Mastercam, the world's leading CAD/CAM software, has announced an Add-On product, Mastercam APlus by CAMufacturing Solutions, which was designed for additive manufacturing (AM). APlus can be used with Mastercam Mill, Lathe or Router licenses. APlus brings additive to the Mastercam user in a form that is consistent with the workflow used for over 40 years.
Using the same interface Mastercam users are familiar with, APlus customers can program, backplot and simulate their 3D printing scenarios just like they would with traditional toolpaths in Mastercam.
APlus uses Direct Energy Deposition (DED) and has toolpaths developed specifically to handle any geometry in AM, as well as features and utilities designed to remove uncertainty out of the process and to improve efficiency.
Hybrid manufacturing provides users with the versatility to build parts from scratch, add features to an existing part or to repair a worn or damaged part. APlus integrates seamlessly with Mastercam to allow users to generate AM toolpaths, as well as visualize the additive and machining outcome.
Kenneth Fortier, Technical Product Manager, Mastercam, said, "APlus brings am to the Mastercam user in a form that is consistent with the workflow used for over 40 years. DED is making its way into many machine shops and being able to program hybrid machines or dedicated additive machines using Mastercam makes the transition seamless. The hybrid process of alternating adding material and milling allows parts with internally machined features to be created that would have been impossible without additive."
Since AM is not simply reversing machining toolpaths, all features and toolpaths are designed and developed to help ensure users experience efficient and practical results for the additive and hybrid manufacturing process.
An application example for using APlus is for blade repairs where the tips of individual blades are showing wear. To repair the part, the user machines off the worn tips using a suitable toolpath in Mastercam. Using APlus, users can 3D print or deposit material onto the machined surfaces to near net shape. Finally, machine the printed sections to the desired specifications. "This process can lower costs when compared to buying or machining a new blade, or even stocking spare parts," said a spokesperson.
For more information contact:
CNC Software, Inc.
671 Old Post Road
Tolland, CT 06084
800-228-2877
info@mastercam.com
www.mastercam.com/solutions/APlus