.

Click Yes in the window that displays.

Click the Save & Exit icon.

127. Add an MCO for Main Spindle pick up

Once the B1 Turret has moved to safety, another MCO is required for the part to
move from the guide bush for cut off operation.
Right click the defined MCO and choose Add Machine Control Operation from the
menu.

387
 In the Technology list, click Main Spindle - Pick up.

This pre-defined MCO cycle has all the parameters defined for this operation.
Click Yes in the window that displays.

Once the MCO is added, click the Parameters entity.

388
 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

This list shows you which parameters are defined that enable the part to move from
guide bush for the cut off operation.

The first parameter is to move the part in Z1 axis so it is pre-positioned for cut-off.
This value can vary, depending on the part length and cut-off tool insert side.
The second parameter is for selecting cut-off tool number.
The third parameter defines pre-positiong the tool movement in X1 axis at the safety
position. Machine Preview can be used for visual checking of this parameter.
The next two parameters define the spindle rotation direction, spindle synchronization
and spin (RPM) for cut-off operation.
Click on the Machine View button to visualise how the part is push out from guide
bush and positioned in this MCO for the back spindle to pick it up.

Close the Machine Preview window and click Save & Exit icon in the Machine Control
Operation window.
Click the Save & Exit icon.

389
 128. Add an MCO for Back Spindle pick up
Once the main spindle pick up is defined, another MCO is required for the back
spindle to be moved to the part and catch it for the machining process.
The submachine used is T[2000] --> BS. This submachine provides the required offsets
for movement of the back spindle.
Right click the defined MCO and choose Add Machine Control Operation from the
menu.
In the Technology list, click Back Spindle - Pick up.
This pre-defined MCO cycle has all the parameters defined for this operation.

Click Yes in the window that displays.

390
 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

In the below image you can see the parameters required for this MCO. This list shows
you which parameters are defined that enable the back spindle to move and catch the
part for the cut off operation.

The first parameter is for rapid pre-positioning of the back spindle to the front of the
part.

391
 The second parameter ensures that the back spindle clamps the part in catching
position.

The next two parameters define the required feed values.

129. Cut-Off Operation

Right-click the defined MCO in SolidCAM Manager and choose Cutoff from the Add
Turning Operation submenu.
The Cutoff Operation dialog box is displayed.

130. Define the Geometry

Select MAC 1 (1- Position) from the list.
Ensure that the Wireframe option is
selected.
Click
Select the edge highlighted by red
arrow.
Click the Accept chain icon.
Click
Click the Modify Geometry button
and select Auto Extend Start to
Stock.
Click

392
 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

131. Define the Tool

Click the Select button on the Tool page of the Cutoff Operation dialog box.
Click the Add Turning Tool icon and select Ext. Grooving from the Composite Tools
section.
Ensure that the Turret is selected as Turning [T1-T5] and the Station/Position is set as
1 (T1).
Set the values for Insert as shown in the image.

Click the Mounting button.

Ensure the tool is set in the same manner and all the values are defined similarly in
your CAM-Part.

393
 132. Define the technological parameters
Switch to the Technology page of the Cutoff Operation dialog box.
Set the values as shown in the image.

133. Define the link parameters

Switch to the Link page of the Cutoff Operation dialog box.
Set the values as shown in the image.

134. Calculate the operation

Click to calculate the tool path.

135. Simulate the operation in the SolidVerify mode

Switch to the SolidVerify page on the Simulation control panel.
Click

394
 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

The simulation is performed.

136. Add an MCO for part transfer from Main Spindle

You must add an MCO for the part to be transferred from main spindle.
Right click the defined cutoff operation and choose Add Machine Control Operation
from the menu.
In the Technology list, click Main Spindle - Part Transfer.
This pre-defined MCO cycle has all the parameters defined for this operation.

Click the Save & Exit icon.

395
 137. Add an MCO for part transfer on Back Spindle
You must add an MCO to move the back spindle along with the part to Z2 home
position.
Right click the defined MCO and choose Add Machine Control Operation from the
menu.
In the Technology list, click Back Spindle - Part Transfer.
This pre-defined MCO cycle has all the parameters defined for this operation.

Click Yes in the window that displays.

Click the CoordSys entity and select MAC 2 (1-Position) from the list. MAC 1
(1-Position) can also be selected.
Click the Save & Exit icon.
Once the part is transferred to back spindle, a couple of operations must be defined
to complete maching of the part from the back side.

396
 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

138. Face turning on Back Spindle

Right-click the defined MCO in SolidCAM Manager and choose Face from the Add
Turning Operation submenu.
The Face Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

139. Define the Geometry

Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen on the Geometry page of the Face
Turning Operation dialog box.
Select MAC 2 (1-Position) from the list.
Click
Select the contour as shown in the image.
Click to finish the chain definition and
confirm the Geometry Edit dialog box with
.
On the Geometry page of the Face Turning
Operation dialog box, click the Modify
Geometry button.
In the Modify Geometry window, ensure
that the Auto extend Start to Stock option is selected.
Close the Modify Geometry dialog box with .

140. Define the Tool

To define the tool for the face turning operation, click the Select button on the Tool
page of the Face Turning Operation dialog box.

Click . Choose the Ext. Turning tool from the Composite Tools section.
Ensure that Back Tools [T21-T28] is selected in the Turret section and the Station/
Position is set as 21 (T21).
Set the parameters as shown in the
image.

