HSM Look ahead option?

[Chuck Reamer]

I am thinking of getting the HSM look ahead option on a new VF-3, and am wondering how good it actually works. I will be mostly doing molds on the mill using a cam software. I do not want to do any finish polishing after machining.

Is the suface finish much better on 3-d surfaces?
Does it make a big difference in machining time?

If any one has any direct experience with it I would love to hear about it. Its only about $2000 extra, and I have already convinced my boss that it would probably be worth it for the type of work I will be doing.

[nervis1]

It makes for a much smoother motion with 3d tool paths only, it does cut cycle time a bit. It did not change my profiles or pockets at all.

I just got a new VF-2 and after about a month bought the HSM, easy to install just type in a code.

You don't add anything to the G code the HSM function just runs in the background.

[automizer]

in the new machines there is a Try Befor You Buy option for the HSM so if you want to order the machine with out you can turn on the (I think 100 hour) test and see if it makes a difference for you if so order it like Chuck Reamer did.

[WITOMCIO]

How much did this upgrade cost?I'm considering it too.

[Chuck Reamer]

I think its around $2000 USD for the upgrade, a small price to pay if you can use it.

Thanks for the input everyone, I talked to my Haas rep and he said its a must for doing mold work.

[nervis1]

Oh I remember 2200 bucks, around there. He's right you can turn it on free for 200 hrs. The instructions were included on a little card in your install kit.

[WITOMCIO]

One more question.
I have 2004 VF-2 and 2005 VF-4.
Which one would you guys recommend to be dedicated to HSM.

[automizer]

BOTH.... It works the same for both machines but put it on the one you will be using the most, has the highest rapids higher spindle speed ect. The better of the two