Thanks for the responses. Here's where it gets a bit complicated: I've got hundreds of programs already written, which have been manualy edited to combine g54, g55, g56, etc. The process is this: Call the first tool, let's call it a face mill. Use the face mill on all operations (work offsets) that require that tool. Next, call up the next tool, say, a 1/2" roughing EM. Use that tool on all operations that need that tool. Repeat until all tools have done their thing, usually between 12-20 tools per job. What I'm looking to do is a second op type thing on the machine, using a single 4 inch vise that only needs one offset, while still using G54-g59. An example would be a part that has a 1/4" hole drilled in it on the manual mill as a fourth op. Problem is, I already use a 1/4" drill on the CNC, and if I had one more fixture offset, I could do the 4th op on the CNC. Many of you are probably wondering why go to the trouble, why not just do the 4th op manually? Well, I've done some analysis, and there are several parts we make that could be integreted into other jobs, litterally saving us hundreds of machine hours per year. If I have to, I'll bite the bullet and have the extra offsets added by Fanuc (one machine already has them), but I'd like to know if there is another way. BTW, I'd upload a sample program, but I can't seem to access the FTP site. I could email a copy if anybody would like to see an example. Thanks again, Jim

Hi, I run 3 double throw vises on my VMCs, with each throw of the vise using a different work offset. So far it has worked beautifully: six work offsets, six vise holdings. I've recently come to the conclusion that if I could add just one single throw vise to each machine to handle some 2nd op work, I could significantly increase my production. I've got room on the tables, and some 4 in Kurts laying around. Problem is, I am out of available work offsets! I'm running Fanuc O-M controllers on each machine, and Mcam V9.x. Am I out of luck here? Am I limited to just the six work offsets? Is there anything I can do with Mastercam to help?Each vise station is running a different operation on a part, or a different part all together, so using subroutines seems to be out. Help, all I need is one more lousy work offset! Thanks, Jim

Hi, I'm trying to create a simple 39 tooth bicycle sprocket. I've attempted to use the gear template in Mastercam but have had no luck. The only pertinant info I have is the pitch of the chain (.500") and the diameter of the rollers (.315"). I do not know the pitch diameter, outside diameter, etc, of the spocket. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks, Jim