4 and 5 axis programming

[Cammotion]

Hope this is the correct forum.

I'm interested in learning to program for 4 and 5 axis. We have Fadals with A and B axis, with A being the rotary, and B rotates about Y axis. I use Surfcam 2004 (soon to be 2005) with 5 axis capability.

I need to learn at least the fundamentals on where to start. Can anyone recommend a site or some books? I haven't been very successful in the help file of my software. And getting the post proccessor to post correctly is a whole 'nother issue as well, I suppose. Surfcam comes with a generic "dual rotary table" post, which may work. I'd appreciate any wisdom! Thanks,

Bill

[psychomill]

How familiar are you with 4 and 5 axis machines/machining? Personally, I learned how to program them purely through trial and error, and just plain experience. Most of the books I've seen on them seemed to actually create a certain amount of confusion. They seemed to be more tailored to help in programming, not teach it.

Surfcam started as a 4 and 5 axis software so this shouldn't be a problem. I used it up to 2000 ( when I changed jobs ). The dual rotary post might be manipulated to work but as I recall, it was more intended for a rotary table mounted on a 4 axis (horizontal). Your dealer should have no problem in getting you started with a decent post set up. Surfcam also has tutorials and books on this type of programming, as well as video ( wave files actually, I think ). I'd start there first for the info.

Good luck