Lathe

Professional Courseware
Mastercam 2025 Lathe Professional Courseware

Copyright: 1998 - 2025 In-House Solutions Inc. All rights reserved

Software: Mastercam 2025

Author: Mariana Lendel

Date: March 31, 2024

Notice

In-House Solutions Inc. reserves the right to make improvements to this manual at any time
and without notice.
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In-House Solutions Inc. makes no warranties, either express or implied, with respect to this
manual or with respect to the software described in this manual, its quality, performance,
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Corporation.
 Table Of Contents

Lathe Professional Courseware 2

Getting Started 22

Introduction “What Is “Mastercam“? 23

Mastercam® User Interface: 24

Setting The Grid 25

Home Tab Attributes And Organize And The Mini Toolbar 26

Data Entry Shortcuts 28

The Right Mouse Click Menu 29

AutoCursor 30

Graphic Views, Planes & The Work Coordinate System 32

Setting The Construction And Tool Plane To +D+Z 33

Mastercam Parameter Dialog Boxes: 34

Mastercam® Work Flow: 35

Conventions Used In This Book: 39

Geometry Tools - Part 1 40

Introduction 41

Instructor Demonstration Preview 41

Geometry Tools Part 1: Basic Steps Reference 42

Explore Mastercam Interface 42

Point Position Command 45

Line Endpoints & Parallel Commands 46

Rectangle Commands 49

Fillet Commands 50

Trim Commands 53

Dynamic Trim 54

Step 1: Trim Auto 54

Step 2: Trim 1 Entity 54

Step 3: Trim 2 Entities 55

Step 4: Trim 3 Entities 55

4
 Step 5: Divide 56

Step 6: Trim To Point 56

Exercise - Create Drawing #1 58

Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths 62

Drawing #2 63

Toolpaths Information: 64

Instructor Demonstration Preview: 65

Rough Toolpath Part 1: Basic Steps Reference 66

Step 1: Create And Locate Part Geometry 66

Step 2: Machine Definition 66

Step 3: Create The Job Setup 67

Step 4: Face Toolpath Selection 71

Step 5: Rough Toolpath Selection 75

Step 6: Lathe Finish Toolpath Selection 79

Step 7: Lathe Stock Flip Toolpath 81

Step 8: Face The Flipped Side 83

Step 9: Post Processing The File 84

Geometry Tools - Part 2 86

Introduction: 87

Instructor Demonstration Preview: 87

Circle Center Point 88

Arc Endpoints 89

Create Tangent Arcs 90

Create Tangent Lines 92

Chamfer Entities 94

Chamfer Chains 96

Break Two Pieces 97

Modify Length 97

Delete Duplicates 98

Join 100

5
 Other Trim Break Extend Commands 100

Other Geometry Creation Tools. 100

Tools Tab 100

Exercise #1- Drawing #3 102

Exercise #2- Drawing #4 103

Exercise #3- Drawing #5 104

Groove Toolpath 105

New Toolpath Information 106

Instructor Demonstration 106

Exercise: Drawing #3 107

Step 1: Open Part Geometry 107

Step 2: Create The Job Setup 107

Step 3: Lathe Face Toolpath 109

Step 4: Lathe Rough Toolpath 110

Step 5: Lathe Finish Toolpath 112

Step 6: Lathe Groove Toolpath 114

Drill, Rough & Finish ID 119

Toolpath Information 120

Instructor Demonstration 120

Exercise: Drawing #4 121

Step 1: Open Part Geometry 121

Step 2: Create The Job Setup 121

Step 3: Center Drill The Hole 123

Step 4: Drill 3/4 Diameter Through Hole 124

Step 5: Lathe Rough Toolpath (ID) 126

Step 6: Lathe Finish ID Toolpath 128

Geometry Tools - Part 3 131

Introduction: 132

Instructor Demonstration Preview: 132

Step 1: Mirror Command 133

6
 Step 2: Translate Command 136

Step 3: Offset Commands 139

Step 4: Analyze Commands 141

Step 5: Managing Attributes & Levels 144

Attributes 145

Levels 147

Step 6: Chaining Options 154

Exercise #1 - Drawing #6 157

Exercise #2 - Drawing #7 158

Exercise #3 - Drawing #8 159

Threading, New Tool & Cutoff 160

New Toolpath Information 161

Instructor Demonstration 161

Excercise: Drawing #5 162

Step 1: Open Part Geometry 162

Step 2: Create The Job Setup 162

Step 3: Lathe Face Toolpath 163

Step 4: Lathe Rough Toolpath 164

Step 5: Creating A New Lathe Rough Tool 165

Step 6: Lathe Finish Toolpath 169

Step 7: Lathe Thread Toolpath 172

Groove With A Taper Wall 175

New Toolpath Information 176

Instructor Demonstration 176

Excercise: Drawing #6 177

Step 1: Open Part Geometry 177

Step 2: Create The Job Setup 177

Step 3: Lathe Face Toolpath 178

Step 4: Lathe Rough OD Toolpath 178

Step 5: Lathe Finish OD Toolpath 179

7
 Step 6: Lathe Groove Toolpath 180

Step 7: Center Drill The Hole 182

Step 8: Drill 3/4 Diameter Hole 182

Step 10: Lathe Finish ID Toolpath 183

Step 11: Lathe Cutoff Toolpath 186

Step 12: Verify The Toolpaths 188

Step 13: Post Process The File 188

Dynamic Lathe - Part 1 189

New Toolpath Information 190

Instructor Demonstration: 190

Excercise 1: Drawing #7 191

Step 1: Open Part Geometry 191

Step 2: Create The Job Setup 191

Step 3: Lathe Face Toolpath 192

Step 4: Lathe Dynamic Rough Toolpath 192

Step 5: Verify The Toolpaths 196

Step 6: Lathe Finish OD - Multiple Chains 196

Step 7: Lathe Groove Toolpath 197

Step 8: Lathe Cutoff Toolpath 199

Part Handling 1 201

New Toolpath Information 202

Instructor Demonstration: 202

Excercise: Drawing #8 203

Step 1: Create The Job Setup 203

Step 2: Define The Tailstock 204

Step 3: Lathe Face Toolpath 205

Step 4: Center Drill The Hole 205

Step 5: Drill 5/8 Diameter Hole 206

Step 6: Create A 5/8 Drill 206

Step 7: Lathe Stock Advance Toolpath 207

8
 Step 8: Lathe Tailstock Advanced Toolpath 208

Step 9: Lathe Rough With Chip Break 209

Step 10: Lathe Finish OD Toolpath 210

Step 11: Machine The 0.375" Width Groove 211

Step 12: Post Process The File 212

Chain Start And End Modified 213

New Toolpath Information 214

Instructor Demonstration: 214

Excercise: Drawing #10 215

Step 1: Create The Job Setup 215

Step 2: Lathe Face Toolpath 216

Step 3: Lathe Rough OD Toolpath 217

Step 4: Rough The Back Of The Part 218

Step 5: Machine The Profile Groove 220

Step 6: Creating A New Lathe Rough Tool 221

Step 7: Lathe Finish OD Toolpath 224

Part Handling 2 226

New Toolpaths Information: 227

Instructor Demonstration 227

Exercise 1: Drawing #12 228

Step 1: Create The Job Setup 228

Step 2: Define The Right Spindle 229

Step 3: Lathe Face Toolpath 230

Step 4: Lathe Rough OD Toolpath 230

Step 5: Lathe Finish OD Toolpath 232

Step 6: Lathe Stock Transfer Toolpath 232

Step 7: Face The Part In The Right Spindle 234

Step 8: Lathe Rough OD In The Right Spindle 235

Step 9: Lathe Finish OD In The Right Spindle 236

Step 10: Center Drill The Hole In The Right Spindle 237

9
 Step 11: Drill 1.0 Diameter Hole In The Right Spindle 238

Step 12: Machine The Chamfer Using Finish Toolpath 239

Plunge Turn 241

New Toolpaths Information: 242

Instructor Demonstration 242

Exercise 2: Plunge Turn 243

Step 1: Open Part Geometry 243

Step 2: Create The Job Setup 243

Step 3: Lathe Center Drill Toolpath 244

Step 4: Drill 1.0 Diameter Hole 245

Step 5: Lathe Face Toolpath 246

Step 6: Plunge Turn To Rough The Groove 246

Step 7: Lathe Finish ID Toolpath 249

Step 8: Create A Toolpath Group 250

Step 9: Lathe Stock Flip Toolpath 251

Step 10: Lathe Face Toolpath 252

Step 11: Lathe Finish The Chamfer 252

Geometry Tools - Part 4 254

Introduction: 255

Instructor Demonstration Preview: 255

Importing AutoCad(DWG) File 256

Convert SolidWorks Files 257

Align To Z 259

Turn Profile 261

Transform Move To Origin 263

Exercise #1 -Drawing #9 264

Exercise #2 -Drawing #10 265

Exercise #3 -Drawing #11 266

Solid Machining 267

New Toolpath Information 268

10
 Instructor Demonstration: 269

Exercise: Drawing #14 269

Step 1: Import A Solidworks File 269

Step 2: Option # 1 - Import The Solidworks File 270

Step 3: Move The Part Origin 271

Step 4: Turn Profile 272

Step 5: Option #2 - Open The Mastercam File 274

Step 6: Create The Job Setup 274

Step 7: Lathe Face Toolpath 275

Step 8: Lathe Rough OD Toolpath 276

Step 9: Lathe Finish OD Toolpath 278

Step 10: Lathe Multiple OD Grooves Toolpath 280

Step 11: Finish The Groove With A Rounded Tool 285

Step 12: Lathe Rough ID Toolpath 288

Step 13: Lathe Finish Id Toolpath 289

Step 14: Lathe Machine ID Grooves 290

Dynamic Lathe - Part 2 293

Instructor Demonstration: 294

Exercise: Drawing #15 294

Step 1: Open Part Geometry 294

Step 2: Create The Job Setup 294

Step 3: Lathe Dynamic Rough Toolpath 295

Step 4: Finish Toolpath With Down Cutting 299

Creating Custom Tool 302

Custom Tool Information: 303

Instructor Demonstration: 303

Exercise: Create A Custom Tool 304

Step 1: Save The Tool Geometry In The Tool Folder 304

Step 2: Defined A Revolved Stock 304

Step 3: Create A Custom Tool 307

11
 Step 4: Lathe Finish Id With A Custom Tool 311

Create A 3D Tool 313

3D Tool Information: 314

Instructor Demonstration: 314

Exercise: Create And Machine A Part With A 3D Tool 315

Step 1: Create The Job Setup 315

Exercise: Lathe Rough OD With A 3D Tool 318

Step 2: Create A 3D Tool 318

Step 3: Lathe Rough With 3D Tool 331

Step 4: Lathe Finish With Same 3D Tool 332

Prime Turning 334

Toolpath Information 335

Instructor Demonstration: 335

Exercise: Lathe Rough Using Prime Turning 336

Step 1: Open Part Geometry 336

Step 2: Create The Job Setup 336

Step 3: Rough Out With Prime Turning 337

Custom Thread 341

Toolpath Information 342

Instructor Demonstration: 342

Exercise: Custom Thread - Parametric Option 343

Step 1: Open Part Geometry 343

Step 2: Create The Job Setup 343

Step 3: Custom Thread Toolpath 344

Exercise: Custom Thread - Chain Option 350

Step 4: Custom Thread Toolpath 350

Skill Test 354

Introduction 355

Skill Test 356

Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 358

12
 Introduction: 359

New Toolpath Information 360

Instructor Demonstration: 361

Create The Top Plane Geometry 363

Create The Right Plane Geometry 369

Create The Solid 379

Step 1: Select The Machine And Set Up The Stock 389

Step 2: Lathe Face Toolpath 394

Step 3: Lathe Rough OD Toolpath 395

Step 4: Simulate The Toolpath In Verify 398

Step 5: Lathe Finish OD Toolpath 399

Step 6: Machine The Leftover Material - Groove 400

Step 7: Machine The Hexagon - C-Axis Face Contour 402

Step 8: Machine Second Hexagon - C-Axis Face Contour 409

Step 9: C-Axis Face Drill The Part 412

Step 10: Create Another C-Axis Face Drill Toolpath 415

Step 11: Spot Drill The Hole Using Cross Drill 418

Step 12: Cross Drill The Hole To Size 422

Step 13: Cutoff The Part 425

Step 14: Post Process The File 428

Step 15: Save The Updated MCAM File 428

Review Exercise - Student Practice 429

Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 433

Introduction: 434

New Toolpath Information 435

Instructor Demonstration: 435

Geometry Creation 436

Step 1: Setting Up The Graphical User Interface 437

Create The Geometry 438

Create The 3D Geometry 449

13
 Create The Solid 475

Step 2: Select The Machine And Set Up The Stock 499

Step 3: Machine The Ellipse On The Right Face 506

Step 4: Simulate The Toolpath In Verify 512

Step 5: Machine The Slots Using Y Axis Cross Contour 514

Step 6: Transform Rotate Toolpath 519

Step 7: Spot Drill The Holes Using Cross Drill 523

Step 8: Drill The Holes Using Cross Drill 527

Step 9: Transfer The Stock To The Right Spindle 530

Step 10: Machine The Profile In The Right Spindle 532

Step 11: Face Drill The Holes In The Right Spindle 539

Step 12: Create Another Face Drill Toolpath 542

Step 13: Machine The Spline 544

Step 14: Post Process The File 548

Step 15: Save The Updated MCAM File 548

Review Exercise - Student Practice 549

Quiz Answers 553

Appendix - Drawings 555

14
 Lathe Projects
Workspace: Getting Started Topics Covered
n Starting Mastercam.
n Graphical User Interface (GUI).
n Navigate through Mastercam.
n Setting the Grid.
n Setting the Attributes.
n Data Entry Shortcuts.
n Right Mouse Click Menu
n Graphic Views, Planes & WCS.
n +D+Z Plane.
n Mastercam Work Flow.

Exercise 1: Geometry Tools - Part 1 Topics Covered

n How to create a Point knowing its

Position.
n Line Creation - Several line creation
methods with emphasis on Endpoints
and Parallel.
n How to Delete Geometry.
n Fillet Creation.
n How to Trim and Extend Lines.
n How to Create Rectangles and
Rectangular Shapes.

Lathe 15
Exercise 2: Face, Rough & Finish OD Topics Covered

n Create 2D Geometry.
n Job Setup.
n Partial Chain.
n Lathe Face (flipped side).
n Lathe Rough.
n Lathe Finish.
n Verify Toolpaths.
n Toolpath Changes.

Exercise 3: Geometry Tools - Part 2 Topics Covered

n Create Circles.
n Create Arcs.
n Create Tangent Lines and Arcs.
n Create Chamfers.
n Break, Delete Duplicates and Join entities.
n Overview of remaining Wireframe tab Items.

Exercise 4: Groove Toolpath Topics Covered

n Locate Geometry and Job Setup

n Facing.
n Roughing.
n Finishing.
n Grooving.

Lathe 16
Exercise 5: Drill, Rough & Finish ID Topics Covered

n Locate Geometry and Job Setup.

n Drilling Operations.
n Roughing ID.
n Finishing ID.

Exercise 6: Geometry Tools - Part 3 Topics Covered

n Mirror.
n Translate.
n Offset.
n Analyze.
n Geometry Attributes.
n Levels Manager.
n Chaining.

Exercise 7: Threading, New Tool & Cutoff Topics Covered

n Lathe Face.
n Lathe Rough (Plunge option and Create new
tool).
n Create New Tool.
n Lathe Finish.
n Lathe Thread.

Lathe 17
Exercise 8: Groove with Taper Walls Topics Covered
n Lathe Face.
n Lathe Rough (OD).
n Lathe Finish (OD).
n Lathe Groove (with taper angle).
n Lathe Center Drill.
n Lathe Drill.
n Lathe Rough (ID).
n Lathe Finish (ID).
n Lathe Cutoff.

Exercise 9: Dynamic Toolpath Topics Covered

n Lathe Face.
n Lathe Dynamic Rough.
n Lathe Finish.
n Lathe Groove (groove width the same as the
tool width).
n Lathe Cutoff.

Exercise 10: Part Handling 1 Toolpaths Topics Covered

n Lathe Face.
n Define a Tailstock.
n Center Drill.
n Lathe Stock Advance Toolpath.
n Lathe Rough with Chip break.
n Lathe Finish.
n Lathe Groove.

Exercise 11: Partial Rough Topics Covered

n Lathe Face.
n Lathe Rough.
n Lathe Rough (cleaning the back area).
n Lathe Finish.
n Lathe Groove (chain selection and round
groove).

Lathe 18
Exercise 12: Part Handling 1 Toolpaths Topics Covered
n Define the Right Spindle.
n Lathe Face.
n Lathe Rough.
n Lathe Finish.
n Lathe Stock Transfer Toolpath.
n Lathe Face (Right Spindle).
n Lathe Rough (Right Spindle).
n Lathe Finish (Right Spindle).
n Lathe Drill (Right Spindle) .
n Lathe Finish (ID Right Spindle Finish the
chamfer).

Exercise 13: Plunge Toolpath Topics Covered

n Lathe Drill (Center Drill).

n Lathe Drill.
n Lathe Face.
n Plunge Turn.
n Lathe Finish.
n Lathe Stock Flip.
n Lathe Face.
n Lathe Finish.

Exercise 14: Geometry Tools - Part 4 Topics Covered

n Importing drawing files.

n Transform Rotate.
n Turning Profile.
n Moving to origin.

Lathe 19
Exercise 15: Machining Solids Topics Covered

n Import Files
n Job Setup
n Move the Part
n Turn Profile
n Lathe Face.
n Lathe Rough (OD).
n Lathe Finish (OD).
n Lathe Groove (Angle Groove - Chain
selection -OD).
n Lathe Rough (ID).
n Lathe Finish (ID).
n Lathe Groove (ID)

Exercise 16: Dynamic Machining Solids Topics Covered

n Job Setup
n Lathe Dynamic Rough.
n Lathe Finish Down cutting.

Exercise 17: Create Custom Tool Topics Covered

n Define a revolved stock.

n Create a Custom Tool.
n Lathe Rough with a custom tool.
n Lathe Finish with a custom tool.

Lathe 20
Exercise 18: Create a 3D Tool Topics Covered

n Create a 3D Tool.
n Lathe Rough OD with 3D Tool.

Exercise 19: Prime Turning Topics Covered

n Lathe Rough using Prime Turning Toolpath.

Exercise 20: Custom Thread Topics Covered

n Custom Thread toolpath using parametric

settings.
n Custom Thread toolpath using a chain.

Lathe 21
Getting Started

Lathe 22
Getting Started Introduction “What Is “Mastercam“?

INTRODUCTION “WHAT IS “MASTERCAM“?

Mastercam® is the world’s most widely-used CAM software from CNC Software, Inc.
Machine tool programmers can program parts graphically in Mastercam, using the innovative, time tested,
proven toolpaths and machining strategies preferred the most by shops around the world. This book is a
step-by-step “hands-on” book of examples to have you programming quickly without knowing NC Machine
programming languages.

WHO THIS BOOK IS FOR:

This book is for the machine tool programming student who wants to learn how to program parts using
Mastercam. This book is intended to be used as reinforcement exercises as part of classroom training.
While a student can learn from books or videos if they are highly motivated, there is no substitution for the
interaction with a “live” instructor.
This book covers Mastercam Lathe (Turning toolpaths) and assumes you are new to the Mastercam pro-
gramming environment. This book also assumes that the student using this book is familiar with machining
processes, tools and how Numerical Control (NC) machines operate. This book is intended to teach you
how to get your job done using Mastercam.

PROGRAMMING TECHNIQUES USED IN EXAMPLES:

The example exercises in this book can be programmed an infinite number of ways. In fact, any two pro-
grammers would likely approach each part a different way and probably use different tools or toolpaths. For
the exercises in this book, we used settings that were the personal preference or that came from the exper-
ience of multiple Mastercam authorized instructors. All of the examples and exercises have options that can
be set or changed to suit your experiences or company standards.
We chose one method rather than clutter the book with all of the possible options and disrupting the workflow
of the exercises. Utilize the Mastercam Help that is accessible from most dialog boxes whenever you need
more information about options.

Lathe 23
Getting Started Mastercam® User Interface:

MASTERCAM® USER INTERFACE:

Mastercam is a completely graphic programming interface that includes built in CAD tools. You will find the
interface to be very streamlined and easy to access all of the toolpath generating commands. There are sev-
eral places you need to know to access all of the Mastercam commands. The locations for the Mastercam
commands and tools are shown in the screen display below.

Quick Access Toolbar (QAT) allows you to quick access the most common
Quick Access Toolbar
used functions.
Ribbon Tabs Access to all Mastercam commands, features and functions.
Expanded Gallery and Tooltips Additional icons to start toolpaths and hints on the toolpath.
General Selection Bar Used to access AutoCursor settings and selection options.
Mini Toolbar Quick access to attributes.
Quick access to commands relevant to the graphics view and analyze
Right Mouse Click Menu
commands.
Quick Mask Toolbar Used to control entity masking for easier selection.
This is where all toolpath operations you create are stored. They can
Mastercam Toolpath Manager be accessed here for editing the Parameters, Tools, and the
Geometry of the toolpaths.
Toolpath Manager Right
Special commands for working with the operations you have created.
Mouse Click Menu
Managers Tabs Tabs to control which panel is displayed in the Manager panel.
Displays the current WCS, Tool and Construction plane info and current
Status bar
cursor location and also displays the Section View.
Has many interactive features that let you control the cube and thus the on-
Gview Cube
screen representation of your part.

Lathe 24
Getting Started Setting The Grid

SETTING THE GRID

Before starting the geometry enable the Grid. It will show you where the origin of the part is.

File

n Configuration.
n Select Screen from the configuration
Topics.
n Select the plus sign (+) beside screen as
shown.
n Spacing
n X = 0.25.
n Y = 0.25.
n Origin
n X = 0.0.
n Y = 0.0.
n Size = 1.0.
n Select the OK button to exit.
n Select the Yes button to save the
settings in the System Configuration.

n To see the Grid

in the graphics
window, from the
View ribbon
enable Show
Grid as shown.

n The Grid
should look as
shown.

Lathe 25
Getting Started Home Tab Attributes And Organize And The Mini Toolbar

HOME TAB ATTRIBUTES AND ORGANIZE AND THE MINI TOOLBAR

The Home tab Attributes and Organize groups or the Mini Toolbar allows you to set the attributes
(color, level, style and width) and Z depth currently used.

The Home tab with the Attributes and

Organize groups should look as shown.

Example of the default Mini Toolbar.

Sets the display of points. The box or circle point styles are especially useful
Point Style
when working with 3D Drawings.
Line Style Line style, such as solid, hidden, or phantom.
Line Width Line width and surface UV line width.
You can choose to set or change the Wireframe color, the Solids color and
Wireframe, Solids & Surface the Surface color. Colors help organize and simplify the drawing. Up to 256
Color colors are available. Select from the color dialog box by clicking on the
colored area. The number inside the box represents the color palette number.
Removes the group and result colors from affected entities and from the
database. When performing a transform function, Mastercam creates a
Clear Colors temporary group from the originals (red) and a result (purple) group from the
transformed entities. However, the groups stay in effect only until you use
the Screen, Clear Colors function or perform another transform function.
Select All Changes multiple attributes.
Allows you to select an existing entity and sets the current attributes based
Set from entity
on the entity attributes.
2D or 3D drawing mode. Determines whether Z-inputs are from the
2D/3D Mode
Working Depth field or from mouse.
Z Sets the Z depth of the Construction plane.
Change Level Change the level of the selected entities.
Set Material Displays and sets the material for selected objects.

Lathe 26
Getting Started Home Tab Attributes And Organize And The Mini Toolbar

Example Of Setting The Current Wireframe Color

n First, make sure that no entities are selected in

the graphics window.
n Right mouse click to open the Mini Toolbar and
click on the drop down arrow next to the
Wireframe color as shown

n Select the desired color from the dialog box as shown.

Note: Any geometry on your screen will remain in the previous system
color. This change will only affect the geometry you create going forward.

Lathe 27
Getting Started Data Entry Shortcuts

DATA ENTRY SHORTCUTS

Mastercam lets you use several shortcuts to enter information into text boxes when creating geometry.
These shortcuts let you get data from an existing entity and use it when creating new geometry.

The shortcuts are as follows:

A Use "A " to input an existing angle.

D Use "D" to input an existing diameter.
L Use "L" to input an existing line length.
R Use "R " to input an existing radius.
S Use "S" to input the distance between two existing points.
X Use "X" to input an existing X coordinate.
Y Use "Y" to input an existing Y coordinate.
Z Use "Z" to input an existing Z coordinate.

To Use A Shortcut

n Type a letter (from the list above) instead of a value into the text box.
n Press Enter. Mastercam prompts you to select the existing entity from which you want to get the data.
n Select the entity you want to use.
n Mastercam displays the data it gets from the existing entity.
n Press Enter to accept the data. Type a different value and press Enter.
n Mastercam uses the data from the existing entity in creating the new entity.

Data Entry Shortcut Example

This example uses the "L" data entry shortcut to create a line.
Create a line with Endpoints of 0,0,0 and 3,0,0.
This will be the existing line from which you get data by using "L".

n Select the Wireframe tab and click on the Line Endpoints icon.
n Select the Origin as the first line Endpoint.
n Set 45 as the angle of the line and press Enter.
n Type "L" to activate the Length field and then highlight the existing value and type "L" in the field and
press Enter again.
n Mastercam prompts you to select an existing line.
n Select the existing line.
n Mastercam displays the data it gets from the existing line.
n Press Enter to accept this data.
n Select the OK button to exit.
n Mastercam creates the new line.

Lathe 28
Getting Started The Right Mouse Click Menu

THE RIGHT MOUSE CLICK MENU

Magnifies a portion of the graphics window. When you use this function, Mastercam
Zoom Window prompts you to draw a rectangular window around the portion of the graphics area that you
want to magnify.
Unzoom 80% Reduces the size of the displayed geometry to 80% of its current size.
Lets you dynamically rotate entities in the graphics window around a selected point or
position. When you choose this function from the menu or toolbar, you first select an
Dynamic Rotation
Endpoint, Point, or a position in space, and then move the mouse to rotate entities around
the selected point. Mouse click when the drawing is in the desired position.
Fit Fit screen maximizes your view of visible geometry in the graphics window.
Top Sets the graphics view to the top view.
Front Sets the graphics view to the front view.
Right Sets the graphics view to the right view.
Isometric Sets the graphics view to an isometric view.
Allows you to set the graphics view from Back, Left, Bottom, Isometric Reverse or
Gview
Trimetric.
Delete Entities Erases the selected entities.
Analyze Distances Analyzes the distance between two points.
Analyze Entity Analyzes and allows you to edit selected entity lengths, angles, positions and attributes.

Lathe 29
Getting Started AutoCursor

AUTOCURSOR
Allows the user to select Endpoints, Midpoints, Arc Center Points or various other entity points.
Mastercam prompts you to enter a point. To select a point move the cursor over the geometry on the
screen. A little square will appear on the screen and a corresponding cursor icon will be displayed.

AutoCursor options are available each time Mastercam prompts you to enter a point. You can select to over-
ride the AutoCursor or to set the defaults from the General Selection Bar.

Note: You can set the AutoCursor defaults. This will determine which entities are shown when your
cursor hovers near by.

Lathe 30
Getting Started AutoCursor

Cursor Icons

n Origin.

n Center.

n Face Center.
n Endpoint.

n Intersection.

n Midpoint.

n Midpoint 2 Points.

n Point.
n Quadrant.
n Along.

n Nearest.
n Relative.

n Tangent.
n Perpendicular.

Lathe 31
Getting Started Graphic Views, Planes & The Work Coordinate System

GRAPHIC VIEWS, PLANES & THE WORK COORDINATE SYSTEM

Mastercam uses a 3D Cartesian coordinate system to locate your work in three-dimensional space. This
means that geometry and toolpath positions are expressed in terms of three coordinate axes - X, Y, and Z.
Each axis is signed, which means that it has a positive and a negative direction.
The main tool for applying coordinate systems in Mastercam is the plane. A plane consists of two main
parts: a slice through the coordinate system and an origin, or zero point.
The Construction Plane (Cplane) is the plane in which new geometry is created.
The Tool Plane (Tplane) is the cutting plane for a toolpath, typically normal to the tool axis.
The Work Coordinate System (WCS) lets you move the coordinate system to your part geometry
instead of moving or transforming the part geometry. Think of the WCS view as defining the "Top plane"
relative to your part.

There are 9 standard Graphics Views or Planes in Mastercam.

View 1 Top.
View 2 Front.
View 3 Back.
View 4 Bottom.
View 5 Right.
View 6 Left.
View 7 Isometric.
View 8 Isometric Reverse.
View 9 Trimetric.

Lathe 32
Getting Started Setting The Construction And Tool Plane To +D+Z

SETTING THE CONSTRUCTION AND TOOL PLANE TO +D+Z

The Planes settings +D+Z apply to construction methods for geometry requiring two axes of motion, the Z
axis and a diameter value (the D value represents the diameter of X). Set the Cplane to +D+Z and
Mastercam interprets X axis values as diameter values (as opposed to radius values).

n The absolute zero or origin of the part is normally at the front face and center line of the part. The center
line forms the Z axis as shown in the following example.

n Select the Planes tab on the bottom left side of the screen as shown.

n From the Planes manager, click on the Select lathe plane button and select +D+Z as shown.

n Select Lathe Diameter and +D +Z.

Lathe 33
Getting Started Mastercam Parameter Dialog Boxes:

MASTERCAM PARAMETER DIALOG BOXES:

When you begin creating toolpaths with Mastercam® you will be required to supply information so you can
create the toolpath exactly the way you want it. Mastercam® utilizes a tree-style dialog box interface that is
made up of several distinct areas as shown.

Lathe 34
Getting Started Mastercam® Work Flow:

MASTERCAM® WORK FLOW:

The process to generate a toolpath will be repeated over and over through the tutorials in this book. You will
find the process simple and straightforward once you have programmed a few parts. Following is an outline
of the process we will follow to create programs:

1. Create the Geometry or Open the Mastercam

file and select the Machine if it is different than
Default

2. Transform the Geometry if needed, identify

the plane and locate the origin where you want
it.

3. Define the stock size that your

part will be cut from.

Lathe 35
Getting Started Mastercam® Work Flow:

4. Define the Chuck Jaws to hold the part

in place .

5. Select a toolpath operation type such as Rough.

6. Select the geometry of the part

you will cut with the selected
operation using geometry selection
tools.

7. Confirm or adjust the Chain direction,

Start Point, End Point, etc., if needed.

Lathe 36
Getting Started Mastercam® Work Flow:

8. Fill in the necessary information on the

Parameters pages of the dialog box that
appears for the toolpath type you choose.

9. Verify the toolpath on your computer

screen to confirm the results are as you
expected, using Backplot and/or Solid
Verify.

10. Make any changes as required by changing

parameters.

11. You can update the toolpath by enable Generate toolpath

in the parameters or by clicking on the Regenerate the “Dirty”
operation in the Toolpaths Manager.

Lathe 37
Getting Started Mastercam® Work Flow:

12. Verify again to make sure the toolpath is

correct.

13. Convert the graphical toolpath

information into machine code by
Post Processing and sending it to
the CNC machine.

Lathe 38
Getting Started Conventions Used In This Book:

CONVENTIONS USED IN THIS BOOK:

We have attempted to make this manual as uncluttered as possible and provide you with reference inform-
ation when it is appropriate. It is not intended to be a Reference Guide or all-encompassing user manual.
The text styles used are the followings:

Bold Text - Represents menu commands, dialog box settings or other similar items from the screen

Standard Text - Represents normal wording needed to provide you the instruction.

STEP 1: STEP TITLES

1.1 Sub step titles
Information about the current step or terms or parameter definitions describing the parameters and
description.

Note: Represents information about the process/step that is important or may require an explanation

n Bulleted text are step by step instructions that have to be followed.

TUTORIALS FILES:
The training files are mostly Mastercam files. These files are available for download at http://www.e-
mastercam.com/files/.

Lathe 39
Geometry Tools - Part 1

Lathe 40
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Introduction

INTRODUCTION
This lesson will introduce the Mastercam user interface in detail and will also teach you the first geometry cre-
ation tools that you will need for creating your own geometry to define toolpaths or for creating supplemental
geometry to graphically control the toolpath motions in Mastercam. The main goal of the geometry lessons is
to give you the basic understanding of how to create geometry in Mastercam so that you can practice to
become as proficient as your job requires.

OVERVIEW OF EXERCISE:
In this lesson we will become familiar with the Mastercam screen components and learn tools and shortcuts
to begin creating basic line geometry shapes.

NEW CONCEPTS COVERED IN THIS LESSON:

n The important components of the Mastercam Interface.
n Important Function Key shortcuts.
n How to create a Point knowing its Position.
n Line Creation - Several line creation methods with emphasis on Endpoints and Parallel.
n How to Delete Geometry.
n Fillet Creation.
n How to Trim and Extend Lines.
n How to Create Rectangles and Rectangular Shapes.

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION PREVIEW

Note: This entire lesson is a joint Instructor / Student exercise.

Topics:

n Mastercam Interface
n Point Position
n Line Endpoints
n Line Parallel
n Rectangle
n Fillet
n Trim

Lathe 41
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Geometry Tools Part 1: Basic Steps Reference

GEOMETRY TOOLS PART 1: BASIC STEPS REFERENCE

In this first lesson the students and instructor will work through the topics as a group.

EXPLORE MASTERCAM INTERFACE

1. Load the part: DRAWING #1.MCAM

We will do a “Preview” of some of the
different components of the Mastercam
screen. Goal is just to see where things are,
not to master their usage yet.

2. Tabs - Buttons -
Submenus - Tooltips
Like many Windows programs,
many have submenus or
options. We will not go through
any specific at this point, just
review how they work.

3. Quick Access Toolbar

User can customize to add often used functions.

4. The ESC (Escape) Key

(Master key for ending most functions)

Lathe 42
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Explore Mastercam Interface

5. The View Tab

Provides access to many
of the options to control
the Mastercam layout.

6. Zoom Commands
(Since these commands are used extensively, it may be useful to memorize
the keyboard shortcut keys)

n Fit (Alt+F1)
n Zoom Window(F1)
n Un-Zoom 80% (Alt+F2)
n Un-Zoom Previous / 50% (F2)
n Repaint (F3)

7. Graphic Views
n Standard View Choices RMB (Right Mouse
Button options)
n Free Spin rotation with middle mouse button
n Zoom in and out with middle mouse wheel

8. Appearance
n Wireframe Choices
n Shaded Choices
n Appearance
n Stock Display options
n Shaded and Wireframe Display of Solid Alt+S

Lathe 43
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Explore Mastercam Interface

9. Axis and Gnomon

Display

n F9
n Alt+F9

10. The Manager Panel

(Preview of the location and purpose only.
Functions to be covered when needed.)

11. MRU (Most Recently Used) Panel Preview

12. Quick Mask Preview

(Select all versus Select only)

Lathe 44
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Point Position Command

13. Status Bar

14. Wireframe Tab preview

(We will focus on Lines )

POINT POSITION COMMAND

Note: The following instructor led training exercises cover different basic geometry creation commands.
The student has to complete the right side geometry based on the left side geometry and dimensions.

n From the Quick Access Toolbar (QAT),

select the Open icon.

n Select CREATE_POINT_POS.MCAM.

1. Set Auto Cursor in the Selection

Bar
Instructor recommended settings:
n From the General Selection
Toolbar select the AutoCursor
Configuration icon.
n Set the settings as shown.

Lathe 45
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Line Endpoints & Parallel Commands

2. Point Position

Note: Make sure that you are in the Lathe +D+Z plane.
Create the points on the right side of the drawing to match
the left side. To enter the coordinates, enter first the d
value, and z value.-3.5,2.25

Wireframe

n Select Point Position.

n Use the AutoCursor options to insert the points at the Endpoint, Midpoint, Intersection,
Quadrant, Origin and Center locations. As Mastercam detects and snaps to the points, it displays a
temporary square over the point and the corresponding cursor icon.

n Enter the coordinate values for the first point as shown.

n Press Enter from the keyboard to see the point created.

n Enter the coordinate values for the second point as shown.

n Press Enter from the keyboard to see the point created.

Note: Mastercam can perform simple math operations such

as addition, abstracting, multiplications and divisions.
Demonstrate how to change to Relative when entering the
coordinates.

LINE ENDPOINTS & PARALLEL COMMANDS

Resources - Download the file from www.EMASTERCAM.COM/TRAININGFILES/

n From the QAT, select

the Open icon.

n Select CREATE
LINES.MCAM

Lathe 46
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Line Endpoints & Parallel Commands

1. Line Endpoints
Wireframe

n Select Line Endpoints.

Note: The Cplane is set to +D+Z. Any time you need to enter a value along the D axis that value is a
diameter value and the actual offset is just half of it.

n Enable the Horizontal option in the

Line Endpoints panel.
n Sketch the endpoints of the horizontal
line approximately at the same
location from the X and Y axes as per
the left side drawing.
n In the Axis Offset box enter 3.0 as
the
D coordinate.
n Press the Enter key to position the
line.
n Press Enter again to finish the line or
select the OK and Create New
Operation button to continue in the

same command.

n Enable the Vertical option in

the Line Endpoints panel.
n Sketch the endpoints of the
vertical line approximately at
the same location from the X
and Z axes as per the left
side drawing.
n In the Axis Offset box enter
1.0 as the
Z coordinate.
n Press the Enter key to
position the line.
n Press Enter again to finish
the line or select the OK and
Create New Operation
button to continue in the
same command.

Lathe 47
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Line Endpoints & Parallel Commands

n Select the Freeform button in the

Line Endpoints panel.
n Type the coordinate values for the
first point (-1.0,-1.25) and press
Enter.

Note: Select the AutoCursor

Fast Point icon if needed to open
the coordinates’ field or press the
Space bar.

n Type the coordinate values for the

second point (-3.5,-2.5) and press
Enter.
n Select the OK and Create New
Operation button to continue in
the same command.

n In the Line
Endpoints panel,
input a Length of 3.0
and an Angle of -
25.0.
n Pick the Origin
(center of the Grid) as
the first endpoint.
n Select the OK button
to exit the command.

Lathe 48
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Rectangle Commands

2. Line Parallel
Wireframe

n Select Line Endpoints.

n Select the existing line and indicate the offset

direction by clicking below the existing line
n In the Line Parallel panel, enter an Offset
Distance of 0.5. Press Enter.
n Select the OK button to exit the command.

RECTANGLE COMMANDS
Resources - Download the file from www.EMASTERCAM.COM/TRAININGFILES/

n From the QAT, select

the Open icon.

n Select CREATE_
RECTANGLE.MCAM
n Ensure that you are in
the +D+Z plane.

3. Rectangles

n From the Shapes

group, select
Rectangle icon as
shown.

n Type the Width and the Height values, and make sure that you select the point placement that you
know the coordinate values as per the drawing (0,0).
n Reselect the command to change the anchor to Center and press Space to enter the coordinates:
(5,2).

Lathe 49
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Fillet Commands

FILLET COMMANDS
Resources - Download the file from www.EMASTERCAM.COM/TRAININGFILES/

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select FILLET.MCAM

1. Fillet Entities

The Fillet Entities command creates an arc of a defined radius tangent to the curves.

n From the Modify group,

select Fillet Entities as
shown.

Note: The Fillet command creates an arc of a defined radius tangent to the lines. By default Trim
entities is enabled and Mastercam trims the curves to the fillet; although you have the option to
turn off trimming. Always select the entities on the side you want to keep after filleting.

n Enter a fillet Radius of 0.25.

n The settings for the far right corner should be as follows: Enable
the fillet method Normal and Trim entities.

