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5-axis cavity milling 5-axis cavity milling
processing capability. “ OPEN MIND postprocessing is clean and accurate. We have never needed to make manual edits to make the programs run properly.”
The hyperMILL® CAM software suite enables a wide range of powerful 5-axis strategies for machining challenging geometries, free-form surfaces and deep cavities at maximum efficiency levels. Depending on the geometry and machine kinematics, a user can choose between 5-axis machining with a fixed tool angle, automatic indexing or true simultaneous machining. All toolpaths are generated fully automatically with collision checking and avoidance.
The performance package of hyperMILL® MAXX Machining offers three powerful modules for drilling, roughing, and finishing that make it possible to achieve the highest rates of machining productivity. 5-axis helical drilling opens large areas prior to roughing, using a standard cutter, and uses a 5-axis helical tool path to efficiently remove material and evacuate chips. For fast, reliable machining the roughing module includes cycles for milling spiral and trochoidal tool paths, as well as options that identify large inscribed rectangles or circles within components to optimally machine them with simple tool paths, completing the pocket by identifying the regions with remaining material. Dynamic feed rate adjustment according to actual cutting conditions constantly ensures milling at the highest possible rates. This results in optimal milling paths with maximum material removal. High-performance roughing of both
prismatic and curved component faces with 5-axis techniques is supported.
Innovative algorithms in hyperMILL® CAM software ensure that a constant chip volume is continually removed. This delivers high utilization rates without exposing the tool to undue stresses, resulting in roughing speeds of up to 70 percent higher than conventional milling.
With hyperMILL® innovative 5-axis Tangent Plane Machining, OPEN MIND developed a unique ability for plane machining enabling cycle time reductions of up to 90 percent when used with conical barrel cutters. In addition, stepover widths of six to eight mm or more are possible with the large radii of conical barrel cutters, resulting in exceptionally smooth surface finishes and longer tool life.
GROWING WHILE KNOWING
Despite the challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic, NDK Paragon is rolling along and growing. Since the shop was set up in 2018, both sales and square feet have doubled. When asked if he would consider hiring new employees, Katrov said he is seriously looking into building an effective team, but he also glowed about the satisfaction of running a shop solo. “You’re in control of everything in the business and the product you make” said Katrov. “You need to make decisions fast and be willing to work 16-hour days, but nobody forced me to do it. I am proud of manufacturing beautiful parts and stand behind our quality”.
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