397
 Click the Shank tab and set the parameters as shown in the below image.
Click the Insert tab and select the
Insert only check box. Ensure the
Insert lead angle value is set as 52.

Click to choose the defined

tool for the current operation.
For this tool, a new STL holder will
be used. To export the STL holder,
click

Click SolidCAM Part on the ribbon, choose the Tool Library Options submenu and
select Tool STL Holders option.
The STL Holders Table dialog box is displayed.
Right-click the Holder entity and choose the Add STL Holder option.
The Browse dialog box is displayed.
Find the RH_VCGT.stl file stored in the Exercises folder and click Open. The holder
is successfully imported to your library.
Click the Save icon and close the STL Holders Table dialog box.
Open the face turning operation.
In the Tool page, click Select and switch to the Holder tab. Select the RH_VCGT holder
from the Global tab if you do not see the imported holder in the Local list. Click the
Mounting button.
Ensure that the tool is mounted
in the way as shown in the image
and all the values are set similarly
in your part file.
Close the Mounting window.
Click to choose the defined
tool for the current operation.

398
 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

141. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of
the Face Turning Operation dialog
box.
Set the values and parameters as
shown in the image.

142. Define the link parameters

Switch to the Link page of the Face Turning Operation dialog box.
Set the parameters as shown in the
image.

143. Calculate and simulate the operation

Click to calculate the tool path. The simulation results in Turning and SolidVerify
mode should look as displayed below.

399
 144. External Turning on Back Spindle

Right-click the defined face turning operation in SolidCAM Manager and choose
Turning from the Add Turning Operation submenu.
The Turning Operation dialog box is displayed.

145. Define the Geometry

Make sure that the Wireframe option is chosen on the Geometry page of the Turning
Operation dialog box.
Select MAC 2 (1-Position) from the list.
Click
Select the contour as shown in the image.
Click to finish the chain definition and
confirm the Geometry Edit dialog box with
.
On the Geometry page of the Face Turning
Operation dialog box, click the Modify
Geometry button.
In the Modify Geometry window, ensure
that the Auto extend Start to Stock option
is selected.

146. Define the Tool

Select the same Ext. Turning tool that was defined for the earlier face turning operation.
Ensure that Back Tools [T21-T28] is selected in the Turret section and the Station/
Position is set as 21 (T21).

147. Define the technological parameters

Switch to the Technology page of the Turning Operation dialog box.
On the Technology tab, select the option of Long external.
In the Work type list, click Rough.
Click the Rough tab.
Set the values as shown in the image.
Click the Semi-finish/finish tab.
In the Semi-finish list, click No.
In the Finish list, click ISO-Turning method.
In the Finish on list, click Entire geometry.

400
 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

Select the Compensation check box.

Click the Strategies tab.
Select the option of Descending motions.

148. Define the link parameters

Switch to the Link page of the Turning
Operation dialog box.
Set the values as shown in the image.

149. Calculate the operation

Click to calculate the tool path

150. Simulate the operation in Turning and SolidVerify mode

The simulation results should look as displayed below.

151. Add an MCO for Part Release

After successfully definining the operations, part release can be programmed. Part
release is defined by MCO and defines end of work-piece machining process in which
Channel Synchronization may split machining on both spindles by using ‘Add New
Workpiece’ function.
Right click the defined MCO and choose Add Machine Control Operation from the
menu.

401
 In the Technology list, click Back Spindle - Part Release.

Click Yes in the window that displays.

Click the Submachine entity and select T[21-28] -> BS from the list.
Click the CoordSys entity and select MAC 2 (1-Position) from the list.
Click the Parameters entity and set the Value as 0.
Click the Location column and ensure BS \ Part Move \ X2 is selected.
Click the Save & Exit icon.

402
 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

152. Simulate the part in SolidVerify mode

Right click Operations in the CAM-Manager and click .

Switch to the SolidVerify mode and click the Play icon.
The simulated part looks as displayed in the below image.

Close the simulation.

153. Set up Channel Synchronization

As this is a multi-channel machine it is required to set up channel synchronization.
Setting up channel synchronization enables you to synchronize and organize the order
of operations to be able to work on both channels simultaneously, getting optimal
conditions and minimize cycle time.
Right click on Setup in the CAM-Manager and select Channel synchronization from
the list.
The Channel Synchronization window displays.

403
 In this window, as the below image displays you can see that the operations are set up
according to the CAM-tree order.

404
 8. Swiss-Type Exercise

For an advanced way of setting up channel synchronization and enable machining on

both the spindles simultaneously, right click and Add new Workpiece as displayed in
the image.

The below image shows one way of setting up channel synchronization.

405
 You may choose to set up channel synchronization in the same manner or can rearrage
and synchronize the operations in the way you consider is best to utilize the machine
for maximum output and minimum machining time.
Refer to the channel synchronization chapter for more details to understand how it
works.

406
 SolidCAM Training Course
Turning & Mill-Turn
the MILLTURN Edge

iMachining 2D 2.5D Milling HSS (High-Speed Surface Machining)

iMachining 3D Indexial Multi-Sided Machining HSM (High-Speed Machining)

Sim. 5-Axis Machining Turning & Advanced Mill-Turn Solid Probe

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