Lathe 50
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Fillet Commands

n Select the OK and Create New Operation button to continue in

the same command.
n The settings for the next corner from the right side should be as
follows: Enable the fillet method Inverse and keep Trim entities
enabled.

n Select the OK and Create New Operation button to continue in

the same command.
n The settings for the next corner from the right side should be as
follows: Enable the fillet method Clearance and Trim entities.

n Select the OK and Create New Operation button to continue in

the same command.
n The settings for the next corner from the right side should be as
follows: Enable the fillet method Circle and Trim entities.
n Select the OK and Create New Operation button to continue in
the same command.

Lathe 51
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Fillet Commands

2. Fillet Chains

The Fillet Chain command lets you create fillets at sharp corners along selected chains of curves.

n From the Modify group, click on the drop down arrow below Fillet Entities and
select Fillet Chains as shown.

n When the Chaining dialog box appears enable the Partial button as shown.

n [Select the first entity]: Select the horizontal line

as shown below.

Lathe 52
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Trim Commands

n [Select the last entity]: Select the vertical line

as shown below.
n Choose the OK button to exit the chaining
dialog box.
n In the Fillet Chains panel enter a Radius
of 0.25.
n Enable the fillet method Normal and Trim
entities.
n Select the OK button to exit the command.

TRIM COMMANDS
Resources - Download the file from www.EMASTERCAM.COM/TRAININGFILES/

n From the QAT, select the

Open icon.
n Select TRIM.MCAM

Lathe 53
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Dynamic Trim

DYNAMIC TRIM

Wireframe

n From Modify
group select
Dynamic Trim.

STEP 1: TRIM AUTO

Trim 1 entity: trims or extends one

entity to its intersection with a second
entity without modifying the second
entity.

n In the Dynamic Trim panel, make

sure that the Type is set to Trim.
n As Method, enable Auto.
n Select the entity you wish to
trim/extend and the entity you want
to trim/extend the selected entity
to.
n When you move the cursor over
the second entity you should see
some hidden lines. These lines
represent what will be trimmed as
shown.

Note: Trim 1 entity option works

the same way.

STEP 2: TRIM 1 ENTITY

n In the Dynamic Trim panel, make sure that the Type is set to Trim.
n As Method, enable Trim 1 entity.

Note: You can also click outside of the line to be extended, hold down
the mouse and drag the cursor over the line and up to the line to trim to
as shown. Some times this method might be harder to use. Both
methods are valid.

Lathe 54
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Step 3: Trim 2 Entities

STEP 3: TRIM 2 ENTITIES

Trim 2 entities: trims or extends both

entities to their intersection.

n In the Dynamic Trim panel, enable Trim

2 entities.
n Select the first entity you wish trim and
then move the cursor over to the second
entity.
When you move the cursor over the second
entity you should see some hidden lines.
These lines represent what will be trimmed as
shown. Ensure that you select the end of the
entity you intend to keep.
You can use Auto selection and double click
on the second entity.

Note: You can also click outside of the corner, hold down the
mouse and drag the cursor around the corner in the area to keep
the lines after trimming as shown.

STEP 4: TRIM 3 ENTITIES

Trim 3 entities: trims or extends all three

entities. The first two entities that you select are
trimmed to the third selected entity, which acts
as a trimming curve. The third entity is then
trimmed to the first two
entities.

n In the Dynamic Trim panel, enable Trim 3

entities.
n Select the entities to trim on the side that you
want to keep after trimming as shown.

Note: You can also click outside of one of the parallel line, hold the
mouse down and drag the cursor above the other parallel line and to
the line up to which both parallel line are trimmed as shown.

Lathe 55
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Step 5: Divide

STEP 5: DIVIDE

Divide: trims a line or an arc into two disjointed segments by removing the segment that lies between two
dividing entities. When you move your mouse cursor over the point where you wish to divide the entities a
hidden line should appear showing you the entities which will be removed. Divide will delete isolated
entities with no intersections. Entities with a single point of intersection at an endpoint will also be deleted.

n In the Dynamic Trim panel, make sure Trim is

enabled.
n Select the parts of the entity to be removed as
shown.

Note: You can also, hold the mouse down and drag the cursor
above the areas that need to be removed creating a path as
shown.

STEP 6: TRIM TO POINT

Trim to point: trims or extends a curve to a point or any defined position in the graphics window. If the
point that you enter does not lie on the selected entity, Mastercam calculates the closest position on the
entity and trims the entity to that point.

n In the Dynamic Trim panel, make sure Trim

is enabled.
n Select the line and then pick the point. The line
will be extended to be perpendicular to the
point.

Lathe 56
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Step 6: Trim To Point

SUMMARY:
In this first hands-on lesson, you were introduced to several of the basic procedures you will soon learn to
use over and over again to create geometry as needed so you can generate toolpaths accurately. After com-
pleting this lesson and some of the practice exercises that follow you should be able to:

n Have an understanding of where to find items in Mastercam.

n Create Point Position.
n Create Line Endpoints.
n Create Parallel Lines from an existing line.
n Delete Entities and Undelete Entities (Lines)
n Create Rectangular and Rectangular Shapes.
n Fillet Entities
n Trim and Extend Lines.
n Use the Windows “UNDO and REDO” functions.

Lathe 57
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Exercise - Create Drawing #1

EXERCISE - CREATE DRAWING #1

Job Description:

Create the geometry using the following commands:

n Rectangle.
n Line Endpoints.
n Fillet Entities.
n Trim 1 Entity.

Lathe 58
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Exercise - Create Drawing #1

1. Create a Rectangle

Wireframe

n From the Shapes group

select the Rectangle
icon.

n In the Rectangle panel, enter the values as

shown

n Select the Origin (middle of the grid) as the rectangle anchor.

n Press Alt + F1 to fit the geometry to the screen.
n Select the OK button to exit the command.

2. Create Line Endpoints

n From the Lines group, select Line Endpoints.

n Enable the Horizontal icon and draw (sketch) the first horizontal line.

n Enter the Axis Offset = 0.39.

n Press Enter twice or select OK and Create New
Operation to finish the line.

Lathe 59
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Exercise - Create Drawing #1

n Draw the second line.

n Enter the Axis Offset = 0.625.
n Select OK and Create New Operation to finish the line.

n Draw the third horizontal line.

n Enter the Axis Offset = 1.17.
n Select OK and Create New Operation to finish the line.

n Enable the Vertical icon and draw (sketch) the vertical line.

n Enter the Axis Offset = -1.50.

n Select OK and Create New Operation to finish
the line.

n Draw the second vertical line.

n Enter the Axis Offset = -2.0.
n Select OK and Create New Operation to finish the line.
n Select the OK button to exit the command.

Lathe 60
Geometry Tools - Part 1 Exercise - Create Drawing #1

3. Create Fillet entities

n From the Modify group,

select Fillet Entities.
n Enter the Radius =
0.1875".

n Select the two lines between which you need to create

fillet. Repeat the step 4 times.
n Note that the lines are automatically trimmed with the
arc. This is because the Trim entities option was by
default enabled.
n Select the OK button to exit the command.

4. Create Trim 1 entities

n From the Modify group,

select Dynamic Trim.
n Enable Trim 1 entity.

n First select the horizontal line as the entity to trim/extend.

n Second select the vertical line up to which you are
trimming /extending the first line.
n Repeat the step to trim the second end of the horizontal
line.

Lathe 61
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths

Lathe 62
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Drawing #2

DRAWING #2

Full size drawings can be found at the back of the book

Job Description:

Create the geometry as shown above following the suggested commands:

n Rectangle.
n Line Parallel.
n Line Endpoints.
n Fillet.

Lathe 63
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Toolpaths Information:

TOOLPATHS INFORMATION:
The following are brief descriptions of the toolpath types used in this exercise. (For more detailed information, see the
Mastercam Help.)

Face toolpaths are used to rough

and finish part walls. Multiple
depths and passes can be applied
to control stock removal and finish
quality.

Rough toolpaths are used for

simple ramps and trimming
cuts. The cutter moves in the
X, Y, and Z direction
simultaneously.

Lathe 64
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Instructor Demonstration Preview:

Finish toolpaths are

used to bevel the
edge of a 2D contour.

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION PREVIEW:

Note: This entire lesson is a joint Instructor / Student exercise.

Topics

n Create 2D Geometry
n Job Setup
n Partial Chain
n Lathe Face (flipped side)
n Lathe Rough
n Lathe Finish
n Verify Toolpaths
n Toolpath Changes

Lathe 65
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Rough Toolpath Part 1: Basic Steps Reference

ROUGH TOOLPATH PART 1: BASIC STEPS REFERENCE

In this lesson the students and instructor will work through the topics as a group.

STEP 1: CREATE AND LOCATE PART GEOMETRY

In this step you will create the geometry using the following commands: rectangle, line parallel, line
endpoints, fillet and delete.

Step Preview:

1.1 Create the part and save it as DRAWING#2.MCAM

STEP 2: MACHINE DEFINITION

The Machine Definition is a model of your machine tool's capabilities and features and acts like a
template for setting up machining jobs. It is a schematic model of your machine tool's components (such as
which linear and rotary axes are present), how they are connected together, and kinematics settings such
as maximum motion rates.

n The machine definition is tightly integrated with the control definition and post processor.

The Control Definition tells the post processor about your control's capabilities and requirements. It
initializes many NC settings and post variables. The control definition tells Mastercam which post
processors have been configured for this machine. Most machine and control definitions are only
configured for a single post processor.

Note: A special program called the Post processor reads your Mastercam file and writes the
appropriate NC code. Generally each machine will require its own post.

2.1 Load the Lathe Default

n From the Machine tab, select

Lathe and Default.

Lathe 66
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Step 3: Create The Job Setup

STEP 3: CREATE THE JOB SETUP

In this step you will supply Mastercam with information about tool settings, stock size, and chuck jaws
before starting to create the toolpaths.

3.1 Set the Tool settings

n Expand the Properties in the

Toolpath Manager.
n Click the plus (+) sign if the Files,
Tool Settings and Stock Setup are
not visible as shown.
n Select the Tool settings and
change the parameters as shown.
n Program # = 1.
n Feed Calculation set to From
Tool.
n Enable Assign tool numbers
sequentially.
n Enable Warn of duplicate tool
numbers.
n Enable Advanced Options.

REFERENCE INFORMATION
Default program number identifies the program in the output NC machine code.
Feed Calculation from tool uses the feed rate, plunge rate, and spindle speed directly from the tool definition.
Assign tool numbers sequentially assigns the next available tool number. This option overrides the tool numbers
stored in the tool definition from the Mastercam library.
Warn of duplicate tool numbers informs you when a duplicate tool number is entered and displays a description of
the duplicate tool.
Override defaults with model values overrides the default values for any of the checked items with the value from
the previous operation.

Lathe 67
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Step 3: Create The Job Setup

3.2 Set the Stock settings

n Make sure that the Stock Plane is

set to Top.

n Select the Stock Setup tab.

n Enable Left Spindle.
n Set the stock size by selecting Properties.

n Set the Geometry to

Cylinder.
n Set the OD = 7.0".
n Length = 6.0".
n Z = 0".
n Axis -Z.
n Enable Use Margins.
n OD Margin = 0.0".
n Right margin = 0.125".
n Left margin = 0.125".
n Click OK button to exit the
Machine Component
Manager - Stock dialog
box.

Lathe 68
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Step 3: Create The Job Setup

3.3 Set the Chuck Jaw

n Enable Left Spindle.

n Set the chuck size and the location by
selecting Properties.

n In the Geometry dialog box, leave the default parameters for the chuck geometry as shown.

Lathe 69
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Step 3: Create The Job Setup

n In the
Parameters,make
sure Clamping
Method is set to
Outside diameter
(OD).
n In the Position
enable From
stock, Grip on
maximum
diameter.
n Grip length = 0.5".
n Select the Preview
Lathe Boundaries
button to check the
stock and the chuck.

n The stock should look as shown.

n Press Enter to continue.
n Click OK button to exit the Machine
Component Manager dialog box.
n Click OK button to exit the Machine Group
Properties dialog box.

Lathe 70
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Step 4: Face Toolpath Selection

STEP 4: FACE TOOLPATH SELECTION

The Lathe Face toolpath prepares the face of the part for further machining. Once the face of the part is clean, you
can use it to set tools or determine tool offsets.
You do not need to chain any geometry to create the toolpath. Instead, the Face Parameters tab gives you two
ways to specify how much stock to remove:
Choose Select Points to return to the graphics window and select two points which represent opposite corners of
a rectangle.
Use the stock boundary.

4.1 Select the Face toolpath

Turning

n From the General group, select the Face icon as

shown.

4.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select the OD Rough

Right 80 deg tool.
n Make sure the Tool/Offset
Number is set to 1.
n Set the Coolant Flood
On.
n In the Home Position
area, enable User defined
and click on the Define
button.

n Set the parameters as shown.

Lathe 71
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Step 4: Face Toolpath Selection

n Enable the Reference Points and

enable Retract only and enter X =
0.0, Z= 10.0 (Absolute)

A reference point is a location that the

tool moves to between the home
position and the start or end of the
toolpath. You can create separate
reference points for both approach and
retract moves.

4.3 Set the Face Parameters

n Make sure that Use

stock is enabled.
n Finish Z = 0".
n Entry amount = 0.1"
(sets the distance from
the stock that the cutter
starts to feed).
n Rough stepover =
0.06" (sets the amount
of stock that gets
removed during each
rough cut).
n Finish stepover =
0.01" (sets the amount
of stock that gets
removed during each
finish cut).
n Overcut amount =
0.03" (sets the distance
that the tool cuts past
the part center line).
n Retract amount =
0.1" (sets the distance
the tool moves away
from the face of the part
before it rapids to the
start of the next cut).
n Stock to leave = 0.0".

Lathe 72
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Step 4: Face Toolpath Selection

4.4 Establish the cutter compensation type and direction.

n Cutter compensation set to Computer and the compensation direction set to

Left.

Note: Compensation types give you the ability to compensate for the radius of the cutting tool. There are
four compensation types: computer, control, wear and reverse wear.

n Control this parameter outputs a command for cutter compensation in the

G-code. You need to enter the tool diameter in the machine controller.
n Computer this parameter builds the cutter compensation directly into the
Mastercam toolpath.
n Wear combines both compensations in computer and in the control. You
would enter the difference between the selected tool size in Mastercam
and the reground tool size at the controller.
n Reverse wear combines both compensations in computer and in control.
If the difference between the selected tool size in Mastercam and the
reground tool size is negative, the system automatically reverses the
compensation. This is used for controllers that do not accept negative
offset values.
n Off select "Off" and the system will ignore cutter compensation within the
computer. Used with engraving toolpaths.

Lathe 73
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Step 4: Face Toolpath Selection

4.5 Backplot the Lathe Face toolpath

Backplotting shows the path the tools take to cut the part. This display lets you spot errors in the program
before you machine the part. As you backplot toolpaths, Mastercam displays additional information such
as the X, Y, and Z coordinates, the path length, the minimum and maximum coordinates and the cycle
time. It also shows any collisions between the workpiece and the tool.

n From Toolpaths Manager, select the Backplot selected

operations button.

n In the Backplot dialog box the following settings should be

enabled as shown.

n To fit the workpiece onto the screen,

right mouse click in the graphics
window and select the Fit icon.

n You can step through the Backplot by

using the Step forward or Step
back buttons.
n You can adjust the speed of the
backplot.
n Select the Play Simulation button in
the VCR bar to run Backplot.

n Select the OK button to exit Backplot

dialog box.

Lathe 74
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Step 5: Rough Toolpath Selection

4.6 Verify the Lathe Face toolpath

n To start Verify, from the Toolpaths Manager, select the

Verify selected operations icon as shown.

Note: Mastercam launches a new window that allows you to check the part using Backplot or Verify.

n Change the settings for the Visibility as shown.

n Select the Play button in the VCR bar to run

Verify.

n To see the part from an Isometric view, right

click in the graphics window and select the
Isometric view.
n To go back to the Mastercam window, minimize
the Mastercam Simulator window as shown.

STEP 5: ROUGH TOOLPATH SELECTION

The Lathe Rough toolpath allows you to quickly remove large amounts of stock in preparation for a finish
pass. Roughing passes are typically straight cuts parallel to the Z-axis; however, you can set options for
plunging into undercut areas. Standard rough toolpaths also include a semi-finish option, in which the
roughing tool makes a final pass which follows the part contour, like a finish pass.

5.1 Select the Rough toolpath

Turning

n From the General group,

select the Rough icon as
shown.

Lathe 75
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Step 5: Rough Toolpath Selection

5.2 Select the geometry

n In the Chaining dialog box the

Partial button should be enabled
as shown.
n Select the First entry of the chain
and the Last entity of the chain as
shown.

5.3 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select the existing OD

Rough Right 80 deg tool.
n Set the Tool/Offset
Number to 1.
n Set the Coolant Flood
On.
n Set the Home Position to
User Defined X7; Z11.

Lathe 76
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Step 5: Rough Toolpath Selection

5.4 Set the Rough Parameters

n Make sure that Overlap is enabled

to overlap the previous cut before
making the next cut.
n Entry amount = 0.1" (set the
distance from the stock that the
cutter starts to feed).
n Enable Equal steps.
n Depth of cut = 0.06" (sets the
amount of stock that gets removed
during each cutting pass).
n Minimum cut depth = 0.05"
(determines the smallest cut that
can be taken per pass).
n Stock to leave in X = 0.004".
n Stock to leave in Z= 0.004".
n Cutting method set to One-way
and the Rough Direction/Angle
= 0.
n Set the Cutter compensation to
Computer and to the Right.
n Stock Recognition set to Use
stock for outer boundary.

n Select Lead In/Out and in the Lead

in tab, leave Use entry vector.
n Angle = 180.0 degrees.
n Length = 0.1.

Lathe 77
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Step 5: Rough Toolpath Selection

n Set in the Lead out, the Exit

Vector to Angle =45 and
Length = 0.1".

5.5 Backplot the Roughing Toolpath

Lathe 78
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Step 6: Lathe Finish Toolpath Selection

STEP 6: LATHE FINISH TOOLPATH SELECTION

The Lathe Finish toolpath is used to have the tool follow the contour of chained geometry. Typically, a finish
toolpath follows a roughing toolpath, but this is not required.
Mastercam supports finish toolpaths for OD, ID, face, and back face applications. You can also automatically break
corners with either a radius or chamfer.

6.1 Select the Finish toolpath

Turning

n From the
General
group, select
the Finish
icon as shown.

n In the Wireframe Chaining dialog box, click on the Last button.

Mastercam will select the same chain as the one selected in the previous
operation.
n Select the OK button to continue.

6.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select the OD Finish

Right 55 deg tool.
n Make sure that the
Tool/Offset Number is
set to 2.
n Set the Coolant Flood
On.
n Set the Home Position
to User Defined X 7.0;
Z11.0.

Lathe 79
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Step 6: Lathe Finish Toolpath Selection

6.3 Set the Finish Parameters

n Stock to leave in X = 0.0".

n Stock to leave in Z = 0.0".
n Finish Direction set to OD.
n Set the Tool Compensation
to Computer and to the
Right.

n Select Lead In/Out button.

n In the Lead in, make sure Use entry vector Angle is set to 180 and Length set to 0.1".
n In the Lead out, set the Exit Vector to Angle = 45 and Length = 0.1".

6.4 Backplot the Finishing Toolpath

6.5 Verify all toolpaths

n Select the Select All Operations button in the Toolpaths

Manager.

n Select the Verify button in the Toolpaths Manager.

Lathe 80
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Step 7: Lathe Stock Flip Toolpath

n Select the Play button to run

Verify.
n The part should look as shown.

n To see the part from an Isometric view

right click in the graphics window and
select the Isometric view.
n Right mouse click in the graphics window
and select the Top view.

STEP 7: LATHE STOCK FLIP TOOLPATH

The Lathe Stock Fliptoolpath lets you program operations on the opposite side or back of a lathe part in
the same Mastercam file. Stock flip operations output a comment and program stop in the NC code, which
lets the operator manually remove the stock and reposition (flip) it in the chuck.

7.1 Flip the Part using The Stock Flip Toolpath

Turning

n From the Part

Handling group,
select the Stock
Flip icon as
shown.

Lathe 81
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Step 7: Lathe Stock Flip Toolpath

n Leave Transfer geometry

enabled and click on the Select
button and select the entire
geometry (Ctrl +A).
n Disable Blank original geometry
and in the Level options enable
Offset by 10 as shown. The
geometry to be machined will be
moved to Level 12 since the
current geometry is on level 2.

7.2 Set the Stock Position

n Original Position Z = 0.0".

n Transferred Position Z = -6.0".

7.3 Set the Chuck Position

n Leave Original Position

D = 7.0; Z = -5.625.
n Final Position D = 7; Z =-0.5.
n Select OK to transfer the stock.

n Click on the Levels tab and make only Level 12 visible.

Lathe 82
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Step 8: Face The Flipped Side

n The geometry should look as shown.

STEP 8: FACE THE FLIPPED SIDE

8.1 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select the existing OD Rough Right 80
deg tool.
n Set the Tool/Offset Number to 1.
n Set the Coolant On.
n Enable Force tool change to avoid any
collisions due to the flip stock operation.

Lathe 83
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Step 9: Post Processing The File

8.2 Set the Face

Parameters
n Make sure that Use stock is
enabled.
n Finish Z = 0".
n Entry amount = 0.1".
n Rough stepover = 0.06".
n Finish stepover = 0.01".
n Overcut amount = 0.03".
n Retract amount = 0.1".
n Stock to leave = 0.0".
n Set the Cutter
compensation to
Computer and to the Left.

8.3 Backplot the toolpath

STEP 9: POST PROCESSING THE FILE

A Post Processor is a program that converts a toolpath, which contains all the information necessary to machine a
part into an NC program. This code is required by a particular machine and control combination to machine the part.
A generic post processor and a control definition must be customized for the specific machine and control
combination. A post customizing file (*.PST) describes the post processor, including the miscellaneous integers
used, canned text values, debugging and program switches, system variables, format statements, etc.

9.1 Post Process All Toolpaths

n Select the Post selected operations button

in the Toolpaths Manager.

Lathe 84
Face, Rough & Finish Toolpaths Step 9: Post Processing The File

n Accept the NC name.

n Save the file.

n Mastercam
Code Expert
will be lunched
and the G code
will displayed as
shown.

Note: The NC program may be saved and sent directly to the machine.

Lathe 85
Geometry Tools - Part 2

Lathe 86
Geometry Tools - Part 2 Introduction:

INTRODUCTION:
This lesson will further your knowledge of the geometry creation tools that you will need for creating your
own geometry to define toolpaths or for creating supplemental geometry to graphically control the toolpath
motions in Mastercam. The main goal of the geometry lessons is to give you the basic understanding of how
to create geometry in Mastercam so that you can practice to become as proficient as your job requires.
While Mastercam offers a large number of geometry creation tools, this workbook focuses on fundamental
tools for most shapes. Other geometry tools work in a similar manner to the ones shown in this lesson and
can be used as needed for unique constructions. We have selected what we consider to be the most useful
tools.

OVERVIEW OF EXERCISE:
In this lesson we will continue to become familiar with the Mastercam screen components and learn tools
and shortcuts to begin creating basic curved 2D geometry shapes. We will also be introduced to some spe-
cialty geometry tools that are useful for preparing geometry for toolpaths.

NEW CONCEPTS COVERED IN THIS LESSON:

n Arcs.
n Tangent Lines.
n Tangent Arcs.
n Chamfer Creation.
n Mirror
n How to Delete Duplicate Geometry.
n How to Break and Join Geometry.

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION PREVIEW:

Note: This entire lesson is a joint Instructor / Student exercise. No instructor demo for this lesson.

Topics:

n Create Circles
n Create Arcs
n Create Tangent Lines and Arcs
n Create Chamfers
n Break, Delete Duplicates and Join
entities
n Overview of remaining Wireframe tab
Items

Lathe 87
Geometry Tools - Part 2 Circle Center Point

Note: In this lesson the students and instructor will work through the topics as a group.

CREATE CIRCLES AND ARCS COMMAND

Resources - Download the file from www.EMASTERCAM.COM/TRAININGFILES/

n From the QAT,

select the Open

icon.
n Select CREATE_
ARC.MCAM

CIRCLE CENTER POINT

Wireframe / Circle Center Point

n In the Circle Center Point panel, enter a Radius of 1.0

and select the point as the center location.
n Select the OK and Create New Operation button to

continue in the same command.

n Enter a Diameter of 1.0 and select the point as the center

location.
n Select the OK and Create New Operation button to

continue in the same command.

Lathe 88
Geometry Tools - Part 2 Arc Endpoints

n Enter a Diameter of 0.5

and lock it by selecting the
icon.
n Select the point as the
center location.
n Select the OK button to
exit.

ARC ENDPOINTS

Wireframe / Arc Endpoints

n From the Arcs group, click on the drop

down arrow on Circle Edge Point and
select Arc Endpoints.

n Enter a Radius of 0.25 (you can lock the

value). Select the first point, then the
second point. The system gives all possible
results. Select the arc that you want to
keep.
n Choose the OK and Create New
Operation button to continue in the same

command.

n Following the same steps create the other arc.

n Select the OK button to exit Arc Endpoints panel.

Lathe 89
Geometry Tools - Part 2 Create Tangent Arcs

LOOK AT OTHER OPTIONS IN THE ARCS GROUP

Note: No live exercises. These tools work similar to the ones used and are for specialized purposes. For
more information see the Mastercam Help.

REFERENCE INFORMATION Angle Measurement

Mastercam measures positive angles in a Counter Clock Wise (CCW) direction as shown in the following
picture. It also creates the arcs in a CCW direction.

Note: The same angle can be given as a positive angle 335 degrees or as a negative value -25 degrees.

CREATE TANGENT ARCS

Resources - Download the file from www.EMASTERCAM.COM/TRAININGFILES/

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select CREATE_ARC_
TANGENT.MCAM

n From the Wireframe

tab, in the Arcs group,
select Arc Tangent.

Lathe 90
Geometry Tools - Part 2 Create Tangent Arcs

Note: In the Arc Tangent panel are 7 methods that allow you to create a tangent arc. Hover above the
method to see an explanation about all of the methods available.

1. Arc Tangent 1 Entity

n In the Arc Tangent panel, in the Method, select the Arc
one entity.
n Input a Radius of 0.5. Select the entity that the arc is to be
tangent to, then select the top quadrant point of the circle.
Mastercam will create 4 separate arcs.
n Select the arc you wish to keep.
n Select the OK and Create New Operation button to

continue in the same command.

2. Arc Tangent to 3 Entities

n Select the Arc three entities in the Arc Tangent panel.
n Select the three entities at the approximate tangent points.

3. Arc Tangent to 2 Entities

n Select the Arc two entities in the Arc Tangent panel.
n Input the Radius of 1.5. Select the two circles and pick the arc you
wish to keep. this will create an arc which is tangent between the
two circles.
n Pick the OK button to exit the command.

Lathe 91
Geometry Tools - Part 2 Create Tangent Lines

4. Arc Tangent Through Point

n In the Arc Tangent panel, in the
Method, select the Arc one point.
n Input a Radius of 1.0. Select the entity
that the arc is to be tangent to (the
line), then select the point.
n Select the arc you wish to keep.

Note: The line and the arc are not

trimmed.

n Select the OK and Create New

Operation button to continue in the
same command.

CREATE TANGENT LINES

Resources - Download the file from www.EMASTERCAM.COM/TRAININGFILES/

n From the QAT, select the

Open icon.
n Select CREATE_LINE_
TANGENT.MCAM

n From the Wireframe tab, in the Lines group, select Line

Endpoints.

Lathe 92
Geometry Tools - Part 2 Create Tangent Lines

n In the Line Endpoints panel, ensure that the Freeform and

Tangent are enabled.

1. Tangent Line At an Angle

n Enter a line Length of 2.0 and an Angle of 10.0.
n Select the arc close to where you want to create the tangent line.

Note: When you are selecting the arc, make sure that you are not
selecting a Quadrant point, Midpoint, or Endpoint.

n Multiple solutions may be possible.

n Select the line to keep.
n Press Enter key to continue in the same command.

2. Tangent Line Through a Point

n Select the arc and move the cursor to select the point for the
tangent line to pass through (the Origin).
n Press Enter key to continue in the same command.

3. Tangent Line to Two Arcs

n Select the two arcs close to where you want to create
the tangent line.
n Select the OK button to exit the command.

Note: When you are selecting the arc, make sure that
you are not selecting a Quadrant point, Midpoint, or
Endpoint.

Lathe 93
Geometry Tools - Part 2 Chamfer Entities

CREATE CHAMFER COMMANDS

Resources - Download the file from www.EMASTERCAM.COM/TRAININGFILES/

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select CHAMFER.MCAM

CHAMFER ENTITIES
Chamfer Entities command allows you to insert a chamfer at a sharp corner between two entities.

1. Chamfer 1 Distance

n Wireframe
n From the Modify group, select the Chamfer Entities icon.
n In the Chamfer Entities panel, enable 1 Distance, Trim
entities and enter the Distance 1 = 0.25".

Note: By default the Trim entities option is enabled and Mastercam trims the curves to the
chamfer; although you have the option to turn off trimming. Always select the entities on the side
you want to keep after chamfering.

Lathe 94
Geometry Tools - Part 2 Chamfer Entities

n Select the two lines at the front corner.

n Select the OK and Create New Operation button to
continue in the same command.

2. Chamfer 2 Distances

n In the Chamfer Entities panel, enable 2 Distances and keep

Trim entities.
n Enter Distance 1 = 0.25"; Distance 2 = 0.125".
n Select first the horizontal line and then the vertical line of the
second corner from the right side.
n Select the OK and Create New Operation button to continue
in the same command.
n The geometry should look as shown.

3. Chamfer Distance and Angle

n In the Chamfer Entities panel, enable Distance and

Angle and Trim entities.
n Enter Distance 1 = 0.375"; Angle = 30.
n Select the horizontal line first and then the vertical line of
the third corner.
n Select the OK and Create New Operation button to
continue in the same command.
n The geometry should look as shown.

4. Chamfer Width

n In the Chamfer Entities panel, enable Width

and Trim entities.
n Enter the Width = 0.375". Select the horizontal
and vertical lines of the last corner.
n Select the OK button.

Lathe 95
Geometry Tools - Part 2 Chamfer Chains

CHAMFER CHAINS
Chamfer Chain command allows you to chamfer entities that have sharp corners and can be recognized as a
single chained entity (i.e., rectangles and polygons).

n From the Modify group, click on the

arrow below Chamfer Entities and
select the Chamfer Chains.
n For this example, the Chamfer Chain
command lets you create chamfers at
sharp corners along selected chains of
curves.
n Select one of the lines and then the OK
button to exit the Chaining dialog box.

n Enable Distance and Trim entities.

n Enter the Distance: = 0.125".
n Select the OK button to exit the command.

n The geometry should look as shown.

Lathe 96
Geometry Tools - Part 2 Break Two Pieces

BREAK
Break commands give you options to break curves into multiple segments.

Resources - Download the file from www.EMASTERCAM.COM/TRAININGFILES/

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Open BREAK.MCAM

BREAK TWO PIECES

Wireframe

n In the Modify group, select Break Two

Pieces.
n Select the entity to break, then select the
midpoint where you want to break the
selected entity.

MODIFY LENGTH
1. Break a line at a given Length
n In the Wireframe tab, select the
Modify Length icon.
n In the Modify Length panel,
enable Break and in the Type
enable Shorten.
n To break the line by the specified
amount, enter in the Distance of
0.25.
n Select the line above the midpoint
and the line will be broken.

Lathe 97
Geometry Tools - Part 2 Delete Duplicates

2. Create a line extended from

an existing one
n In the Wireframe tab, select
the Modify Length icon.
n In the Modify Length panel,
enable Break and in the Type
enable Lengthen.

n To break the line by the

specified amount, enter in the
Distance of 0.5.
n Select the line above the
midpoint and another line will
be created with the length 0.5
starting at the original line
endpoint and having the same
orientation.
n Choose the OK button to exit
the command.

DELETE DUPLICATES
Delete duplicates removes duplicate entities based on their XYZ positions. If you do not select any
entities prior to selecting the command, Mastercam will search all entities for duplicates.

Resources - Download the file from www.EMASTERCAM.COM/TRAININGFILES/

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select JOIN.MCAM

Lathe 98
Geometry Tools - Part 2 Delete Duplicates

1. Statistics
n From the Home tab, Analyze group, select Statistics.
n Mastercam automatically lists the number of different
entities that the file contains.

Note: The number of lines and arcs does not seem to

match what you can see on the screen. This indicates that
duplicate entities are likely.

2. Delete Duplicates
n From the Home tab, Delete
group, select Duplicates.
n The pop-up dialog displays the
results of the deletion.

Note: Often you may

accidentally create entities on
top of each other, or you may
import a file from another CAD
system that has duplicate
geometry.
These need to be removed to
make toolpath selection easier.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window

and select the Clear Colors icon.

Note: Removes the group and result colors. When performing a transform function or the Delete
Duplicates, Mastercam creates a temporary group from the originals (red) and a result (purple) from the
transformed entities.

3. Duplicates - Advanced
n Advanced options allows masking on
specific criteria to determine what a
duplicate is.

Lathe 99
Geometry Tools - Part 2 Join

JOIN
The Join command is used to join collinear lines and arcs that have the same center and radius, or splines
that were originally created as the same entity.

n From the Modify group, select Join Entities.

n Select the entities you wish to join using window selection.

n Press Enter or select the End Selection button to join the

entities.

OTHER TRIM BREAK EXTEND

COMMANDS
n Experiment with the other Trim Break Extend drop
down options.
(Instructor will explain uses of Break Functions)

OTHER GEOMETRY CREATION TOOLS.

The other Mastercam Wireframe tools are similar in functionality. Once you understand the basic tools, you
should be able to use the specialty tools when required.

TOOLS TAB
In Mastercam 2020 a new Tools contextual tab was added in the software. This ribbon only opens when you
preselect one or more entities. The Tools ribbon contains useful commands that allows you to edit the geo-
metry.
The tools ribbon changes based on the type of entity that you selected.

For wireframe entities such as lines, arcs, splines or points, the system opens a Tools tab that contains use-
ful commands that allows you to edit the wireframe as shown. they also vary based on the entity that you
selected.

1. Tools ribbon when selecting a line or an arc

Lathe 100
Geometry Tools - Part 2 Tools Tab

2. Tools ribbon when selecting a solid

For solid selection, the system opens a Tools tab that contains useful commands that allows you to modify
the solid as shown.

3. Tools ribbon when selecting a surface

For surface selection, the system opens a Tools tab that contains useful commands that allows you to
modify the surface as shown.

SUMMARY:
In this first hands-on lesson, you were introduced to several of the basic procedures you will soon learn to
use over and over again to create geometry as needed so you can generate toolpaths accurately. After com-
pleting this lesson and some of the practice exercises that follow you should be able to:

n Have a more thorough understanding of how to create geometric shapes in Mastercam.

n Create Circles and Arcs to draw most shapes.
n How to create Line and Arc Tangent.
n How to add Chamfers to corners of geometry.
n How to Delete Duplicate Geometry.
n How to Break and Join Geometry.

Lathe 101
Geometry Tools - Part 2 Exercise #1- Drawing #3

EXERCISE #1- DRAWING #3

Full size drawings can be found at the back of the book

Job Description:

Create the geometry as shown above following the suggested commands:

n Rectangle.
n Line Parallel.
n Line Endpoints.
n Chamfer.
n Trim 3 Entities.

Lathe 102
Geometry Tools - Part 2 Exercise #2- Drawing #4

EXERCISE #2- DRAWING #4

Full size drawings can be found at the back of the book

Job Description:

Create the geometry as shown above following the suggested commands:

n Rectangle.
n Line Parallel.
n Line Endpoints.
n Chamfer.
n Trim 3 Entities.

Lathe 103
Geometry Tools - Part 2 Exercise #3- Drawing #5

EXERCISE #3- DRAWING #5

Full size drawings can be found at the back of the book

Job Description:

Create the geometry as shown above following the suggested commands:

n Rectangle.
n Line Parallel.
n Line Endpoints.
n Chamfer.
n Trim 3 Entities.

Lathe 104
Groove Toolpath

Lathe 105
Groove Toolpath New Toolpath Information

NEW TOOLPATH INFORMATION

The following is brief description of the toolpath used in this exercise.

Grooving for machining indented or recessed areas that are

not otherwise machinable by roughing toolpaths or tools. You
can machine several grooves in a single operation, even if
their geometry never connects. Mastercam integrates
roughing and finishing passes, each with separate
parameters, in a single operation.

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION
Topics:

n Locate Geometry and Job Setup

n Facing Operation
n Roughing Operation
n Finishing Operation
n Grooving Operation

Lathe 106
Groove Toolpath Exercise: Drawing #3

EXERCISE: DRAWING #3
STEP 1: OPEN PART GEOMETRY

1.1 Open the file

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select DRAWING 3.MCAM

STEP 2: CREATE THE JOB SETUP

In this step you will supply Mastercam with information about tool settings, stock size and chuck jaw before
starting to create the toolpaths.

2.1 Load the Lathe Default if needed

n From the Machine tab, select Lathe and Default.

2.2 Set the Tool settings

n Select the Tool settings icon.
n Set the Program # to 3.
n Enable Assign tool numbers
sequentially.
n Enable Warn of duplicate tool
numbers.
n Enable Feed Calculation From
tool.

Lathe 107
Groove Toolpath Step 2: Create The Job Setup

2.3 Set the Stock settings

n Select the Stock Setup tab.
n Set the OD to 4.0".
n Set the ID to 4.5".
n Establish the stock as a bar
giving extra margins: OD
margin = 0.125"; Right
margin = 0.15".
n Left margin = 2.0".
n Select the Preview Lathe
Boundaries button to check the
stock.

n Press Enter to continue.

n Click OK button to exit the Machine Component Manager -
Stock dialog box.

2.4 Set the Chuck Jaws

settings
n Enable Left Spindle and click
on the Properties button.
n Select Parameters tab.
n Clamping Method set to
Outside diameter (OD).
n Set the chuck Position to
Diameter = 4.25"; Z = -6.0".
n Select the Preview Lathe
Boundaries button to check
the chuck.

Lathe 108
Groove Toolpath Step 3: Lathe Face Toolpath

n Press Enter to continue.

n Select the OK button twice to exit Machine Group
Properties.

STEP 3: LATHE FACE TOOLPATH

Turning

n From the General group, select

the Face icon.

3.1 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Rough Right 80
deg tool.
n Tool/Offset Number to 1.
n Set the Coolant On.

3.2 Set the Face Parameters

n Make sure that Use stock is
enabled.
n Finish Z = 0.0".
n Entry amount = 0.1".
n Rough stepover = 0.07".
n Finish stepover = 0.005".
n Overcut amount = 0.03".
n Retract amount = 0.1".
n Stock to leave = 0.0".
n Set the Cutter
compensation to Computer
and to the Left.

Lathe 109
Groove Toolpath Step 4: Lathe Rough Toolpath

3.3 Backplot the Face operation

n Press Alt +T to remove the
toolpath display.

STEP 4: LATHE ROUGH TOOLPATH

Turning

n From the General group, select the Rough

icon.

4.1 Select the geometry

n In the Selection Method, enable Partial
button and select the first entity of
the chain and the last one to complete the
chaining.

4.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a existing OD Rough Right 80 deg tool.
n Set the Tool/Offset Number to 1.
n Set the Coolant On.

Lathe 110
Groove Toolpath Step 4: Lathe Rough Toolpath

4.3 Set the Rough Parameters

n Make sure that Overlap is
enabled.
n Entry amount = 0.1".
n Enable Equal steps.
n Depth of cut = 0.06".
n Min cut depth = 0.05".
n Stock to leave in X = 0.005".
n Stock to leave in Z = 0.005".
n Variable depth = 20% of depth.

