C-Axis Face Milling - Toolpath Transform

[Etrain]

I am running a Haas SL-20 lathe with C-Axis and using X5. I am milling multiple pockets on the face of my part. Using face contour toolpath in Mastercam I chain one pocket and then transform the toolpath. The only problem is that when Mastercam posts out it makes the rotational moves using c-axis. I am using cartesian to polar transformation (G112-G113) and it does not allow c-axis moves. My question: is there a way to transform multiple pockets on a face without having it post out with c-axis rotational moves?

[crazy^millman]

#1 Question would be how are you calling this in the post?

#2 Are you using mi or mr to call the G112 or G113?

#3 Did your talk to your dealer about the certified post for that machine or see if they have one?

#4 Are you using Axis sub or is it a true 4th axis operation you are using the program this?

[Etrain]

I worked with our dealer and they created a post for me.

In my Misc. Values I have the option of turning G112-G113 on and off. But I have found that I get a much more accurate cut when this is on.

When I program this I am not using Axis Sub.

So is this a post issue?

[wdg5555]

I don't run a hass mill/turn but for me if i select "Y Axis" under Rotary Axis Control it will lock the C axis and use the X/Y/Z axis to do the milling.

 

Edit: just realized you said "transform". Yes, if you use transform it will move the c axis. Which may seem dumb, but if you think about milling something at 90 degrees on the diameter of the part then you would want the c axis to rotate so your tool wouldn't crash through the part when it tries to get to the next toolpath.

Edited April 13, 2011 by wdg5555

[Etrain]

I got around this by chaining every single pocket individually. It posted out fine. I just wish there was an easier way of doing this. Maybe by having a choice to transform using C or XY moves? Next version right?

Thanks guys,

Edgar