Which tools / software

[Hack]

Having watched a few of the shows such as Jesse James, the OCC gang etc, it always fascinates me when I see some of the machined rims that they use for there projects whether it be for motorcycles, cars or what not.

What equipment and software are they using to do this kind of stuff?

Thanks

[Cammotion]

Originally Posted by Hack Having watched a few of the shows such as Jesse James, the OCC gang etc, it always fascinates me when I see some of the machined rims that they use for there projects whether it be for motorcycles, cars or what not. What equipment and software are they using to do this kind of stuff? Thanks

Well, I've seen both those shows using a Haas VMC, programming it with Mastercam.

[machzero]

See http://www.mastercam.com/ for more info on this software. Mastercam is a lower-end CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) software that has found its place because of its ease of use when making three axis programs. MastercamArt is an add-on that allows for artwork to easily be converted to the CAM environment for writing toolpaths. Jesse, for instance, draws out his design and the programmer/machinist simply translates those 2d graphics onto a model of a 3d rim, which come in standard sizes. The programmer drives the toolpaths by selecting those lines and arcs from the graphics on the solid model, thereby cutting grooves or pockets to make that attractive finished product. It seems impressive when you watch a three-second blip on tv, but anyone who has time around a cnc and basic software could probably pull it off, no problem. When I watch these shows I am sometimes left wondering if the rims will hold up to any kind of real-life wear and tear considering how much material is removed! I would rather have a complete rim with engraved details rather than a hollowed-out rim that puts safety at risk. But then, motorcycles aren't the first choice for safety.
Also, the Haas is relatively popular and cheap. I thought I saw a VMF2 model, but basically any three axis cnc with the work envelope could do the job. If you go with Mastercam and the Haas you are looking at about $60,000. If you buy a surplus machine without a toolchanger and convert it to a 3axis CNC and use shareware/freeware you could do the same thing for about 15K-25,000... but plan on it being the same cost when you factor in the time you will spend learning how to do all that!

[cadman]

The machine WCC uses to machine it's wheels is a Haas VTC-48 vertical turning center, a bit more than $60k. Can't confirm this is true, but an "insider" told me Haas gave the machine to them. WCC got a 12 page spread in issue 28 of CNC Machining magazine that features the machine.

[markkleinsasse]

Go to www.abilitysystems.com and view that software it is user friendly cheap and it works I know it because I use it and I am very happy I chose it. and the support is excelent if it would not be for this company I would not have a cnc built yet
BRENTWOOD SHOP MARK