Note: Variable depth allows you

to vary the point that the surface
contacts the tool insert to prevent
notching and improve tool life. The
variable depth can vary up to 25%
of the depth of cut. The actual
depth of cut can vary from 75% to
125% of the nominal depth of cut.
The valid range is -25% to 25%. A
positive value will result in an
upward cut and a negative value
will result in a downward cut. Zero
will
result in a straight cut.

n Cutting method set to One way.

n Rough Direction/Angle = 0.
n Set the Cutter compensation to
Computer and to the Right.
n Enable Use stock for outer
boundary.

Lathe 111
Groove Toolpath Step 5: Lathe Finish Toolpath

n Select the Lead In/Out button.

n Select the Lead out tab and set
the parameters.
n Extend the end contour 0.5".

4.4 Backplot the Rough operation

Note: The tool does not attempt to cut

inside of the groove. This is a result of
the Plunge parameters being set to
none in the Rough parameters page.

n Pres Alt + T to remove the toolpath display.

STEP 5: LATHE FINISH TOOLPATH

Turning

n From the General group, select the Finish icon.

5.1 Select the geometry

n In the Wireframe Chaining dialog box, click on the Last
button . Mastercam selects the same chain as the
one selected in the previous operation.

5.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Finish Right 35 deg
tool.
n Set the Tool/Offset Number to 2.
n Set the Coolant On.
n Set the Home Position as
User define; X 7.0, Z 11.0.

Lathe 112
Groove Toolpath Step 5: Lathe Finish Toolpath

5.3 Set the Finish

Parameters
n Finish stepover =
0.01".
n Number of finish
passes = 1.
n Stock to leave in X =
0.0".
n Stock to leave in Z =
0.0".
n Finish direction set to
OD.
n Set the Cutter
compensation to
Computer and to the
Right.

n Set proper Lead In/Out

parameters.
n Use for Lead In only Tangent
entry; Length = 0.1".

Note: This ensures that the

entry will be extended with the
length to better machine the
chamfer.

n Select the Lead out tab.

n Leave the Fixed Direction to
None and Angle = 45 and
Length = 0.1.
n Extend the end contour 0.5".

Lathe 113
Groove Toolpath Step 6: Lathe Groove Toolpath

5.4 Backplot the Finish

operation

STEP 6: LATHE GROOVE TOOLPATH

Lathe Groove toolpaths are useful for machining indented or recessed areas that are not otherwise machinable by
roughing toolpaths or tools.
Mastercam can machine many types of grooves based on the location of just a corner point or points; this lets you
create groove toolpaths without having to create or chain geometry.
You can also use chained geometry if you prefer, or to specify complicated or intricate groove contours.

6.1 Select the toolpath

Turning

n From the General

group, select the
Expand gallery arrow
as shown.
n From the Toolpath
gallery, click on the
Groove icon as shown.

n Select 2 Points in the

Groove Definition.
n Select the OK button to
continue.

Note: The first point should be the upper right corner of the
groove and the second point should be the lower left corner.

n Select the points as shown.

n Press Enter when finish.

Lathe 114
Groove Toolpath Step 6: Lathe Groove Toolpath

6.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Groove Center
width of 0.25".
n Set the Tool/Offset Number to
3.
n Set the Coolant On.

6.3 Set the Groove Shape Parameters

Groove Shape Parameters allow you to set the shape and orientation of the grooves in a groove toolpath. You
can also define a radius and/or chamfer dimensions for each corner individually.

n Make sure that all

corner Radius are set
to 0, and all Chamfers
are disabled.

Lathe 115
Groove Toolpath Step 6: Lathe Groove Toolpath

6.4 Set the Groove Rough Parameters

n Make sure that Rough is enabled to set the roughing passes for the groove.
n Set the Cut Direction to Positive.
n Stock clearance = 0.1" (set the distance from the stock that the cutter starts to feed).
n Set the Stock amount to 0.0".
n Rough step set to Percent of tool width = 75% (sets the amount of stock that gets removed during
each cutting pass as a percent of the tool width).
n Backoff % is set to 10 (determines how far the tool will back away from the wall of the groove before it
retracts).
n Stock to leave in X = 0.005".
n Stock to leave in Z = 0.005".
n Retract Moves set to Rapid.
n First Plunge Feed Rate; Plunge = 0.002, Retract set to 0.01.
n Groove Walls set to Steps.

Lathe 116
Groove Toolpath Step 6: Lathe Groove Toolpath

6.5 Set the Groove Finish

Parameters
n Direction for 1st pass set
to CCW to start with the left
side.
n Number of finish passes
= 1.
n Finish stepover = 0.1".
n Stock to leave in X =
0.0".
n Stock to leave in Z =
0.0".
n Cutter compensation in
Computer.
n Wall Backoff set to 5.0 as
% of tool width.
n Enable Select Overlap.

n Click on Select Overlap button and pick from the

graphic the position where the first finish cut ends and
the amount that the first and second finish cuts overlap.
n Make sure that the Overlap between passes is no
more than 0.25.

n Click on the Lead In and set the First pass lead in;
Use entry vector, Angle = -90 and Length = 0.1".
n Set the Second pass lead in;
Use entry vector, Angle = -90 and Length = 0.1".

n The tool collision warning appears; select OK button to continue writing the toolpath.

Lathe 117
Groove Toolpath Step 6: Lathe Groove Toolpath

6.6 Backplot the Groove operation

Note: At the start of the finish pass the tool collides with the
stock. We need to increase the length of the Lead In on
the first pass to start the feed into the part from above the
stock.

n Select Parameters and in the Lead In, First pass lead

in change the Length to 0.5".

6.7 Regenerate the toolpath and Backplot

6.8 Verify the last operation

n From the Toolpaths Manager, select the Verify selected
operations icon.
n Select the Play button to run Verify.

6.9 Post Process the file

n Run the Post Processor.

Note: The NC program may be saved, and

sent directly to the machine associated with
the post.

Lathe 118
Drill, Rough & Finish ID

Lathe 119
Drill, Rough & Finish ID Toolpath Information

TOOLPATH INFORMATION
The following is brief description of the toolpath used in this exercise.

Lathe drill toolpaths drill into the face of the part along
the centerline.

Mastercam offers the following standard drill cycles:

n Drill/Counterbore (long)
n Peck drill (long)
n Chip break (long)
n Tap
n Bore #1 and #2
n Misc #1 and #2
n Custom cycle 9 - 20

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION
Topics:

n Locate Geometry and Job Setup

n Drilling Operations
n Roughing ID Operation
n Finishing ID Operation

Lathe 120
Drill, Rough & Finish ID Exercise: Drawing #4

EXERCISE: DRAWING #4
STEP 1: OPEN PART GEOMETRY

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select DRAWING 4.MCAM

STEP 2: CREATE THE JOB SETUP

In this step you will supply Mastercam with information about tool settings, stock size and chuck jaw before
starting to create the toolpaths.

2.1 Load the Lathe Default

n From the Machine tab, select Lathe and Default. (If needed)

2.2 Set the Tool settings

n Select the Tool settings icon.
n Set the Program # to 4.
n Enable Assign tool numbers sequentially.
n Enable Warn of duplicate tool numbers.
n Enable Feed Calculation From tool.

Lathe 121
Drill, Rough & Finish ID Step 2: Create The Job Setup

2.3 Set the Stock settings

n Establish the stock as a cylinder
with no extra margins; zero set
at the front as shown.

2.4 Set the Chuck Jaws

settings
n Use the default dimensions for
the chuck size.
n Select the Parameters tab.
n Set the chuck Position by
clicking on Select button at the
midpoint of the OD.
n Z will change to -1.5.

n Select the Preview Lathe Boundaries button to check the

chuck.
n Press Enter to continue.
n Select the OK button twice to exit Machine Group
Properties.

Lathe 122
Drill, Rough & Finish ID Step 3: Center Drill The Hole

STEP 3: CENTER DRILL THE HOLE

3.1 Select the toolpath

Turning

n From the General group, select the Drill icon as

shown.

3.2 Set the Toolpath

Parameters
n Select a 1/2" Center drill.
n Set the Tool/Offset
Number to 1.
n Set the Coolant On.
n Set the Home Position
From the Machine.

3.3 Set the Simple Drill

- no peck Parameters
n Depth = - 0.25"
(Absolute).
n Clearance = 0.25".
(Incremental).
n Retract = 0.1"
(Incremental).
n Cycle set to
Drill/Counterbore.

Lathe 123
Drill, Rough & Finish ID Step 4: Drill 3/4 Diameter Through Hole

3.4 Verify the Center Drill operation

n Set the stock to translucent by clicking on
the rectangular shape in front of the
Stock. Instead of the check mark you
should see a shaded rectangle.

n The part should look as shown.

STEP 4: DRILL 3/4 DIAMETER THROUGH HOLE

4.1 Copy the Lathe Drill toolpath

n Right mouse click in the Toolpaths Manager and select Copy.

n Right mouse click again in the Toolpaths Manager and select

Paste.

Lathe 124
Drill, Rough & Finish ID Step 4: Drill 3/4 Diameter Through Hole

4.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select Parameters in the second operation.
n Select a 3/4" Drilll.
n Set the Tool/Offset Number to 2.
n Set the Coolant On.
n Set the Home Position, From Machine.

4.3 Set the Simple Drill - no

peck Parameters
n Depth = - 3.0" (Absolute).
n Clearance = 0.25".
(Incremental).
n Retract = 0.1"
(Incremental).
n Cycle set to Peck Drill.
n 1st peck = 0.2".
n Enable Drill tip
compensation.
n Breakthrough amount
0.25".
n Enable Generate toolpath.

4.4 Verify the drill operations

Lathe 125
Drill, Rough & Finish ID Step 5: Lathe Rough Toolpath (ID)

STEP 5: LATHE ROUGH TOOLPATH (ID)

5.1 Select the geometry
Turning

n From the General group,

select the Rough icon.

n Using Partial selection, select the first entity of the

chain and the last one to complete the chaining.

5.2 Set the Toolpath

Parameters
n Select a ID Rough Min 0.5"
diameter tool.
n Set the Tool / Offset
Number to 3.
n Set the Coolant On.

Lathe 126
Drill, Rough & Finish ID Step 5: Lathe Rough Toolpath (ID)

5.3 Set the Rough

Parameters
n Make sure that Overlap
is enabled.
n Entry amount = 0.1".
n Enable Equal steps.
n Depth of cut = 0.06".
n Minimum cut depth =
0.05".
n Stock to leave in X =
0.004".
n Stock to leave in Z =
0.004".
n Variable depth = 25%.
n Cutting method set to
One-way and the
Rough Direction ID
and the Angle = 0.
n Set the Cutter
compensation to
Computer and to the
Left.
n Enable Use stock for
outer boundary.

Note: Variable depth allows you to vary the point that the surface contacts the tool insert to prevent
notching and improve tool life. The variable depth can vary up to 25% of the depth of cut.
The passes will alternate between angled and straight. If the cut length is less than three times the cut
depth, a straight cut will be made instead of an angled cut.

n Click on the Lead In/out button.

n In the Lead out enable Extend and
set the Amount to 0.25.

Lathe 127
Drill, Rough & Finish ID Step 6: Lathe Finish ID Toolpath

5.4 Backplot the Rough operation

STEP 6: LATHE FINISH ID TOOLPATH

6.1 Select the geometry
Turning

n From the General group, select

the Finish icon.

n In the Wireframe Chaining dialog box, click on the Last button.

n Select the OK button to continue.

6.2 Set the Toolpath

Parameters
n Select the ID Finish MIN
.5 DIA tool.
n Set the Tool/Offset
Number to 4.
n Set the Coolant On.

6.3 Set the Finish Parameters

n Finish stepover = 0.01".
n Number of finish passes = 1.
n Stock to leave in X = 0.0".
n Stock to leave in Z = 0.0".
n Finish direction set to ID.
n Set the Cutter compensation to
Computer and to the Left.

Lathe 128
Drill, Rough & Finish ID Step 6: Lathe Finish ID Toolpath

n Select the Lead In/Out button.

n In the Lead In set the Fixed

Direction to Tangent.
n In the Lead out enable Extend.
n Set the amount to 0.25".

6.4 Backplot the Finish operation

6.5 Verify the operations

n Switch to Verify.
n Enable the stock to remove the translucent option.
n Remove the Fixtures from the Visibility group.
n Play the simulation and change the graphics view to
Isometric.

Lathe 129
Drill, Rough & Finish ID Step 6: Lathe Finish ID Toolpath

n Select the Verify tab and change the section View to the 2nd quadrant.

6.6 Post Process the file

n Run the Post Processor.

Lathe 130
Geometry Tools - Part 3

Lathe 131
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Introduction:

INTRODUCTION:
This lesson will introduce you to some of the geometry manipulation tools that are useful for extracting inform-
ation and organizing or preparing your geometry for toolpaths. Transform functions are used to move, scale,
rotate, and manipulate existing geometry. They are also powerful geometry creation tools that can save con-
siderable time and effort.
This lesson will focus on Transform commands such as Mirror, Offset and Translate. You will also learn how
to analyze different type of entities. A special Chaining exercise will show different selection methods and
options available that allows you to select the geometry faster.

OVERVIEW OF EXERCISE:
In this lesson you will become more familiar with the Mastercam interface and how to make changes or
extract information from geometry to make it easy to program.

NEW CONCEPTS COVERED IN THIS LESSON:

n Mirror command.
n Offset command.
n Translate command.
n Analyze geometry and measurement values.
n Setting and changing attributes of geometry.
n The Mastercam Level manager.
n Chaining options and selections.

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION PREVIEW:

Note: This entire lesson is a joint Instructor / Student exercise. No instructor demo for this lesson.

Topics:

n Mirror
n Translate
n Offset
n Analyze
n Geometry Attributes
n Levels Manager
n Chaining

Lathe 132
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Step 1: Mirror Command

TRANSFORM GEOMETRY

Note: In this lesson the students and the instructor will work through the topic as a group.

STEP 1: MIRROR COMMAND

Mirroring is the process of creating reverse images of entities by reflecting them symmetrically with
respect to a defined axis. You have the option to move or copy the original entities within the drawing.

Resources - Download the file from www.emastercam.com/trainingfiles/

1.1 Open MIRROR.MCAM

n From the QAT, select the Open

icon.
n Select MIRROR.MCAM

1.2 Mirror the OD

groove
Transform

n From the Position

group, select Mirror
as shown.

n For the OD groove; select the entities to

mirror using chain selection. To enable
Chain selection hold down the Shift key
when you select one line of the groove.
n Press Enter to finish the selection.

Lathe 133
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Step 1: Mirror Command

n Enable Copy and Vector option in the Mirror panel.

n Select the center line to mirror about.
n Select the OK and Create New Operation icon.

n The geometry should look as shown.

1.3 Mirror the back groove

n For the back side groove; select the contour to
mirror using the same chain selection.
n Press Enter to finish.
n Enable the Vector option in the Mirror panel and
select the two points in the graphics area.

Lathe 134
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Step 1: Mirror Command

1.4 Mirror the geometry about Z-axis

n For mirror about Z-axis, select entire geometry to
mirror using Window selection. To enable
Window selection, click one of the corners of the
window and then drag the cursor to include the
entire part and select the opposite corner.
n Press Enter.

n Enable the radio button in front of the Z axis in the Mirror

panel as shown.

The geometry should look as shown.

Lathe 135
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Step 2: Translate Command

STEP 2: TRANSLATE COMMAND

Translate copies, moves or joins selected entities to a new position without altering the orientation, size or
shape of the entities.

Resources - Download the file from www.EMASTERCAM.COM/TRAININGFILES/

2.1 Open
TRANSLATE.MCAM
n From the QAT, select the
Open icon.
n Select
TRANSLATE.MCAM

n Make sure that the current plane is Lathe +D +Z.

2.2 Translate the OD groove

Transform

n From the Position group,

select the Translate icon.

n Select the entities to translate, then hit the

Enter button.

Lathe 136
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Step 2: Translate Command

n In the Translate panel enable Copy; enter the 0.625 for

Delta Z.
n Select the OK and Create New Operation button to

continue.

2.3 Translate the back groove

n For the groove at the back select the entities to translate, then hit the Enter button to end the
selection.
n In the Translate panel enable Copy.

n Click on the Vector From/To Reselect button.

n Select the Endpoint on the upper groove.

n Select the existing point as the point to translate to.

Lathe 137
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Step 2: Translate Command

n The geometry should look as shown.

n Select the OK and Create New Operation button

to continue.

2.4 Translate the ID groove

n For the ID groove select the entities to translate, then

hit the Enter button to end the selection.
n In the Translate panel enable Copy.
n Enter the Length = 0.375" and the Angle = 15 in the
Polar settings.
n Select the OK button to exit.

n The geometry should look as

shown.

Lathe 138
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Step 3: Offset Commands

STEP 3: OFFSET COMMANDS

The Offset command offsets a single entity - moves or copies the entity at the defined distance and
direction. The direction is perpendicular to the curve at every point along the curve relative to the current
construction plane. The Offset Chain command offsets chains of curves by displacing them with a defined
distance, direction and optionally with a depth. The offset is perpendicular to the chains of curves at every
position along the curves relative to the current construction plane.

Resources - Download the file from www.EMASTERCAM.COM/TRAININGFILES/

3.1 Open OFFSET.MCAM

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select OFFSET.MCAM

3.2 Offset Entity

n From the
Transform
tab, in the
Offset group,
select Entity.

n Select the line and indicate the offset direction.

n Select the type of operation to perform Copy.
n In the Instances area, set the Number to 3, and the Distance to 0.25.
n Select the OK and Create New Operation button to continue.

n Change the Offset parameters and select the arc.

n Pick the side to indicate the offset direction.
n In the Instances area, change the Number to 2.
n Select the OK button to close the panel.

Lathe 139
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Step 3: Offset Commands

n From the
Transform
tab, in the
Offset group,
select Chains.

3.3 Offset open chains

n When the chaining dialog box appears select the contour
then pick the OK button to exit the chaining dialog box.
n Indicate the offset direction picking a point above the chain.
n Enable Copy, input a Distance of 0.25.
n Enable Modify Fillet Corners and Sharp.
n In the graphics window, the resulting contour will be
displayed in magenta color.
n Make sure that it is above the original contour (in red).
n Otherwise enable the Opposite side option.
n Select the OK and Create New Operation button to exit the

Offset Chains panel.

3.4 Offset sharp corner chain

n Select the chain and indicate the offset direction.
n Disable Modify Fillet Corners in the Offset Chains panel
for the second rectangle.
n Select the OK button to exit the Offset Chains panel.

Lathe 140
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Step 4: Analyze Commands

STEP 4: ANALYZE COMMANDS

Resources - Download the file from www.EMASTERCAM.COM/TRAININGFILES/

4.1 Open ANALYZE.MCAM

n From the QAT, select the Open

icon.
n Select ANALYZE.MCAM

4.2 Analyze Position

Analyze Position allows you to view the XYZ coordinates of a selected position or point entity.

Home

n From the Analyze group, click on the drop down arrow

besides Dynamic and select Position.

n Enter or select a point in the graphics window. Mastercam will

display the coordinates of the point.

Lathe 141
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Step 4: Analyze Commands

4.3 Analyze Entity

Analyze Entity displays all relevant information about a point, line, arc, spline, surface or dimensions and
in some cases allows you to edit the data.

Home

n From the Analyze group, select Analyze

Entity.

n Select the arc R1 from the graphics window and check

the dialog box where Mastercam displays all information
about it.
n To change a value enter the new value in the dialog box
or drag the blue arrow until you reach the desired value
and click to accept it.
n You can click on the Flip button to get the opposite
arc .
n Select the OK button to exit.

4.4 Analyze Distance

Analyze Distance allows you to analyze the distance between two entities, two point positions or an
entity and a point.

Home

n Select Analyze Distance.

Lathe 142
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Step 4: Analyze Commands

n Select the two

Endpoints in the
graphics window to
determine the L value .
In the dialog box,
Mastercam displays
the coordinates of the
points, the distance
(2D and 3D), and the
angle between the
points. Choose the OK
button to close the

dialog box.

4.5 Analyze Angle

Analyze Angle analyzes the angle between two lines or three points that you select in the graphics
window. Mastercam displays values for the first angle and the supplementary angle.

Home

n Select Angle.

n Select two lines. Mastercam displays the value of the angle between the
lines.
n Choose the OK button to close the dialog box.

4.6 Analyze Contour

Analyze Contour allows you to analyze all the entities in one or more chained curves. The curves can contain
lines, arcs, or points (no splines). You can analyze either 2D or 3D contours.
Mastercam displays the analyzed information in a text viewer when you close the dialog box.

Home

n Click on the drop down arrow beside Chain

and select Contour.

Lathe 143
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Step 5: Managing Attributes & Levels

n Use Partial option to select the red chain and analyze it for coordinate data.
n Select the OK button to exit Chaining.

n Set Contour type to 2D, set Offset direction to Off and ignore all other
options on the Analyze Contour dialog box.
n Choose OK button to close the dialog box.

n A text file will appear showing

coordinate data of entities in
the contour.

STEP 5: MANAGING ATTRIBUTES & LEVELS

The Attributes allow you to set the color, level, line style, width and point style used to create the entities.

Resources - Download the file from www.EMASTERCAM.COM/TRAININGFILES/

5.1 Open ATTRIBUTES.MCAM

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select ATTRIBUTES.MCAM

Lathe 144
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Attributes

ATTRIBUTES
REFERENCE INFORMATION
Level sets the level of the selected entity. Enter a level number or choose the button to select a level from the Level
Manager panel.
Color sets the color of the selected entity. Enter a color number or choose a color from the color pallet.
Style determines the line style for the entity’s display curves.
Width determines the line width for the entity’s display curves.
Point Style sets a point type from the drop down list.

The Point Style, Line Style, Line Width

and Color attributes can be set or modified in
the Home tab Attributes group.

The Current Level can be set in the

Organize group as shown.

You can also set or modify the attributes in the Mini

Toolbar.

To open the Mini Toolbar, right mouse click in the

graphics window.

Note: Before you set any attributes, make sure that no entities are selected. From the Quick
Mask buttons, click on the Clear selection left side button to unselect all entities.

5.2 Set Attributes and create the Rectangles

Green Rectangles Attributes

Settings
n In the Home tab Attributes
group set the attributes based
on the notes shown on the left
side of the exercise as shown.

Lathe 145
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Attributes

Create The Green Rectangle

n Create a rectangle 2.0 by 1.0. Lock the values.
n Enable Anchor to center.
n Select the point in the right column.
n Press Enter to finish the rectangle and stay in the same command.

Red Rectangle Attributes Settings

n In the Home tab Attributes group set
the attributes based on the notes
shown on the left side of the exercise
as shown.

Create The Red Rectangle

n Create the rectangle by selecting the point in the right column.
n Press Enter to finish the rectangle and stay in the same command.

Blue Rectangle Attributes Settings

n In the Home tab Attributes group, set
the attributes based on the notes shown
on the left side of the exercise as
shown.

Create The Blue Rectangle

n Create the rectangle by selecting the point in the right column.
n Select the OK button to exit the command.

Lathe 146
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Levels

LEVELS
A Mastercam file can contain separate levels for wireframe, surfaces and drafting entities. By organizing
your drawings into levels, you can easily control which areas of your drawing are visible at any time. You
are always drawing on the Main Level. Mastercam also allows copying or moving of geometry from level
to level, lets you hide levels from view, provides level naming utilities and allows you to organize several
levels into sets.

5.3 How to name levels to better manage them

n Make sure that Levels is enabled in the View

tab, Managers group.

n Select the Levels panel if needed.

n New levels can be created by selecting the green addition
icon near the top left corner of the Levels panel.
n In the Levels panel change the Number to 1 and in the
Name field type "Green Rectangles" as shown.

n In the same Levels panel, change the Number to 2

and in the Name field type "Red Rectangles" as shown.

n Repeat the steps described above for Level 3 inputting

the Name of "Blue Rectangles".

Lathe 147
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Levels

n Make Level 4 the Main Level by clicking on it in the

Levels panel, and name it "Notes" as shown.

Note: There is no association between levels and colors. Level 4 has no entities. You will learn how to
move the notes onto level 4.

5.4 How to hide levels to control what

is visible
n To hide Level 2 click on the "X" in the
Visible column next to the level that you
want to hide. The "X" will be removed as
shown in the following picture.
n The Red colored rectangle should not be
visible on your screen.

n To make Level 2 visible again, select Level 2 and click in the

Visible column next to Level 2 as shown.

5.5 Move entities onto different levels

Note: All notes were done using the Drafting Notes command. To select them quickly you
can use Quick Mask Drafting button. The button is divided into two sides. The left side of the
button allows you to select all the drafting entities, while the right side of the button allows you
select only drafting entities.

n Click on the left side of the Quick Mask button to Select all drafting entities.

n From Home tab, in the Organize

group click on the Change Levels icon
as shown.

Lathe 148
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Levels

n In the Change Levels dialog box, leave Move and Use

Active Level enabled as shown.
n Select the OK button to exit the Change Levels dialog box.

n The Level Manager panel should look as shown.

n To make visible only Level 4,

click the Turn all levels off
button.
n You should only see the notes
on the screen.

Note: Make sure that you always have Active (Main)

level visible which can be found by clicking the
Display options icon.

Lathe 149
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Levels

n To make all levels visible, click on Turn all levels on

button.

Move The Table Center Lines On Level 5

n In the Level Manager panel make Level 5 the Active
Level and name it "Table Lines".

n From the Quick Mask buttons, click on the right side of the Select only advanced button.

n Enable and click on the Style button, then enable Center lines.
n Enable and click on the Color button, then enable color Red no.12.

Lathe 150
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Levels

n Make a big window around the entire geometry.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and in the Mini

Toolbar, click on the Change Levels icon.
n In the Change Levels dialog box, leave Move and Use
Active Level enabled as shown.

Move The Points On Level 6

n In the Level Manager panel make Level 6 the Active
Level and name it "Points".

n From the Quick Mask buttons, click on the left side of the QM Points to Select all points
button.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and in the Mini

Toolbar, click on the Change Levels icon as shown.
n In the Change Levels dialog box, leave Move and Use
Active Level enabled as shown.

Lathe 151
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Levels

n The Level Manager should look as shown.

5.6 Change the color, the line style and the line width

n From the Quick Mask buttons, click on the Select all advanced button and enable the
Table Lines level.

n Click again on the Select only advanced button and disable all the
options.
n Select the OK button to exit Select All dialog box.

Lathe 152
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Levels

n In the Attributes group, click on the Set All icon.

n Enable color orange 138, break style and select the thickest line as line width.
n Once you select the OK button to exit the Attributes dialog box.

n The lines should look as

shown.

Lathe 153
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Step 6: Chaining Options

STEP 6: CHAINING OPTIONS

Chaining is used to select a number of entities when modifying or transforming existing entities or when
creating a toolpath. The entities form a chain when the distance between two consecutive entity endpoints
is less than the chaining tolerance (0.0001 in the system configuration).

Resources - Download the file from www.EMASTERCAM.COM/TRAININGFILES/

6.1 Open CHAIN.MCAM

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select CHAIN.MCAM

6.2 Chain Selection

Home

n From the Analyze group, select the

Chain icon.

n Select the geometry as

shown.

n From the Analyze group, select Chain and select the geometry as shown. Notice that the chain starts
with the entity that you select, from its closest endpoint. Take note that the entire contour is selected.

Note: Choose the Reverse button to change the chaining direction if needed.

Lathe 154
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Step 6: Chaining Options

n You can change the starting location using the Dynamic button.
n Choose the Dynamic button and move the mouse along the contour to move the
chaining arrow. When the arrow is in the desired position click to select the point.
n Choose Unselect to unselect the chain.

n To select a partial
chain, select the
Partial button
in the Chaining
dialog box. Select the
first entity of the chain
then select the entity
where you want the
chain to stop as
shown.
n Press the Esc button
to exit the command.

6.3 Branches

n Make Level 1 invisible and Level 2

visible in the Levels Manager.
n Use Analyze Chain.
n Select the Partial button in the
Chaining dialog box.
n Select the first entity and then the last
entity as shown.

Note: The chain stops at a branch point.

A branch point is the position where the
endpoints of three or more entities meet.
Branch points indicate where there are
different paths that the chain can take.

Option 1
n Click on one of the groove lines to guide the
chaining, and at the next branch click on the
vertical line as shown.
n Press the Esc button to exit the command.

Lathe 155
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Step 6: Chaining Options

Option 2
n From the Wireframe Chaining
dialog box, in the Branches
area, click on the Adjust button
to have the red arrow pointing
down in the proper direction.

n Click on the Next button

twice until the

chain looks as shown.
n Press Esc button to exit the
command.

6.4 Color mask

n In the Levels Manager, make Level 2

invisible and Level 3 visible.
n Use Analyze Chain command.
n Select the Options button and
enable the Color Mask.
n Select only the color Red #12.

n Select Chain from the Chaining

dialog box.
n Select one entity from the groove to
create the chain.

Note: All of the color red entities are

automatically selected. Make sure that
you disable the color mask for future
selections.

n Press Esc button to exit the

command.

SUMMARY:
In this instructor led lesson, you were introduced to several ways to manipulate the geometry. After com-
pleting this lesson and some of the practice exercises that follow you should be able to:

n Transform the Geometry.

n Analyze geometry attributes and levels manager.
n Familiar with chaining options and selections.

Lathe 156
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Exercise #1 - Drawing #6

EXERCISE #1 - DRAWING #6

Full size drawings can be found at the back of the book

Job Description:

Create the geometry as shown above following the suggested commands:

n Rectangle.
n Line Parallel.
n Line Polar.
n Trim Break Extend.
n Fillet Entities.
n Mirror.
n Create half of the geometry and then mirror it. Make the OD profile first and then the ID.

Lathe 157
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Exercise #2 - Drawing #7

EXERCISE #2 - DRAWING #7

Full size drawings can be found at the back of the book

Job Description:

Create the geometry as shown above following the suggested commands:

n Rectangle.
n Line Parallel.
n Circle Center Point.
n Delete construction lines.
n Divide.
n Fillet Entities.
n Mirror.
n Create half of the geometry. Use create arc circle center point to create the 0.5 radius circle and the
0.075 radius circle. Use the create fillet command to create the 0.5 radius arc.

Lathe 158
Geometry Tools - Part 3 Exercise #3 - Drawing #8

EXERCISE #3 - DRAWING #8

Full size drawings can be found at the back of the book

Job Description:

Create the geometry as shown above following the suggested commands:

n Rectangle.
n Line Endpoints.
n Create Line Parallel.
n Divide.
n Trim 3 Entities.
n Fillet Entities.
n Mirror.
n Create half of the geometry. Use divide and trim 3 entities commands to clean the groove.

Lathe 159
Threading, New Tool & Cutoff

Lathe 160
Threading, New Tool & Cutoff New Toolpath Information

NEW TOOLPATH INFORMATION

The following is brief description of the new toolpath used in this exercise.

Threading toolpath creates spiral shapes on a part to make a

screw, bolt, or nut. You can program straight or tapered threads
on the outside, inside, or face of a part. You can also
automatically program multiple lead threads.
Many threading cycles are very control-specific. Use the Lathe
Canned Cycles page in the control definition to tell Mastercam
precisely which types of threading cycles are available on your
control and the features they contain.
Specific options and parameters on the toolpath parameter tabs
for thread toolpaths are enabled or disabled depending on the
control definition settings.

Mastercam provides several thread tables with hundreds of

predefined thread sizes. You can also calculate your own thread
sizes for non-standard diameters using predefined thread
formulas.

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION
Topics:

n Lathe face.
n Lathe Rough (Plunge option and Create new
tool).
n Create New Tool.
n Lathe Finish.
n Lathe Thread.

Lathe 161
Threading, New Tool & Cutoff Excercise: Drawing #5

EXCERCISE: DRAWING #5
STEP 1: OPEN PART GEOMETRY

1.1 Opening the file

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select DRAWING 5.MCAM

STEP 2: CREATE THE JOB SETUP

2.1 Load the Lathe Default if needed

2.2 Set the Tool settings

n Select the Tool settings icon.
n Set the Program # to 5.
n Enable Assign tool numbers sequentially.
n Enable Warn of duplicate tool numbers.
n Enable Feed Calculation From tool.

2.3 Set the Stock settings

n Establish the stock as a cylinder
with OD = 4.8"; Length = 6.5".
n Give extra margins:
n OD margin = 0.1".
n Right margin = 0.2".
n Left margin = 2.0".

Lathe 162
Threading, New Tool & Cutoff Step 3: Lathe Face Toolpath

2.4 Set the Chuck Jaws settings

n Use the default dimensions for the chuck size.
n Set the chuck Position from Stock to Grip on maximum
diameter; Grip Length = 0.5".
n Select the Preview Lathe Boundaries button to check the
chuck.
n Press Enter to continue.
n Select the OK button twice to exit Machine Group
Properties.

STEP 3: LATHE FACE TOOLPATH

Turning

n From the General group, select

the Face icon.

3.1 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Rough Right 80 deg
tool.
n Set the Tool/Offset Number to 1.
n Set the Coolant On.

3.2 Set the Face Parameters

n Make sure that Use stock is

enabled.
n Finish Z= 0.0".
n Entry amount = 0.1".
n Rough stepover = 0.06".
n Finish stepover = 0.01".
n Overcut amount = 0.03".
n Retract amount = 0.1".
n Stock to leave = 0.0".
n Set the Cutter
compensation to
Computer and to the Left.

Lathe 163
Threading, New Tool & Cutoff Step 4: Lathe Rough Toolpath

3.3 Backplot the Face operation

STEP 4: LATHE ROUGH TOOLPATH

Turning

n From the General group, select the

Rough icon.

4.1 Select the geometry

n Using Partial selection, select the first
entity of the chain and the last one to
complete the chaining.

4.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a existing OD Rough Right 80 deg tool.
n Set the Tool/Offset Number to 1.
n Set the Coolant On.

4.3 Set the Rough Parameters

n Make sure that Overlap is
enabled.
n Entry amount = 0.1".
n Enable Equal steps.
n Depth of cut = 0.06".
n Minimum cut depth = 0.05".
n Stock to leave in X = 0.005".
n Stock to leave in Z = 0.005".
n Cutting method set to One-
way.
n Rough Direction/Angle = 0.
n Set the Cutter compensation
to Computer and to the
Right.
n Enable Use stock for outer
boundary.

Lathe 164
Threading, New Tool & Cutoff Step 5: Creating A New Lathe Rough Tool

n Set proper Lead in/out parameters.

n Extend the end contour 0.5".

4.4 Backplot the Rough operation

Note: The tool does not attempt to cut inside

the groove. This is a result of the Plunge
parameters being set to None in the Rough
parameters page.

CREATE A NEW TOOL

n Select Parameters in the Lathe rough.

STEP 5: CREATING A NEW LATHE ROUGH TOOL

5.1 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Right mouse click and select
Create tool.

Lathe 165
Threading, New Tool & Cutoff Step 5: Creating A New Lathe Rough Tool

5.2 Set the Type

n Select the General Turning button as your tool
type.

5.3 Set the Inserts

n Select the 55 deg diamond
insert.

5.4 Set the Holders

n Select the J (-3 deg. side dr), and
change the E angle to 30 deg.
n Click on the Setup Tool button

Lathe 166
Threading, New Tool & Cutoff Step 5: Creating A New Lathe Rough Tool

n Make sure that the Turret is set to Top, then select

the OK button to exit the dialog box.

n Select Draw Tool button to check the tool.

n Press Enter to continue.

5.5 Set the Parameters

n You can set the Feed rate, Plunge
rate, Spindle speed that the tool
will use to machine the part. The
new values will be added in the
Toolpath parameters page.
n Change the Tool name to OD
Rough Right -55 degrees.
n Click on the Tool Clearance button.

Lathe 167
Threading, New Tool & Cutoff Step 5: Creating A New Lathe Rough Tool

n To automatically set the

tool clearance, click on
the Scan Tool
Geometry.
n In the Scan Tool
Geometry, click on the
Select All button.
n The values should look
as shown.
n If the tool is not saved to
the Library, than it will
be available for this job
only.

5.6 Re-Set the Rough Parameters

n In the Toolpaths Manager, select Parameters of
the second operation.
n Select Plunge parameters and enable plunge for
the OD only.
n Disable the Front and Back Clearance Angles.

5.7 Regenerate the toolpath

Note: The tool collision with the stock warning, and accept to
continue to write the toolpath.

5.8 Backplot the Rough operation

Note: The tool collisions with the stock are at the entries of the passes in the groove.

Lathe 168
Threading, New Tool & Cutoff Step 6: Lathe Finish Toolpath

n Select Parameters and change in the

Lead in the entry vector Angle to -135.

5.9 Regenerate and Backplot the toolpath

again
n Press Alt + T to remove the toolpath display.

STEP 6: LATHE FINISH TOOLPATH

Turning

n From the General group, select the Finish icon.

6.1 Select the geometry

n Click on the Last button . Mastercam selects the same chain as the one selected in the
previous operation.

6.2 Set the Toolpath

Parameters
n Select a OD Finish Right 35
deg tool.
n Set the Coolant On.
n Enable Force tool change.

Lathe 169
Threading, New Tool & Cutoff Step 6: Lathe Finish Toolpath

6.3 Set the Finish

Parameters
n Finish stepover =
0.01".
n Number of finish
passes = 1.
n Stock to leave in X =
0.0".
n Stock to leave in Z =
0.0".
n Finish direction set to
OD.
n Set the Cutter
compensation to
Computer and to the
Right.

n Set proper Lead In/Out

parameters.
n Extend the end contour 0.5".

Lathe 170
Threading, New Tool & Cutoff Step 6: Lathe Finish Toolpath

n Enable Plunge parameters for the OD,

disable Front and Back Clearance Angles
and enable Start cut on tool back corner to
eliminate the need for additional finish passes.

6.4 Backplot the Finish operation

Lathe 171
Threading, New Tool & Cutoff Step 7: Lathe Thread Toolpath

STEP 7: LATHE THREAD TOOLPATH

The Lathe Thread toolpath gives you options to create spiral shapes on a part to make a screw, bolt, or nut. You
can program straight or tapered threads on the outside, inside, or face of a part. You can also automatically program
multiple lead threads.

7.1 Select the toolpath

Turning

n From the General

group, select the
Expand gallery
arrow and click on
the Thread icon.

7.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Thread Right.
n Set the Tool/Offset Number to 4.
n Set the Coolant On.

7.3 Set the Thread Shape Parameters

Note: Allows you to set the shape of the thread. You can select dimensions from a thread form table; to
compute from formula, or just enter the values into the fields.
We are machining a thread with the Major Diameter 3.2 - 10 UN which is not a value found in a table.

n Select Compute from

formula and change the
thread form to UN, the Lead to
10 and the Basic major
diameter to 3.2".

Note: The system

automatically computes the
minor diameter.

Lathe 172
Threading, New Tool & Cutoff Step 7: Lathe Thread Toolpath

n Click on the Start position .

n Set the start of the thread at the beginning of the

chamfer as shown.

n Click on the End position.

n Set the end of the thread at the bottom of the groove as
shown.
n Thread orientation OD.

7.4 Set the Thread Cut Parameters

n Set the NC code format to
Canned.
n Enable Equal area.
n Determine the number of cuts from
the Amount of first cut = 0.01".
n Stock clearance = 0.1". (set the
distance from the stock that the
cutter starts to feed).
n Overcut = 0.35.
n Leave the Anticipated pulloff = 0;
you only need this parameter when
there is no relief groove at the end of
the thread.
n Set the Amount of last cut to
0.005".
n Number of spring cuts to 1.
n Acceleration clearance set to
0.2".

n In the Overcut field, highlight the value and enter S

instead; press Enter.
n This will allow you to select 2 points from the graphics
area to determine the distance that the tool will
overlap.

Lathe 173
Threading, New Tool & Cutoff Step 7: Lathe Thread Toolpath

7.5 Verify the toolpaths

by selecting all
operations

7.6 Post Process the file

n Run the Post Processor.

Note: The NC program may be saved,

and sent directly to the machine
associated with the post.

