Choosing CNC Controller

[viroy]

Hello,
I am trying to cut for the first time with solidworks & SolidCAM, controller software = NCstudio.
These are the only options I have for choosing a 'cnc controller' in solidcam:
AWEA 1000 Fanuc
Fanuc
Fanuc5a
Nakamora-MT
table excercise

I have a 3-axis vertical mill.
I have successfully made a few engravings already using artcam.
How do I get solidcam configured for outputting GCode suitable for my machine?

[viroy]

Hmm, even though the code looks alot different than what artcam outputs, it does seem to simulate fine with Fanuc controller chosen.

One thing I dont understand... the feedrate settings and how they calculate to actual machining time.
I set the Z axis feedrate to 10 in solidcam for my tool, but the simulated movement is incredibly slow. I am going to up this to 1000 and see how it looks.

I also cannot figure out how to mill a fillet with an end mill.
It always wants to cut 90 degree angles rather than a smooth arc.

[viroy]

So I have found a way to use the FANUC post processor for my machine.
The only problem is the FANUC is limited to 12k rpm. I usually cut at 15k rpm.
So I bring my design into solidcam and set the PP to 'table_exercise', then design all my toolpaths. Once paths are complete and simulations are correct, I then edit the 'cam part definition' and change the 'CNC controller' to 'FANUC'.
Thats the only way I can get it to work, otherwise it gives me 'spin too large for MAC file'.

[viroy]

Cool, just found a post here on the zone that gave me enough info to edit the FANUC mac file. I now have the spin set to my needs and also set the start position at 0/0/10.

[Spencer myers]

Have you figured out all your operations and set up. I'm new but I have solid works and solidcam too with a hobby cnc pro board with home made machine. I've got mine running except I need to edit fanuc for needs and don't really know how. I know my pp is calling out a G 43 which is an off set which I don't think I won't. I won't my machine to start at zero and it cuts curve all choppy not smooth. I might be able to help you a little, let me know.
Spencer

P.S. I'm using mach3 for cnc controller

[viroy]

Yes I am running perfectly now.
Going to add a 4th axis rotary very soon.

The offset is a software feature... you may need to go to the solidcam website and watch their training videos.
When you are setting up your part in soldicam, after creating the stock and setting the home position... there is an area to choose what position tool loading starts from and ends... I turn mine to 0,0,10 or 0,0,50 if i need more Z clearance.
I always home or "0-out" my machine at the position I start at on my stock, I also remove G90 Z0 from the G-code to keep it from touching off before starting cuts.
The solidcam training videos explain it all in full detail, the videos are open to the public.


Having a choppy cutting radius sounds like your steps per pulse is not set properly in mach3. I also had this problem, the manufacturer was able to provide the proper setting.

The fanuc file is very easy to modify, it is just a text file with machine specific settings. I believe the file is 'fanuc.mac' and is located in the solidcam directory. Just do a search on the installed drive for 'fanuc' and you will find it, open it with a text editor such as notepad.
To resolve my problem I simply changed "max spin =" to the speed I wanted.
I think your problem may actually a mach3 issue though.