How to Use Mastercam's 5X Mill Post Processor for the SINUMERIK 840D and SINUMERIK ONE CNCs
Mastercam, a leading CAD/CAM software provider, has recently announced the release of new 5-axis mill post processors for the SINUMERIK 840D and SINUMERIK ONE CNCs from Siemens[^1^]. These post processors, developed in cooperation with Siemens CNC engineers, allow Mastercam users to take full advantage of the high-performance features and capabilities of these popular machines.
In this article, we will explain some of the key features and benefits of using Mastercam's 5X mill post processor for the SINUMERIK 840D and SINUMERIK ONE CNCs, and how to get started with this powerful combination.
What is a Post Processor?
A post processor is a software component that converts the toolpaths generated by a CAM system into machine-specific code that can be executed by a CNC controller. A post processor is essential for ensuring that the CAM output matches the specific requirements and capabilities of the CNC machine.
A good post processor should be able to handle different types of machines, configurations, controllers, and features, such as rotary axes, kinematics, cycles, macros, variables, and more. A post processor should also be able to optimize the code for efficiency, accuracy, and safety.
What are the Features and Benefits of Mastercam's 5X Mill Post Processor for the SINUMERIK 840D and SINUMERIK ONE CNCs?
Mastercam's 5X mill post processor for the SINUMERIK 840D and SINUMERIK ONE CNCs is designed to support a wide range of 5-axis milling applications, including table/table (AC/BC/nutating), table/head (AC/BC), head/head (AB/AC), and head/table (AB/BC) configurations[^1^]. Some of the features and benefits of this post processor include:
- Rotary and Vector Programming: The post processor can output both rotary (G68.2) and vector (TRAORI) commands for different types of kinematics and orientations. This allows for more flexibility and control over the tool axis and workpiece alignment.
- Advanced Surface / Top Surface (COMPCAD / COMPSURF): The post processor can output CYCLE 832 commands for high-speed machining of complex surfaces with automatic compensation of tool radius and length[^1^]. This feature improves the surface quality and reduces the programming time and effort.
- CYCLE 800 Tilted Workplane (3+2): The post processor can output CYCLE 800 commands for defining a tilted workplane for 3+2 machining[^1^]. This feature simplifies the programming of multi-sided parts and allows for more efficient use of shorter tools.
- Drill Cycles (CYCLES 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 840): The post processor can output various drill cycles for different types of drilling operations, such as peck drilling, deep hole drilling, tapping, reaming, boring, etc. with full 5-axis support[^2^]. This feature reduces the code size and improves the drilling performance.
- WORKPIECE Output for Graphical Simulation: The post processor can output WORKPIECE commands for defining the workpiece geometry and orientation for graphical simulation on the CNC screen[^2^]. This feature helps to verify the toolpaths and avoid collisions before running the program.
- Tool Call as Tool Name or Tool Number: The post processor can output tool calls either as tool names or tool numbers according to the user preference[^2^]. This feature allows for more flexibility and consistency in tool management.
- TOFFR Option: The post processor can output TOFFR commands for defining the tool offset reference point according to the user preference[^2^]. This feature allows for more accuracy and convenience in setting up the tool offsets.
- Siemens Application Guides: Mastercam provides comprehensive application guides for using Mastercam with Siemens CNCs[^1^] [^2^]. These guides cover topics such as installation, configuration, programming, simulation, ea27c8ed11