Lathe 174
Groove With A Taper Wall

Lathe 175
Groove with a Taper Wall New Toolpath Information

NEW TOOLPATH INFORMATION

The following is brief description of the new toolpath used in this exercise.

Cutoff toolpath vertically cut off

pieces of the part, such as sections of
bar stock.
You do not need to chain any
geometry for a cutoff toolpath,
instead, you select the point where
the part is cut off.
Mastercam creates the toolpath from
the cutoff parameters.

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION
Topics:

n Lathe Face.
n Lathe Rough (OD).
n Lathe Finish (OD).
n Lathe Groove (with taper angle).
n Lathe Center Drill.
n Lathe Drill.
n Lathe Rough (ID).
n Lathe Finish (ID).
n Lathe Cutoff.

Lathe 176
Groove with a Taper Wall Excercise: Drawing #6

EXCERCISE: DRAWING #6
STEP 1: OPEN PART GEOMETRY

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select DRAWING 6.MCAM

STEP 2: CREATE THE JOB SETUP

2.1 Load the Lathe Default if needed

n From the Machine tab, select Lathe and Default.

2.2 Tool settings

n Select the Tool settings icon.
n Set the Program # to 6.
n Enable Assign tool numbers sequentially.
n Enable Warn of duplicate tool numbers.
n Enable Feed Calculation From tool.

2.3 Set the Stock settings

n Enable Left Spindle.
n Set the stock size by selecting
Properties.
n OD = 3.25.
n Length = 5.0.
n Establish the stock as a bar giving
extra margins: OD margin =
0.125"; Right margin = 0.2";
Left margin = 2.0".

Lathe 177
Groove with a Taper Wall Step 3: Lathe Face Toolpath

2.4 Set the Chuck Jaws settings

n Enable Left Spindle.
n Set the chuck size and the location by selecting Properties.
n Use the default dimensions for the chuck size.
n Set the chuck Position from Stock to Grip on maximum
diameter; Grip Length = 0.5".
n Select the Preview Lathe Boundaries button to check the
chuck.
n Press Enter to continue.
n Select the OK button twice to exit Machine Group Properties.

STEP 3: LATHE FACE TOOLPATH

Turning

n From the General group, select the Face icon.

3.1 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Rough Right 80 deg tool.

3.2 Set the Face Parameters

n Select the proper parameters to rough and finish in the same operation.
n Rough stepover= 0.06.

3.3 Backplot the Face operation

STEP 4: LATHE ROUGH OD TOOLPATH

Turning

n From the General group, select the Rough

icon.

4.1 Select the geometry

n Using Partial selection, select the first
entity of the chain and the last one to
complete the chaining.

Lathe 178
Groove with a Taper Wall Step 5: Lathe Finish OD Toolpath

4.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a existing OD Rough Right 80 deg tool.

4.3 Set the Rough Parameters

n Set proper rough passes.
n Leave 0.005" stock to leave in both X and Z.
n Set proper Lead In/Out parameters. In the Lead out, extend the end of the contour by 0.5".
n No plunges allowed for this operation; we will use groove toolpath to machine the groove.
n Use stock for outer boundary enabled.

4.4 Backplot the Rough operation

STEP 5: LATHE FINISH OD TOOLPATH

5.1 Select the geometry

n Click on the Last button . Mastercam selects the same

chain as the one selected in the previous operation.

5.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Finish Right 55 deg tool.

5.3 Set the Finish Parameters

n Make one finish pass and set the proper Lead In/Out
parameters. (Extend the end in Lead Out with 0.5).
n Set the Cutter compensation to Computer and to the Right.

5.4 Backplot the Finish operation

Lathe 179
Groove with a Taper Wall Step 6: Lathe Groove Toolpath

n Create a line parallel with the vertical line of the groove that goes
through the endpoint of the horizontal line of the groove as shown.

STEP 6: LATHE GROOVE TOOLPATH

Turning

n From the General group, select the Groove icon.

6.1 Select the geometry

n Select 2 Points in the Groove Definition.

Note: Remember that the first point should be the upper right corner of
the groove and the second point should be the lower left corner.

n Select a OD Groove tool with a width 0.125".

n In the Groove shape

parameters, make sure that all
corner Radius are set to 0, and
all chamfers are disabled.

Lathe 180
Groove with a Taper Wall Step 6: Lathe Groove Toolpath

6.2 Establish the Taper Angle

n Highlight the value in the right side Taper
angle field and enter letter a (from angle).
n Press enter and select Two lines from the list.

n Select the oblique line as first line and then the vertical
line that we created as the second line (the angle should
be 59.036243).

6.3 Groove rough parameters

n In the Groove rough parameters, make sure that Rough is

enabled and the cutting direction is Positive.
n Set the roughing passes for the groove.

6.4 Groove finish parameters

n In the Groove finish parameters, set the Direction for 1st pass to CCW to start with the left
side.
n Set the Overlap between passes to 0.1.

6.5 Verify the Groove operation

n In the Visibility area, enable Toolpath.

Note: Observe the remaining stock after the roughing passes. Go

back to the toolpath parameters and on the rough parameters page,
in the Groove Walls area, change the settings to Smooth. Also
note the lead in entries on both finish passes; they are at -45 deg/ -
135 deg.
Using the tangent options in the entry vectors, extend the start of the
passes with the Length, ensuring a better tool approach.

6.6 Regenerate the toolpath and Verify it again

n In the Visibility area, enable Toolpath.

Lathe 181
Groove with a Taper Wall Step 7: Center Drill The Hole

STEP 7: CENTER DRILL THE HOLE

7.1 Set the Toolpath Parameters
n Select a 1/2" Center drill.

7.2 Set the Drill Parameters

n Depth = - 0.25"

7.3 Verify the Center Drill operation

STEP 8: DRILL 3/4 DIAMETER HOLE

8.1 Set the Toolpath Parameters
n Select a 3/4" Drilll.

8.2 Set the Drill Parameters

n Depth = - 2.75.
n Cycle set to Peck Drill.
n First peck = 0.2.
n Enable Drill tip compensation.
n Breakthrough amount 0.0".

8.3 Verify the Drill operations

Lathe 182
Groove with a Taper Wall Step 10: Lathe Finish ID Toolpath

STEP 9: LATHE ROUGH ID TOOLPATH

9.1 Select the geometry

n Using Partial selection select the first entity of the
chain and the last one to complete the chaining.

9.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a ID Rough boring bar with a Min diameter of 0.5".

9.3 Set the Rough Parameters

n Set proper rough passes.
n Set proper Lead In/Out parameters.
n Enable Use stock for outer boundary.

9.4 Verify the Rough ID operation

STEP 10: LATHE FINISH ID TOOLPATH

Turning

n From the General group, select the Finish icon.

10.1 Select the geometry

n Click on the Last button . Mastercam selects the same
chain as the one selected in the previous operation.

10.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a ID Finish boring bar with a Min 0.5" diameter.

Lathe 183
Groove with a Taper Wall Step 10: Lathe Finish ID Toolpath

10.3 Set the Finish Parameters

n Set the proper Lead In/Out parameters.
n Set the Cutter compensation to Computer and to the Left.

10.4 Verify the Finish ID operation

10.5 Use corner break

Corner Break allows you to automatically create radii or chamfers on all outer corners of lathe finish
toolpaths. You can also set the feed rate when the tool creates the radii or chamfers.

10.6 Move the lathe finish OD operation after the groove

operation
n Right mouse click on the Lathe Finish OD operation 3 and drag it
below the groove operation, and then release.
n Select Move after.
n In the Finish operation click on Plunge parameters, enable
plunging in both directions and use the Start cut on tool back
corner. Make sure that both Back and Front clearance angle
are disabled.
n Regenerate all toolpaths.

n Select Parameters in Lathe

Finish (operation 4).
n Enable Corner Break and set
the parameters to make fillets
with the radius 0.05".
n Regenerate all toolpaths.

Lathe 184
Groove with a Taper Wall Step 10: Lathe Finish ID Toolpath

10.7 Blackpot the Finish OD operation

again

n To fillet the first corner as well,

enable Add Line in the Lead
in and enter the Length =
0.1" and the Angle = 270.

10.8 Regenerate and Blackpot the

toolpath

Lathe 185
Groove with a Taper Wall Step 11: Lathe Cutoff Toolpath

STEP 11: LATHE CUTOFF TOOLPATH

Cutoff toolpaths vertically cut off pieces of the part, such as sections of bar stock. You do not need to
chain any geometry for a cutoff toolpath. Instead, you select the point where the part is cut off.

11.1 Cutoff the

Part
n From the
General group,
select the
Expand gallery
arrow and click on
the Cutoff icon.

n Select the Cutoff boundary point as shown.

11.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Cutoff Right W 0.125".

Lathe 186
Groove with a Taper Wall Step 11: Lathe Cutoff Toolpath

11.3 Set the Cutoff

Parameters
n Set the X tangent
Point to -0.05".
n Enable Corner
Geometry Chamfer
and make a 0.05" X
45 degrees chamfer
at the corner.
n Set the Radius to
apply new settings
to 0.1".
n Enable Feed rate and
make it half of the
original feedrate
(0.001).

Note: Tool collision with stock warning appears. Edit the tool to make it longer.

n Double click on
the tool in the
Lathe Cutoff
toolpath.
n In the Holder set
C to 2.0.

11.4 Blackpot the Cutoff operation

step by step

Lathe 187
Groove with a Taper Wall Step 12: Verify The Toolpaths

STEP 12: VERIFY THE TOOLPATHS

n Select play button to run Verify.
n Slow down the verification.

Note: The part disappears from the screen once the

cutoff toolpath is performed.

STEP 13: POST PROCESS THE FILE

n Run the Post Processor.

Note: The NC program may be saved, and sent

directly to the machine associated with the post.

Lathe 188
Dynamic Lathe - Part 1

Lathe 189
Dynamic Lathe - Part 1 New Toolpath Information

NEW TOOLPATH INFORMATION

The following is brief description of the new toolpath used in this exercise.

Lathe Dynamic Rough toolpath is designed to

cut hard materials and it supports only button
inserts, such as a radius or ball.
The dynamic motion allows the toolpath to cut
gradually, remain engaged in the material more
effectively, and use more of the surface of your
insert, extending the tool life and increasing the
cutting speed.

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION:
Topics:

n Lathe Face.
n Lathe Dynamic Rough.
n Lathe Finish.
n Lathe Groove (groove width the same as the tool width).
n Lathe Cutoff.

Lathe 190
Dynamic Lathe - Part 1 Excercise 1: Drawing #7

EXCERCISE 1: DRAWING #7
STEP 1: OPEN PART GEOMETRY

1.1 Opening the file

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select DRAWING 7.MCAM

STEP 2: CREATE THE JOB SETUP

2.1 Load the Lathe Default if needed

2.2 Set the Tool settings

n Select the Tool settings icon.
n Set the Program # to 7.
n Enable Assign tool numbers sequentially.
n Enable Warn of duplicate tool numbers.
n Enable Feed Calculation From tool.

2.3 Set the Stock settings

n Enable Left Spindle.
n Set the stock size by selecting
Properties.
n OD = 1.25.
n Length = 3.0.
n Establish the stock as a bar giving
extra margins: OD margin = 0.125";
Right margin = 0.2"; Left margin =
2.0".

2.4 Set the Chuck Jaws settings

n Select the Left Spindle.
n Set the chuck Position using User Defined Position
Diameter = 1.5" and Z = -4.5".
n Select the Preview Lathe Boundaries button to check
the chuck.
n Press Enter to continue.
n Select the OK button twice to exit Machine Group
Properties.

Lathe 191
Dynamic Lathe - Part 1 Step 3: Lathe Face Toolpath

STEP 3: LATHE FACE TOOLPATH

Turning

3.1 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Rough Right 80 deg tool.
n Set the Tool/Offset Number to 1.
n Set the Coolant On.

3.2 Set the Face Parameters

n Select the proper parameters to rough and finish in the same
operation.

3.3 Backplot the Face operation

STEP 4: LATHE DYNAMIC ROUGH TOOLPATH

The Lathe Dynamic Rough toolpath is designed for hard materials cut with button inserts (i.e., radius or
ball). The dynamic motion allows the toolpath to cut gradually, remain engaged in the material more
effectively, and use more of the surface of your insert, extending the tool life and increasing the cutting
speed.

4.1 Select the Toolpath

n From the General group, select the Expand gallery arrow
and click on the Dynamic Rough icon.

Lathe 192
Dynamic Lathe - Part 1 Step 4: Lathe Dynamic Rough Toolpath

4.2 Select the Geometry

n Using Partial selection, select the first entity of the chain
and the last one to complete the chaining.

4.3 Create a groove tool with a button insert (Radius 0.1

Shank Cross Section set to round).

n Right mouse click in the Tool list and select Create tool.

n Select the Grooving / Parting icon.

n Set the Insert to Single End

(round).

Note: Enter first the B value and

then the A value.

Lathe 193
Dynamic Lathe - Part 1 Step 4: Lathe Dynamic Rough Toolpath

n In Holder dialog box, select

External (right hand) Style.
n Set Holder values as shown.

n In the Parameters dialog box enter the

Tool name: Round groove rad 0.1.
n In Compensation select the center tip
of the insert.

4.4 Set the Dynamic rough

Parameters
n Stepover = 50%.
n Toolpath radius = 50%.
n Leave 0.01" stock to leave in
both X and Z.
n Cutting Method = Zig-zag.

Lathe 194
Dynamic Lathe - Part 1 Step 4: Lathe Dynamic Rough Toolpath

n Set proper Roughing lead in

parameters.

Note: If you have collisions with the

stock you need to extend the Length
of the Entry Vector.
The Entry/Exit Vectors Angles are
not used in the Dynamic toolpath.

n Set proper Roughing lead

outparameters.
n Extend the end of the contour by 0.5".

n Select Plunge button.

n Allow plunges for this operation.

Lathe 195
Dynamic Lathe - Part 1 Step 5: Verify The Toolpaths

4.5 Backplot the Dynamic Rough

operation

STEP 5: VERIFY THE TOOLPATHS

n The part should look as shown after

verify.

STEP 6: LATHE FINISH OD - MULTIPLE CHAINS

6.1 Select the Geometry

n Use Partial to select the first chain and
Single to select the second chain as
shown.

6.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Finish Right 35 deg tool.

6.3 Set the Finish OD Parameters

n Make one finish pass and set the proper Lead In/Out
parameters.
n Set Plunge parameters.

Lathe 196
Dynamic Lathe - Part 1 Step 7: Lathe Groove Toolpath

6.4 Verify the Finish OD toolpath

STEP 7: LATHE GROOVE TOOLPATH

7.1 Select the geometry

Turning

n From the General group, select the expand gallery arrow and click on the Groove icon.

n Select 1 Points in the Groove Definition (the upper right corner). Press Enter to
continue.

Note: Remember that the first point should be the upper right corner of the groove and the second point
should be the lower left corner.

7.2 Set the Toolpath

Parameters
n Select the OD Groove
Center with a width 0.125".
n Create a new tool with the
width 0.1.

7.3 Set the Groove Shape

Parameters
n Use the short keys "l" or "s"
to determine the height of the
groove. (0.15)
n Enable Use tool width.

Lathe 197
Dynamic Lathe - Part 1 Step 7: Lathe Groove Toolpath

7.4 Set the Groove Rough

Parameters
n Make sure that Rough the
groove is enabled and set the
roughing pass for the groove to
100%; no Backoff and no stock to
leave in X or in Z.

7.5 Set the Groove Finish Parameters

n Disable the Groove finish parameters.

Note: The tool clearance violation appears; continue to create the toolpath. Keep the operation.

n The tool rapids on the wall as shown.

n To fix the problem change the Stock clearance to

0.4.

Lathe 198
Dynamic Lathe - Part 1 Step 8: Lathe Cutoff Toolpath

7.6 Regenerate the toolpath and Backplot it

again

STEP 8: LATHE CUTOFF TOOLPATH

8.1 Select the Toolpath

n From the General group, select the Expand gallery arrow
and click on the Cutoff icon.

8.2 Select the Cutoff Boundary Point

n Select the Cutoff boundary point as shown.

n Select the OD Cutoff Right W 0.125".

Lathe 199
Dynamic Lathe - Part 1 Step 8: Lathe Cutoff Toolpath

8.3 Set the Cutoff

Parameters
n Enable Chamfer
and make a 0.05" X
45 degrees chamfer
at the corner.

n Enable Clearance Cut and change the Z increment to

0.05.

8.4 Verify the Cutoff toolpaths step by

step

8.5 Post Process the file

n Run the Post Processor.

Lathe 200
Part Handling 1

Lathe 201
Part Handling 1 New Toolpath Information

NEW TOOLPATH INFORMATION

The following is brief description of the new toolpaths used in this exercise.

Lathe Stock Advanced toolpath

creates a stock advance operation
to reposition the stock in the
spindle or to control a bar feeder.
Before programming a stock
advance operation, you need to
have defined the stock and chuck
boundaries in the Stock Setup.
If your machine has two spindles,
select the active spindle for the
operation. Then, enter the original
and new positions for the stock.

Lathe Tailstock toolpath allows you to move the

tailstock towards the part or to pull it away.
You will have to enter the original and the
destination positions of a reference point on the
tailstock, or you can pick the locations from the
graphics window.

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION:
Topics:

n Lathe Face.
n Define a Tailstock.
n Center Drill.
n Lathe Stock Advance.
n Lathe Rough with Chip break.
n Lathe Finish.
n Lathe Groove.

Lathe 202
Part Handling 1 Excercise: Drawing #8

EXCERCISE: DRAWING #8
OPEN PART GEOMETRY

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select DRAWING 8.MCAM

STEP 1: CREATE THE JOB SETUP

1.1 Load the Lathe Default if needed

1.2 Set the Tool settings

n Select the Tool settings icon.
n Set the Program # to 8.
n Enable Assign tool numbers sequentially.
n Enable Warn of duplicate tool numbers.
n Enable Feed Calculation From tool.

1.3 Set the Stock

settings
n Enable Left
Spindle.
n Set the stock size
by selecting
Properties.
n Change the
Geometry to
Cylinder.
n OD = 4.1875.
n Length = 38.0.
n Set the Axis to -Z.
n Establish the stock
as a bar giving
extra margins: OD
margin =
0.03125"; Right
margin = 0.15";
Left margin =
5.0".

Lathe 203
Part Handling 1 Step 2: Define The Tailstock

1.4 Set the Chuck Jaws settings

n Enable Left Spindle.
n Set the chuck size and the location by
selecting Properties.
n Use the default dimensions for the chuck size.
n Set the chuck Position using User Defined
Position Diameter = 4.25" and Z = -1.0".
n Select the Preview Lathe Boundaries
button to check the chuck.
n Press Enter to continue.
n Select the OK button twice to exit Machine
Group Properties.

STEP 2: DEFINE THE TAILSTOCK

Tailstock Center allows you to define a tailstock center by entering its dimensions and initial position directly into
the fields.

2.1 Tailstock Center

n Within Stock Setup select the Properties in the Tailstock
Center area.

n Set Geometry to Parametric and leave the default

parameters.
n Position Along Axis set to 42.0 as shown.

Note: The Position Along Axis value depends on

lathe. For our exercise is just a random value that
alows enough space for machining.

n Select the Preview Lathe

Boundaries button to check the
tailstock location.
n Right mouse click and select Fit.
n Press Enter to continue.

Lathe 204
Part Handling 1 Step 3: Lathe Face Toolpath

STEP 3: LATHE FACE TOOLPATH

Turning

n Select the Face icon.

3.1 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Rough Right 80 deg tool.

3.2 Set the Face Parameters

n Select the proper parameters to rough and finish in the same operation.

3.3 Backplot the Face operation

STEP 4: CENTER DRILL THE HOLE

4.1 Set the Toolpath Parameters
Turning

n Select the Drill icon.

n Select a 1/2" Center drill.

4.2 Set the Simple Drill - no peck Parameters

n Depth = - 0.25"

4.3 Verify the Center Drill operation

Lathe 205
Part Handling 1 Step 5: Drill 5/8 Diameter Hole

STEP 5: DRILL 5/8 DIAMETER HOLE

5.1 Copy the Drill toolpath

n Right mouse click in the Toolpaths manager
and select Copy.
n Right mouse click in the Toolpaths manager
and select Paste.
n Select the second drill toolpath Parameters.

STEP 6: CREATE A 5/8 DRILL

6.1 Tools
n Right mouse click in the tool list window and
select Create tool.
n Select the Tool Type Drill.
n Set the Tools parameters as shown.

6.2 Holders
n Change the total length to 9.75 .

6.3 Parameters
n In the Parameters, enter the Tool name: 5/8"
Drill.

6.4 Set the Drill Parameters

n Set the depth based on the
geometry by clicking on the Depth
button and select the point at the tip
of the hole.
n Change the Cycle to Peck Drill.
n First peck = 0.25
n Peck clearance = 0.05.
n Enable Generate toolpath.

Lathe 206
Part Handling 1 Step 7: Lathe Stock Advance Toolpath

6.5 Verify the Drill operations

n Select the last operation and then
enter Alt + T to remove the toolpath
display.

STEP 7: LATHE STOCK ADVANCE TOOLPATH

The Lathe Stock Advance toolpath allows you to reposition the stock in the spindle or to control a bar feeder.

7.1 Select the Toolpath

Turning

n From the Part Handling group, select the Expand gallery

arrow and click on the Stock Advance icon.

7.2 Select the geometry

n Click on Select button in
the Geometry and select
the entire geometry.
n Disable Blank original
geometry.
n Enable Level Offset by
10 to save the new
geometry on Level 11.

n For Original Position

leave Z = 0.0".
n In the Transfer Position
enter Z = 38.0".
n Enable Push stock and
Use tool stop.
n Enter the Stock
clearance = 0.5".
n Enter a Tool X position
of 0.75".

Lathe 207
Part Handling 1 Step 8: Lathe Tailstock Advanced Toolpath

n In the Levels Manager

make only Level 11
visible.
n The geometry should look
as shown.

STEP 8: LATHE TAILSTOCK ADVANCED TOOLPATH

The Lathe Tailstock Advanced toolpath allows you to create a tailstock operation to reposition the tailstock.

8.1 Select the Toolpath

n From the Part Handling group, select the Expand
gallery arrow and click on the Tailstock icon.

8.2 Set the Tailstock Advance Parameters

n Leave the settings for the Original Position and
change the value for the Transferred Position
to 37.5.

n The tailstock should be positioned as shown.

Lathe 208
Part Handling 1 Step 9: Lathe Rough With Chip Break

STEP 9: LATHE ROUGH WITH CHIP BREAK

The Chip Break option in the Lathe Rough toopath, allows you to establish when chip breaks can occur. The
following options are available:

n After a specified cut length

n After a specified cut duration

9.1 Select the

geometry
Turning

n From the General

group, select the
Rough icon.
n Using Partial
selection, select the
first entity of the chain
and the last one to
complete the chaining.

9.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a existing OD Rough Right 80 deg tool.
n Change the Home Position to User defined X =
10" and Z = 40" to not collide with the tailstock.
n Enable Force tool change.

9.3 Set the Rough OD

Parameters
n Set proper rough passes.
n Leave 0.005" stock to leave in
both X and Z.
n Enable Use stock for outer
boundary.
n No plunges allowed for this
operation.
n Set proper Lead In/Out
parameters. Extend the end
of the contour by 0.5".

Lathe 209
Part Handling 1 Step 10: Lathe Finish OD Toolpath

n Enable Chip Break and set the Length to break the chip at
each 6.0" along the cut with the Lead in/out distance to 0.1
and Start/end of pass allowance set to 0.5.

Chip Break allows you to establish when chip breaks can

occur. You can specify a cut length or a specified cut duration
for the chip break to occur.

9.4 Backplot the Rough toolpath

9.5 Verify the Rough OD

operation

STEP 10: LATHE FINISH OD TOOLPATH

10.1 Select the geometry
Turning

n Select the Finish icon.

n Click on the Last button . Mastercam selects the same chain as the one selected in the previous
operation.

Lathe 210
Part Handling 1 Step 11: Machine The 0.375" Width Groove

10.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Finish Right 55 deg tool.
n Change the Home Position to User defined X = 5" and Z = 40".

10.3 Set the Finish OD Parameters

n Make one finish pass and set the proper Lead In/Out parameters.

10.4 Verify the Finish OD

operation

STEP 11: MACHINE THE 0.375" WIDTH GROOVE

11.1 Select the geometry

Turning

n From the General group, select the Groove

icon.
n Select 2 Points in the Groove Definition.
n Press Enter.

11.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Groove Center tool with a width 0.25".
n Set both Lead In to Vector Angle -90 deg and Length 0.1.

11.3 Verify the Groove operation

Lathe 211
Part Handling 1 Step 12: Post Process The File

11.4 Verify all the operations

n Select the Play button to run
Verify.

STEP 12: POST PROCESS THE FILE

n Run the Post Processor.

Note: The NC program may be saved, and sent

directly to the lathe machine associated with the
post.

Lathe 212
Chain Start And End Modified

Lathe 213
Chain Start and End Modified New Toolpath Information

NEW TOOLPATH INFORMATION

In this exercise you will learn how to use dynamic options to change the start and the end of a chain used to create the
toolpath.

Use the Dynamic button in the Wireframe

Chaining dialog box to change the Start of the
chaining.

Dynamic moves the start or end of a selected

chain to any position along an entity, without
restricting the start/end to an entity endpoint.

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION:
Topics:

n Lathe Face
n Lathe Rough.
n Lathe Rough (cleaning the back area).
n Lathe Finish.
n Lathe Groove (chain selection and round
groove).

Lathe 214
Chain Start and End Modified Excercise: Drawing #10

EXCERCISE: DRAWING #10

OPEN PART GEOMETRY

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select DRAWING 10.MCAM

STEP 1: CREATE THE JOB SETUP

1.1 Load the Lathe Default if needed

1.2 Set the Tool settings

n Select the Tool settings icon.
n Set the Program # to 10.
n Enable Assign tool numbers sequentially.
n Enable Warn of duplicate tool numbers.
n Enable Feed Calculation From tool.

1.3 Set the Stock settings

n Establish the stock as a
bar giving extra margins:
n OD margin = 0.125".
n Right margin = 0.1".
n Left margin = 2.0".

Lathe 215
Chain Start and End Modified Step 2: Lathe Face Toolpath

1.4 Set the Chuck Jaws

settings
n Use the default dimensions
for the chuck size.
n Set the chuck Position
from stock; Grip on
maximum diameter; Grip
length = 0.5".
n Select the Preview Lathe
Boundaries button to
check the chuck.
n Press Enter to continue.
n Select the OK button twice
to exit Machine Group
Properties.

STEP 2: LATHE FACE TOOLPATH

2.1 Set the Toolpath Parameters
n Select a OD Rough Right 80 deg tool.

2.2 Set the Face Parameters

n Select the proper parameters to rough and finish in the same operation.

2.3 Backplot the Face operation

Lathe 216
Chain Start and End Modified Step 3: Lathe Rough OD Toolpath

STEP 3: LATHE ROUGH OD TOOLPATH

Turning

n From the General group, select the Rough icon.

3.1 Select the geometry

n Using Partial selection, select the first entity of the
chain and the last one to complete the chaining.

3.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a existing OD Rough Right 80 deg tool.

3.3 Set the Rough OD

Parameters
n Set proper rough passes.
n Leave 0.005" stock to
leave in both X and Z.
n No plunges allowed for
this operation.

n Set proper Lead In/Out parameters. In the Lead

Out, enable Add Line
Length = 0.375" and an Angle of 180.

Lathe 217
Chain Start and End Modified Step 4: Rough The Back Of The Part

3.4 Backplot the Rough OD operation

STEP 4: ROUGH THE BACK OF THE PART

Note: Make sure that the Quadrant is enabled in the Selection Settings.

Turning

n From the General group, select the

Rough icon.

4.1 Select the geometry

n Using Single selection , select

the entity as shown.

n Click on the Dynamic button

n Click on the green arrow and

move the start of the chain at
the top of the arc Quadrant.

4.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Finish Right 35 deg tool.

Lathe 218
Chain Start and End Modified Step 4: Rough The Back Of The Part

4.3 Set the Rough OD Parameters

n Change the Depth of cut to 0.05.
n Leave 0.005" stock to leave in both X
and Z.
n Enable plunges for this operation.
n Set proper Lead In parameters: Angle
= -135.0.
n Length = 0.1".
n In the Lead Out
n Add a line: Length = 0.375" and
Angle 180.

n Enable OD Plunge option.

n Enable Use stock for outer boundary.

4.4 Backplot the operation

Lathe 219
Chain Start and End Modified Step 5: Machine The Profile Groove

STEP 5: MACHINE THE PROFILE GROOVE

5.1 Select the geometry

Turning

n Select the Groove icon.

n Select the Chain in the Groove

Options.
n In the Wireframe Chaining dialog box,
enable Partial.
n Select a partial chain as shown.

n Use the dynamic button to

change both the start and end of the
contour as shown.

Lathe 220
Chain Start and End Modified Step 6: Creating A New Lathe Rough Tool

STEP 6: CREATING A NEW LATHE ROUGH TOOL

n Right-mouse click and select Create tool.

6.1 Set the Type

n Select Grooving /Parting.

6.2 Set the Inserts

n Select Single End (round).
n Change first B = 0.15".
n A = 0.125".

6.3 Set the Holders

n Select External (center).
n A = 0.5".
n Change D = 0.125".

Lathe 221
Chain Start and End Modified Step 6: Creating A New Lathe Rough Tool

6.4 Set the Parameters

n Set the Compensation to the
bottom center of the groove.
n Change the Tool name to Round
Groove Rad 0.15.

n Draw tool to check it as shown.

Lathe 222
Chain Start and End Modified Step 6: Creating A New Lathe Rough Tool

6.5 Set the Groove

Rough Parameters
n Set the Cut
direction to
Negative and
Groove Walls to
Smooth.
n Leave the rest of the
parameters as the
defaults.

6.6 Set the Groove Finish

Parameters
n Set the Direction of 1st
pass to CW.
n Use the Middle Overlap and
set the Overlap between
passes = 0.03.
n Set both Lead In to Use
entry vector, Fixed
Direction set to None and
Angle = -90 and Length =
0.1".

6.7 Verify the Groove operation

Lathe 223
Chain Start and End Modified Step 7: Lathe Finish OD Toolpath

STEP 7: LATHE FINISH OD TOOLPATH

7.1 Set the Parameters
n Select a OD Finish Right 35 deg tool.
n Make one finish pass and set the proper Lead In/Out
parameters.
n Enable Plunge parameters.

7.2 Backplot the Finish OD

operation

STEP 8: CUTOFF THE PART

8.1 Select the geometry

n Select the Cutoff boundary point.

8.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Cutoff Right W 0.125".

8.3 Backplot the Cutoff operation

Lathe 224
Chain Start and End Modified Step 7: Lathe Finish OD Toolpath

8.4 Verify all the operations

n Select the Play button to run Verify.

8.5 Post Process the file

n Run the Post Processor.

Lathe 225
Part Handling 2

Lathe 226
Part Handling 2 New Toolpaths Information:

NEW TOOLPATHS INFORMATION:

The following is a brief descriptions of the new toolpath used in this exercise.

Lathe Stock Transfer allows you to create an operation which transfers the stock to a chuck on the other
spindle. This lets you program operations on the opposite side or back of a part in the same Mastercam file.
To transfer the stock you have to follow these steps:

Geometry
Select the transfer geometry and create a
new copy on a different level.

Stock position on the main and on the

sub spindle
Enter the original and the new positions for
the stock.

Chucks locations on the Original

position and Final position
Enter the current location of the chuck in
the Original position fields. Enter the final
location of the chuck after it picks off the
part determined by the Transferred
position for the stock.

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION
Topics:

n Define the Right Spindle.

n Lathe Face.
n Lathe Rough.
n Lathe Finish.
n Lathe Stock Transfer.
n Lathe Face (Right Spindle).
n Lathe Rough (Right Spindle).
n Lathe Finish (Right Spindle).
n Lathe Drill (Right Spindle).
n Lathe Finish (ID Right Spindle Finish the
chamfer).

Lathe 227
Part Handling 2 Exercise 1: Drawing #12

EXERCISE 1: DRAWING #12

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select DRAWING 12.MCAM

STEP 1: CREATE THE JOB SETUP

1.1 Load the Lathe Default if needed

n From the Machine tab, select Lathe and Default.

1.2 Set the Tool settings

n Select the Tool settings icon.
n Set the Program # to 12.
n Enable Assign tool numbers sequentially.
n Enable Warn of duplicate tool numbers.
n Enable Feed Calculation From tool.

1.3 Set the Stock settings

n Establish the stock as a Cylinder.
n OD = 4.8".
n Length = 7.5".
n OD margin = 0.1".
n Right margin = 0.15".
n Left margin = 0.1".

Lathe 228
Part Handling 2 Step 2: Define The Right Spindle

1.4 Set the Chuck Jaws settings

n Use the default dimensions for the chuck
size.
n Set the chuck From stock on a Left
Spindle, Grip on maximum diameter,
Grip Length = 1.5".
n Select the Preview Lathe Boundaries
button to check the chuck.
n Press Enter to continue.

Note: We are going to transfer the stock we

need to setup the Right spindle.

STEP 2: DEFINE THE RIGHT SPINDLE

2.1 Set the Chuck

Jaws settings
n Within Chuck Jaws,
enable the radio
button in front of the
Right Spindle and
select Properties
button.
n In the Parameters,
User Define
Position, enter Z =
20.0, and enable Z
only.

Lathe 229
Part Handling 2 Step 3: Lathe Face Toolpath

n Select the Preview

Lathe
Boundaries
button to check the
chuck.
n Press Enter to
continue.
n Select the OK
button twice to exit
Machine Group
Properties.

STEP 3: LATHE FACE TOOLPATH

3.1 Set the Toolpath Parameters
n Select a OD Rough Right 80 deg tool.

3.2 Set the Face Parameters

n Select the proper parameters to rough and finish in the same
operation.

3.3 Backplot the Face operation

STEP 4: LATHE ROUGH OD TOOLPATH

4.1 Select the toolpath
n From the General group, select the Rough icon.

Lathe 230
Part Handling 2 Step 4: Lathe Rough OD Toolpath

4.2 Select the geometry

n In the Wireframe Chaining dialog box, click on the Solid button.

n Using Partial selection, select the first entity of

the chain and the last one to complete the
chaining.

4.3 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Create a OD Rough Right 55 deg tool.
n Set the Coolant On.

4.4 Set the Rough parameters

n Setup proper rough passes.
n Leave 0.005" stock to leave in both X and Z.
n Allow Plunges for this operation.
n Set proper Lead In/Out parameters.
n In the Lead in set the Angle to -135.0.
n In the Lead Out Shorten the end with 0.5" length.
n Enable Use stock for outer boundary.

4.5 Backplot the Dynamic Rough OD operation

Lathe 231
Part Handling 2 Step 5: Lathe Finish OD Toolpath

STEP 5: LATHE FINISH OD TOOLPATH

5.1 Select the geometry
n Click on the Last button .

5.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Finish Right 35 deg tool.

5.3 Set the Finish OD Parameters

n Make one finish pass and set the proper Lead In/Out
parameters (shorten the end).
n Allow Plunges for this operation.

5.4 Backplot the Finish OD toolpath

STEP 6: LATHE STOCK TRANSFER TOOLPATH

The Lathe Stock Transfer Toolpath allows you to create an operation which transfers the stock to a
chuck on the other spindle. This lets you program operations on the opposite side or back of a part in the
same Mastercam file.

6.1 Select the Toolpath

n From the Part Handling group, select the Stock

Transfer icon.

Lathe 232
Part Handling 2 Step 6: Lathe Stock Transfer Toolpath

6.2 Select the geometry

n Disable Blank original geometry.

n Click on the Select button in the Geometry area and
select the entire geometry.

6.3 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Enable Level Offset by 10 to save the new geometry on Level 11.
n Leave the defaults for the rest of the parameters shown in the dialog box below

n In the Sub-spindle Position area change the Pick-off

Position by clicking on Select button and picking the point
where the right chuck should clamp the part.

Note: Make only Level 2 and Level 12 visible.

Lathe 233
Part Handling 2 Step 7: Face The Part In The Right Spindle

n The part should

appear in the
right spindle as
shown below.

STEP 7: FACE THE PART IN THE RIGHT SPINDLE

7.1 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select the OD Rough Right 80
deg tool.

n Click on the Tool Angle and in the

Tool orientation on the machine
enable 180 deg.
n Select OK to continue.

n Select the Axis

Combination /
Spindle Origin
button.
n Reselect the Z value
if needed.
n Enable Lathe
Upper Right (Top)
as shown.

Lathe 234
Part Handling 2 Step 8: Lathe Rough OD In The Right Spindle

n Change the Home position to User defined, keep the X (or D if you are in the +D +Z plane)
value and change just Z= -2.0.
n In the Face parameters, set the Finish Z to 0.0.
n Select the proper parameters to rough and finish in the same operation.

7.2 Backplot the face operation

STEP 8: LATHE ROUGH OD IN THE RIGHT SPINDLE

8.1 Select the geometry

n Select the solid to the right.
n Using Partial selection, select the first entity of
the chain and the last one to complete the
chaining.

8.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Create a OD Rough Right 80 deg tool.
n Set the Coolant On.

8.3 Set the Rough Parameters

n Click on the Tool Angle and in the Tool
orientation on the machine enable 180
deg.
n Select OK to continue.

Lathe 235
Part Handling 2 Step 9: Lathe Finish OD In The Right Spindle

n Select the Axis Combination / Spindle Origin button and

enable Lathe Upper Right (Top).
n Change the Home Position to User defined X = 10.0" and Z
= -2.0".

n Set proper rough passes.

n Leave 0.005" stock to leave in both X and Z.
n No plunges for this operation.
n Set proper Lead In/Out parameters.
n Enable Use stock for outer boundary.

8.4 Backplot the Rough OD operation

STEP 9: LATHE FINISH OD IN THE RIGHT SPINDLE

9.1 Select the geometry
n Select the right solid.
n Click on the Last button .

9.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Finish Right 35 deg tool.
n Click on the Tool Angle and in the Tool orientation on the
machine ensure that 180 deg is enabled.
n Select OK to continue.
n Select the Axis Combination / Spindle Origin button and
enable Lathe Upper Right (Top)
n Change the Home position to User define keep the X value
and change just Z= -2.0".

Lathe 236
Part Handling 2 Step 10: Center Drill The Hole In The Right Spindle

9.3 Set the Finish OD Parameters

n Make one finish pass and set the proper Lead In/Out
parameters.

9.4 Backplot the Finish OD toolpath

STEP 10: CENTER DRILL THE HOLE IN THE RIGHT SPINDLE

10.1 Set the

Toolpath
Parameters
n Select a 1/2"
Center drill.
n Right mouse
click on the
tool and select
Edit.
n In the Setup
Tool enable
Right
spindle.

n In the Axis Combination, make sure that Right /Upper is enabled and the Spindle Origin is set
to Lathe Upper Right (Top)1.

Lathe 237
Part Handling 2 Step 11: Drill 1.0 Diameter Hole In The Right Spindle

10.2 Set the Drill

Parameters
n Select the Axis
Combination / Spindle
Origin button and enable
Lathe Upper Right (Top).
n Set the Home Position to
X0, Z-2.0.
n Depth = 0.25"
(Absolute).
n Drill Point 0,8.
n Clearance = -0.25"
(Absolute).
n Retract = -0.1"
(Absolute).

10.3 Verify the Center Drill operation

STEP 11: DRILL 1.0 DIAMETER HOLE IN THE RIGHT SPINDLE

11.1 Set the Toolpath Parameters
n Select a 1.0" Drilll.

n Right mouse click on the tool and select Edit.

n In the Setup Tool enable Right spindle.
n Set the Home Position to X0, Z-2.0.

