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| Automatic CAD/CAM from 2 to 5 axis |
NCspeed, from FormTEC GmbH, is a feedrate optimization program available for WorkNC. This optional module is integrated into WorkNC, and operates during the post-processing portion of cutterpath programming.
NCspeed can cut your actual machining times by 25%, depending on the cutter loads and conditions. Running NCspeed can save you from running your milling machine at the slowest or “worst case” feedrate scenario. NCspeed can also save you from having a person continually operate the feedrate override dial in a manual fashion as the part gets milled.
NCspeed works by creating a model of stock, which would match the actual stock placed on the milling machine. It then calculates and updates the condition of the stock dynamically for the complete toolpath. Using this information, NCspeed is able to know and balance the load on the cutter by adjusting the feedrates. In areas with lower cutter loads, the feedrate will be increased and conversely in areas of high loads, feedrates can actually be reduced for cutter safety and insert life.
 - NCspeed uses the actual load on the tool to adjust the feedrates accordingly
 - NCspeed is applicable for all part sizes and the most complex of geometries
(Q) Do I have to learn an all new interface or program?
(A) NCspeed is integrated into WorkNC. Once configured, it automatically runs during post-processing. User input is simply to set the stock condition at the start of the NCspeed optimization.
(Q) How is NCspeed different from other feedrate optimizers?
(A) Other programs simply look at the programmed points of the cutterpaths, and look for direction changes and corners. For example they slow down in a corner, and speed up on a straightaway. NCspeed equalizes the cutter forces by using the actual calculated loads on the cutter as it dynamically updates a computer generated stock model.
(Q) Will running NCspeed increase my calculation times?
(A) Cutterpath calculations will not be affected. NCspeed runs during post-processing. Since it is calculating stock changes dynamically, running NCspeed will add a few minutes to your post processing times.
(Q) Will I get a report on the feedrate changes?
(A) NCspeed can create a report of its optimizations.
(Q) What about when the amount of stock being removed is very thin, will it speed up the cutter “too much”?
(A) FormTEC, the developers of NCspeed, understand how this condition can actually shorten tool life, and have as a setting, the ability to slow down the tool when cutting thin strips of material to increase tool life.
(Q) Does this work on multi-axis cutterpaths?
(A) Currently NCspeed works on 3-axis and 3+2 axis cutterpaths.
(Q) Is there a network license server available for NCspeed?
(A) Yes, a network license is available.
(Q) Do I need a license of NCspeed for every WorkNC license?
(A) No, one license of NCspeed can service multiple WorkNC licenses, provided you have the NCspeed floating functionality. This is regardless of whether you float WorkNC or not.
(Q) Can NCspeed really save me 25% and more?
(A) There is one way to find out, try an evaluation and see for yourself.
 - This is the original part
 - This is the condition of the stock after the first roughing and re-roughing cutterpaths. We will examine what NCspeed does in the area specified above
 - Blue represents where NCspeed is actually slowing the feedrate. Yellow represents a slightly faster feedrate and red represents a much faster feedrate.
Since the load is higher when the tool enters the pocket than when on the way out, this strategy makes sense, and is only available when using actual stock models for calcuating.
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