For Tebis, CAM automation is a key principle for effective and efficient CNC programming whilst improving machining quality, efficiency and safety. One of the features that supports CAM automation with Tebis CAD/CAM is the use of NCSets.
Andrew Walters, Application Engineer of Tebis UK, explains why you need Tebis CAM automation with NCSets: “In Tebis, NCSets are described as sets of predefined machining operations for individual geometry features. Once the NCSets are associated with geometry features in Tebis CAD/CAM, we are able to machine entire groups of geometries with a single programming operation.”
Tebis’ NCSets employ variables and conditional statements which make the automation elements in Tebis very powerful and intelligent. The software will also to apply NCSets to the machining of 3D open surfaces as well as the more typical 2.5D ruled geometry features. The variables are also used to define collision elements up front, making the NC programs very safe.
To be able to program faster and easier, Tebis software is able to decide which size of drill and tap are necessary to machine the specific CAD feature. The user can also select tools for the CAD features from the tool library and assign the position in the carousel to produce a range of thread sizes.
Andy states that the use of conditional statements is unique to Tebis. Tebis can make choices for alternatives strategies. This could be if the user is programming an M14x2 thread but the biggest drill in the library is only 10mm the Tebis software can drill 10mm and automatically mill out the hole to 12mm before tapping with no additional input.
In addition, the machining processes are predefined which means that every time a new part is programmed, the surface quality and positional accuracy of the part is the same every time. With this level of consistent programming it is very easy to control quality and control/estimate how long a part will take to manufacture.
The automated programming also allows job knowledge to be retained within the company. Andrew concludes:” If the company lose a key member of staff then the standards and strategies already developed within the company are retained with Tebis libraries. This also means that if the company will employ a new member of the programming team can be producing parts to the company’s own standards rather than learning how the company does the job. This comes with the added benefit that the learning curve can be much shorter than having to learn the entire software and machining processes for a new user.
Tebis (UK) Ltd
Tel: 02476 158178
Email: [email protected]