11.2 Set the Drill Parameters

n Edit the tool and in the Setup Tool enable Right spindle.
n Select the Axis Combination / Spindle Origin button and enable Lathe Upper Right (Top).

n Depth = 2.5" (Absolute).

n Drill Point 0,0.
n Clearance = -0.25" (Absolute).
n Retract = -0.1" (Absolute).

Lathe 238
Part Handling 2 Step 12: Machine The Chamfer Using Finish Toolpath

11.3 Verify the Drill operations

STEP 12: MACHINE THE CHAMFER USING FINISH TOOLPATH

12.1 Set the Geometry

n Select the right side solid.
n Select only the chamfer line.

12.2 Set the Toolpath

Parameters
n Select a ID Finish Min 0.75"
boring bar.

n Right mouse click and select

Create tool.
n In the Setup Tool enable Right
Spindle.
n Select OK to continue.
n Select the Axis Combination /
Spindle Origin button and
enable Lathe Upper Right
(Top)
n Change the Home position to
User defined keep the X value
and change just Z= -2.0".

Lathe 239
Part Handling 2 Step 12: Machine The Chamfer Using Finish Toolpath

12.3 Set the Chamfer Finish Parameters

n Cutter comp to Left.
n Allow Plunge.
n Make one finish pass and set the proper Lead In/Out
parameters. (Tangent vector)

12.4 Backplot the toolpath

12.5 Verify all the operations

12.6 Post Process the file

n Run the Post Processor.

Note: The NC program may be saved, and

sent directly to the lathe machine associated
with the post.

Lathe 240
Plunge Turn

Lathe 241
Plunge Turn New Toolpaths Information:

NEW TOOLPATHS INFORMATION:

The following is a brief descriptions of the new toolpath used in this exercise.

Plunge turn toolpaths are designed for special plunge turn tools only—specifically,
the ISCAR plunge and turn inserts. The purpose of the toolpaths is to add lateral
movement to groove-style toolpaths. To do this, the plunge turn toolpaths
compensate for the change in cutting depth caused by the insert's deflection when
transitioning from a plunge move to a lateral move.

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION
Topics:

n Lathe Drill (Center Drill).

n Lathe Drill.
n Lathe Face.
n Plunge Turn.
n Lathe Finish.
n Lathe Stock Flip.
n Lathe Face.
n Lathe Finish.

Lathe 242
Plunge Turn Exercise 2: Plunge Turn

EXERCISE 2: PLUNGE TURN

In this exercise you will learn how to use Lathe Plunge Turn toolpath to rough and finish the groove shape.

STEP 1: OPEN PART GEOMETRY

1.1 Opening the file

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select Plunge-Turn.MCAM

STEP 2: CREATE THE JOB SETUP

2.1 Set the Tool settings
n Set the Program # to 13.
n Enable Assign tool numbers sequentially.
n Enable Feed Calculation From tool.

2.2 Set the Stock settings

n Establish the stock as a Cylinder with an OD of 5.35" (In this example we will use stock
already machined on the OD to size), Length 0.75", and giving extra margins: OD margin =
0.0"; Right margin = 0.05"; Left margin = 0.25".

2.3 Set the Chuck Jaws settings

n Use the default dimensions for the chuck size.
n Set the chuck Position using From stock; Grip on maximum diameter;
Grip length = 0.25".
n Select the Preview Lathe Boundaries button to check the chuck.
n Press Enter to continue.

Lathe 243
Plunge Turn Step 3: Lathe Center Drill Toolpath

STEP 3: LATHE CENTER DRILL TOOLPATH

3.1 Set the Toolpath Parameters
n Select a 1/2" Center Drill.
n Set the Tool/Offset Number to 1.
n Set the Coolant On.
n Set the Home Position From the Machine.

3.2 Set the Simple

Drill - no peck
Parameters
n Depth = -0.25"
(Absolute).
n Clearance = 0.25"
(Incremental).
n Retract = 0.1"
(Incremental).
n Cycle set to
Drill/Counterbore.

3.3 Verify the Center Drill operation

Lathe 244
Plunge Turn Step 4: Drill 1.0 Diameter Hole

STEP 4: DRILL 1.0 DIAMETER HOLE

4.1 Copy the Drill toolpath
n Select the Parameters in the second toolpath.

4.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a 1.0" Drilll.
n Set the Tool/Offset Number to 2.
n Set the Coolant On.
n Set the Home Position From the Machine.

4.3 Set the Simple Drill - no peck

Parameters
n Depth = -0.95" (Absolute).
n Clearance = 0.25" (Incremental).
n Retract = 0.1" (Incremental).
n Cycle set to Peck Drill.
n First peck = 0.25.
n Enable Drill tip compensation.
n Breakthrough amount 0.25".
n Enable Generate toolpath.

4.4 Verify the Drill operations

Lathe 245
Plunge Turn Step 5: Lathe Face Toolpath

STEP 5: LATHE FACE TOOLPATH

5.1 Set the Toolpath Parameters
n Select a OD Rough Right 80 deg tool.

5.2 Set the Face Parameters

n Set the proper parameters to rough and finish in the same operation.

5.3 Backplot the Face operation

STEP 6: PLUNGE TURN TO ROUGH THE GROOVE

Plunge Turn toolpaths are designed for special plunge turn tools only, specifically, the ISCAR plunge and
turn inserts. The purpose of the toolpaths is to add lateral movement to groove-style toolpaths. To do this,
the plunge turn toolpaths compensate for the change in cutting depth caused by the insert's deflection
when transitioning from a plunge move to a lateral move.

6.1 Select the

toolpath
n From the
General group,
select the
Expand gallery
arrow and click
on Plunge Turn.

Lathe 246
Plunge Turn Step 6: Plunge Turn To Rough The Groove

n An Warning that this toolpath requires a special plunge tool

will appear on the screen.
n Select the OK button to continue.

6.2 Select the geometry

n The Grooving Options dialog box will
appear on the screen. Leave the Chain
enable and select the OK button to
continue.

n Using Partial selection, select the first entity of the chain and the last one to
complete the chaining.

6.3 Create New Groove Tool

n Insert; Single End Round; B = 0.0625; A = 0.1; C =0.5.
n Holders External (left hand); A = 1.0; B = 6.0; C =0.75; D = 0.1; E 45.
n Compensation set to the left corner.
n Tool name: Groove round radius 0.0625.

6.4 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Axis Combination set to Left/Upper and Spindle Origin set to Upper Left.

Lathe 247
Plunge Turn Step 6: Plunge Turn To Rough The Groove

6.5 Set the Plunge Turn

Rough Parameters
n Stock clearance =
0.03
n Leave 0.01" stock to
leave in both X and
Z.
n Depth cut set to 40%.
n Minimum cut depth
set to 10%.
n Approach clearance
= 0.015".
n Cut Direction set to
Zig zag negative.

6.6 Set the Plunge Turn

Finish Parameters
n Stock clearance =
0.03.
n Stock to leave in both X
and Z set to 0.0".
n Tool deflection
backoff set to 0.008".
n Approach clearance =
0.015".
n Cut direction set to
Negative.

Lathe 248
Plunge Turn Step 7: Lathe Finish ID Toolpath

6.7 Verify the Plunge Turn operation

STEP 7: LATHE FINISH ID TOOLPATH

7.1 Select the geometry

n Select the geometry as shown.

7.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a ID Finish Min .5 Dia tool.
n Set the Tool/Offset Number to 5.
n Turn the Coolant On.
n Set the Home Position From the Machine.

Lathe 249
Plunge Turn Step 8: Create A Toolpath Group

7.3 Set the Finish Parameters

n Finish Stepover set to 0.025".
n Set the Number of finish passes to 2.
n Stock to leave in X set to 0.0".
n Stock to leave in Z set to 0.0".
n Finish Direction should be set to ID.
n Set the Compensation type set to Computer and the
Compensation direction to Left.
n Enable Lead In/Out and set the Entry Vector to Tangent then
extend the end of the contour by 0.5".
n In the Plunge Parameters make sure no plunging is allowed.
n Select the OK button and the toolpath will generate.

7.4 Verify the Finish ID operation

STEP 8: CREATE A TOOLPATH GROUP

n Right mouse click on the Machine

Group and select Groups and
New Toolpath Group.
n Rename both groups.

Lathe 250
Plunge Turn Step 9: Lathe Stock Flip Toolpath

STEP 9: LATHE STOCK FLIP TOOLPATH

9.1 Select the toolpath

n From the Part Handling group, select the Stock Flip icon.

9.2 Set the Stock

Parameters
n Enable Transfer
geometry and disable
Blank original
geometry.
n Select the entire
geometry.
n Level Options set to
Offset by 10.
n In the Stock Position
parameters change the
Transferred Position
to Z: -0.75.
n In the Chuck Position,
change the in Final
Position Z: -0.015.

n Make only Level 21 visible.

n The part should look as shown.

Lathe 251
Plunge Turn Step 10: Lathe Face Toolpath

STEP 10: LATHE FACE TOOLPATH

10.1 Set the Toolpath Parameters
n Select a OD Rough Right 80 deg tool.

10.2 Set the Face Parameters

n Leave the rest of the parameters as set before.
n Select the OK button and the toolpath will generate.

10.3 Backplot the Face operation

STEP 11: LATHE FINISH THE CHAMFER

11.1 Set the Geometry

n Enable Single in the Chaining dialog box and select the
chamfer as shown.

11.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a ID Finish Min 0.5" DIA.

11.3 Set the Finish Parameters

n Number of finish passes = 2.
n Set the Cutter Compensation direction to Right.
n Lead In/Out set to Entry Vector Tangent.
n Allow Plunge for this toolpath.
n Select the OK button and the toolpath will generate.

Lathe 252
Plunge Turn Step 11: Lathe Finish The Chamfer

11.4 Backplot the Finish toolpath

11.5 Verify all the operations

11.6 Post Process the file

n Run the Post Processor.

Lathe 253
Geometry Tools - Part 4

Lathe 254
Geometry Tools - Part 4 Introduction:

INTRODUCTION:
This lesson will introduce you to more of the geometry manipulation tools that are useful for organizing or pre-
paring your geometry for toolpaths. You will also learn how to utilize and prepare the geometry that has been
imported from other CAD systems to make your programming job easier.

OVERVIEW OF EXERCISE:
In this lesson you will become more familiar with the Mastercam interface and how to convert drawing files.

NEW CONCEPTS COVERED IN THIS LESSON:

n Importing drawing files
n Align the Z axis of the part
n Turning Profile
n Moving to origin

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION PREVIEW:

Note: This entire lesson is a joint Instructor / Student exercise. No instructor demo for this lesson.

Topics:

n Converting Files
n Align to Z
n Turn Profile
n Move To Origin

Lathe 255
Geometry Tools - Part 4 Importing AutoCad(DWG) File

IMPORT A DWG FILE

Mastercam lets you read (import) a variety of CAD file types into the Mastercam database. You can also
write (export) Mastercam files to a variety of different file formats. To convert files from other CAD
packages you need to use File Open command and set the file extension to the extension of the software
you are importing from.

IMPORTING AUTOCAD(DWG) FILE

Download and save the file Geometry.dwg

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Choose the file type AutoCad Files

as shown.
n Select the Geometry.dwg and choose
the Open button.
n Right mouse click in the graphical
window and select Isometric.

n Right mouse click in the graphics

window and select Isometric.
n Right mouse click in the graphics
window and select Fit to fit the
geometry to the screen.

n Do not save the file.

Lathe 256
Geometry Tools - Part 4 Convert SolidWorks Files

CONVERT SOLIDWORKS FILES

OPTION 1: SOLIDWORKS IS INSTALLED ON YOUR COMPUTER.

Note: You can import the solids history if you have SolidWorks installed on your computer. Skip this
operation if you don't.
Download and save the file: Drawing_14.sldprt

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Choose the file type SolidWorks Files
(SLDPRT, SLDASM, SLDDRW) as shown.
n Select Drawing_14.sldpr.
n Choose the Options button in the Open
dialog box.

n Enable Import solids history from

SOLIDWORKS files to be able to see it in the
Solids Manager.
n Select the OK button to exit SOLIDWORKS File
Parameters.

n Select Open button.

n The geometry should look as shown.

Lathe 257
Geometry Tools - Part 4 Convert SolidWorks Files

n In the Solids Manager you should see the solid tree as

shown.
n Open a new file and do not save the current one.

OPTION 2: WITHOUT SOLIDWORKS INSTALLED ON YOUR COMPUTER.

Download and save the file: Chess Piece for drawing.sldpt

n From the QAT, select the Open

icon.
n Choose the file type SolidWorks
Files (SLDPRT, SLDASM,
SLDDRW) as shown.
n Select Chess Piece for
drawing.sldpt.

Note: You can import the solids wireframe too.

n Choose the Options button in the Open dialog box.

n Enable Import Solids and set the rest of the parameters as
shown.
n Select the OK button to exit SolidWorks File Parameters.

n Select the Open button to continue.

n Right mouse click and change the graphics view to Isometric.
n Right mouse click and select Fit to fit the geometry to the
screen.

Lathe 258
Geometry Tools - Part 4 Align To Z

n In the Solids Manager you should see the solid tree as

shown.

ALIGN TO Z
Align to Z allows you to orient the geometry to match how the part will be machined.

Model Prep

n Use the same part, Chess Piece

for drawing.sldpt
n From the Layout group, select
the Align to Z icon.

n Select the solid face. Press Enter to finish the

selection.

n The solid orientation is as shown.

Lathe 259
Geometry Tools - Part 4 Align To Z

n To change the orientation, to machine the opposite side

of the solid, in the Align to Z click on the Reverse
button.

n Select the OK button to exit the command.

n The geometry should look as

shown.

Lathe 260
Geometry Tools - Part 4 Turn Profile

TURN PROFILE
The Turn Profile command allows you to create a 2D profile from existing solids or surfaces in the Top
plane. There are two options to create the profile. The Spin option spins the selected geometry about an
axis and is used when the geometry is not rotationally symmetric. Slice options creates a cross section
through the selected geometry in the XY plane.

Home

n In the Attributes group, click on the Wireframe color and

change it to dark blue as shown.

n In the Attributes group, click on the Line Width and select the
fourth one from the top as shown.

Wireframe

n From the Shapes group, select Turn Profile

icon.
n Select the solid.
n Press Enter.

Lathe 261
Geometry Tools - Part 4 Turn Profile

n In the Turn Profile panel, enable Spin and Upper profile.

n Press Alt +S to unshade the solid.

n The profile should look as shown.

Lathe 262
Geometry Tools - Part 4 Transform Move To Origin

TRANSFORM MOVE TO ORIGIN

Move to Origin quickly moves all visible geometry to the current WCS origin based on a point that you
select with the AutoCursor. Move to Origin respects the 2D/3D construction mode.

Transform

n From the Position group, select Move to Origin.

n Select the Endpoint of the arc as shown.

n Right mouse click and select Fit.

n Press Alt +S to unshade the solid.
n The geometry should look as shown.
n Right mouse click again and from the Mini Toolbar,
select Clear Colors icon.

SUMMARY:
In this instructor led lesson, you were introduced to several ways to manipulate the geometry. After com-
pleting this lesson and some of the practice exercises that follow you should be able to:

n Importing drawing files.

n Align the part
n Turning profile
n Moving geometry to origin

Lathe 263
Geometry Tools - Part 4 Exercise #1 -Drawing #9

EXERCISE #1 -DRAWING #9

Full size drawings can be found at the back of the book

Job Description:

Create the geometry as shown above following the suggested commands:

n Rectangle.
n Line Parallel.
n Line Endpoints.
n Divide.
n Chamfer Entities.
n Mirror.
n Solids Revolve

Lathe 264
Geometry Tools - Part 4 Exercise #2 -Drawing #10

EXERCISE #2 -DRAWING #10

Full size drawings can be found at the back of the book

Job Description:

Create the geometry as shown above following the suggested commands:

n Rectangle.
n Line Endpoints.
n Circle Center Point.
n Delete construction lines.
n Arc Tangent/Arc One Point.
n Fillet Entities.
n Mirror.
n Solid Revolve
n Create 1/2 of the entire drawing and the use the Mirror command to complete it.
n Create the rectangle 3 by 0.5.
n Create the parallel lines for the center of the arc with the 0.5 Radius.
n Create the circle with the radius 0.5, using Circle center point command.
n Create the arc with the radius 2.5 using Arc one point command.
n Use fillet command to create the arc with the 0.75 radius.
n Use Solids Revolve command to create the solid.

Lathe 265
Geometry Tools - Part 4 Exercise #3 -Drawing #11

EXERCISE #3 -DRAWING #11

Full size drawings can be found at the back of the book

Job Description:

Create the geometry as shown above following the suggested commands:

n Rectangle.
n Line Parallel.
n Line Endpoints.
n Divide.
n Fillet Entities.
n Chamfer Entities.
n Mirror.
n Solids Revolve

Lathe 266
Solid Machining

Lathe 267
Solid Machining New Toolpath Information

NEW TOOLPATH INFORMATION

In this exercise you will learn how to machine a solid. You will create wireframe that will be used in the toolpaths using
Turn Profile command. In this exercise you will learn how to machine multiple grooves that require a groove tool with
an angle. You will edit a groove tool to change the tool angle.

Turn Profile command creates a 2D profile from existing solids or surfaces.

Mastercam creates the profile in the currently selected plane by one of the following
methods:
n Spinning the selected geometry about the selected axis
n Slice creates a cross section through the selected geometry in the XY plane

You can choose to create the profile from the upper half, the lower half, or the entire
cross section of the selected entity.

Use the Groove toolpath with Multiple chains

selection.

To change the Groove angle, select the Edit tool

and in the Setup Tool dialog box enter an angle or
use Plunge Direction or Feed Direction to select
the angle from the graphics window.

Lathe 268
Solid Machining Instructor Demonstration:

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION:
Topics:

n Import Files
n Job Setup
n Move the Part
n Turn Profile
n Lathe Face.
n Lathe Rough (OD).
n Lathe Finish (OD).
n Lathe Groove (Angle Groove - Chain
selection -OD).
n Lathe Rough (ID).
n Lathe Finish (ID).
n Lathe Groove (ID)

EXERCISE: DRAWING #14

STEP 1: IMPORT A SOLIDWORKS FILE

Mastercam lets you read (import) a variety of CAD file types into the Mastercam database. You can also write
(export) Mastercam files to a variety of different file formats. To convert files from other cad packages you need to
use the File Open command and set the file extension to the extension of the software you are importing from.

Note: The file will be available in the Machining Exercises folder, or found online at
www.emastercam.com/trainingfiles in the 2024 Lathe Professional Courseware section. If you are
unable to locate the file, you may create the drawing located at the back of the book. If this is the case
proceed to Option # 2.

Lathe 269
Solid Machining Step 2: Option # 1 - Import The Solidworks File

STEP 2: OPTION # 1 - IMPORT THE SOLIDWORKS FILE

2.1 Opening the file

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Click on the arrow in the All

Mastercam Files as shown.

n Change the files of type to

SolidWorks Files.
n Select DRAWING 14.SLDPRT.

n Select the Options button and make

sure that Solids is enabled and Edge
Curves is disabled.

Lathe 270
Solid Machining Step 3: Move The Part Origin

n Select the OK button to continue.

n Select the Open button to import the file.

2.2 Load the Lathe Default.

STEP 3: MOVE THE PART ORIGIN

3.1 Set the Plane

n From the Planes Manager, select the +D+Z and set it as
Cplane and Tplane.

3.2 Transform
n From the Position group, select the Move to Origin
icon.
n Enter in the coordinates 0,8. Press Enter.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and

select the Clear Colors icon.

Lathe 271
Solid Machining Step 4: Turn Profile

STEP 4: TURN PROFILE

The Turn Profile command will create a 2D profile from an existing solid, solid face, or surface. The profile will be
created in the Top view of the active WCS by either spinning the selected solid about the X Axis or creating a cross
section (slice) through the selected solid in the XY plane.

n Name Level 1 Drawing_14.

n In the Levels Manager, make Level 2 the Main Level.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and in the

Mini toolbar, change the Wireframe Color to Dark
blue #1.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and in the

Mini toolbar, change the Line Thickness as
shown.

Lathe 272
Solid Machining Step 4: Turn Profile

4.1 Turn Profile Command

Wireframe

n From the Shape group, select the Turn Profile

icon.

n Select the Solid and click on End Selection.

n Set the Method to Spin.
n Select Full Profile in the Profile area.
n Select the OK button to create the geometry.

n Make only Level 2 visible.

n The geometry should appear as shown below.

Lathe 273
Solid Machining Step 5: Option #2 - Open The Mastercam File

STEP 5: OPTION #2 - OPEN THE MASTERCAM FILE

5.1 Opening the file

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select DRAWING 14.MCAM.

STEP 6: CREATE THE JOB SETUP

6.1 Load the Lathe Default.

6.2 Set the Tool settings

n Set the Program # to 14.
n Enable Assign tool numbers sequentially.
n Enable Feed Calculation From tool.

6.3 Set the Stock settings

n Establish the stock as a
Cylinder with an OD of
12.0", ID of 5.0" and
Length of 8.0". In this
example we will use a
stock already machined on
the ID to size. Give extra
margins:
OD margin = 0.0"; ID
margin = 0.0";
Right margin = 0.1";
Left margin = 0.0".

Lathe 274
Solid Machining Step 7: Lathe Face Toolpath

6.4 Set the Chuck Jaws settings

n Use the default dimensions for the chuck size.
n Set the chuck Position using From stock; Grip on maximum
diameter;
n Grip length = 1.5".
n Select the Preview Lathe Boundaries button to check the chuck.
n Press Enter to continue.

STEP 7: LATHE FACE TOOLPATH

Turning

n From the General group,

select the Face icon.

7.1 Set the Toolpath

Parameters
n Select a OD Rough Right
80 deg tool.

7.2 Set the Face

Parameters
n Select the proper
parameters to rough and
finish in the same
operation.

Lathe 275
Solid Machining Step 8: Lathe Rough OD Toolpath

7.3 Backplot the Face operation

STEP 8: LATHE ROUGH OD TOOLPATH

Turning

n From the General group, select

the Rough icon.

8.1 Select the geometry

n Enable Solid Mode and select
the first entity of the chain and
the last one to complete the
chaining.

8.2 Set the Toolpath

Parameters
n Select the OD Rough Right
80 deg tool.

Lathe 276
Solid Machining Step 8: Lathe Rough OD Toolpath

8.3 Set the

Rough
Parameters
n Setup proper
rough passes.
n Leave 0.001"
stock in both X
and Z.
n No Plunges for
this operation.
n Set proper
Lead In/Out
parameters.

8.4 Backplot the Rough OD operation

Lathe 277
Solid Machining Step 9: Lathe Finish OD Toolpath

STEP 9: LATHE FINISH OD TOOLPATH

9.1 Select the geometry

Turning

n From the General group select

the Finish icon.

n Click on the Last button to

reselect the chain.

9.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select the OD Finish Right 55 deg
tool.
n Set the Tool/Offset Number to 2.
n Turn the Coolant On.
n Set the Home Position to From
Machine.

9.3 Set the Finish Parameters

n Finish Stepover set to 0.1".
n Stock to leave in X set to 0.0".
n Stock to leave in Z set to 0.0".
n Number of finish passes set to
1.
n Finish Direction should be set
to OD.
n Set the Compensation type to
Computer and the
Compensation direction to
Right.

Lathe 278
Solid Machining Step 9: Lathe Finish OD Toolpath

n Enable Lead In/Out and in the Lead

Out enable Tangent.
n In the Plunge Parameters make
sure no plunging is allowed.
n Select the OK button and the toolpath
will generate.

9.4 Backplot the Finish operation

Lathe 279
Solid Machining Step 10: Lathe Multiple OD Grooves Toolpath

STEP 10: LATHE MULTIPLE OD GROOVES TOOLPATH

10.1 Select the geometry

Turning

n From the General group, select the

Groove icon.

n In the Grooving Options choose

Multiple Chains.

n Select the first chain on the groove closest to the

front of the part as shown.

n Select the 2nd groove behind the first groove you

selected as shown.

10.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Groove Center R0.01 W0.125".

n Right click on the tool and select Edit Tool.

Lathe 280
Solid Machining Step 10: Lathe Multiple OD Grooves Toolpath

n Click on the Holders tab and change the

Shank Cross Section to 0.188 (same
as the Insert Thickness).

n Click on Setup Tool and select the

Plunge Direction button.

Lathe 281
Solid Machining Step 10: Lathe Multiple OD Grooves Toolpath

n Change the Tool Name in the

Parameters tab to OD
GROOVE CENTER -
NARROW 45 DEGREES.
n Select the OK button to exit the
Define Tool dialog box.
n Set the Tool/Offset Number
to 3.
n Turn the Coolant On.
n Select the OK button twice to
exit the tool editing.

n Set the Home Position

from the Machine.
n The tool should look as
shown.

10.3 Set the Groove Shape

Parameters
n Enable Use Stock for Outer
Boundary.
n Leave the default settings.

Lathe 282
Solid Machining Step 10: Lathe Multiple OD Grooves Toolpath

10.4 Set the Groove

Rough Parameters
n Enable Rough.
n Rough each groove
before finishing by
disabling Finish each
groove before
roughing next.
n Stock clearance set to
0.1".
n Rough step set to
Percent of tool width
and enter 75.0%.
n Backoff set to 20.0%.
n Stock amount 0.0".
n Stock to leave in X set
to 0.005".
n Stock to leave in Z set
to 0.005".
n Retraction Moves set
to Rapid.
n First Plunge Feed
Rate enable and set to
0.002 in/rev.

10.5 Set the

Groove Finish
Parameters
n Enable Finish.
n Number of finish
passes set to 1.
n Finish
stepover 0.1".
n Stock to leave
in X 0.01".
n Stock to leave
in Z 0.01".
n As the Direction
for 1st pass
enable CCW.
n Enable Lead In.

Lathe 283
Solid Machining Step 10: Lathe Multiple OD Grooves Toolpath

n In the First pass lead in tab just change the Entry Vector to
Tangent.
n In the Second pass lead in tab just change the Entry
Vector to Tangent.
n Select the OK button and the toolpath will generate.

10.6 Backplot the Groove

operation

n In the Backplot dialog box, enable Quick verify.

Note: the leftover material in the larger radius

of the groove. This is leftover because of the
tool’s geometry, the flat on the end prevents
the tool from completely finishing the part.
Also take note we need to cleanup the 0.01" of
material leftover from the finish operation.

Lathe 284
Solid Machining Step 11: Finish The Groove With A Rounded Tool

STEP 11: FINISH THE GROOVE WITH A ROUNDED TOOL

11.1 Select the geometry

Turning

n From the General group, select

the Groove icon.

n In the Grooving Options

choose Multiple Chains.

n Reselect the chains.

11.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Right mouse click in the Tool area and select Create Tool.

n Select Grooving / Parting as the tool type.

n Select the Single End

(Radius) as the Insert Style.
n Change first the B dimension
to 0.075"and then the A
dimension to 0.05" as shown
below.

Lathe 285
Solid Machining Step 11: Finish The Groove With A Rounded Tool

n Select the Holders tab and select the

External (Center) holder Style.
n Change the Shank Cross Section to
0.188".
n Select the Draw Tool button.

n The tool should appear as shown below.

n Press Enter to continue.

n Select the Parameters tab and change the

Tool name to FINISH TOOL ROUND - 45
DEGREES.
n Compensation set to the center of the
insert.

n Select the Setup Tool button.

n Change the Tool Angle to -45.
n Select the OK button to exit the Define Tool dialog box.

Lathe 286
Solid Machining Step 11: Finish The Groove With A Rounded Tool

n Set the Tool/Offset Number to 4.

n Turn the Coolant On.

n Set the Home Position From Machine.

11.3 Set the Groove Shape Parameters

n Enable Use Stock for Outer
Boundary.
n Leave the default settings.

11.4 Set the Groove Rough Parameters

n Disable Rough.

11.5 Set the Groove Finish

Parameters
n Enable Finish.
n Number of finish passes set to 1.
n Finish stepover = 0.1".
n Stock to leave in X 0.0".
n Stock to leave in Z 0.0".
n As the Direction for 1st pass
enable CCW.
n Overlap between passes set to
0.05".
n Enable Lead In.
n In the First pass lead in tab just
change the Entry Vector to
Tangent.
n In the Second pass lead in tab just
change the Entry Vector to
Tangent.
n Select the OK button and the
toolpath will generate.

Lathe 287
Solid Machining Step 12: Lathe Rough ID Toolpath

11.6 Backplot the operation

STEP 12: LATHE ROUGH ID TOOLPATH

Turning

n From the General group, select the Rough icon.

12.1 Select the geometry

n Using Partial selection, select the first entity of the chain and
the last one to complete the chaining.

12.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select the ID Rough boring bar with a Min diameter of 1.0".

12.3 Set the Rough Parameters

n Setup proper rough passes.
n Set proper Lead In/Out parameters.
n Enable Use stock for outer boundary.

12.4 Backplot the toolpath

Lathe 288
Solid Machining Step 13: Lathe Finish Id Toolpath

STEP 13: LATHE FINISH ID TOOLPATH

Turning

n From the General group, select the Finish icon.

13.1 Select the geometry

n Click on the Last button . Mastercam selects the same chain as the one selected in the
previous operation.

13.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a ID Finish boring bar with a Min 0.75".

13.3 Set the Finish OD Parameters

n Set proper Lead In/Out parameters.

13.4 Backplot the Finish ID toolpath

Lathe 289
Solid Machining Step 14: Lathe Machine ID Grooves

STEP 14: LATHE MACHINE ID GROOVES

14.1 Select the geometry

n In the Grooving Options choose Multiple Chains and select the chains in order starting from the
front and in the same direction as shown.

14.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select an ID Groove Min 0.25" DIA tool.

n Right click on the tool and select Edit Tool.

n Click on the Holders tab and change the D Value to 0.75 and
the B Value to 6.0.
n Select the OK button to exit the Define Tool dialog box.

n Set the Tool/Offset Number to 7.

n Turn the Coolant On.

Lathe 290
Solid Machining Step 14: Lathe Machine ID Grooves

14.3 Set the Groove Shape Parameters

n Enable Use Stock for Outer Boundary.
n Leave the default settings.

14.4 Set the Groove Rough

Parameters
n Enable Rough.
n Rough each groove before
finishing by disabling Finish
each groove before
roughing next.
n Stock clearance set to
0.1".
n Rough step set to Percent
of tool width and enter
50.0%.
n Backoff set to 20.0%.
n Stock amount 0.0".
n Stock to leave in X set to
0.005".
n Stock to leave in Z set to
0.005".
n Retraction Moves set to
Rapid.
n First Plunge Feed Rate
enable and set to 0.002
in/rev.

Lathe 291
Solid Machining Step 14: Lathe Machine ID Grooves

14.5 Set the Groove Finish

Parameters
n Enable Finish.
n Number of finish passes set to 1.
n Finish stepover 0.1".
n Stock to leave in X 0.0".
n Stock to leave in Z 0.0".
n As the Direction for 1st pass enable
CCW.
n Enable Lead In.
n In the First pass lead in tab just
change the Angle to 90.
n In the Second pass lead in tab just
change the Angle to 90.
n Select the OK button and the toolpath
will generate.

14.6 Backplot the ID Groove operation

n Select the Play button to run Verify.

14.7 Verify the operations

n In Verify tab, enable XY Clipping Plane and select the Clip
Top.

14.8 Post Process the file

n Run the Post Processor.

Lathe 292
Dynamic Lathe - Part 2

Lathe 293
Dynamic Lathe - Part 2 Instructor Demonstration:

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION:
Topics:

n Job Setup
n Lathe Dynamic rough.
n Lathe Finish Down cutting.

EXERCISE: DRAWING #15

STEP 1: OPEN PART GEOMETRY

n From the QAT, select the Open

icon.
n Select DRAWING 15.MCAM

STEP 2: CREATE THE JOB SETUP

2.1 Load the Lathe Default if needed

2.2 Set the Tool settings

n Set the Program # to 15.
n Enable Assign tool numbers sequentially.
n Enable Feed Calculation From tool.

2.3 Set the Stock settings

n Establish the stock as a Cylinder with an OD of 1.6" (In this example we will use stock
already machined on the OD to size), a Length of 4", and no margins.

Lathe 294
Dynamic Lathe - Part 2 Step 3: Lathe Dynamic Rough Toolpath

2.4 Set the Chuck Jaws settings

n Use the default dimensions for the chuck size.
n Set the chuck Position using From stock; Grip on
maximum diameter; Grip length = 0.5".
n Select the Preview Lathe Boundaries button to
check the chuck.
n Press Enter to continue.

STEP 3: LATHE DYNAMIC ROUGH TOOLPATH

The Lathe Dynamic Rough toolpath is designed for hard materials cut with button inserts (i.e., radius or ball). The
dynamic motion allows the toolpath to cut gradually, remain engaged in the material more effectively, and use more
of the surface of your insert, extending the tool life and increasing the cutting speed.

3.1 Select the geometry

Turning

n From the General group, click on the expand gallery arrow and
select the Dynamic Rough icon.

n Select the geometry as shown.

Lathe 295
Dynamic Lathe - Part 2 Step 3: Lathe Dynamic Rough Toolpath

3.2 Create a new tool

n Right mouse click in the Tools window.
n Select Create tool.

n Select Grooving/Parting type.

n Inserts set to Single End
(round); B = 0.09375;
A = 0.15; C = 0.5.
n Insert Thickness = 0.15.

n Click Setup Tool and set the Mounting Position to Vertical.

Lathe 296
Dynamic Lathe - Part 2 Step 3: Lathe Dynamic Rough Toolpath

Holders set to External (center);

n A = 1.0.

n B = 6.0; C = 1.0; D = 0.15; E =45.

n Shank Cross Section = 0.15.

n Tool Name set to Groove round

rad 0.09375.
n Set the Compensation to center of
the insert.

Set The Toolpath

Parameters
n Set the Tool/Offset
Number to 1.
n Set the Coolant On.
n Set the Home Position
From Machine.

Lathe 297
Dynamic Lathe - Part 2 Step 3: Lathe Dynamic Rough Toolpath

Set The Dynamic

Rough Parameters

n Stepover = 50%.
n Toolpath radius
= 50%.
n Stock to leave in
X and Z = 0.01".
n Cutting Method
set to Zig-zag.
n Enable Prevent
up cutting.

n Lead in set to Entry Vector Angle = -90 and the Length to

0.1".
n Lead out set to Exit Vector Angle = 90 and the Length to
0.1".

Verify The Dynamic Rough Operation

Lathe 298
Dynamic Lathe - Part 2 Step 4: Finish Toolpath With Down Cutting

STEP 4: FINISH TOOLPATH WITH DOWN CUTTING

Down Cutting option allows Mastercam to determine the walls and flat regions of the finish toolpath.
Walls are cut in a vertical or downward direction. Flats or shallow, areas are cut in a horizontal or upward
direction. The specified transition angle and finish direction define what is considered a wall or flat.

4.1 Select the geometry

Turning

n From the General group,

select the Finish icon.
n Select the two chains as
shown.

4.2 Create a new tool

n Right mouse click in the Tool window and select Create tool.
n Select Grooving/Parting type.
n Inserts set to Single End (round); A = 0.06; B = 0.035; C = 0.5.
n Holders set to External (center); A = 1.0; B = 6.0; C = 1.0; D = 0.06;
n E =45; Shank Cross Section = 0.188.
n Tool Name set to Groove round rad 0.035.
n Compensation set to the bottom of the insert in the center.

4.3 Set the Toolpath

Parameters
n Disable Tool Filter if you
do not see the tool.
n Set the Tool/Offset
number to 2.
n Turn the Coolant On.
n Set the Home Position
From Machine.

Lathe 299
Dynamic Lathe - Part 2 Step 4: Finish Toolpath With Down Cutting

4.4 Set the Finish Parameters

n Finish Stepover set to 0.025".
n Number of finish passes = 1.
n Stock to leave in X set to 0.0".
n Stock to leave in Z set to 0.0".
n Set the Compensation type to Computer and the
Compensation direction to Auto.

n Enable Down cutting and select the button.

n Set the parameters as shown.

The specified transition angle and finish direction define what is considered a wall or flat:
OD, ID: Walls 90 or 270 degrees are considered vertical
Face, Back: Walls 180 or 360 degrees are considered horizontal
Strategy determines the process order and you can choose the following options:

n Walls: Down cuts walls using only a down cut strategy.

n Flats: Machines flat areas only in the direction of chain.
n Alternate: Processes all geometry, switching between walls using the wall strategy, and flats using
the flat strategy.
n Walls then flats: Machines all walls using the wall strategy, followed by all flats using the flat strategy.
n Flats then walls: Machines all flats, followed by all walls.

n Select Lead In/Out and set the Entry Vector Angle to -90 degrees.
n Set the and Exit Vector Angle to 90 degrees.
n In the Plunge Parameters enable the plunge along the OD.
n Select the OK button and the toolpath will generate.

Lathe 300
Dynamic Lathe - Part 2 Step 4: Finish Toolpath With Down Cutting

4.5 Verify the Finish operation

4.6 Post Process the file

n Run the Post Processor.

Lathe 301
Creating Custom Tool

Lathe 302
Creating Custom Tool Custom Tool Information:

CUSTOM TOOL INFORMATION:

The following is a brief descriptions of how to create a custom turning tool. You will learn how to create a Kyocera
Solid Round Boring Bar.

Custom tool allows you to create a new custom tool

that cannot be defined using the other tool types.
Mastercam displays the Geometry tab where you
can begin describing the shape of the tool.
To define the tool geometry, you can open a file
that contains the tool geometry or you can save the
tool geometry on a different level in the file that
contains the geometry to be machined.
Both the insert and the holder are closed
boundaries and they have to be drawn in different
colors.

Note: Custom tools do not need to be created in the orientation in which they will be used, however you
can do that if you want.
Another approach is to define the tools in a 'normal' orientation (e.g. Quadrant 1 for a right handed OD
tool in the upper turret) then use the Tool Orientation in Turret to orient the tool for a specific task. This
way, you don't need multiple transformed copies of the geometry for different setups. For example, if you
create the tool geometry in Q1, you can then create an upper turret custom tool by setting the Tool
Orientation in Turret Q1 and create a lower turret custom tool using the same geometry, but setting the
Tool Orientation in Turret to Q4.

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION:
Topics:

n Define a revolved stock.

n Create a Custom Tool.
n Lathe Rough with a custom tool.
n Lathe Finish with a custom tool.

Lathe 303
Creating Custom Tool Exercise: Create A Custom Tool

EXERCISE: CREATE A CUSTOM TOOL

STEP 1: SAVE THE TOOL GEOMETRY IN THE TOOL FOLDER

1.1 Open the file

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select CUSTOM TOOL GEOMETRY.MCAM
n The geometry should look as shown.

n Save the tool geometry in the Tool folder located at

C:\Users\Public\Public Documents\Shared Mastercam
2025\lathe\Tools.

1.2 Opening the file

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select CUSTOM TOOL PART.MCAM

STEP 2: DEFINED A REVOLVED STOCK

2.1 Load the Lathe Default if needed

2.2 Change the Active Level to Level 2

n Open Levels manager, and make Level 2 the main level
and Level 1 invisible.

Lathe 304
Creating Custom Tool Step 2: Defined A Revolved Stock

n The stock geometry should look as shown.

2.3 Set the Tool settings

n Set the Program # to 16.
n Enable Assign tool numbers sequentially.
n Enable Feed Calculation From tool.

2.4 Set the Stock settings

n In the Geometry field enable
Revolve.
n Click on the Select Geometry
button.

n In the Wireframe Chaining dialog box enable Chain

button.
n Select the geometry.

Lathe 305
Creating Custom Tool Step 2: Defined A Revolved Stock

2.5 Set the Chuck Jaws settings

n Use the default dimensions for the chuck size.
n Set the chuck Position using From stock; Grip on
maximum diameter; Grip length = 0.5".
n Select the Preview Lathe Boundaries button to check
the chuck.
n Press Enter to continue.

n Make Level 1 the Active Level and make invisible

Level 2.

