3+2 Machining possible without Multiaxis seat???

[rsbeadle]

Is it possible to do 3+2 machining on a 5-axis mill without having the multi-axis option in Mastercam? I haven't tried it but I have been programming some parts on a Horizontal with a 4th axis without it and I am getting good programs with B-axis outputs. I am wondering if I could use one of the generic 5-axis machine definitions that come with Mastercam to do some test programs to show the bosses what we could do with a 5-axis machine. We are only in need of 3+2 for compound angle positioning to cut under some part features instead of using disk mills and lollipop tools. Our reseller would likely give us a temporary key code to test with, but if it isn't necessary I would rather not go to the trouble.  We are running X8 and X9. Thanks.  

[CJep]

Yes, you could use rotated planes to achieve the the positional output similar to what you've been doing with the 4 axis HMC.

 

What the multiaxis license allows you do is get the rotational output using tool axis control. So rather than working specifically with rotated planes it gives you the flexibility to work with geom as well as having the option to do simultaneous motion if needed.

[rsbeadle]

Thanks for the reply. I hope I can convince the bosses to consider a 5-axis mill instead of another horizontal. Having a simulation will better show them what a full 5 axis machine is capable of. I have ran some sample parts in verify to try to get them to understand, but seeing one of our parts being machined 100 % complete in one setup will be a game changer I think.  Thanks again.