Course Description

In this project-based course, the participant will apply the advanced concepts in the integration of Computer-Aided-Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided-Manufacturing (CAM). Participants will be encouraged to bring their own projects or select from real-world interesting projects that will be presented by the instructor.


Audience

This course has been tailored for participants who have completed some CAD/CAM and NC programming classes and desire more in-depth training and practice in applying new skills learned.


Prerequisites

The training program will be perfect for our participants who have completed one or more of our MasterCAM programming classes or for participants who have some experience using MasterCAM to program parts but would like more time to work on machines to try out programs and make actual parts.


Topics and Course Content

  • Introduction
    • Course Introduction and Overview
    • Hands-on CNC Advanced Machining Class
  • Integrating CAD/CAM to the CNC machine
    • MasterCAM – Simulating Machine Setups Stock Planning and Simulation
  • Accurate tool information
    • Getting the work offsets correct
  • Selecting your part project and preparing to run
    • Preparing selected part for programming
    • Machine Part Planning – Preparing a Storyboard of Plans
    • Designing fixtures
    • Incorporating Plan and Fixtures into Each Part Setup In CAD/CAM
    • Making Fixtures and Running a 1st Article Part
  • Advanced Machine Toolpath Strategies
    • High Speed machine strategies in MasterCAM
    • Applying advanced high speed material removal strategies
    • Advanced axial machining – circle and thread milling
  • Advanced Multiaxis Machining
    • Studying 5-Axis Programming Code
    • 5-Axis Positioning Strategies
    • 5-Axis Simultaneous Machining Strategies
    • 5-Axis Speeds and Feeds – Inverse Time vs. Inch Per Minute
    • 5-Axis Surface Machining
    • Planning 5-Axis Operations
    • Setup and Running a 5-Axis Part
    • Taking Advantage of Dynamic Work Offset
    • Advanced Axis Control Strategies
  • CNC turning operations using live tooling
    • 4-Axis mill turn operations
    • The C rotary axis – setting up and programming
    • Utilizing the Y axis
    • Live tool planning
    • Live tool milling and drilling operations
    • Live tool setup
  • Running Projects and Experimenting With New Toolpath Strategies
    • Setup projects to try new toolpath strategies, area milling and 5-axis
    • Selecting cutters and machine setup
    • Experimenting with speeds and feeds and tool engagement strategies
    • Running tests and checking results
    • Exploring programming methods to extend machine tool life

Learning Goals and Results

At the end of the course, the participants will be able to

  • Apply advanced concepts in the creation of 2D and 3D part geometry
  • Apply the mill module of the MasterCAM software to convert the modeled part geometry into a cutter tool path for their projects
  • Use the lathe module of the MasterCAM software to convert the modeled part geometry into a cutter tool path for their projects
  • Safely operate the CNC machinery to mill a part model from metal material

Time Investment

This class is 40 hours of classroom time taken in 4-hour sessions over the course of 10 consecutive weeks.

Please Note: Course content and time investment can also be customized to an individual company’s needs.


Employee Application Employer Application