Lathe 306
Creating Custom Tool Step 3: Create A Custom Tool

STEP 3: CREATE A CUSTOM TOOL

In this step you will create the custom tool using the existing tool geometry file saved in the Lathe Tool
folder.

3.1 Select the geometry

n From the Turning ribbon, select the
Rough icon.
n Select the geometry as shown.

3.2 Create a new tool

n Right mouse click in the Tool list window and select
Create tool.
n Select the Custom type.

3.3 Set the Geometry

n In the Tool Geometry enable File
and click on the Select button and
find C:\Users\Public\Public
Documents\Shared
mcam2025\lathe\Tools folder and
select CUSTOM TOOL
GEOMETRY.MCAM.

Lathe 307
Creating Custom Tool Step 3: Create A Custom Tool

n Set the radio buttons and the Corner Radius as shown.

n Set the Geometric Tool Orientation in Top Plane

to number 3.
n Set the Tool Orientation In Turret to number 3.

Note: The first set of radio buttons defines the

orientation in which you have drawn the geometry. The
second set defines the orientation in which you wish to
use the tool.
If you have drawn it in the orientation in which it will be
used, both radio buttons must be on the orientation
number in which the tool will be used.

n For Tool Center, select the button and select the

Origin.

3.4 Setup Tool

n Turret is set to Top.
n Mounting Position is Horizontal.
n Default Active Spindle is Left.
n Spindle Rotation is set to CCW.

Lathe 308
Creating Custom Tool Step 3: Create A Custom Tool

3.5 Parameters
n Set the Tool Name to
Kyocera tool and click on
the Tool Clearance as
shown.
n Select the Scan Tool
Geometry and Select All.

3.6 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Set the Tool/Offset Number to 1.
n Set the Coolant On.
n Set the Home Position From
Machine.

3.7 Set the Rough

Parameters
n Depth of cut = 0.015".
n Minimum cut depth =
0.005".
n Stock to leave in X
and Z = 0.01".
n Variable depth = 0%.
n Cutting Method is set
to One way.
n Set the Compensation
direction to Right.
n Enable Plunge.
n Stock Recognition set
to Use stock for outer
boundary.

Lathe 309
Creating Custom Tool Step 3: Create A Custom Tool

n Lead in set to Entry Vector

Angle = 90 and the Length is set
to 0.1".

n Lead out set to Entry Vector

Angle = --135 and the Length is
set to 0.1".

n Plunge set to Allow plunging in both

directions.

Lathe 310
Creating Custom Tool Step 4: Lathe Finish Id With A Custom Tool

3.8 Backplot the Rough ID operation

STEP 4: LATHE FINISH ID WITH A CUSTOM TOOL

4.1 Select the geometry

n Select the Last button.

n Select the Kyocera tool.

4.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Set the Tool/Offset Number to 1.
n Set the Coolant On.
n Set the Home Position, From Machine.
n Enable Force tool change.

Lathe 311
Creating Custom Tool Step 4: Lathe Finish Id With A Custom Tool

4.3 Set the Finish ID Parameters

n Finish Stepover set to 0.01".
n Number of finish passes = 1.
n Stock to leave in X and Z = 0.0".
n Set the Compensation type to Computer and the
Compensation direction to Left.
n Set proper Lead In/Out.
n Plunge set to Allow plunging in both directions.
n Select the OK button and the toolpath will generate.

4.4 Backplot the Finish ID

toolpath

4.5 Post Process the file

n Save the file as CUSTOM TOOL PART1.mcam

Lathe 312
Create A 3D Tool

Lathe 313
Create A 3D Tool 3D Tool Information:

3D TOOL INFORMATION:
The following is a brief descriptions of how to create a 3D Tool. 3D tools give you more accurate simulation sessions,
often finding collisions that 2D tools do not show

Lathe Tool Manager opens the Tool Designer and allows you to
create custom 3D lathe tools. The Designer allows you to load
STEP models for inserts and holders. You can assemble the insert
to its holder, define boundaries, set mounting positions and cutting
planes as well as set the compensation.

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION:
Topics:

n Create a 3D Tool
n Lathe Rough OD with 3D Tool

Lathe 314
Create A 3D Tool Exercise: Create And Machine A Part With A 3D Tool

EXERCISE: CREATE AND MACHINE A PART WITH A 3D TOOL

Opening The File

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select CREATE_3D_TOOL PART.MCAM

STEP 1: CREATE THE JOB SETUP

1.1 Set the Tool settings

n Select the Lathe Default.

n Expand the Properties in the Toolpath Manager.
n Click the plus (+) sign if the Files, Tool Settings and
Stock Setup are not visible as shown.
n Select the Tool settings and change the parameters
as shown.
n Program # = 17.
n Feed Calculation set to From Tool.
n Enable Assign tool numbers sequentially.
n Enable Warn of duplicate tool numbers.

1.2 Set the Stock settings

n Enable Left Spindle.

n Set the stock size by selecting
Properties.

Lathe 315
Create A 3D Tool Step 1: Create The Job Setup

n Set the Geometry to Cylinder.

n Set the OD = 3.0".
n Length = 1.5".
n Z = 0".
n Axis -Z.
n Click OK button to exit the
Machine Component Manager
dialog box.

1.3 Set the Chuck Jaw

n Enable Left Spindle.

n Set the chuck size and the location by selecting
Properties.

Lathe 316
Create A 3D Tool Step 1: Create The Job Setup

n In the
Parameters,select the
Clamping method the
Outside diameter
(OD).
n In the Position enable
From stock, Grip on
maximum diameter.
n Grip length = 0.5".
n Select the Preview
Lathe Boundaries
button to check the stock
and the chuck.

n The stock should look as shown.

n Press Enter to continue.
n Click OK button to exit the Machine Component Manager dialog box.

n Click OK button to exit the Machine Group Properties dialog box.

Lathe 317
Create A 3D Tool Exercise: Lathe Rough OD With A 3D Tool

EXERCISE: LATHE ROUGH OD WITH A 3D TOOL

In this step you will create the custom tool using 3D models form a tool manufacturer.

STEP 2: CREATE A 3D TOOL

n From the Turning ribbon, select

the Lathe Tool Manager icon.

n Right mouse click in the Part library

window and select
Create 3D tool as shown.

Note: The Tool Designer panel opens. In the next steps you will navigate through the command
parameters to set up the tool by selecting each icon at the left of the panel.

2.1 Set the Tool settings

n In the Tool enter the name: OD_Rough.
n Type set to General turning.
n Tool number = 10.
n Leave the rest of the settings as shown.

Lathe 318
Create A 3D Tool Step 2: Create A 3D Tool

n Right mouse click in the Tool Assembly and select Define

a component.

2.2 Set the holder

n In the Component enable Holder.
n Click on the Select model button.
n Find and select OD_Holder.stp and click on the Open button.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and select the Isometric
view.
n The geometry should look as shown.

Note: The holder is not properly orientated. In the next steps you will
correct this.

Lathe 319
Create A 3D Tool Step 2: Create A 3D Tool

n In the Thickness field click on the Select thickness

button.
n Press Enter to go back in the graphics window and
select the edge as shown.

n Select the edge as shown.

n The Thickness should be round 0.99705.
n Copy the value in the Width field.

n Copy the value in the Width field.

n From the Tree select Connection and click on the select

plane button.

Lathe 320
Create A 3D Tool Step 2: Create A 3D Tool

n Select the face as shown.

n Change the axis orientation as shown. The gnomon axis should

be orientated as shown.
n Press Enter.

n Change the graphic view to Isometric.

n Click on the OK button.

Lathe 321
Create A 3D Tool Step 2: Create A 3D Tool

2.3 Set the Insert

n In the Tool Assembly right mouse click on the + (add
insert).
n Select Define an insert as shown.

n In the Inserts click on the New insert icon

n Open insert model button.
n Find and select OD_Insert.stpand click on the Open
button.

n The geometry should look as shown.

Note: The insert will have to be positioned and aligned

properly.

Lathe 322
Create A 3D Tool Step 2: Create A 3D Tool

n To fix and clean any problems with the imported geometry,

click on the Optimize button.

n Two optimizations had been made as shown.

n Select the OK button to continue.

2.4 Set the Cutting Definition

n In the Corner radius field, click on select corner
radius button.

n This allows you to select the radius from the

graphics window as shown.

n The Corner radius should be 0.03125.

Lathe 323
Create A 3D Tool Step 2: Create A 3D Tool

2.5 Set the Mating

n In the Mating panel click on the Parallel button.

n To select a flat face on the insert, zoom in and rotate the part
to pick the back face.

n Select a solid edge on the insert as shown.

Note: Make sure that you select the edge or two points.

n Right mouse click and select the Isometric view.

n Right mouse click again and select Fit.
n Rotate the holder, zoom in and pick the face as shown.

Lathe 324
Create A 3D Tool Step 2: Create A 3D Tool

n Select a solid edge on the insert as shown.

n The insert will be placed as shown.

Note: To adjust the insert, you can use the Edit button and the gnomon.

n Click on the Edit button.

n Select the face on the holder as shown.

n Select the solid edge to align the X axis of the adjustment

gnomon.

Lathe 325
Create A 3D Tool Step 2: Create A 3D Tool

n Select the arc close to the X-axis and rotate the insert 9
degrees as shown. You can type the value in the field.
n Press Enter to accept the value.
n Press Enter to finish the adjustment.

2.6 Setup
n In the Cutting Plane area, click on the Select button as
shown.

n Select the holder top flat face as shown.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and select the

Top view.

Lathe 326
Create A 3D Tool Step 2: Create A 3D Tool

2.7 Set the Boundary

n Once you click on the Boundary icon, Mastercam
automatically generates a yellow silhouette boundary
that encompasses the insert and a blue silhouette
boundary around the holder.
n Leave the tolerances as shown.

2.8 Set the Machine Orientation

n Orientation set to Vertical.
n Turret set to Top.
n Default Active Spindle set to Left.
n Spindle Rotation set to Clockwise.

Lathe 327
Create A 3D Tool Step 2: Create A 3D Tool

2.9 Set the Compensation

n In the Compensation Point, click on the Select
compensation point with arc from three points
icon.

n Zoom in to see the insert radius.

n Pick the endpoint of the arc.
n Pick a point somewhere in the middle and then the other
endpoint of the arc.

Lathe 328
Create A 3D Tool Step 2: Create A 3D Tool

n Method set to Corner.

n Select Quadrant 1.

n The tool should look as shown.

Lathe 329
Create A 3D Tool Step 2: Create A 3D Tool

2.10 Set the Parameters

n Set the Feed rate, Plunge rate and Spindle speed as
needed.
n Amount of cut (rough) = 0.06".
n Amount of cut (finish) = 0.01".
n Overlap amount (rough) = 0.05".
n Retraction amount (face) = 0.1".
n X overcut amount (face) = 0.05".
n Flood = On.

n Select the OK button.

n The Tool Assembly panel should look as shown.

Lathe 330
Create A 3D Tool Step 3: Lathe Rough With 3D Tool

n Select the OK button to exit Tool

Designer.
n The tool will be displayed in the Part list as
shown.
n Select the OK button to exit Tool
Manager.

STEP 3: LATHE ROUGH WITH 3D TOOL

3.1 Select the geometry

Turning

n From the General ribbon, select the Rough icon.

n Select the geometry as shown.

3.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select the OD_Rough tool.

Lathe 331
Create A 3D Tool Step 4: Lathe Finish With Same 3D Tool

3.3 Set the Rough Parameters

n Depth of cut = 0.05".
n Minimum cut depth = 0.005".
n Stock to leave in X and Z = 0.01".
n Variable depth = 0%.
n Cutting Method is set to One way.
n Set the Compensation direction to Right.
n Lead in set to Entry Vector Angle = 180 and the Length is set to 0.1".
n Lead out set to Entry Vector Angle = 45 and the Length is set to 0.1".
n Plunge set to none.
n Stock Recognition set to Use stock for outer boundary.

3.4 Backplot the Rough operation

STEP 4: LATHE FINISH WITH SAME 3D TOOL

4.1 Select the geometry

n Click on the Last button .

4.2 Create a New tool

n Select the OD_rough tool.

4.3 Set the Finish Parameters

n Finish Stepover set to 0.01".
n Number of finish passes = 1.
n Stock to leave in X and Z = 0.00".
n Set the Compensation type to Computer and the Compensation direction to Right.
n Use the same Lead In/Out settings and in the Use entry/exit vector set the Fixed Direction to
Tangent.
n Select the OK button and the toolpath will generate.

Lathe 332
Create A 3D Tool Step 4: Lathe Finish With Same 3D Tool

4.4 Backplot the Finish toolpath

4.5 Verify the toolpaths

Lathe 333
Prime Turning

Lathe 334
Prime Turning Toolpath Information

TOOLPATH INFORMATION
The following is brief description of the new toolpath used in this exercise.

Mastercam has partnered with Sandvik Coromant to develop and support their innovative
PrimeTurning™ strategies and tooling. With these tools and methods, Mastercam allows you to turn in
conventional turning and PrimeTurning directions. When combined with either CoroTurn® Prime A-
type or B-type inserts, PrimeTurning provides superior metal removal rate, productivity gains of over
50%, and increased tool life in a variety of materials.

PrimeTurning allows for the ability to perform turning operations in all directions. This provides
greater versatility when cutting as well as greater chip control and increased tool life, resulting in fewer
tool changes and production stops.
PrimeTurning toolpaths must be chained in the opposite direction as conventional turning toolpaths.
These toolpaths can only be used with Sandvik Coromant PrimeTurning tools which are available in
the following tool libraries:

n B-axis CoroTurn Prime_in.tooldb

n CoroTurn Prime_in.tooldb

PrimeTurning performs turning operations in all directions and utilizes two unique
types of non-ISO inserts:

n A-type: Used for roughing, finishing, and profiling.

n B-type: Used for heavy roughing.

These inserts feature a chip thinning design, which lets PrimeTurning toolpaths run
at double the speed and feed rates of conventional cutting strategies, with lower
temperatures at the leading edge and away from the tool nose.

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION:
Topics:

n Lathe Rough using Prime Turning Toolpath.

Lathe 335
Prime Turning Exercise: Lathe Rough Using Prime Turning

EXERCISE: LATHE ROUGH USING PRIME TURNING

In this step you will learn how to use the prime turning strategy that supports Sandvik Coromant CoroTurn
Prime inserts. This toolpath supports both A-type inserts designed for roughing, finishing and profiling and B-
type inserts designed for heavy roughing applications. This toolpath also allows you to turn in all directions while
applying higher feeds and speeds.

STEP 1: OPEN PART GEOMETRY

1.1 Opening the file

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select Prime Turning Example.MCAM

STEP 2: CREATE THE JOB SETUP

2.1 Load the Lathe Default if needed

2.2 Set the Tool Settings

n Set the Tool/Offset Number to 18.
n Enable Assign tool numbers sequentially.
n Enable Feed Calculation From tool.

2.3 Set the Stock settings

n Establish the stock as a
Cylinder with an OD of 3.0"
and Length of 4.0".
n Enable Use Margins and set
the Left Margin to 1.0".

Lathe 336
Prime Turning Step 3: Rough Out With Prime Turning

2.4 Set the Chuck Jaws settings

n Use the default dimensions for the chuck size.
n Set the chuck Position using From stock; Grip
on maximum diameter; Grip length = 0.5".
n Select the Preview Lathe Boundaries button to
check the chuck.
n Press Enter to continue.

STEP 3: ROUGH OUT WITH PRIME TURNING

3.1 Select Geometry

Turning
n From the General
group, click on the
Expand gallery
arrow.
n Select the Prime
Turning icon.

n In the Chaining dialog box

the Partial button should
be selected.
n Chain the geometry in the
direction shown.

Lathe 337
Prime Turning Step 3: Rough Out With Prime Turning

3.2 Set the Tool

n Click on the Select library tool

button.

n Click on the Open icon.

n Select the CoroTurn Prime_

in.tooldb.
n Select the Open button to
change the library.

n Select the C4-CP-25BL-27060-11B tool

as shown.

3.3 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Set the Tool/Offset Number to 1.
n Turn the Coolant On.
n Set the Home Position From Machine.

Lathe 338
Prime Turning Step 3: Rough Out With Prime Turning

3.4 Set the Rough

Parameters
n Enable Rough and
set the Strategy to
Horizontal.
n Depth cuts set to
Equal steps and the
Depth of cut = 0.06".
n Minimum cut depth =
0.05".
n Entry amount =
0.01".
n Exit amount = 0.1".
n Stock to leave in X
and Z = 0.01".
n Set the Spindle
speed as desired.

n Click on the Feed Rate button and set the

Cutting feed rate to 0.04 and Plunge
feed rate to 0.014.
n Enable Secondary feed rate/ spindle
speed and set the Feed rate to 0.014
and Spindle speed to 1000.

Note: Secondary feed rate/ spindle

speed area is used to slow the feed rate
and/or spindle speed at a point along the
pass. Because we selected the Horizontal
strategy, the feed rate and spindle speed
are used only for horizontal passes.
Distance from end of cut defines the
point along horizontal passes that the
secondary feed rate is used. Minimum cut
length prevents very short cuts at one
feed rate, either at the start or end of the
pass.

n Distance from end of cut = 0.5".

n Minimum cut length = 0.2".

Lathe 339
Prime Turning Step 3: Rough Out With Prime Turning

n In Lead in, enable Entry Arc and set the Sweep to 90 degrees and the Radius to 0.05".
n Enable Automatically calculate entry vector and set the Minimum vector length to 0.02".
n For Lead out leave Use exit vector and set the Angle to 45 degrees and the Length to 0.1".
n The Allowing plunges in both directions is automaticaly enabled.

3.5 Set the Finish Parameters

n Leave the defaults

3.6 Backplot the Rough

toolpath

Lathe 340
Custom Thread

Lathe 341
Custom thread Toolpath Information

TOOLPATH INFORMATION

The Custom Thread toolpath supports

custom thread forms such as rope,
buttress, square and trapezoidal. You
can select chained geometry to
represent the thread cross-section or
select one of four parametric definitions.
You need to define the stock before
starting the toolpath.

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION:
Topics:

n Custom Thread toolpath using

parametric settings.
n Custom Thread toolpath using a chain.

Lathe 342
Custom thread Exercise: Custom Thread - Parametric Option

EXERCISE: CUSTOM THREAD - PARAMETRIC OPTION

In this step you will learn how to create an external 7/45 degrees Buttress Thread Form with 0.6 p Basic Height of
thread engagement and round root. The nominal diameter is 2.0" and the number of threads per inch is 4.

You will define the buttress thread shape parametric.

STEP 1: OPEN PART GEOMETRY

1.1 Opening the file

n From the QAT, select the Open icon.

n Select Buttress Thread 2_4.MCAM

STEP 2: CREATE THE JOB SETUP

2.1 Load the Lathe Default if needed

2.2 Set the Tool Settings

n Enable Assign tool numbers sequentially.
n Enable Feed Calculation From tool.

2.3 Set the Stock settings

n In the Geometry, enable Revolve and select the
geometry.

2.4 Set the Chuck Jaws settings

n Use the default dimensions for the chuck size.
n In the Position, click on the Select button and select the
midpoint on the smaller diameter. (Z-2.625)

Lathe 343
Custom thread Step 3: Custom Thread Toolpath

STEP 3: CUSTOM THREAD TOOLPATH

3.1 Select Geometry

Turning

n From the General group,

click on the Expand
gallery arrow.
n Select the Custom
Thread icon.

3.2 Set the Tool

n In the Tool panel, click on the Select library tool

button.

n Select the OD Finish Left 35 Deg

tool.

Lathe 344
Custom thread Step 3: Custom Thread Toolpath

n The tool will be displayed in the Tool panel.

n Leave the Tool Data as it is.
n Make sure that the Coolant is set to Flood.

3.3 Set The Machine parameters

n Select the Machine icon from the tree view list.

n Make sure the Axis Combination is set to Left/Upper.
n The Spindle Origin parameters should be already set.
n Tool Angle = 0.0.
n Tool Orientation on the Machine set to 0 degrees.
n Cutting direction set to Automatic.
n Direction set to Quadrant 2.

Lathe 345
Custom thread Step 3: Custom Thread Toolpath

3.4 Set the Operation Parameters

n Leave the Home Position set to From Machine.
n No Approach or Retract Reference Points are needed.
n Enter in the Comment " Machine the 2" - 4 Buttress thread
using Parameters settings."

3.5 Set the Shape

n Enable Parametric.
n Enter the name.
n In the Type select Buttress.
n Major diameter = 2.0".
n Pitch = 4.0.
n Left angle = 45.0.
n Right angle = 7.0.
n Left top radius = 0.0.
n Right top radius = 0.0.
n Left bottom radius = 0.01729.
n Right bottom radius = 0.01729.
n Depth of thread = 0.1657.
n Bottom width = 0.02944.

Lathe 346
Custom thread Step 3: Custom Thread Toolpath

3.6 Rough Motion Control

n Spindle speed = 200.

n Stepover set Distance = 0.02.
n Cut depth = 0.02.
n Maximum first pass stepdown = 0.015.
n Cut Direction set to Negative.
n Stock to Leave X = 0.005.
n Stock to Leave Y = 0.005.

3.7 Finish Motion Control

n Spindle speed = 100.

n Stepover Distance = 0.005.
n Number of depth cuts = 1.
n Cut depth = 0.005.
n Cut Direction set to Negative.
n Sock To Leave X = 0.0.
n Sock To Leave Y = 0.0.

Lathe 347
Custom thread Step 3: Custom Thread Toolpath

3.8 Basic Motion Control

n Acceleration Clearance set to Manual.

n Clearance = 0.5.
n Overcut 0.25.
n Start position = 0.0.
n End position = -2.0

3.9 Advanced Motion Control

n Multi Start disabled.

3.10 Stock
n Stock Clearance = 0.1.
n Stock Update enabled.
n Regenerate subsequent operations enabled.
n Select the OK button to exit.

Lathe 348
Custom thread Step 3: Custom Thread Toolpath

3.11 Backplot the Custom Thread

toolpath

3.12 Verify the toolpath

Lathe 349
Custom thread Exercise: Custom Thread - Chain Option

EXERCISE: CUSTOM THREAD - CHAIN OPTION

In this step you will learn how to define the buttress thread shape using a chain.

STEP 4: CUSTOM THREAD TOOLPATH

n Remove the toolpath display.

n In the Levels Manager make visible Level 10.

4.1 Select Geometry

Turning

n From the General group, click on the

Expand gallery arrow.
n Select the Custom Thread icon.

4.2 Set the Tool

n The tool will be displayed in the Tool panel.

n Leave the Tool Data as it is.
n Make sure that the Coolant is set to Flood.

Lathe 350
Custom thread Step 4: Custom Thread Toolpath

4.3 Set The Machine parameters

n Select the Machine icon from the tree view list and make
sure the parameters are set as shown.
n Make sure the Axis Combination is set to Left/Upper.
n The Spindle Origin parameters should be already set.
n Tool Angle = 0.0.
n Tool Orientation on the Machine set to 0 degrees.
n Cutting direction set to Automatic.
n Direction set to Quadrant 2.

4.4 Set the Operation Parameters

n Leave the Home Position set to From Machine.
n No Approach or Retract Reference Points are needed.
n Enter in the Comment "Machine the 2" - 4 Buttress thread
using a chain."

Lathe 351
Custom thread Step 4: Custom Thread Toolpath

4.5 Set the Shape

n Enable Chain and click on the Select Chain
button.

n Select the profile as shown.

n Select the OK button to exit the Custom Thread toolpath.

4.6 Backplot the Custom Thread

toolpath

Lathe 352
Custom thread Step 4: Custom Thread Toolpath

4.7 Verify the toolpath

Lathe 353
Skill Test

Lathe 354
Skill Test Introduction

INTRODUCTION
Upon completion of the training lessons presented in this workbook, you should have the basic skills to:

n Create simple geometry shapes.

n Import a CAD file.
n Prepare the geometry for machining.
n Setup the job.
n Select the appropriate tools.
n Select the toolpaths to machine the part.
n Fill out the Mastercam parameters.
n Verify the toolpath on screen.
n Generate the NC code to send to the machine.

The following skill test will test your ability to perform these fundamental tasks. The instructor will provide the
files for you to be able to test your skills.

Lathe 355
Skill Test Skill Test

SKILL TEST

Job Description:

Using the Drawing handout from the instructor for the Skill Test, complete the following tasks:

1. Start a New Mastercam part and save the file as: “Your Name Test.MCAM”
2. Draw the 2D Top view of the part to the dimensions shown on the drawing handout.
3. Use Job Setup to prepare the part for machining.
4. Face, rough, and finish the part.
5. Decide on the Tool(s) to use.
6. Machine the grooves.
7. Drill the center hole.
8. Machine the inside chamfer.
9. Verify that your toolpath is correct.
10. Post Process to create the NC program.

Lathe 356
 Lathe C&Y Axis Projects
Tutorial #1 Topics Covered
Tutorial #1: Geometry Creation

n Create the 2D geometry in the Top plane on Level 1

n Create the 3D geometry using the Right plane and
Translate command
n Create the solid geometry using Revolve & Extrude
commands

Tutorial #1: Toolpath Creation

n Generate the 2D toolpaths to machine the OD such as:

Face, Rough, Finish and Groove
n General overview of Construction Planes/Graphic
Views using the Status Bar and the Planes Manager.
n Using Levels
n Generate the C-axis toolpaths such as: Face Contour,
Face Drilling, and C-Axis Drilling used to machine the
part from the Right plane.

Tutorial #2 Topics Covered

Tutorial #2: Geometry Creation

n Create the 2D geometry in the Top plane on Level 1

n Create the 3D geometry using the Right plane and
Translate command
n Create the solid geometry using Revolve, Extrude &
Sweep commands

Tutorial #21: Toolpath Creation

n Generate the 2D toolpaths to machine the OD such

as: Face, Rough, Finish and Groove
n General overview of Construction Planes/Graphic
Views using the Status Bar and the Planes
Manager.
n Using Levels
n Generate the C-axis toolpaths such as: Face
Contour, Cross Contour, Cross Drilling and C-Axis
Contour to machine the part.

Lathe 357
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1

Lathe 358
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Introduction:

INTRODUCTION:
This lesson will teaches you how to create milling toolpaths in Lathe.
You can use the Lathe C-axis toolpaths that are included with Mastercam Lathe for the most common
contour and drill applications. These are available to anyone with a Lathe license and do not require a
separate Mill license. When you select one of these toolpaths, Mastercam automatically sets the Tplane and
Cplane to the appropriate settings for the selected application. These toolpaths also support Y-axis rotation
and axis substitution. Your machine definition must include the appropriate rotary axis components.
If your workstation is licensed for both Mastercam Mill and Mastercam Lathe, you can also create Mill
toolpaths. Use Mill toolpaths to machine in planes or orientations not available with the standard Lathe C-
axis toolpaths, or to create toolpaths other than contour or drill toolpaths—for example, pocket toolpaths.
You can set the Tplane to any view available in your part. Choose Mill from the Machine tab, and select the
desired toolpath. The toolpaths that are available to you depend on the level of Mill license and the
capabilities of your machine definition.

OVERVIEW OF EXERCISE:
From the drawing we can gain an idea as to how to go about creating the geometry in Mastercam.
The student will need to create the geometry used to machine the part from two planes: Top and Right. A
point will also be created to indicate a center point for C-Axis drilling. The student will create the upper profile
of the part in the Top view on its own level. The student will create geometry from the Right plane for the C-
Axis Toolpaths. Transform Rotate and Create Polygon geometry creation commands will be used.
The student will Face, Rough, Finish, and Groove the part to create the outside profile.
C-Axis Face Contour, Face Drilling, and C-Axis Drilling toolpaths will be used to machine the part from the
Right plane.
The part will then be cutoff using a Cutoff toolpath with a clearance cut enabled.
Backplot will be used to simulate a step-by-step process of the tool’s movements. Verify will be used to watch
a tool machine the part out of a solid model.

NEW CONCEPTS COVERED IN THIS LESSON:

n Planes Manager
n Face Contour
n Face Drill
n C-Axis Drill

Lathe 359
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 New Toolpath Information

NEW TOOLPATH INFORMATION

The following is brief description of the new toolpath used in this exercise.

Face contour creates a toolpath on the face of the part

with the tool parallel to the axis of rotation. Mastercam
automatically sets the Tool plane (Tplane) and
Construction plane (Cplane) to the side so that the tool is
placed perpendicular to the face of the part.

Face drill is used to drill holes into the face of the part. When
selected, Mastercam sets the Tool plane (Tplane) and
Construction plane (Cplane) to the side so that the tool is
placed perpendicular to the face of the part.

C-axis drill is used to drill holes that are perpendicular to the

axis of rotation, as when drilling holes in a cylinder. You can
select all points that you want to drill at the same time without
having to specify the tool plane for every hole. The points may
lie in the Top construction plane, or be in their correct 3D
positions around the Z axis.
If the points you have selected are in their correct 3D positions,
you must check ‘Unroll’ in the rotary axis dialog (choose the
Rotary Axis button in the C-axis drill dialog box to access this
check box). When 'Unroll' is checked, Mastercam unrolls the
points from the cylinder to the Top Cplane.
The C-axis toolpath is created by converting the X coordinate of
each point in the top Cplane to an angle about the Z axis, using
the rotary axis diameter entered in the rotary axis dialog box.
The resulting toolpath is then displayed in its rolled state

Lathe 360
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Instructor Demonstration:

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION:
Topics:

n Create the 2D geometry in the Top plane on

Level 1
n Create the 3D geometry using the Right
plane and Translate command
n Generate the 2D toolpaths to machine the
OD such as: Face, Rough, Finish and
Groove
n General overview of Construction
Planes/Graphic Views using the Status Bar
and the Planes Manager.
n Generate the C-axis toolpaths such as: Face
Contour, Face Drilling, and C-Axis Drilling
used to machine the part from the Right
plane.

Lathe 361
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Instructor Demonstration:

GEOMETRY CREATION

Lathe 362
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Top Plane Geometry

CREATE THE TOP PLANE GEOMETRY

Note: If you do not want to create the geometry you can skip the steps and open Lathe CY 1.mcam.

1. Setting Up The Graphical User Interface

Note: Because we will be creating C-Axis toolpaths, we will be using the Top and Right construction
planes for this tutorial.

n To open the Planes Manager panel, select the

Planes tab as shown.

n Make sure that WCS, planes and the graphics view are all set to
Top as shown.

2. Create A Rectangle

Wireframe

n From the Shapes group,

select the Rectangle icon
as shown.

n Enter the Width and the Height and make sure that
Anchor to center and Create surface buttons are not
selected (highlighted) as shown.
n Press Enter after typing the values to see a preview of
the rectangle.

Lathe 363
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Top Plane Geometry

n [Select position for first corner]:

Select the Origin as shown.
n Make sure that when selecting
the origin, the visual cue of the

cursor changes as shown.

n Select the OK button to exit the
Rectangle panel.

n Right mouse click in the graphics

window and select Fit to fit the
drawing to the screen. You can also
press Alt + F1.
n Hover the mouse at the center of the
geometry and scroll the mouse
down to unzoom the geometry.
n The geometry should look as
shown.

3. Create Parallel Lines

Create The Vertical Lines

Wireframe

n From the Lines group, select the Line Parallel icon.

n [Select a line]: Select

Entity A as shown.
n [Select the point to
place a parallel line
through]: Click on a
point to the left of
Entity A as shown.

Lathe 364
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Top Plane Geometry

n In the Line Parallel panel, enter the Offset

Distance 0.5 and press Enter.
n Select the OK and Create New Operation
button to stay within the command.

n [Select a line]: Select Entity A as shown before.

n [Select the point to place a parallel line through]:
Click on a point to the left of Entity A as shown
before.
n In the Line Parallel panel, enter the Offset
Distance 1.0 and press Enter.
n Select the OK and Create New Operation
button to stay within the command or press Enter.
n [Select a line]: Select Entity A.
n [Select the point to place a parallel line through]:
Click on a point to the left of Entity A.
n In the Line Parallel panel, enter the Offset
Distance 1.5 and press Enter.
n Press Enter to stay within the command.
n The part should appear as shown.

Create The Horizontal Lines

n [Select a line]: Select Entity B as
shown.
n [Select the point to place a
parallel line through]: Click on a
point above Entity B as shown.

Lathe 365
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Top Plane Geometry

n In the Line Parallel panel, enter the

Offset Distance 0.75 and press
Enter.
n Press Enter again to stay within the
command.
n [Select a line]: Select Entity B as
shown.
n [Select the point to place a parallel line
through]: Click on a point above Entity
B as shown.
n In the Line Parallel panel, enter the
Offset Distance 1.0 and press Enter.
n Select the OK button to exit the
command.
n The part should appear as shown.

4. Create A Point
In this step, we will use the Create Point Position command to create a point. This point will be used by
Mastercam as a drill position locator while creating the C-Axis Drill toolpath.

Wireframe

n From the Points group, select the Point Position icon as

shown.

n [Create point position]: Select the

AutoCursor Fast Point icon in the
General Selection toolbar as shown.

n In the coordinate field, enter the coordinates -0.75, 0.0,

0.65 as shown. Press the Enter key once you have
finished.

n Select the OK button to exit Point Position panel.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and select
the Isometric view as shown.

Lathe 366
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Top Plane Geometry

n The point should appear as shown.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window
and select the Top view.

5. Trim The Geometry In The

Top View
Wireframe

n From the Modify group,

select the Dynamic Trim
icon as shown.

n In the Dynamic Trim panel, enable Trim 1 entity as

shown.

Lathe 367
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Top Plane Geometry

n [Select the entity to trim/extend]:

Select Entity A as shown.
n [Select the entity to trim/extend
to]: Select Entity B as shown.

n [Select the entity to trim/extend]:

Select Entity C as shown.
n [Select the entity to trim/extend
to]: Select Entity D as shown.
n [Select the entity to trim/extend]:
Select Entity E as shown.
n [Select the entity to trim/extend
to]: Select Entity D as shown.

The part should appear as shown.

n In the Dynamic Trim panel, enable Divide.

n In the Divide panel, make sure that Trim

is enabled.
n [Select the curve to divide or delete]:
Select the portions of line that appear as
hidden (dotted) lines below to delete
them with the divide function.
n Select the OK button to exit the
command.

Lathe 368
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Right Plane Geometry

n The part should look as

shown.

CREATE THE RIGHT PLANE GEOMETRY

1. Set Levels Manager
In this step, we will set the levels before we create the rest of the part to organize our geometry.

n Select the Levels tab to open Levels Manager as shown.

n Click in the Name area in the Levels Manager and

enter in the name "Top Plane Geometry" as
shown.

Lathe 369
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Right Plane Geometry

n Click in the Number area and enter 2 as the

level number. Then click in the Name area and
type in the name "Right Plane Geometry" as
shown.
n Select the X in the Visible column of Level 1 to
remove it and make Level 1 invisible.

2. Change The Construction Plane To Right

n Select the Planes tab to open the Planes Manager as shown.

n Set the G(Graphic view), C(Construction plane) and

T(Tool plane) columns to Right Side. Leave the
WCS set to Top plane as shown.

n Position the Grid (Hold down the mouse wheel and the Shift key to pan)
so that you can see it on screen as shown.

Lathe 370
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Right Plane Geometry

3. Create A Polygon

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and

change the construction mode to 2D and the
Z Depth to -0.5 as shown.

Wireframe

n From the
Shapes group,
click on the drop
down arrow
below the
Rectangle and
select the
Polygon as
shown.

n [Select position of base point]: Select the Origin as shown.

n Select and click on the screen a point in the graphics window to sketch a polygon.

n In the Polygon panel enter in the Radius and enable

Corner as shown.
n Select the OK button to exit the Polygon command.

n Press Alt + F1 to fit the geometry to the graphics window if needed.

n The part should appear as shown.

Lathe 371
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Right Plane Geometry

4. Create Bolt Circles

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and

change the construction mode to 2D and the Z
Depth as shown.

Wireframe

n From the Points group, select Bolt

Circle as shown.
n [Select position of base point] Select

the Origin.

n The Bolt Circle panel will appear. Enable Full

Circle and enter in values for Diameter of
Guide Circle and Number. Enable Arcs and
input an Arc diameter of 0.125" as shown.
n Select the OK and Create New Operation
button to continue using the Bolt Circle
command.

Lathe 372
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Right Plane Geometry

n Press Alt + F1 to fit the geometry onto the graphics window.

n The part should appear as shown.

n [Select position of base point] Select the Origin as

shown.
n Change the Arc diameter value to 0.175" and keep the
other settings in the Bolt Circle panel as shown.
n Select the OK button to exit the Bolt Circle command.

n Press Alt + F1 to fit the geometry onto the graphics window.

n The part should appear as shown.

Lathe 373
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Right Plane Geometry

5. Create A Fillet Knowing The Radius And Endpoints

Wireframe

n From the Modify group, select the

Fillet Entities as shown.

n In the Fillet Entities panel, enter the Radius and make

sure Normal is enabled and Trim entities is disabled
as shown.

n [Fillet: Select an entity]: Select Circle A as

shown.
n [Fillet: Select another entity]: Select Circle B as
shown.

Lathe 374
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Right Plane Geometry

n [Select an arc] Select the arc as shown.

n Select the OK button to exit the
command.

n The arc should appear as shown.

6. Rotate The Arc

Transform

n From the Position

group, select the
Rotate icon.

n [Rotate: select entities to rotate]: Select the Arc as shown.

n Press Enter to complete selection.

Lathe 375
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Right Plane Geometry

n The Rotate panel will appear. Match the parameters as

shown and press Enter.

n A preview of the result will be shown. Confirm this is the

result you want as shown.
n Click on the OK button to exit the command.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and

select the Clear Colors icon to return the
geometry to its original color.

Lathe 376
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Right Plane Geometry

n The part should appear as shown.

7. Trim the Circles

Wireframe

n From the Modify group,

select the Dynamic Trim
as shown.

n In the Dynamic Trim panel, enable Trim 3 entities

as shown.

Note: It is very important to select the arcs in the order

and the positions shown. The first two entities that you
select are trimmed to the third, which acts as a
trimming curve. The third entity is then trimmed to the
first two.

n [Select the first entity to trim/extend]: Select Entity A as

shown.
n [Select the second entity to trim/extend]: Select Entity B
as shown.
n [Select the entity to trim/extend to]: Select Entity C as
shown.
n [Select the first entity to trim/extend]: Select Entity B as
shown.
n [Select the second entity to trim/extend]: Select Entity D
as shown.
n [Select the entity to trim/extend to]: Select Entity E as
shown.

Lathe 377
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Right Plane Geometry

n Trim the other arcs using the same order shown previously.
n Select the OK button to exit the command.

n After the trimming is completed, the part should look shown.

n Select the Levels tab as shown.

n In the Levels Manager panel, select the Turn all levels on

icon to see the entire geometry.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and select the

Isometric view.

n Press Alt + F1 to fit the geometry into the graphics window.

n The part should appear as shown.

Lathe 378
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Solid

CREATE THE SOLID

1. Revolved Solid

n In the Levels Manager panel, enter in the

Number field 3 .
n In the Name enter Solid.

n Click in the Visible column next to number 2

to remove the X and make Level 2 invisible
as shown.

Solids

n From the Create

group, select the
Revolve as shown.

Lathe 379
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Solid

n Select the geometry as shown.

Select the line to be used as the axis of rotation.

n Select the OK button in the Solid Revolve panel.

n The solid should look as shown.

2. Create Curves at the Edge of the solid

n In the Levels Manager panel, click in the Visible

column next to number 2 to add the X and make
Level 2 main level as shown.
n Make invisible Level 1.

Lathe 380
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Solid

n Change to 3D construction mode.

Wireframe

n From the Curves group, select Curve on Edge.

n Select the edges as shown.

n Select the OK button to exit the
command.

Note: To avoid warnings and to be able to

cut the solid with the geometry created in
the Right plane, you should increase the
diameters of the two circles.

