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4-axis cnc software

5/22/15       
Matt Member

I'd appreciate feedback from veteran CNC owners...particularly those using a 4th axis.

I've ordered a CNC with a 4th axis for my shop. The CNC will be used 99% of the time to produce chair and table legs. Right now, the plan is to design in Rhino and control tool paths with Madcam 5.0 4xtra.

Does anyone have another CAD/CAM suggestion for the intended use? If so, why?

My software budget is $5k.

5/22/15       #2: 4-axis cnc software ...
Tom Gardiner

I run a 3-axis CNC with V-Carve Pro. It has 4th axis wrap and and control. The new version has the ability to import full 3d files and produce toolpaths. I have been running V-Carve for 3 years and been very happy with it. Have a look at their website vectric.com where you can download a trial version of their 2 1/2d or full 3d Aspire and try it out. Great bang for the buck IMO.
I had one experience running a 3d project with Rhino and Madcam. Madcam did not have a post processor for my FMT/Fagor controller so I had to modify a generic PP. Madcam wasn't helpful at the time 1 1/2 years ago.

5/22/15       #3: 4-axis cnc software ...
brian

Website: http://clancywoodwoking.com

Hi Tom
I also have an FMT with Vcarvepro and am very happy with both. I have their 5 X10 machine. I'm in Ct, are you in the northeast?
Brian

5/23/15       #4: 4-axis cnc software ...
Tom Gardiner

Brian, yes but the real north (sort of) I'm in Ottawa, Canada. I have a 4x8 manual tool change.

5/23/15       #5: 4-axis cnc software ...
Matt Member

Thanks for the info. Dumb question #2...
I've heard while a skilled Aspire user can use the program to make things like cabriolet legs its' organic tool paths and re-machining features make it less than ideal for this kind of work at a production level. The resulting legs may lack detail and require added sanding time. Would you disagree?

I ask because your previous comments make me lean towards Aspire. I figure I can always import Rhino files into Aspire to generate tool paths if Aspire comes up short in the design department and I opt to do my design in Rhino. But my idea falls apart if Aspire is limited on 3d tool path features.

5/23/15       #6: 4-axis cnc software ...
Tom Gardiner

Not a dumb question at all. I'm not qualified to answer your question, but that has never stopped me before. When I looked at Madcam I did not see an appreciable difference in machining options as compared to Aspire. If you are already a Rhino user, I would recommend staying with Rhino for drawing.
One of the best features of Vectric software is the discussion forums they host. Users will bend over backwards to help you. I suggest you post your question on Vectric's Aspire forum to get a somewhat biased but certainly helpful response.

5/24/15       #7: 4-axis cnc software ...
SG

RhinoCam EXP or PRO will allow you full rotary axis functionality - much more comprehensive than the Vectric products. If you're designing in Rhino, it will also be a seamless process, no need to save/export, etc. Given what you plan to manufacture, I have to think it'd be the best product.


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