Hi 9566317,
We have 3 axis machines too. We do need 5 axis as most of our jobs warrant it. We have multiple set-up on pretty much every job we cut, and compound angle holes too. Right now we do 3+2 programming using an angled picker-head, but this obviously has limitations. Not being able to set the head accurately enough prevents us from drilling with it. As for the cost, we are prepared to deal with that.
Hi Hardmill,
We currently are familiar with positional (3+2) programming as I mentioned above. This should be able to get us by to start with, right? The continuous 5-axis programming could be figured out later. Realistically, positional 5-axis would probably be all we ever need. I'll look into the 4 axis option as you suggested.
Thanks
Dan |