Lathe 381
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Solid

n Select the circle.

Note: You should

select the circle and not
the edge of the solid.
The circle can be edit in
Analyze Entity
command, while the
edge cannot.

n Right mouse click in

the graphics window,
and select Analyze
Entity.
n Change the diameter
to 2.05 as shown.

n Select the other circle as

shown.
n Change the diameter to
1.55.

3. Extrude Solid

Solids

n From the Create group, select

the Extrude as shown.

Lathe 382
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Solid

n Select the circular curve and the

hexagon.

n In the Solid Extrude panel, enable Cut body.

n Make sure the arrow points towards the solid. Otherwise, click on the Reverse all button as shown.
n Distance = 0.5.
n Select the OK and Create New Operation.

Lathe 383
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Solid

n Select the circular curve and the

hexagon.

n The settings should be the same.

n Select the OK and Create New
Operation.

Lathe 384
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Solid

n Select all the inside circles as shown.

n In the Solid Extrude panel, in the Distance
enable Through all.

n In the Levels Manager, make Level 1

visible and Level 2 invisible.

4. Hole

Solids

n From the
Create group,
select the Hole
as shown.

Lathe 385
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Solid

n In the Hole panel, the Hole Style the Type should

be set to Simple.
n The Plane Orientation should be set to Top.
n Change the Diameter to 0.125.
n Depth Distance = 0.5.
n Click on the Add position button .

Lathe 386
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Solid

n Select the point as shown.

n Press Enter.
n Select the OK button to exit the Hole panel.

n The solid should look as shown.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and select the Top view.

Note: We will only make Level 1 visible right now to generate the Roughing, Finishing and Grooving
toolpaths before creating the C-Axis toolpaths.

n In the Levels Manager panel, click on 1 in

the Number column to make Level 1 the
Main level.
n Click in the Visible column next to number 2
and 3 to remove the Xs and make Level 2
and Level 3 invisible as shown.

Lathe 387
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Create The Solid

n Open Planes Manager and make sure the Cplane

and Tplane are set to Top as shown.

n The part should appear as shown.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and

change the construction mode to 2D and Z
value to 0 as shown.

5. Save The File

File

n Save As.

n Click on the Browse icon as shown.

n Find a location on the computer to save your file. File name: "LatheCY_1".

Lathe 388
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 1: Select The Machine And Set Up The Stock

STEP 1: SELECT THE MACHINE AND SET UP THE STOCK

In Mastercam, you select a Machine Definition before creating any toolpath. The Machine Definition is
a model of your machine tool's capabilities and features and acts like a template for setting up machining
jobs. The machine definition ties together three main components: the schematic model of your machine
tool’s components, the control definition that models your control unit’s capabilities, and the post processor
that will generate the required machine code (G-code). For a Lathe C-Axis exercise , we need just a basic
machine definition.

Note: For the purpose of this tutorial, we will be using the Default Lathe machine.

n To display the Toolpaths Manager panel, select Toolpaths tab as shown.

Machine

n In the Machine Type, click on the drop down arrow below Lathe and select Default.

n Select the plus sign in front of Properties in the

Toolpaths Manager to expand the Toolpaths Group
Properties.

n Select Tool Settings to set the tool parameters.

Lathe 389
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 1: Select The Machine And Set Up The Stock

n Change the parameters to match the screen shot as shown.

Default program number is used to

enter a number if your machine tool
requires a number for a program name.

Assign tool numbers sequentially

allows you to overwrite the tool number
from the library with the next available
tool number. (First operation tool
number 1; Second operation tool
number 2, etc.)

Warn of duplicate tool numbers

allows you to get a warning if you enter
two tools with the same number.

Override defaults with modal

values enables the system to keep the
values that you enter.

Feed Calculation set From tool uses

feed rate, plunge rate, retract rate and
spindle speed from the tool definition.

n Select the Stock Setup tab.

n Choose the Properties button

to set up the stock for the Left
Spindle.

Lathe 390
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 1: Select The Machine And Set Up The Stock

n Define the stock by setting the stock geometry to Cylinder and entering the stock dimensions. Ensure
you enable Use Margins and enter in the values as shown.

Note: The stock model that you create can be displayed with the part geometry when viewing the file or
the toolpaths, during backplot, or while verifying toolpaths. You can create stock on the left or right
spindle.

n Select the OK button to exit the Stock Setup page.

Lathe 391
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 1: Select The Machine And Set Up The Stock

n Ensure that Left spindle is selected and

then select the Properties button in the
Chuck Jaws area as shown.

n In the Geometry tab leave the chuck sizes as shown.

Lathe 392
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 1: Select The Machine And Set Up The Stock

n Select the Parameters tab and make the necessary changes to define the chuck size, the Clamping
method and the stock Position. Ensure that you choose the clamping method OD and set the
Parameters as shown.

n Select the OK button to exit the Chuck Jaws dialog box.

n Select the OK button to exit the Chuck Jaws

dialog box.
n Enable Fit screen to boundaries and disable
Right stock in the Display Options area.
n Select the OK button to exit Machine Group
Properties.

Lathe 393
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 2: Lathe Face Toolpath

n Press Alt + F1 to fit the stock and the chuck to the graphics window as shown.

STEP 2: LATHE FACE TOOLPATH

Turning

n From the
General group,
select the Face
icon.

2.1 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Rough Right 80 deg tool.

Lathe 394
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 3: Lathe Rough OD Toolpath

2.2 Set the Face Parameters

n Select the proper parameters
to rough and finish in the
same operation.
n Rough stepover= 0.06.

2.3 Backplot the Face operation

STEP 3: LATHE ROUGH OD TOOLPATH

Turning

n From the General group, select the Rough

icon.

3.1 Select the geometry

n Using Partial selection, select the first entity
of the chain, Entity A and the last one, Entity
B to complete the chaining.

Lathe 395
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 3: Lathe Rough OD Toolpath

3.2 Set the Toolpath

Parameters
n Select an existing
OD Rough Right
55 deg tool.

3.3 Set the Rough

Parameters
n Set proper rough
passes.
n Leave 0.005"
stock to leave in
both X and Z.
n Use stock for
outer boundary
enabled.

Lathe 396
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 3: Lathe Rough OD Toolpath

n Set proper Lead In/Out parameters.

n In the Lead in set the Angle to -135.

n In the Lead out, extend the end of the

contour by 0.75".

n Allow Plunges for this operation.

Lathe 397
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 4: Simulate The Toolpath In Verify

3.4 Backplot the Rough operation

STEP 4: SIMULATE THE TOOLPATH IN VERIFY

Verify shows the path the tools take to cut the part with material removal. This display lets you spot errors
in the program before you machine the part. As you verify toolpaths, Mastercam displays additional
information such as the X, Y, and Z coordinates, the path length, the minimum and maximum coordinates,
and the cycle time. It also shows any collision between the workpiece and the tool.

n From the Toolpaths Manager, select Verify

selected operations icon as shown.

Note: Mastercam launches a new window that allows you to check the part using Backplot or Verify.

n Change the settings for the Visibility group as shown.

n Select the Verify tab, and enable Color Loop, Collision Checking and Show edges as shown.

Note: This option will change the material removal color. This can be set based on the operation or on
the tool number used to machine the part. This makes it easier to spot if you forgot to leave the stock on in
the finish operations.

n Select the Play Simulation button to run Verify.

Lathe 398
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 5: Lathe Finish OD Toolpath

n Zoom in on the part as shown.

n The part should look as shown.

STEP 5: LATHE FINISH OD TOOLPATH

5.1 Select the geometry

n Click on the Last button . Mastercam selects the same

chain as the one selected in the previous operation.

5.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select a OD Finish Right 55 deg tool.

5.3 Set the Finish Parameters

n Make one finish pass and set the proper Lead In/Out
parameters. (Extend the end in Lead Out with 0.75).
n Set the Cutter compensation to Computer and to the Right.
n Enable Plunge.

5.4 Backplot the Finish operation

5.5 Verify the toolpaths

Lathe 399
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 6: Machine The Leftover Material - Groove

STEP 6: MACHINE THE LEFTOVER MATERIAL - GROOVE

6.1 Select the geometry

n When the Grooving Options
dialog box appears, choose
Chain as shown.

n Select the chain as shown.

6.2 Set the Toolpath Parameters

n Select the OD Groove Center Medium Wide, Width 0.25 Tool from the tool list.

6.3 Set the Groove shape parameters

n Select the Groove shape parameters tab and enable Use stock for outer
boundary.

6.4 Set the Groove rough parameters

n In the Groove rough parameters, make sure that Rough is enabled and the cutting direction is
Bi-Directional, Alternating.
n Set the roughing passes for the groove.
n Backoff % set to 20.

Lathe 400
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 6: Machine The Leftover Material - Groove

6.5 Set the Groove finish parameters

n In the Groove finish parameters, set the Direction for 1st pass to CCW to start with the left side.
n Set the Overlap between passes to 0.1.
n Set in both Lead In the Angle to -90.0 degrees.

6.6 Backplot the Finish operation

6.7 Verify the toolpaths

Lathe 401
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 7: Machine The Hexagon - C-Axis Face Contour

STEP 7: MACHINE THE HEXAGON - C-AXIS FACE CONTOUR

The C-Axis Face Mill Type allows you to machine the face of the part with the tool parallel to the main
spindle's axis of rotation. In this case, the main spindle holding the part rotates (C-Axis) while the tool
moves along the X axis. The Z axis is positioned based on the depth of the cut and the Y axis is locked in
position at 0. Mastercam automatically sets the tool plane (TPlane) and construction plane (CPlane) so
that the tool is placed perpendicular to the face of the part as shown.

n From the managers panel, select the Levels tab as shown.

n In the Levels Manager, click on 3 in the Number

column to make it the main level as shown.
n Click in the Visible column next to Level 1 to make
it invisible.

n Right mouse click in graphics window

and select the Isometric view.

n Press Alt + F1 to fit the geometry and

the stock to the graphics window.
n The part should appear as shown.

Lathe 402
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 7: Machine The Hexagon - C-Axis Face Contour

n To open the Toolpaths Manager panel, select the Toolpaths tab.

Turning

n From the C-axis group,

select the Face Contour
icon as shown.

n The Chaining dialog box will open. Select the Solid

Mode.
n In the Solid Chaining enable Loop and select the
edge as shown so that the chaining direction is
Clockwise.
n Select the OK button to exit the Chaining dialog
box.

n The Toolpath Type

page should look as
shown.
n Make sure that
Generate toolpath is
enabled to automatically
generate the toolpath
when you click the OK
button.

Lathe 403
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 7: Machine The Hexagon - C-Axis Face Contour

n From the Tree View List, on the left side of the window, select Tool.
n Enter a comment and click on the Select library tool button as outlined below.

n Select the Filter button in the Tool Selection dialog box.

Lathe 404
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 7: Machine The Hexagon - C-Axis Face Contour

n Select the None button in

the Tool Types area to
disable any previous tool
type selection.
n Select the Flat Endmill
type.
n Select the drop down arrow
in the Tool Diameter field
and select Equal.
n Enter 0.75 in the Diameter
field.
n Select the OK button to exit
the Tool List Filter dialog
box.

n Make sure that you click on the 3/4" Flat Endmill in the tool list. Then click OK to exit the dialog box.

n The Flat Endmill should now appear in the tool list as shown.

Note: The Feeds and Speeds are based on the tool definition. You may change them as you wish.

Lathe 405
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 7: Machine The Hexagon - C-Axis Face Contour

n Select the Cut Parameters from the Tree View List and make the changes as shown.

Compensation Type set to Computer allows Mastercam to compensate the toolpath based on the tool
diameter and does not output G41/G42 in the code.
Compensation Direction set to Left compensates the toolpath to the left of the chain based on the
chaining direction.
Roll cutter around corners set to Sharp inserts arc moves around corners in the toolpath. The radius of
the arc moves is equal with the radius of the tool. Set to None to not create any extra arcs.
Infinite look ahead prevents the toolpath from crossing itself (Fish Tails).
Contour type allows the user to select what type of contour they would like to create.

Lathe 406
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 7: Machine The Hexagon - C-Axis Face Contour

n Select Depth Cuts from the Tree

View List and make the changes as
shown.

Depth cuts are the Z axis cuts that the tool makes in a contour toolpath.
Max rough step sets the maximum amount that can be machined in one step.
By contour enables the system to complete all depth cuts in the first contour before moving to the next
one.

n Enable Lead In/Out and

make sure the
parameters are set as
shown.

Mastercam lets you create a lead in move, a lead out move, or both. The lead in/out move can include both
lines and arcs. To use an arc only, enter a line length of 0. The arc or line dimensions can be enter as either
absolute values or a percentage of the tool diameter. When you make an entry in one field, the other
automatically updates.

Lathe 407
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 7: Machine The Hexagon - C-Axis Face Contour

n Click on the
Linking
Parameters and
make the
following
changes.

Depth sets the final machining depth for the operation. The value is set to -0.5 and Incremental is
measured from the position of the contour that we chained.
Incremental values are relative to the position of the chained geometry.
Absolute values are always measured from the origin 0, 0, 0. Mastercam will use this absolute value
regardless of the position of the geometry.

n Select the OK button to exit the C-Axis Face Contour dialog box.

7.1 Backplot the toolpath

n Once the operation has been generated,
Backplot the toolpath.
n Scroll up the mouse wheel to zoom in on the
part as shown.

Lathe 408
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 8: Machine Second Hexagon - C-Axis Face Contour

7.2 Verify the toolpaths

n In the Toolpaths Manager click on the drop
down arrow next to the Verify selected
operations and select Add to current
verification.

n Open Mastercam Simulator window and

run verify.
n The part should look as shown.

STEP 8: MACHINE SECOND HEXAGON - C-AXIS FACE CONTOUR

Turning

n From the C-axis group, select

the Face Contour icon as
shown.

n In the Solid Chaining dialog box leave

Loop button enabled.
n Select the edge (the 1.0" radius arc) as
shown so that the chaining direction is
Clockwise.
n Select the OK button to exit the Chaining
dialog box.

Lathe 409
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 8: Machine Second Hexagon - C-Axis Face Contour

n From the Tree View List, on the left side of the window, select Tool.
n Select the same tool that we used in the previous operation and enter a comment.
n Select the Cut Parameters page from the Tree View List and make the changes as shown.

n Select Depth Cuts from

the Tree View List and
make the changes as
shown.

Lathe 410
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 8: Machine Second Hexagon - C-Axis Face Contour

n Click on the Linking

Parameters and make
sure the parameters are
set as shown.
n Select the OK button to
exit the C-Axis
Toolpath dialog box.
n Enable and change the
Break through
Amount.

8.1 Backplot the toolpath

8.2 Verify the toolpath

n To verify all toolpaths, from the Toolpaths

Operations Manager, choose the Select
all operations icon.
n Click on the Verify all selected
operations button.

Lathe 411
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 9: C-Axis Face Drill The Part

STEP 9: C-AXIS FACE DRILL THE PART

C-Axis Face Drill toolpaths allow you to drill holes perpendicular to the part’s spindle axis.

Toolpaths

n From the C-axis

group, select the
Face Drill icon.

n Select the holes.

n Click on the OK button to exit the
Toolpath Hole Definition dialog box.

Lathe 412
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 9: C-Axis Face Drill The Part

n From the Tree

View List, on the
left side of the
window, select
Tool.
n Enter in the
comment and click
on the Select
library tool button
as outlined below.

n Disable the Filter Active option as outlined below and select the 1/8" Spot Drill in the Tool Selection
dialog box.

Note: Click on the "#" button as outlined above if you are having trouble locating the tool. This will
organize the tools by tool number.

n Select the OK button to exit the dialog box.

n The 1/8" Spot Drill should now be selected and shown as the Tool Name.

Lathe 413
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 9: C-Axis Face Drill The Part

n Select Cut Parameters and make sure the Cycle is

set to Drill/Counterbore as shown.

n Select Linking
Parameters and make the
changes as shown.
n Select the OK button to exit
the C-Axis Face Drill
dialog box.

9.1 Verify the toolpath

Lathe 414
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 10: Create Another C-Axis Face Drill Toolpath

STEP 10: CREATE ANOTHER C-AXIS FACE DRILL TOOLPATH

In this step, we will create another C-Axis Face Drill toolpath and drill the holes to size.

Turning

n From the C-axis group,

select the Face Drill
icon.

n [Select one or more entities to add or remove from the features

list]: Select the Copy previous points button in the Toolpath
Hole Definition dialog box.
n Select the OK button to exit the Toolpath Hole Definition dialog
box.

n From the Tree View List, on the left side of the window, select Tool.
n Enter in the comment as shown and then click on Select library tool as shown.

Lathe 415
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 10: Create Another C-Axis Face Drill Toolpath

n Select the 1/8" Drill from the tool list.

n Select the OK button to exit the Tool Selection dialog box.

n Select the Cut Parameters page and change

the Drill Cycle to Peck Drill and make the
changes as shown.

Peck Drilling is recommended for drilling holes with depths of more than three times the tool diameter.
The tool fully retracts out of the hole to remove chips.

Lathe 416
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 10: Create Another C-Axis Face Drill Toolpath

n Select the Linking Parameters page

and make the necessary changes as
shown.
n Enable Tip Comp and set the
breakthrough with the specified
amount.

10.1 Verify the toolpath

Lathe 417
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 11: Spot Drill The Hole Using Cross Drill

STEP 11: SPOT DRILL THE HOLE USING CROSS DRILL

In this step, we will create a C-Axis Cross Drill toolpath to spot drill the point we created in Step 4.
C-Axis Cross Drill toolpath toolpaths are used to drill holes that are perpendicular to the axis of rotation,
as when drilling holes in a cylinder. Mastercam sets the tool plane (Tplane) and construction plane
(Cplane) for each hole you want to drill so that the tool will be placed perpendicular to the axis of rotation.
You can select all points that you want to drill at the same time without having to specify the tool plane for
every hole. Because the Tplane and Cplane are set for each point you drill, the NCI file reflects a tool
change for every point.
The Cross drill option also lets you choose arcs to select the drill points and direction. In doing so, the arc
center defines the drill point and the arc normal defines the drilling direction. Choosing arcs lets you drill
off-center, i.e., in a direction that is not towards the center of rotation. In this case you will use the Y-axis
rotation type. Your machine should support Y axis in this case.

n Make sure the construction mode is set to 3D as shown.

11.1 Create the Cross Drill Toolpath

Toolpaths

n From the C-axis group,

select the Expand gallery
icon as shown.
n Select the Cross Drill as
shown.

n Select the hole as shown.

n Select the OK button to exit the Toolpath Hole Definition
dialog box.

Lathe 418
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 11: Spot Drill The Hole Using Cross Drill

n From the Tree

View list, on the
left side of the
window, select
Tool.
n Enter in the
comment and
select the 1/8"
Spot Drill as
shown.

n Select Cut Parameters and ensure

that the drill Cycle is set to
Drill/Counterbore.

Lathe 419
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 11: Spot Drill The Hole Using Cross Drill

n Select Linking Parameters and

make the changes as shown.
n Depth = -0.0625. (Incremental)

Lathe 420
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 11: Spot Drill The Hole Using Cross Drill

n Select the Rotary Axis Control tab

and change the parameters as shown.

Y axis when selected, the part is indexed to the correct orientation about the Z-Axis, then is machined
using only the linear axes. Only use this option if your lathe has a Y-Axis.
C axis when selected, the component of the tool’s motion which is parallel to the Y-Axis is computed from
a combination of the X-component and the rotation angle of the spindle.
Axis Substitution Replaces the X or Y axis for 3-axis toolpaths. The part moves about the rotating axis
and the tool remains perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

n Select the OK button to exit the C-Axis Cross Drill dialog box.

11.2 Verify the toolpath

Lathe 421
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 12: Cross Drill The Hole To Size

STEP 12: CROSS DRILL THE HOLE TO SIZE

In this step, we will copy the previous C-Axis Drill toolpath and change the tool and depth to drill the part
to size.

n Make sure that only toolpath #9 (The C-Axis- Drill

Toolpath from the previous step) is selected as
shown.

n Right click and hold down the right mouse button on

toolpath #9, drag the mouse below toolpath #9, and
release the right mouse button.

n A menu will appear as shown to the right. Select the

Copy after option.

n Select the Move insert arrow down one item

button.

n A copy of the toolpath will appear as toolpath #10. Click

on the + icon in front of toolpath #10 and select
Parameters.

Lathe 422
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 12: Cross Drill The Hole To Size

n From the Tree

View List, on
the left side of
the window,
select Tool.
n Enter in the
comment and
click on the 1/8"
Drill as shown.

n Select Cut Parameters

and change the Drill
Cycle to match the
parameters shown.
n First peck = 0.1.
n Subsequent peck = 0.1.
n Peck clearance = 0.05.
n Dwell = 0.0.

Lathe 423
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 12: Cross Drill The Hole To Size

n Select Linking Parameters and

make the changes as shown.
n Depth = 0.5 (Incremental).

n Select the Rotary Axis Control tab and

make sure that C axis is selected.
n Enable Generate toolpath.

n Select the OK button to create the C-Axis Toolpath - C-Axis Cross Drill dialog box.

Lathe 424
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 13: Cutoff The Part

12.1 Verify the toolpaths

STEP 13: CUTOFF THE PART

In this step, we will create a Cutoff toolpath with a chamfer to finish the part.

n Make Level 1 visible and change the Gview to Top.

Turning

n From the General group, select the Expand gallery

arrow as shown.
n From the Toolpath gallery, select the Cutoff icon as
shown.

Lathe 425
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 13: Cutoff The Part

n [Select cutoff boundary

point]: Select Endpoint
A as shown.

n Select the OD Cutoff Right Tool and enter a comment.

n Select the Stock

Update button and
enable Keep both
pieces to see both
pieces in the
Mastercam
Simulator after the
cutoff operation.
n Select the OK button
to exit.

Lathe 426
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 13: Cutoff The Part

n Select the Cutoff parameters tab, enable Chamfer and click on the Parameters button.

n Change the Width as shown to add a chamfer to

the part when cutting off the part.
n Select the OK button to exit the Cutoff Chamfer
dialog box.

n Enable Clearance Cut and select the button beside it as shown.

Lathe 427
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Step 14: Post Process The File

n Change the Z increment as shown. This

Clearance Cut will provide room for the cutoff to
prevent crashing.

n Select the OK button to exit the Clearance Cut dialog box.

n Select the OK button to exit the Lathe Cutoff dialog box and generate the toolpath.

13.1 Backplot the toolpath

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and
select the Top view as shown.

13.2 Verify the toolpaths

STEP 14: POST PROCESS THE FILE

n Run the Post Processor.

Note: The NC program may be saved, and sent

directly to the machine associated with the post.

STEP 15: SAVE THE UPDATED MCAM FILE

Lathe 428
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Review Exercise - Student Practice

REVIEW EXERCISE - STUDENT PRACTICE

Lathe 429
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Review Exercise - Student Practice

CREATE THE GEOMETRY FOR TUTORIAL #1 EXERCISE

Use these commands to create the Wireframe geometry.

n Create the top half of the geometry and the

geometry on the right face.
n Create Rectangle.
n Create Line Parallel.
n Create Circle Center Point (create the circle
at the proper Z depth).
n Fillet Entities or Fillet Chains.
n Use the Z Depth and 2D construction mode
to create the geometry in the right plane.
n Trim Break Extend.

Make Level 3 the main level

Use these commands to create the Solid geometry.

n Solid Revolve.
n Solid Extrude.
n Solid Hole.

Lathe 430
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Review Exercise - Student Practice

CREATE THE TOOLPATHS FOR TUTORIAL #1 EXERCISE

Open the Exercise_Lathe CY 1.mcam

Create the Toolpaths for Tutorial #1 Exercise as per the instructions below.

Set the machine properties including the stock.

Face, Rough, and Finish the OD.

n Use the stock setup to define the face operation.

n Use the OD Rough Right Tool for roughing
and facing operations.
n Use an OD Finish Right Tool for the finish
operation.

Groove the part using 100% of the tool width.

n Use the multiple chain selection method.

n Select the OD Groove Wide Medium 0.25"
Tool.
n Disable Use stock for outer boundary.
n Set the Rough step to 100% of the tool width.
n Disable the Finish pass.

Spot Drill and Drill the holes on the right face.

n Use a 1/2" Spot Drill.

n Use the depth calculator to add a
0.05"Chamfer.
n Select the 1/4"Drill bit.
n Select a suitable drill cycle and drill the holes to a
depth of -0.5" from the circles.

Lathe 431
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #1 Review Exercise - Student Practice

Face Contour the rectangular shape.

n Chain the rectangle with fillets in the CW

direction.
n Select a 3/4" Flat Endmill from the tool
library.
n Ensure there is enough clearance from the tool
to the holder (You may have to edit the tool).
n Enable Multipasses to avoid burying the tool
into too much material.
n Set the depth to -1 inch behind the chain.

Spot Drill and Drill the final hole using C-Axis

Drill.

n Use the same spot drill and drill from the

previous operations.
n Select a suitable drill cycle.
n Use incremental values (the circle for the hole
should be at the top of the part).
n Drill the hole through the part and use a Break
through amount.

Lathe 432
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2

Lathe 433
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Introduction:

INTRODUCTION:
This lesson will further your knowledge of creating milling toolpaths in Lathe.

OVERVIEW OF EXERCISE:
From Drawing to CAD Model:

From the drawing we can gain an idea as to how to go about creating the geometry in Mastercam. The
student will need to create geometry used to machine the part from the Top and Right planes. The student
will create the upper profile of the part in the Top view on its own level. The student will create geometry from
the Right plane for the C-Axis Toolpaths. The Break Many Pieces command will be used to break up lines
evenly.
The student specifies the stock model using a chain, as if the part already had operations previously made on
it. A left and a right spindle will be defined in the stock setup page.
C-Axis toolpaths such as Face Contour and Face Drill will be explored. A Cross Contour toolpath with Y axis
option will be used to machine the slots. A C-Axis Contour toolpath will be used to cut geometry wrapped
around a cylinder.
The stock will be transferred to the right spindle and the rest of the operations created to finish the part.
The Backplot will be used to simulate a step-by-step process of the tool’s movements. The Verify will be used
to watch a tool machine the part out of a solid model.

NEW CONCEPTS COVERED IN THIS LESSON:

n Cross Contour with Y axis
n C-Axis Contour
n Stock Transfer

Lathe 434
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 New Toolpath Information

NEW TOOLPATH INFORMATION

The following is brief description of the new toolpath used in this exercise.

Cross Contour with Y axis toolpaths to cut a contour

across the spindle. These toolpaths are most often
used to cut slots. Mastercam sets the tool plane
(Tplane), and construction plane (Cplane), so that the
tool is placed perpendicular to the axis of rotation,
which is typically the part spindle.

C-Axis Contour is used to create a toolpath that

wraps around a cylinder (for example, text on a
round part). Mastercam sets the tool plane (Tplane)
and construction plane (Cplane) to the top. This way,
the tool is placed perpendicular to the axis of rotation
for each contour you create. Choosing this toolpath
also defaults the cutter compensation to off so that
the tool cuts down the middle of the contour.

INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION:
Topics:

n Create the 2D geometry in the Top plane on

Level 1
n Create the 3D geometry using the Right
plane and Translate command
n Generate the 2D toolpaths to machine the
OD such as: Face, Rough, Finish and
Groove
n General overview of Construction
Planes/Graphic Views using the Status Bar
and the Planes Manager.
n Generate the C-axis toolpaths such as: Face
Contour, Cross Contour, Cross Drilling and
C-Axis Contour to machine the part.

Lathe 435
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Geometry Creation

GEOMETRY CREATION

Lathe 436
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 1: Setting Up The Graphical User Interface

STEP 1: SETTING UP THE GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE

Note: If you do not want to create the geometry you can skip the steps and open Lathe CY 2.mcam.

Before starting the geometry creation, we should customize the toolbars to see the toolbars required to
create the geometry and machine a 3D part. See Getting Started for details.

Note: Because we will be creating C-Axis toolpaths, we will be using the Top and Right construction
planes for this tutorial.

n To open the Planes Manager panel, select the

Planes tab as shown.

n Make sure that WCS, planes and the graphics

view are all set to TOP as shown.

n In the Planes Manager, click on the

Follow rules arrow and make sure
the rules are set as shown.

Lathe 437
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Geometry

CREATE THE GEOMETRY

1. Create And Organize Levels
To begin the tutorial, we will create and name different levels to organize our geometry. This will help
reduce clutter on the screen when creating geometry and toolpaths.

n Select the Levels tab to open

Levels Manager as shown.

n Click in the Name area in the Levels Manager and enter in the
name "Top Plane Geometry" as shown. Press Enter once
complete.

Lathe 438
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Geometry

n Click in the Number area and enter in a

level number 2, then click in the Name
area and type in the name "Right
Plane Geometry" as shown.

n Click in the Number area and enter in

a level number 3, then click in the
Name area and type in the name
"Right Plane Geometry 2" as shown.

n Make Level 1 the main level by clicking on 1

in the Number column.
n Then select the Turn all levels off icon to
make all levels invisible and than click on the
visible column of Level 1 as shown.

Lathe 439
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Geometry

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and in

the Mini Toolbar, click on the arrow next to the
Wireframe Color and set the color to dark blue as
shown.
n Ensure that the color Blue no. 1 is selected as
shown.

Note: You can change the color by entering in the color number in the area as shown above, or by
selecting it from the pallet below the color number as outlined above. If you click on the Select button,
Mastercam will take you back to the Graphical User Interface and allow you to select an existing
entity’s color as the current geometry color.

2. Create Lines To Represent The Outside Profile

In this step, you will create lines to represent the profile of the part, knowing the length and angles they
use. This profile will be used to rough and finish the part to shape before creating the C-Axis Toolpaths.

Step Preview:

Lathe 440
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Geometry

Create The Horizontal And Vertical Lines

Wireframe

n From the Lines group, select Line Endpoints as shown.

n In the Line Endpoints panel, enable Multi-line.

n Enter the Length and the Angle as shown (Press
Enter).

n [Specify the first endpoint]: Select the Origin as shown.

Lathe 441
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Geometry

n The drawing should look as shown.

Note: During the geometry creation of this tutorial, if you make a mistake, you can undo the last step
using the Undo icon . You can undo as many steps as needed. If you delete or undo a step by
mistake, just use the Redo icon . To delete unwanted geometry, select it first and then press Delete
from the keyboard.

n In the Line Endpoints panel, enter the Length and the

Angle as shown (Press Enter).

Lathe 442
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Geometry

n In the Line Endpoints panel, enter the Length and the

Angle as shown (Press Enter).

n In the Line Endpoints panel, enter the Length and

the Angle as shown (Enter).

Lathe 443
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Geometry

n Select the AutoCursor Fast Point icon from the General

Selection toolbar or press the Space bar.

n Enter in the coordinates -1.45, 0.75 as shown.

n Press Enter once complete.

n Select the OK button to exit the Line Endpoints

command.

n The part should appear as shown.

Use The Transform Mirror Command

Transform

n From the Position

group, select the
Mirror icon as
shown.

n [Select entities]: Select Entity A and Entity B as

shown.
n Press Enter to finish the selection and continue.

Lathe 444
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Geometry

n The Mirror panel will appear. Enable Copy and enable the
radio button to mirror about the Y axis with an X offset of -2.2
as shown.

n Press Enter on the keyboard to see a preview

of the result in the graphical user interface as
shown.

n Press Alt + F1 to fit the drawing onto the

screen.
n Select the OK button to exit the command.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and

click on Clear Colors to return the geometry
back to its original color.

Lathe 445
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Geometry

Create The Final Lines To Finish The Outside Profile

Wireframe

n From the Lines group,

select Line Endpoints
as shown.

n In the Line Endpoints panel enable Two

endpoints.

n [Specify the first endpoint]: Select Endpoint A as shown.

n [Specify the second endpoint]: Select Endpoint B as shown.

n Select the OK and Create New Operation button to stay within the command.

Lathe 446
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Geometry

n In the Line Endpoints panel enable Multi-line.

n In the Line Endpoints panel, enter the Length and the
Angle as shown (Enter).

n [Specify the first endpoint]: Select

Endpoint E as shown.

Lathe 447
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Geometry

n Enter the Length, then press Tab on your keyboard and

enter the Angle as shown (Enter).

n Press Alt + F1 if needed to fit the geometry to the screen.

n In the Line Endpoints panel, enter the Length and the

Angle as shown (Enter).

n Select the OK button to exit the Line Endpoints command.

Lathe 448
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n The part should appear

as shown.

CREATE THE 3D GEOMETRY

1. Change The Construction Plane, Main Level And Color
In this step, we will change the construction plane to the right side to create the rest of the geometry. We
will also change the main level to 2.

Change The Construction Plane

n Select the Planes tab as shown.

n Set the Graphic view, the Construction plane and the

Tool plane to Right by clicking in their columns as
shown. Leave the WCS set to Top plane.

n Use the Fit command and Zoom commands to

position the part as shown.

Lathe 449
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

Change The Main Level

n Select the Levels tab as shown.

n This will bring up a menu of previously created levels.

Select Level 2 to make it the Main Level as shown.

Change The Color

n Right mouse click in the graphics window, select the

drop down arrow next to the Wireframe Color and
select the red color as shown.

Change The Construction Mode To 2D

n Right mouse click and set the Construction

mode to 2D and make sure that the Z Depth is
set to 0 as shown.

2. Create The Ellipse On The Right Face

In this step, you will use the Ellipse command to create the ellipse on the right face of the part.

Step Preview:

Wireframe

n From the Shapes

group, select the drop
down arrow below the
Rectangle and click on
Ellipse.

Lathe 450
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n [Select the position of base point]: Select

the Origin as shown.

n Use the mouse to randomly click on the screen twice. An ellipse will be created.

n Change the A Radius and B Radius as shown in

the screenshot below.

n Select the OK button to exit the command.

n Press Alt + F1 to fit the geometry onto the

screen.
n The part should appear as shown.

Lathe 451
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

3. Create A Circle

In this step, we will use the Circle Center Point command to create a circle to be used as construction
geometry.

Step Preview:

n Right mouse click in the graphics

window and set the Z Depth to -0.15.

Wireframe

n From the Arcs group, select the

Circle Center Point icon as
shown.

n Enter in the Radius as shown.

Lathe 452
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n [Enter the center point]: Select the Origin as shown.

Note: Because we changed the construction Z Depth to -0.15 and the construction mode is set to 2D,
we are able to create the circle at that depth referencing the center of the circle to the origin.

n Select the OK button to exit the command.

n Right mouse click and select the Isometric

view as shown.

n The part should appear as shown.

Lathe 453
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and

select Right to change the planes back.

Note: When changing the graphics view like this, both the Cplane and the Tplane will be changed to
Right plane. If not make sure that you change the Cplane as shown.

Press Alt + F1 to fit the geometry onto the screen if needed.

4. Create A Rectangle
In this step, you create a rectangle knowing the width, the height and the anchor position.

Step Preview:

n Right mouse click in the graphics window

and change the Z Depth to -0.525 as
shown.

Wireframe

n From the Shapes group, select the Rectangle icon as shown.

Lathe 454
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n Enter the Width and the Height and make sure that
Anchor to center is enabled as shown.

n Press Enter after typing the values to see a

preview of the rectangle.
n [Select position for first corner]: Select the Origin
as shown.

n Select the OK button to exit the command.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and select the

Isometric view as shown.

n The part should appear as shown.

Lathe 455
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and

select the Right view to change the planes back.

5. Trim The Rectangle

In this step, we will use the Dynamic Trim command to trim the lines of the rectangle using the 2D
construction mode and Divide.

Step Preview:

Wireframe

n From the Modify

group, select the
Dynamic Trim
icon as shown.

n In the Dynamic Trim panel, enable Trim and Divide

as shown.

Lathe 456
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n [Select the curve to trim/extend]: Select the portions of lines that

appear to be hidden lines (dotted).

n Select the OK button to exit the command.

n The part should appear as shown.

6. Break The Lines

In this step, we will use the Break Many Pieces command to break the lines into three equal segments.

Step Preview:

Wireframe

n In the Modify group, click on the drop down arrow next to the Break
Two Pieces and select Break Many as shown.

Lathe 457
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n [Select entities to break] Select Entity A, Entity B,

Entity C, and Entity D as shown.

n Press Enter to finish the selection.

n In the Break Many Pieces panel, enable Number and change

it to 3 as shown. Press Enter.

Create curves breaks the selected entities into arcs or lines.

Creates lines breaks the selected entities into lines only.
Number determines the number of equal segments that Mastercam creates.
Tolerance specifies a chord height tolerance you want when breaking arcs or splines.
Exact Distance creates segments of the exact length specified in the Distance field.
Rounded Distance changes the Number field based on the Distance values and creates segments of
equal lengths.

n The preview should look as shown.

Note: A preview uses points to show where the

breaks will be. Once you finish the command, the
points will disappear.

Lathe 458
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n Select the OK button to exit the command.

7. Create Arcs And Rotate Them

In this step. we will create arcs to resemble the 1/4" holes. Then using the Transform Rotate command,
rotate them around the diameter.

Step Preview:

Create Two Circles

n Right mouse click in graphics window and select the

Isometric view as shown.

Note: The Isometric view will change the construction plane to Top and the graphics view to Isometric.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window

and change the Construction mode to 3D
as shown.

Wireframe

n From the Arcs group, select the

Circle Center Point icon as
shown.

Lathe 459
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n In the Circle Center Point panel, set the Radius to

0.125 and click on the lock icon to lock in the value as
shown.

n [Enter the center point]: Select Endpoint A as

shown

n [Enter the center point]: Select Endpoint B as

shown.

n Select the OK button to exit the command.

Lathe 460
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

Rotate The Arcs

n Select Planes tab as shown.

n In the Planes manager panel, click in the C and T

columns in the Right side row as shown. Leave
the WCS and the G column as shown.

Note: This will keep the graphics view set to Isometric and change the Construction plane to Right.

Transform

n From the Position

group, select the
Rotate icon as
shown.

n [Rotate: Select entities to rotate]: Select the circles

as shown.

n Press Enter to finish the selection.

Lathe 461
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n The Rotate dialog box will appear. Match the

parameters as shown and press Enter.
n Click on the OK button to exit the command.

n Click on Clear Colors to return the geometry to

its original color.

n The part should appear as shown.

Lathe 462
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

8. Create The Circles On The Left Face

In this step, we will use the Circle Center Point command to create the four R 0.125" holes in the part on
the left face knowing the center points. We will also create the four R 0.250" circles so we can fillet them to
finish the left face in the next step.

Step Preview:

Change Levels And The Construction Depth

n Select the Levels tab as shown.

n Click on 3 in the Number column to make it

the main level as shown.
n Click on the X in the Visible column beside
Level 2 to make it invisible as shown.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and

set the Construction mode to 2D as
shown.

n Set the Z depth as shown.

Lathe 463
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n The part should appear as shown.

Create The Four R 0.125" Circles

Wireframe

n From the Arcs group, select the Circle

Center Point icon as shown.

n Leave the Radius locked from the previous step

("Create two circles" on page 459) using the Circle
Center Point command.

n [Enter the center point]: Press the Space bar or select

the AutoCursor Fast Point icon as shown.

Lathe 464
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n Enter in the coordinates shown below. Press Enter.

n Press Enter again to finish the circle and stay within the
command.

n [Enter the center point]: Press the Space bar or select the
AutoCursor Fast Point icon and enter in the coordinates
shown below. Press Enter.
n Press Enter again to finish the circle and to stay within the
command.

n [Enter the center point]: Press the Space bar or select the
AutoCursor Fast Point icon and enter in the coordinates
shown below. Press Enter.
n Press Enter again to finish the circle and to stay within the
command.

n [Enter the center point]: Press the Space bar or select the
AutoCursor Fast Point icon and enter in the coordinates
shown below. Press Enter.
n Press Enter again to finish the circle.

n Select the OK button to exit the command.

n The part should appear as shown.

