GibbsCAM 5-Axis Module Now Shipping

By DE Editors

Gibbs and Associates (Moorpark, CA)  announced that its new GibbsCAM option, which supports 5-axis simultaneous milling, has begun shipping to customers around the world. The 5-Axis option extends GibbsCAM’s existing machining capability and provides the user with a complete range of 5-axis simultaneous milling functionality to be able to machine turbine blade, impellers, engine porting, aircraft wing spars, and various medical parts.

The new 5-Axis option offers multi-surface 5-axis roughing and finishing; multi-surface 5-axis flowline machining; surface edge 5-axis swarf cutting (trimming vacuum-formed parts); an adaptable interface, based on part type strategy,  shows only what is needed; advanced gouge protection ensures safe cuts in even the most complex operations; and complete control over entry/exit, cut-to-cut,  and between cut moves.

A variety of postprocessing approaches is available for the GibbsCAM 5-Axis option. Simple modifications to most GibbsCAM post processors allow them to support 5-axis output. Existing posting systems, which are based on APT-CL, can also be supported through GibbsCAM’s APT-CL post. Additionally, 5-axis drivers initially created for the ProAXYZ 5as option for GibbsCAM are compatible with the new 5-Axis option.

The new 5-Axis option is fully integrated with GibbsCAM’s Machine Simulation option allowing the user to virtually set-up and prove-out complex 5-axis programs off of the machine tool minimizing costly machine down time. The 5-Axis option is also supported by GibbsCAM’s integration with CGTech’s VERICUT machine simulation application.

The GibbsCAM documentation (325 pages), which provides users with an explanation of the many varied machining strategies available within the GibbsCAM 5-Axis option, is complemented by optional GibbsCAM’s context sensitive online help.

For more information, contact Gibbs and Associates.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.