The “MacGyver” Tool for Your Turn/Mill-Turn Is "Continuous B Axis Turning" in CAMWorks 2021

CAMWorks 2021 provides a new “Continuous B Axis Functionality” for Turn/Mill-Turn part models and assemblies which allow the toolpath generation by continuously tilting the B axis tool head capability which is best suited for complex geometry parts. Using traditional methods, requires multiple tools and setups to accomplish the machining these types of complex parts.

But now in CAMWorks 2021, these types of complex profiles on Turn/Mill-Turn part models can be machined using a single tool and only one operation. The ability to manipulate the tool to any angle in very precise increments is a primary benefit of having a B axis on your CNC machine.  And the Continuous B Axis Contour Turning in CAMWorks 2021 is the “MacGyver” Tool you in your back pocket without the need for paper clips or shoe strings to get the job done.

In CAMWorks there are two methods to control angles, with an option to control angle increments and angle limits. CAMWorks also makes it easy to control arcs and transition of the tool along external and internal corners. Continuous B Axis Turning functionality can be a huge time saver for machinists by needing lesser number of setups in their machines for machining their part models/assemblies. And we all know, time = money, especially when saving time when it comes to machining parts while on the shop floor.

CAMWorks B AXIS TURNING | Continuous B axis Turning Functionality(Video)

• Reach undercuts using a single finishing tool.
• Multiple cutting strategies for flexibility.
• User definable limits for the B Axis tilting angle.
• Specify effective lead angle or tool normal angle.
• Holder clearance setting to avoid collisions.
• More information On Continuous B Axis Functionality for Turn Finish Operations
  • Enabling the additional checkbox in the Turn Finish operation gives access to the settings used to control this new functionality. These parameters allow control of the B axis as either.
  • Constant angle – the tool remains at a specified Effective Lead Angle, which will tilt only while cutting any undercut areas. This will result in lesser number of tool rotations.
  • At an Angle to the Feature Curve – the tool will always maintain the same Effective Lead Angle or Normal Angle while machining each segment of the feature. This will result in higher number of tool rotations.
  • Other parameters allow for the setting of angular limits for the B axis rotation, holder clearances and how to transition around sharp corners.
  • Any toolpaths generated are automatically checked for any interference between the tool and the part.

Constant Angle – The Turn tool will remain at the effective lead angle. The tool will tilt only while cutting the undercut areas. This will result in lesser number of tool rotations.

At an angle to the Feature Curve – The tool will always maintain the same Effective Lead Angle or Normal Angle while machining each segment of the feature. This will result higher number of tool rotations. This Effective Lead angle/ Normal Angle can be defined/edited in the Angles group box within this dialog box.

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For Turn and Mill -Turn machines with Twin Spindle Setups, the CAMWorks Sync Manager enables synchronization of operations machined by the tools in the front and rear turrets.

• For Turn and Mill-Turn machines with Twin Spindle Setups, the CAMWorks Sync Manager enables synchronization of operations machined by the tools in the front and rear turrets.
• Continuous B Axis Turning is a functionality whereby Turning toolpaths that have continuous movement in B Axis can be generated for Turn/ Mill-Turn part models and assemblies. The advantage of this Continuous B Axis Turning functionality is that users can machine the part models/assemblies with lesser number of setups.

Supported Turn Inserts for Continuous B Axis Turning Functionality

• All standard Turn Inserts support the Continuous B Axis Turning functionality.
• User-Defined Turn Inserts are not supported for Continuous B Axis Turning functionality.
• NOTE: The parameters within the Continuous B Axis group box will be disabled if a User-Defined Turn Insert is used

Below Are Only Supported Holder/Boring Bar Orientations for Continuous B Axis Turning Functionality

• 1) Down Right 2) Down Left 3) Left Up 4) Right Up
• User-Defined Turn Inserts are not supported for Continuous B Axis Turning functionality.

Reference to MacGyver and his most commonly used tools ==> The 7 Notorious Tools Of MacGyver’s Trade

Don Glaske
Manager, CAM Services
Computer Aided Technology, Inc.