Create The Four R 0.250" Circles

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and

change the Z depth as shown.
n Press Enter.

Wireframe

n From the Arcs group,

select the Circle
Center Point icon as
shown.

Lathe 465
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n Change the Radius to 0.25 and leave the lock icon

to lock in the value as shown.

n [Enter the center point]: Press Space bar or select the

AutoCursor Fast Point icon and enter in the coordinates
shown below. Press Enter.
n Press Enter again to finish the circle and to stay within the
command.

n [Enter the center point]: Press Space bar or select the

AutoCursor Fast Point icon and enter in the coordinates
shown below. Press Enter.
n Press Enter again to finish the circle and to stay within the
command.

n [Enter the center point]: Press Space bar or select the

AutoCursor Fast Point icon and enter in the coordinates
shown below. Press Enter.
n Press Enter again to finish the circle and to stay within the
command.

n [Enter the center point]: Press Space bar or select the

AutoCursor Fast Point icon and enter in the coordinates
shown below. Press Enter.
n Press Enter again to finish the circle and to stay within the
command.
n Select the OK button to exit the command.

Lathe 466
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n The part should appear as

shown.

9. Insert Fillets between The R 0.250" Circles

In this step, you will create a rounded contour by inserting fillets between the four circles.

Step Preview:

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and select

the Right view to change the planes back.

Wireframe

n From the Modify group,

select the Fillet Entities
icon as shown.

Lathe 467
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n Set the style to Normal, enter in the fillet Radius

and disable Trim entities as shown.

n [Fillet: Select an entity]: Select

Entity A as shown.
n [Fillet: Select another entity]:
Select Entity B as shown.

Note: Make sure that you select the Arcs as shown, or you may get an undesired result.

Lathe 468
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n [Fillet: Select an entity]: Select Entity B as

shown.
n [Fillet: Select another entity]: Select Entity
C as shown.

n [Fillet: Select an entity]: Select Entity C as

shown.
n [Fillet: Select another entity]: Select Entity
D as shown.

n [Fillet: Select an entity]: Select

Entity A as shown.
n [Fillet: Select another entity]: Select
Entity D as shown.

n Select the OK button to exit the Fillet

command.

Lathe 469
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n The part should appear as shown.

10. Trim The Rounded Contour

In this step, we trim the rounded contour we just created in the previous step.

Step Preview:

Wireframe

n From the Modify group,

select the Divide icon as
shown.

n In the Divide panel, enable Trim as

shown.

Lathe 470
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n [Select the curve to divide/delete]: Select the portions of

the arc shown as hidden (dotted) below to delete them.
n Select the OK button to exit the command.

n The part should appear as shown.

11. Create Points

In this step, we will use the Point Position command to create the points specified on the drawing needed
to create the spline.

Step Preview:

n Right mouse click in graphics window and select the

Isometric view as shown.

Lathe 471
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and

change the Construction mode to 3D as
shown.
n Change the Z Depth as shown.
n Press Enter.

Wireframe

n From the Position group, select the Point Position icon as

shown.

n In the Point Position panel, leave the Entity Type as Point,

as shown.

n [Create point position]: Press Space bar or select the

AutoCursor Fast Point icon and enter the coordinates
shown below
n Press Enter to finish creating the point.

n Enter the coordinates shown below.

n Press Enter to finish creating the point.

n Enter the coordinates shown below.

n Press Enter to finish creating the point.

n Enter the coordinates shown below.

n Press Enter to finish creating the point.
n Select the OK button to exit the command.

Lathe 472
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n The part should appear as shown.

12. Create The Spline

In this step, we will create the spline from the points we created in the previous step to finish the part.

Step Preview:

Wireframe

n From the Splines group, select

Spline Manual icon as shown.

n In the Spline Manual panel, leave the defaults as

shown.

Lathe 473
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The 3D Geometry

n [Select points]: Select Point A as

shown.
n [Select points]: Select Point B as
shown.
n [Select points]: Select Point C as
shown.
n [Select points]: Select Point D as
shown.
n [Select points]: Select Point A as
shown.
n Click on the OK button to exit the
command.

n The part should appear as shown.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and select the

Top view as shown.

Lathe 474
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

n Press Alt + F1 to fit the geometry onto

the graphics window if needed.

CREATE THE SOLID

1. Create the additional wireframe for the solid

Note: To create a solid you need to have closed boundaries.

n In the Planes Manager, change the Cplane to

Front.

Wireframe

n From the Shapes group, select

Rectangular Shapes.

Lathe 475
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

n In the Rectangular Shapes panel, set the Origin to

the middle point.
n Width = 0.25.
n Height = 0.25.

In the graphics window select the point as shown.

Lathe 476
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

n The geometry in
isometric view should
look as shown.

n In the Levels Manager, make Level 2 the main level

and Level 3 invisible.

Transform

n From the Offset

group select the
Chains icon.

n Select the top lines as shown.

Lathe 477
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

n Indicate the offset direction on one side.

n In the Offset Chains enable Join and Both sides.
n Set the Distance to 0.1875.
n Select the OK button to exit the command.

n In the Planes Manager, change the Cplane to

Right .

Lathe 478
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

Transform

n In the Position group,

select Rotate icon.

n From the Quick Mask Toolbar, select the resulting

geometry as shown.
n The rectangle will be highlighted as shown.
n Press Enter.

n In the Rotate panel, enable Copy.

n Number = 3.
n Angle =90.

Lathe 479
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

The geometry should look as shown.

n Make Level 1 the main level.

n Set the Cplane to Top.
n Create a line to close the chain using Line
Endpoints command.

2. Create the body using Solid Revolve

n In the Levels Manager, make a new main Level 4 and name it

Solid.

Lathe 480
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

n In the Levels Manager, make main level

Level 4 and Level 1 visible.

Solids

n From the Create

group, select the
Revolve icon.

n In the Chaining dialog

box, leave the Chain
button enabled and
select the geometry as
shown.

n Select the line to be used as the axis

of rotation.

Lathe 481
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

n In the Solid Revolve panel, the Create

body should be already enabled.
n Select the OK button to finish.

3. Cut the elliptical shape using Solid Extrude

n Make Level 2 the main level and Level 1

invisible.

Wireframe

n In the Curves group, select

Curve One Edge.

n Select the edge as shown.

Lathe 482
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

n Leave the parameters in the Curve On One

Edge as they are by default.
n Select the OK button to finish the command.
n The geometry should look as shown.

Note: To ensure a proper cut of the elliptical

shape using the Extrude command, you need to
offset the curve (circle) with a small amount. This
prevents the ellipse and the circle to intersect.

n Make sure you select the circle and not the edge of the
solid.

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and

select Analyze Entity.

Lathe 483
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

n Change the diameter to 2.05 as shown.

Solids

n From the Create

group, select Extrude.

n Select the circle and then the ellipse.

Lathe 484
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

n In the Solid Extrude panel, enable Cut body and

make sure the arrow points inwards, otherwise select
the Reverse button.
n Distance = 0.15.

The geometry should look as shown.

Lathe 485
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

4. Cut the slots using Solid Extrude

n Press Ctrl +T to see the solid translucent.

Solids

n From the Create

group, select Extrude.

n Select the top rectangle as shown. Guide the chain as

needed.

n Make sure that Cut body is

enabled and that the arrow
points upwards, otherwise
click on the Reverse all
button.
n Change the Distance to
0.25.

Lathe 486
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

n Select the OK and Create New

Operation button to stay in the
same command.
n Repeat the steps to cut the rest of
the slots. Make sure the arrow
points outward for each slot.

Note: You do not need to change

the Cplane when you chain the
next rectangular shape.
Make sure that you guide the chain
as needed to ensure you select one
close chain.

n The geometry should look as

shown.

5. Cut the holes inside of the slots using Solid Extrude

Solids

n From the Create

group, select Extrude.

n Select the two holes that are in the top

plane.

Lathe 487
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

n In the Solid Extrude panel, leave

the Cut body enabled.
n Make sure the arrow points inside
the solid.
n Distance = 0.5.

n Select the OK and Create New

Operation button to stay in the
same command.
n Repeat the steps to cut the rest of
the holes. Make sure the arrow
points inside the solid for each of the
two holes that are in different
planes.
n The geometry should look as shown

Lathe 488
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

6. Cut the cross shape on the left side

n In the Levels Manager, make Level 3 the main

level and Level 2 invisible.
n Rotate the part as needed.

Wireframe

n In the Curves group, select

Curve One Edge.

n Select the edge as shown.

n Leave the parameters in the Curve On One Edge as

they are by default.
n Select the OK button to finish the command.
n The geometry should look as shown.

Note: To ensure a proper cut of the cross shape using

the Extrude command, you need to offset the curve
(circle) with a small amount. This prevents the cross
shape and the circle to intersect.

Lathe 489
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

n Right mouse click in the graphics window and

select Analyze Entity.

n Make sure you select the circle and not the edge of the
solid.

n Change the Diameter to 1.75 as shown.

Lathe 490
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

Solids

n From the Create

group, select Extrude.

n Select the circle and then the cross shape.

n In the Solid Extrude panel, enable Cut body and make

sure the arrow points inwards, otherwise select the
Reverse button.
n Distance = 0.25.

Lathe 491
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

The geometry should look as shown.

7. Cut the holes using Solid Extrude

Solids

n From the Create group,

select Extrude.

n Select all holes that are in the top

plane.

Lathe 492
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

n In the Solid Extrude panel,

leave the Cut body enabled.
n Make sure the arrow points
inside the solid.
n Distance = 0.5.

n The geometry should look as

shown

8. Cut the slot along the curve using Solid Sweep

Note: To cut the slot with a constant depth you

need to project the curve onto the solid face.

Lathe 493
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

Transform

n Select the Project

icon.

n Select the curve as shown.

n Press Enter.

n In the Project panel, enable

Move.
n Enable Surface/Solid/Mesh.
n Select the solid face as shown.
n Press Enter.

Lathe 494
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

n Select the OK for the warning and enable the Type of

projection to Normal.

n The geometry should look as shown.

Solids

n In the Create
group, select the
Sweep icon.

Lathe 495
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

n Select the rectangle as shown.

n In the Chaining dialog box, select the
OK button.

n Select the curve as shown.

n In the Chaining dialog box, select
the OK button.

Lathe 496
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

n In the Sweep panel, enable Cut body.

Lathe 497
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Create The Solid

n In the Levels
Manager, make
Level 4 the main
level and make
invisible the rest
of the levels to
see the solid
only.

SAVE THE FILE

File

n Save As.

n Click on the Browse icon as shown.

n Find a location on the computer to save your file. File name: "LatheCY_2".

Lathe 498
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 2: Select The Machine And Set Up The Stock

STEP 2: SELECT THE MACHINE AND SET UP THE STOCK

In Mastercam, you select a Machine Definition before creating any toolpath. The Machine Definition is
a model of your machine tool's capabilities and features and acts like a template for setting up machining
jobs. The machine definition ties together three main components: the schematic model of your machine
tool’s components, the control definition that models your control unit’s capabilities, and the post processor
that will generate the required machine code (G-code). For a Lathe exercise (2D toolpaths), we need just
a basic machine definition.

Note: For the purpose of this tutorial, we will be using the Default Lathe machine.

Machine

n From the Machine Type group, select the drop down arrow below Lathe and pick the Default.

n Select the Levels tab as shown.

n Make Level 1 the main level by clicking in the

Number column 1 and make invisible the
rest of the levels as shown.

n Un-zoom the geometry by

scrolling down the mouse wheel.
n The part should appear as
shown.

n To open the Toolpaths Manager, click on the

Toolpaths tab as shown.

Lathe 499
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 2: Select The Machine And Set Up The Stock

n Select the plus sign in front of Properties in the

Toolpaths Manager to expand the Toolpaths
Group Properties.

n Select Tool settings to set the tool

parameters.

n Select the Tool Settings tab and

change the parameters to match the
screen shot.

Lathe 500
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 2: Select The Machine And Set Up The Stock

n Select the Stock Setup tab.

n Choose the Properties button to set up the

stock for the Left Spindle.

When we setup the stock for this tutorial, we will chain the geometry in Level 1 and Mastercam will revolve
the geometry to simulate the stock. For this Tutorial, we can assume that the part has already been
machined to this size and the only toolpaths we have to create are the C-Axis toolpaths.

n Define the stock by setting the

stock geometry to Revolve. This
will allow us to chain some
geometry to establish the stock
based on the revolved result of the
chain.
n Select the Select Geometry
button as outlined below.

n [Revolved Solid 1]: In the Chaining

dialog box, enable Partial.
n Select the first entity as shown.
n Select the last entity.
n Select the OK button to exit the
Chaining dialog box.
n Select the OK button to exit the
Machine Component Manager-
Stock page.

Lathe 501
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 2: Select The Machine And Set Up The Stock

n Ensure that Left Spindle is selected and

then select the Properties button in the
Chuck Jaws area as shown.

n In the Geometry tab leave the chuck sizes as shown.

Lathe 502
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 2: Select The Machine And Set Up The Stock

n Select the Parameters tab and make the necessary changes to define the chuck size, the Clamping
method and the stock Position. Ensure that you choose the clamping method OD and set the
Parameters as shown.

n Select the OK button to exit the Chuck Jaws dialog box.

n Enable Right Spindle and click

on the Properties button as
shown.

n In the Geometry tab leave the default chuck size.

Lathe 503
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 2: Select The Machine And Set Up The Stock

n In the Parameters tab, ensure that you choose the clamping method OD and set both Parameters &
Geometry tabs as shown in the graphics below.

n Select the OK button to exit the Chuck Jaws dialog box.

n Enable Fit screen to boundaries in the Display Options

area.
n Select the OK button to exit Machine Group
Properties.

n Right mouse click in graphics window and select

the Isometric view as shown.

Lathe 504
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 2: Select The Machine And Set Up The Stock

n Select Levels tab.

n Make sure that only Level 4 is visible.

n Press Alt + F1 to fit the geometry to the screen as shown.

n Select the Toolpaths tab.

n From the Toolpaths Manager, select Stock setup

and disable Fit screen to boundaries.
n Select OK button to exit the Stock Setup.
n Press Alt + F1 to fit the geometry only to the screen.

Lathe 505
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 3: Machine The Ellipse On The Right Face

STEP 3: MACHINE THE ELLIPSE ON THE RIGHT FACE

In this step, we will create a C-Axis Face Contour toolpath to machine the ellipse.

C-Axis Face Mill Type allows you to machine the face of the part with the tool parallel to the main
spindle's axis of rotation. In this case, the main spindle holding the part rotates (C-Axis) while the tool
moves along the X axis. The Z axis is positioned based on the depth of the cut and the Y axis is locked in
position at 0. Mastercam automatically sets the tool plane (TPlane) and construction plane (CPlane) so
that the tool is placed perpendicular to the face of the part as shown.

Toolpath Preview:

Turning

n From the C-axis

group, select the
Face Contour
icon as shown.

Lathe 506
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 3: Machine The Ellipse On The Right Face

n [Select Contour chain 1]:

In the Solid Chaining
dialog, enable Loop only.
n Select the bottom edge as
shown.
n Select the OK button to
exit the Chaining dialog
box.

n The C-Axis
Toolpath
parameters
will open.

Lathe 507
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 3: Machine The Ellipse On The Right Face

n From the Tree View list, on

the left side of the window,
select Tool.
n Enter a comment and click on
the Select library tool
button as shown.

n Select the Filter button in the Tool Selection dialog box.

n Select the None

button in the tool
types area to disable
any previous tool
type selection.
n Select the Flat
Endmill type.
n Select the drop down
arrow in the Tool
Diameter field and
select Equal.
n Enter 0.75 in the
Diameter field.

n Select the OK button to exit the Tool List Filter dialog box.
n Make sure that you click on the 3/4" Flat Endmill in the tool list as shown. Then click on OK to exit the
dialog box.

Lathe 508
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 3: Machine The Ellipse On The Right Face

n The 3/4" Flat

Endmill should
now appear in
the tool list as
shown.

Note: The Feeds and Speeds are based on the tool definition. You may change them as you wish.

n Select the Cut

Parameters
from the Tree
View list and
make the
changes as
shown.

Lathe 509
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 3: Machine The Ellipse On The Right Face

n Select Multi Passes from the

Tree View list and make the
changes as shown.

n Click on the Linking Parameters page and

make the following changes.

n Select the OK button to exit the C-Axis Face Contour dialog box.

Lathe 510
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 3: Machine The Ellipse On The Right Face

9. Backplot The Toolpaths

n Make sure that the toolpaths are selected (signified by the green check mark on the folder). If the
operation is not selected, choose the Select all operations icon.

n Select the Backplot selected operations button.

n In the Backplot dialog box, enable Display with color codes,

Display tool, Display holder and the Display rapid move
icons as shown.

n To fit the workpiece onto the screen, if needed,

right mouse click in the graphics window again
and select Fit or press Alt + F1.

Lathe 511
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 4: Simulate The Toolpath In Verify

n You can step through the Backplot by using the Step forward or Step back buttons.
n You can adjust the speed of the backplot using the Run speed slider shown.

n Select the Play button to run Backplot.

n The toolpath should look as shown.

Note: To zoom in or out, click in the middle of the part and scroll the mouse wheel up or down. To move
the geometry into the center of the window, hold down the Shift key and click and drag the part with the
mouse wheel.

n Select the OK button to exit Backplot.

STEP 4: SIMULATE THE TOOLPATH IN VERIFY

Verify shows the path the tools take to cut the part with material removal. This display lets you spot errors
in the program before you machine the part. As you verify toolpaths, Mastercam displays additional
information such as the X, Y, and Z coordinates, the path length, the minimum and maximum coordinates,
and the cycle time. It also shows any collision between the workpiece and the tool.

n From the Toolpaths Manager, select Verify

selected operations icon as shown.

Note: Mastercam launches a new window that allows you to check the part using Backplot or Verify.

n Change the settings for the Visibility group as shown.

Lathe 512
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 4: Simulate The Toolpath In Verify

n Select the Verify tab, and enable Color Loop, Collision Checking and Show edges as shown.

Note: This option will change the material removal color. This can be set based on the operation or on
the tool number used to machine the part. This makes it easier to spot if you forgot to leave the stock on in
the finish operations.

n Select the Play Simulation button to run Verify.

n Zoom in on the part as shown.

n The part should look as shown.

Note: To rotate the part, move the cursor to the center of the part and click and hold the mouse wheel
and slowly move it in one direction.
To zoom in or out, scroll the mouse wheel up or down as needed.
To move the part to the center (pan), hold down the Shift key and use the mouse wheel.

n To go back to the Mastercam window, minimize the Mastercam Simulator window as shown.

Note: In the following two steps, you will compare the C-Axis Cross Contour toolpath with the Y axis.

n Press Alt + T to remove the toolpath display.

Lathe 513
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 5: Machine The Slots Using Y Axis Cross Contour

STEP 5: MACHINE THE SLOTS USING Y AXIS CROSS CONTOUR

Cross Contour toolpath with Y Axis is used primarily to cut slots. The tool is placed perpendicular to
the axis of rotation for each toolpath that you create. The C-axis is indexed to the programmed position
while the cutting motion is carried out using the machine’s Y and Z axes. The X axis is controlled by the
programmed depth of operation.
In this step, you will machine one slot using the Y axis and then you will machine the rest of the slots using
the Transform Rotate toolpath.

Note: Mill-Turn machines come in two styles: C-Axis only and C-Axis with Y axis.

The machine with only C-Axis, which is more common, provides linear motion in the X and Z axes and
rotary motion around the C axis as shown.
The C-Axis with Y axis allows the machine to perform standard 2D milling operations on the face or side
of the part with or without C-Axis motion.

For Mastercam, Lathe C-Axis toolpaths and many Mill toolpaths in Lathe use the Rotary Axis Control
page to select the axis of rotation.

The first part uses the Cross Contour toolpath with Y axis to cut the slots across the centerline. The
second part uses the Cross Contour toolpath with C-Axis rotation to cut the slots parallel to the
centerline.

Toolpath Preview:

Lathe 514
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 5: Machine The Slots Using Y Axis Cross Contour

Toolpaths

n From the C-Axis group,

select the Cross Contour
icon as shown.

n In the Solid Chaining dialog box, enable Edges

button.
n Hold down the Shift key and select the edge as
shown and ensure the chaining direction is
Clockwise.

n Select the OK button to exit the Solid Chaining

dialog box.

n From the Tree

View list, on the
left side of the
window, select
Tool.
n Follow the same
steps as shown
in the first
operation to
select the 3/8"
Flat Endmill
from the tool list
and then enter a
comment as
shown.

Lathe 515
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 5: Machine The Slots Using Y Axis Cross Contour

n Select the Cut

Parameters tab
and make the
changes as
shown.

n Select the Depth

Cuts tab and make
the changes as
shown.

Lathe 516
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 5: Machine The Slots Using Y Axis Cross Contour

n Select the Linking

Parameters tab and
change the Clearance,
Top of stock and Depth
values as shown.

n Expand Axis Control and select Rotary Axis

Control.
n In the Rotation type area, make sure that the Y
axis is enabled as shown.

n Select the OK button to exit the C-Axis Cross Contour dialog box to generate the toolpath.

Lathe 517
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 5: Machine The Slots Using Y Axis Cross Contour

5.1 Backplot the toolpath

n See Page 511 to review the procedures.

5.2 Verify the toolpaths

n To verify the last toolpath, from the

Toolpaths Operations Manager, click on
the drop down arrow next to Verify
selected operations and select Add to
current verification.

n Run Verify.
n The verified part should look as
shown.

n To go back to the Mastercam window, minimize the Mastercam Simulator window as shown.

Lathe 518
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 6: Transform Rotate Toolpath

STEP 6: TRANSFORM ROTATE TOOLPATH

In this step, you will use the Transform Rotate toolpath to machine the rest of the slots.

Transform Rotate toolpaths are used when you want to run the same toolpaths in different locations or at
different orientations in the same part file. You will rotate the toolpath around a center point using the
Plane Rotation Mill type and the Rotate Transform type.

Toolpath Preview:

Turning

n From the
Utilities group,
select the
Toolpath
Transform icon
as shown.

Lathe 519
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 6: Transform Rotate Toolpath

n Enable as Method, the Tool plane and then set the Type to Rotate. Ensure that NCI is selected under
Source.
n In the Source operations, select the C-Axis Cross Contour toolpath as shown.

Note: If you are not setting the parameters in this order, a warning will appear on the screen. Select Yes
to continue and set first the Method to Tool plane.

Lathe 520
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 6: Transform Rotate Toolpath

n Select the Rotate tab and set the Instances # to 3 and the angles to 90 degrees. Enable Rotation
plane and click on the Select plane button as shown.

n In the Plane Selection dialog box, enable Right

side as shown.

n Select the OK button to exit Plane Selection.

n Select the OK button to exit the Transform
toolpath.

Lathe 521
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 6: Transform Rotate Toolpath

6.1 Backplot the toolpath

n See Page 511 to review the procedures.

n Select the OK button to exit Backplot.

6.2 Verify the last toolpath

n To verify the last toolpath, from the

Toolpaths Operations Manager, click on
the drop down arrow next to Verify
selected operations and select Add to
current verification.

n The part should look as

shown.

n To go back to the Mastercam window, minimize the Mastercam Simulator window as shown.

n Press Alt + T to remove the toolpaths display.

Lathe 522
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 7: Spot Drill The Holes Using Cross Drill

STEP 7: SPOT DRILL THE HOLES USING CROSS DRILL

In this step, we will create a C-Axis Cross Drill toolpath to spot drill the holes we created in Step 10. C-
Axis Cross Drill toolpaths drill holes perpendicular to the part’s spindle axis, as when drilling holes in a
cylinder.

Toolpath Preview:

Turning

n From the C-axis group, click on the

Expand gallery arrow as shown.
n From the Toolpath gallery, select
the Cross Drill icon as shown.

n [Select one or more entities to add or remove from

the features list]: In the Toolpath Hole Definition
panel set Depth Filters to Off as shown.

Lathe 523
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 7: Spot Drill The Holes Using Cross Drill

n Hold down the Ctrl key and select the

inside face of a hole as shown.
n All the other holes with the same
diameter will be automatically selected.

Note: The holes on the left side are also

selected as they are the same diameter.

n In the Selection, Features list, right

mouse click on the Simple Ø 0.250 9
and select Delete.
n Repeat the delete procedure to remove
Simple Ø 10, 11 and 12.
n You should have 8 Simple Ø 0.250
n Select the OK button to exit the Toolpath

Hole Definition dialog box.

Lathe 524
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 7: Spot Drill The Holes Using Cross Drill

n From the Tree

View list, on the
left side of the
window, select
Tool.
n Following the
same steps as in
the first
operation, select
a 3/8" Spot Drill
from the tool
library, then enter
a comment as
shown.

n Select the Cut

Parameters tab and
ensure the Cycle is set to
Drill/Counterbore.

Lathe 525
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 7: Spot Drill The Holes Using Cross Drill

n Select the
Linking
Parameters
tab and make
the following
changes.

n Select the OK button to exit the C-Axis Cross Drill dialog box.

7.1 Verify the last toolpath

n The part should look as shown.

Lathe 526
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 8: Drill The Holes Using Cross Drill

STEP 8: DRILL THE HOLES USING CROSS DRILL

In this step, we will create a C-Axis Cross Drill toolpath to drill the holes we created in Step 10.

Toolpath Preview:

n Right mouse click on the fourth operation and

select Copy.
n Right mouse click again and select Paste.
n In the Toolpaths Manager, select the
Parameters.

Lathe 527
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 8: Drill The Holes Using Cross Drill

n From the Tree View list,

on the left side of the
window, select Tool.
n Following the same
steps as in the first
operation, select a 1/4"
Drill from the tool library,
then enter a comment as
shown.

n Select the Cut Parameters tab

and ensure the Cycle is set to
Drill/Counterbore.

Lathe 528
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 8: Drill The Holes Using Cross Drill

n Select the Linking

Parameters tab and
make the following
changes.

n Select the OK button to

exit the Cross Drill
parameters.

8.1 Backplot the toolpath

n Once the operation has been generated, Backplot the toolpath.

n See Page 511 to review these procedures.
n Select the OK button to exit Backplot.

8.2 Verify the toolpath

n To go back to the Mastercam window, minimize the Mastercam
Simulator window as shown.

Lathe 529
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 9: Transfer The Stock To The Right Spindle

STEP 9: TRANSFER THE STOCK TO THE RIGHT SPINDLE

In this step, we will transfer the part from the left spindle to the right spindle using a Stock Transfer
toolpath.

Toolpath Preview:

n Select the Top view.

Turning

n From the Part Handling group, select the Stock

Transfer icon as shown.

n When the Lathe Stock Transfer dialog box appears, disable Blank original geometry and make
sure Offset by is set to 10 as shown.

n Select the Select button as outlined above.

n Mastercam will return you to the graphics screen.
n Press Ctrl + A to select all entities.
n Then press Enter.

Lathe 530
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 9: Transfer The Stock To The Right Spindle

n The Lathe Stock Transfer dialog box will re-appear. Change the parameters as shown.

Geometry is used to select geometry used in the stock transfer operation, and what you would like to do
with the geometry after the operation.

Main Spindle Position allows you to specify the original and final position of the main spindle.

Sub Spindle Position allows you to specify the original and Pick-off Position of the sub-spindle.

Stock Position allows the user to specify the original and transferred position of the stock.

n Select the OK button to create the Stock Transfer operation.

Note: A "Duplicate tool numbers" warning may appear. Select the OK button to continue.

Lathe 531
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 10: Machine The Profile In The Right Spindle

n Press Alt + F1 to fit the geometry to the screen.

n The stock transfer operation should appear as shown.

STEP 10: MACHINE THE PROFILE IN THE RIGHT SPINDLE

In this step, we will create a C-Axis Face Contour toolpath to machine the profile while the part is held in
the right spindle.

Toolpath Preview:

n Zoom in and move the part to the center so that the part
in the Right Spindle is visible as shown.

Lathe 532
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 10: Machine The Profile In The Right Spindle

n In the Levels Manager make invisible Level 11.

Level12 and Level 13.

Turning

n From the C axis group, select the Expand gallery

arrow as shown.
n From the Toolpath gallery, select the Face Contour
icon.

n Move the cursor above the right side

geometry and hold down the Shift key and
the mouse wheel and drag the geometry
to the center of the graphics window.
Rotate the part using the mouse wheel.
n Scroll up the mouse wheel to zoom in.
n In the Solid Chaining dialog box enable
Loop.
n Select the edge as shown so that the
chaining direction is Clockwise.

Note: Ensure that you chain the geometry in the right spindle and not the left spindle.

Lathe 533
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 10: Machine The Profile In The Right Spindle

n Use the Dynamic button to move the

start location as shown.

n Select the OK button to exit the Solid Chaining dialog box.

n The C-Axis
Toolpath dialog
box will open.

Lathe 534
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 10: Machine The Profile In The Right Spindle

n From the Tree

View list, on the
left side of the
window, select
Tool.
n Enter a
comment and
select the 3/8"
Flat Endmill
from the tool list
as outlined
below.

Note: The Feeds and Speeds are based on the tool definition; you may change them as you wish.

n Select the Cut

Parameters tab
from the Tree View
list and make the
changes as shown.

Lathe 535
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 10: Machine The Profile In The Right Spindle

n Select Multi Passes

from the Tree View
list and make the
changes as shown.

n Enable Lead
In/Out and set
the Radius to
30%.

Lathe 536
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 10: Machine The Profile In The Right Spindle

n Click on the Linking Parameters

page and make the following
changes.

n Select Axis Combination from the Tree

View list and select Right/Upper, as
shown.

Use this page to select an axis combination for the current operation. Mastercam uses axis combinations
to identify which machine components correspond to each axis in the current coordinate system.

n Select the OK button to exit the C-Axis Face Contour dialog box.

Lathe 537
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 10: Machine The Profile In The Right Spindle

10.1 Backplot the toolpath

n Once the operation has been generated,

Backplot the toolpath. Use the mouse
wheel to zoom and rotate the part
accordingly.

n Select the OK button to exit Backplot.

10.2 Verify the toolpath

n To verify all toolpaths, from

the Toolpaths Operations
Manager, choose the Select
all operations icon.
n Use the mouse wheel to
rotate the part as shown.

n To go back to the Mastercam window, minimize the Mastercam Simulator window as shown.

Lathe 538
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 11: Face Drill The Holes In The Right Spindle

STEP 11: FACE DRILL THE HOLES IN THE RIGHT SPINDLE

C-Axis Face Drill toolpaths allow you to drill holes perpendicular to the part’s spindle axis. In this step, we
will spot drill the 4 holes on the left face.

Toolpath Preview:

Turning

n From the C-axis group, select the Face Drill

icon as shown.

n Select the center of the holes as shown.

n Click on the OK button to exit the
Toolpath Hole Definition dialog box.

Lathe 539
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 11: Face Drill The Holes In The Right Spindle

n From the Tree

View list, on the left
side of the window,
select Tool.
n Enter a comment
and select the 3/8"
Spot Drill from the
tool list as shown.

n Select the Cut

Parameters tab and
make sure the Cycle
is set to
Drill/Counterbore
as shown.

n Select the Linking Parameters

tab and make the necessary
changes as shown.

Lathe 540
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 11: Face Drill The Holes In The Right Spindle

n Select Axis Combination

from the Tree View list and
select Right/Upper as
shown.

n Select the OK button to exit the C-Axis Face Drill parameters.

11.1 Verify the toolpaths

n To go back to the Mastercam window, minimize the Mastercam Simulator window as shown.

Lathe 541
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 12: Create Another Face Drill Toolpath

STEP 12: CREATE ANOTHER FACE DRILL TOOLPATH

In this step, we will create another C-Axis Face Drill toolpath and drill the holes to size.

Toolpath Preview:

Turning

n From the C-axis group,

select the Face Drill icon as
shown.

n Select the Copy Previous Points button in the Toolpath Hole

Definition dialog box.
n Select the OK button to exit the Toolpath Hole Definition

dialog box.

Lathe 542
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 12: Create Another Face Drill Toolpath

n From the Tree View

list, on the left side
of the window,
select Tool.
n Enter a comment as
shown, then select
the 1/4" Drill from
the tool list as
shown.

n Select the
Linking
Parameters tab
and make the
necessary
changes as
shown.
n Select the Tip
Comp tab and
enable Tip Comp
with a
Breakthrough
amount of 0 as
shown.

Lathe 543
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 13: Machine The Spline

n Select Axis Combination from the

Tree View list and select
Right/Upper as shown.

n Select the OK button to exit the C-Axis Face Drill parameters.

12.1 Verify the toolpath

n To verify all toolpaths, from the Toolpaths Operations

Manager, choose the Select all operations icon.
n See Page 512 to review these procedures.

n To go back to the Mastercam window, minimize the Mastercam Simulator window as shown.

STEP 13: MACHINE THE SPLINE

In this final step, we will create a C-Axis Contour toolpath to machine the spline. C-Axis Contour
toolpaths are used to cut geometry which wraps around a cylinder. A typical application would be to cut
text on a round part.

Toolpath Preview:

Lathe 544
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 13: Machine The Spline

Turning

n From the C-axis

group, select the C-
axis Contour icon
as shown.

n In the Solid Chaining dialog box, enable Loop.

n Select the contour as shown and make sure the
chaining direction is Clockwise.

n Select the OK button to exit the Solid Chaining

dialog box.

n From the Tree

View list, on the
left side of the
window, select
Tool.
n Following the
same steps as
shown in Step
17, select a 1/4"
Flat Endmill
from the tool
library and then
enter a comment
as shown.

Lathe 545
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 13: Machine The Spline

n Select the Cut Parameters

tab and set the parameters
as shown.

n Select the Depth Cuts

tab and make the
changes as shown.
n Max rough step =
0.03125.
n # Finish cuts = 1.
n Finish step = 0.01.

Lathe 546
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 13: Machine The Spline

n Select the Linking

Parameters tab and
make the changes
as shown.

n Select the Axis Combination

tab and select Right/Upper as
shown.

Lathe 547
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Step 14: Post Process The File

n Select Rotary Axis

Control from the
Tree View list and
enable Axis
substitution as
shown.
n Rotary diameter =
2.35.
n Make sure the
Unroll is enabled.

Note: Axis substitution is used to wrap a toolpath around a cylinder. The geometry can be either flat or
already oriented in 3D space (Select Unroll if this is established).

n Select the OK button to exit the C-Axis Contour dialog box.

13.1 Verify the toolpaths

n To verify all toolpaths, from the Toolpaths

Operations Manager, choose the Select all
operations icon.
n See Page 512 to review these procedures.

n To go back to the Mastercam window, minimize the Mastercam Simulator window as shown.

STEP 14: POST PROCESS THE FILE

n Run the Post Processor.

STEP 15: SAVE THE UPDATED MCAM FILE

Lathe 548
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Review Exercise - Student Practice

REVIEW EXERCISE - STUDENT PRACTICE

Lathe 549
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Review Exercise - Student Practice

CREATE THE GEOMETRY FOR TUTORIAL #2 EXERCISE

Use these commands to create the Wireframe geometry.

n Create the top half of the geometry and the

geometry on the right face.
n Create Rectangle.
n Create Line Parallel.
n Create Line Endpoints.
n Create Circle Center Point.
n Fillet Entities.
n Create Point.
n Create Manual Spline.
n Use the Z Depth and 2D construction mode
to create the geometry in the right plane.
n Trim Break Extend.
n Create 0.125 by 0.125 rectangles at the end
of the splines.

Make Level 3 the main level

Use these commands to create the Solid geometry.

n Solid Revolved.
n Solid Extrude Cut.
n Solid Sweep

Lathe 550
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Review Exercise - Student Practice

CREATE THE TOOLPATHS FOR TUTORIAL #2 EXERCISE

Open the Exercise_Lathe CY 2.mcam

Create the Toolpaths for Tutorial #2 Exercise as per the instructions below.

Set the machine properties including the stock.

n Set up the stock by selecting Geometry, Cylinder and then set the length of the part plus 0.1" on the
right and left face.
n Set up both Left and Right Spindles for a stock transfer operation, making the Right Spindle Z 20"
away from the Origin.

Face, Rough and Finish the OD.

n Use the stock setup to define the face operation.

n Use the OD Rough Right Tool for roughing and facing
operations.
n Use an OD Finish Right Tool for the finish operation.

C-Axis Contour the spline.

n Chain the splines in the same direction.

n Use a 1/8" Flat Endmill.
n Turn Cutter Compensation type off so the center of the
tool is along the spline.
n Use depth cuts to avoid burying the tool.
n Use an appropriate rotary diameter.

Transfer the stock to the Right Spindle.

n Select all of the geometry on the screen.

n Place the transferred entities onto Level 10.
n Make the chuck in the right spindle grab the part on the 0.65" Diameter.

Lathe 551
Lathe C & Y Axis Part #2 Review Exercise - Student Practice

n Return the spindle back to the Z 20" position.

Face, Rough and Finish the other side of the part.

n Face off the part.

n Use the Upper/Right Axis Combination.
n Use the OD Rough Left Tool for roughing and
facing operations.
n Use an OD Finish Left Tool for the finish
operation.
n Select tools that have the Left Designation.

Face Contour the rounded profile.

n Use a 1/4" Flat Endmill.

n Select a suitable compensation direction.
n Use Multi Passes to start cutting away from the
part.
n Choose a suitable depth.
n Use the Upper/Right Axis Combination.

Spot Drill and Drill the holes using Face Drill.

n Use a 1/2" Spot Drill and 1/4" Drill.

n Use the Depth calculator to add a chamfer before
drilling.
n Ensure you enable enough clearance so the drill
does not crash when moving from one hole to the
next.
n Drill the hole through the part using breakthrough.
n Use the Upper/Right Axis Combination.

Lathe 552
Quiz Answers

Lathe 553
Quiz Answers

LATHE C & Y AXIS TUTORIAL QUIZ ANSWERS

Tutorial # 1 Answers

n What does a C-Axis toolpath allow a programmer to do using a lathe?

n C-Axis toolpaths allow you to preform milling, drilling, and tapping on a lathe. It allows tools to rotate
simultaneously with the X and Z axis. As well, it gives a CNC lathe more flexibility.

n What does a Face Contour toolpath allow the programmer to do?

n A Face Contour toolpath allows you to create a toolpath on the face of the part with the tool parallel to the
axis of rotation.

n What does Cross Drilling allow the programmer to do?

n Cross Drilling allows you to drill holes perpendicular to the parts spindle.

Tutorial # 2 Answers

n What does a Stock Transfer operation allow you to do?

n A Stock Transfer operation allows you to create an operation to transfer the part from one spindle to the
other. Stock Transfer operations allow you to transfer geometry, position the stock, and control the
position of the chucks.

n How do you setup a toolpath so that the tool works with the Right/Lower Axis Combination?
n To setup a toolpath to work with the Right/Lower Axis Combination, select the Axis Combination tab in
the toolpath dialog box and select Right/Lower.

n What does a C-Axis Contour toolpath do?

n A C-axis Contour toolpath allows you to cut geometry which is wrapped around a cylinder.

n What does a C-Axis machine with Y axis allow you to machine?

n The C-Axis with Y axis allows the machine to perform standard 2D milling operations on the face or side
of the part with or without C-Axis motion.

Lathe 554
Appendix - Drawings

Lathe 555
Appendix - Drawings

Lathe 556
Appendix - Drawings

Lathe 557
Appendix - Drawings

Lathe 558
Appendix - Drawings

Lathe 559
Appendix - Drawings

Lathe 560
Appendix - Drawings

Lathe 561
Appendix - Drawings

Lathe 562
Appendix - Drawings

Lathe 563
Appendix - Drawings

Lathe 564
Appendix - Drawings

Lathe 565
Appendix - Drawings

Lathe 566
Appendix - Drawings

Lathe 567
Appendix - Drawings

Lathe 568
Appendix - Drawings

Lathe 569
Appendix - Drawings

Lathe 570