How to use MasterCAM 2D?

#solidworks #cadcam #maquinados

MasterCAM is a computer aided manufacturing software that enables it's users to enhance productivity by reducing the time of writing down G code to machine a product.

In this case I'm going give a brief explanation of the step by step in a turning example.

• Step 1: Make the sketch

Although MasterCAM allows to do it in it's workspace, you can use an array of CAD softwares. I drafted this piece in SolidWorks 2020.

• Step 2: Convert file format

Once you have finished drafting, you will have to save it in a DFX format, so MasterCAM can detect it.

Step 3: Manage the stock

When opening MasterCAM, you will have to configurate the stock dimensions or raw material (in this case a cylindrical bar). Such stock will be delimited in a continous line. Make sure the sketch is within.

Step 4: Stablish the operations

In order to do it, you will have to make click in the Toolpaths menu. In this case, facing, roughing and finishing will be the process flow of operations. When setting a new operation, you will have to colocate arrows in the contour to set the path of the tool.

• Step 5: Configurate cut parameters

In the Options Manager tree, make click in the option "Parameters" in each operation to calibrate depth of cut, stock to leave in X o Z (which is the material that will be removed in further stages) or even the tools you will use.

• Step 6: Simulate

Before you finish, make sure to corroborate the Toolpaths by selecting the first mark in the Operation manager tree. This will allow you to see the machining as a whole and not the individual operation.

• Step 7: Post process

Post process in escence turns a CAD archive into G code. Click the "G" icon to generate mentioned code. You can even add number blocks if you wish to.

And this is the workflow of how to use MasterCAM in 2D, also, make sure to use the same system of units in both softwares.