Manufacturing parameters enable you to control how an NC sequence is generated. It is important to understand the different
ways in which you can configure manufacturing parameters.
Manufacturing Parameters Theory
• Control NC sequences
• Examples:
– CUT_FEED = 100
– SPINDLE_SPEED = 500
– STEP_DEPTH = 2.5
– SCAN_TYPE = TYPE_1
Figure 1 – Feeds and Speeds Category
Manufacturing Parameters Theory
Parameter Types
• Six logical categories:
– Feeds and Speeds
– Cut Depth and Allowances
– Cutting Motions
– Entry/Exit Motions
– Machine Settings
– General
• Required Parameters
– Must be configured
• Optional Parameters Parameter List Variation
• Based on type of NC sequence
• You create NC sequences by selecting or creating geometry to machine. You then determine how to generate the toolpath by modifying
manufacturing parameters.
• There are many different parameters that you can configure, including:
– CUT_FEED – Controls the feed rate of NC sequences during cutting motions.
– SPINDLE_SPEED – Controls spindle speed in NC sequences.
– STEP_DEPTH – Controls the incremental depth of each pass when cutting.
– SCAN_TYPE – Controls the method of scanning the machined area.
Parameter Types
• Categories – Parameters are grouped into six logical categories, enabling you to quickly locate the relevant parameters to configure. The categories are:
– Feeds and Speeds – Parameters such as CUT_FEED and RETRACT_FEED.
– Cut Depth and Allowances – Cut parameters, such as STEP_DEPTH, and stock allowance parameters.
– Cutting Motions – Parameters that specify the type of the cut, such as SCAN_TYPE.
– Entry/Exit Motions – Parameters that specify the entry and exit path for the tool, such as plunge angle, lead-in, approach, and exit path.
– Machine Settings – Machine-related parameters, such as spindle speed and coolant options.
– General – Machine and NC data file names.
• Required Parameters – These are parameters that you must set to create an NC sequence.
– Examples include STEP_DEPTH, CUT_FEED, and SPINDLE_SPEED.
– These parameters are highlighted in a light yellow color in the Edit Parameters dialog box until they have been configured. This enables
you to easily identify the parameters required to create an NC sequence.
• Optional Parameters – Some parameters are optional and you can set them if required. They provide additional control of the toolpath.
– One example is PLUNGE_FEED, which you can use instead of defaulting to the CUT_FEED.
Parameter List Variation
• The parameters available for configuration can vary depending on the type of NC sequence that you are creating.
– Some parameters such as feed rate and spindle speed are present in all NC sequence types.
– Some parameters are specific to certain types of sequences. When you create NC sequences, only the relevant parameters are available
for configuration.
Related posts:
Understanding Manufacturing Parameter Concepts
Creating Turning Manufacturing Models
Manufacturing Turning Process Overview
Using Template Manufacturing Turning Models
Creating and Using Turning Tool Cutting Data
Understanding Surface Milling
Modifying Volume Milling Toolpaths
Manufacturing Process Overview