ZW3D

CAM Milling Training Guide

Copyright and Trademarks

©Copyright 2017 ZWCAD Software Co., Ltd. All rights reserved.

Floor 4, NO.886, Tianhe North Road, Guangzhou 510635 P.R.China

(8620)38289780

ZW3D™ V2017 CAM Milling

This documentation may be reproduced provided it complies with the terms presented on the
LICENSE AGREEMENT supplied.

ZWCAD Software Co., Ltd and the program authors have no liability to the purchaser or any other
entity, with respect to any liability, loss, or damage caused, directly or indirectly by this software
and training materials, including but not limited to, any interruptions of service, loss of business,
anticipatory profits, or consequential damages resulting from the use of or operation of this
software.

Updates may be made to this documentation and incorporated into later editions.

ZW3D™ is a registering trademark of ZWCAD Software Co., Ltd.

The ZW3D™ logo is a registering trademark of ZWCAD Software Co., Ltd.

ZWCAD™, ZWSOFT™, the ZWCAD™ logo, and the ZWSOFT™ logo are all trademarks of
ZWCAD Software Co., Ltd.

Printed in the P. R. China.

 Forward

The full version of the ZW3D documentation is available by selecting Help Browser from the
ZW3D Help Menu. Go to the "Program Folder\doc" directory on the ZW3D program directory
and open the file "ZW3D.chm".

This Training Guide is available as a printed manual and in PDF format. To view or print the PDF
version, install the Adobe Acrobat Reader and open the corresponding files in the "Program
Folder\PDF" folder in the program directory. Refer to the HELP Manual for information relating to
specific tasks.

NOTES:

1. For best results, view and print the PDF version of the documentation using the Adobe
Acrobat Reader.
2. Since the Training Guide is only a portion of the complete documentation, it is highly
recommended that you utilize the HELP Manual. You will find additional topics, more
information on command options, input options, additional command notes, and cross-links
to related tasks and topics.
3. It should be noted that the HELP Manual will always be more up-to-date than any printed or
PDF material. If you find any discrepancies between the two, always refer to the HELP
Manual.
4. While you are working with ZW3D, simply press F1 to view the documentation about the
command you select.

To help you customize your CAD/CAM requirements, please contact our Customer Support
department on our website http://www.zwsoft.com/ or call at (8620) 38289780 ext 565 . You can
also contact your local sales representative or application engineer to discuss your requirements.

Thanks for being our customer!

Team ZW3D
Contents:

Forward ...........................................................................................................................................................…….1
Chapter 1 ZW3D CAM Environment Introduction and 2X Machining Case Study............................................................. 2
1.1 How to go to CAM environment in ZW3D? .............................................................................................. 2
1.1.1 Open files in ZW3D ...................................................................................................................... 2
1.1.2 Go to CAM plan ............................................................................................................................ 3
1.2 Introduction to ZW3D CAM Environment ................................................................................................ 5
1.3 ZW3D 2X Machining Case Study ........................................................................................................... 11
1.3.1 Import the file and go to CAM environment ................................................................................... 11
1.3.2 Create Stock .............................................................................................................................. 11
1.3.3 Add different operations and create tool path ................................................................................ 13
1.3.4 Tool path setting and modification................................................................................................ 18
1.3.5 Create tool path for grooves with “Spiral” Strategy ......................................................................... 21
1.3.6 Create tool path for slots with “Spiral" Strategy.............................................................................. 28
1.3.7 Use Command “Ramp” to create tool path for slots ........................................................................ 36
1.3.8 Hole Machining –ZW3D Hole Tactic............................................................................................... 40
1.3.9 Product Contour Machining –Profile Operation .............................................................................. 43
1.3.10 Solid Verify............................................................................................................................... 47
1.3.11 Selection on Machine and Post ................................................................................................... 51
1.3.12 Generate NC Code ................................................................................................................... 51
Chapter 2 3 Axis Milling Operation ......................................................................................................................... 55
2.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 55
2.2 Tool Library Customization ............................................................................................................. 55
2.3 Orientation................................................................................................................................... 64
2.4 Create Stock ................................................................................................................................. 67
2.5 Create Top Face Cut Operation ....................................................................................................... 68
2.6 Create Roughing Operation ............................................................................................................ 73
2.7 Create Rest Rough Operation .......................................................................................................... 76
2.8 Tool path Editing ........................................................................................................................... 81
2.9 Create Finishing Operation – Z Level ................................................................................................ 82
2.10 Create Finishing Operation – Lace.................................................................................................. 87
2.11 Create Finishing Operation – Offset 3D........................................................................................... 90
2.12 Solid Verify ................................................................................................................................. 93
2.13 Generate NC Code ....................................................................................................................... 95
 Training

Forward
Normally, users get part from their clients or they designed part by themself, then programming tool-path for the part and
generate NC code for CNC machining. In this tutorial, we are focus on how to programming tool path in ZW3D CAM.

Designed part

3D format files

Programming tool path

NC Codes

Machining

Fig 3.1 Simple Work Background

1
 Training

Chapter 01
ZW3D CAM Environment Introduction
and 2X Machining Case Study

1.1 How to go to CAM environment in ZW3D?

1.1.1 Open files in ZW3D:

 Launch ZW3D and click "Open" as Fig 1.1 shown below or use "Ctrl + O" to open files.

Fig 1.1 Open ZW3D File

*NOTE: ZW3D supports following file formats: DWG, DXF, IGES, PARASOLID, STEP, STL, CATIA V4 & V5, INVENTOR, NX,
ProE, SolidWorks, SolidEdge, etc.

Fig 1.2 ZW3D Support File Format

2
 Training

 Please open "ZW3D 2X Machining" sample file and get following geometry.

Fig 1.3 2X Milling Model

1.1.2 Go to CAM plan:

 Right click on the drawing space and choose “CAM Plan”(Shown in Fig 1.4)

Fig 1.4 Create a New CAM Plan

3
 Training

 Click “OK” on the “Select a template” window(Shown below)

Fig 1.5 Select CAM Template

 Now you are in CAM environment as shown below,

Ahora está en el entorno CAM como se muestra a continuación,

Fig 1.6 CAM environment

4
 Training

* PD: También puede hacer clic en "Plan CAM" en el menú rápido (se muestra en la figura 1.7).
*PS: You can also click “CAM Plan” on the quick menu (Shown Fig 1.7).

Fig 1.7 Another Method to Create CAM Plan

1.2 Introduction to ZW3D CAM Environment

1.2.1 CAM Interface Sections:

 CAM Interface :
There are three sections in the CAM environment: the top section is for operation selection; the left section is
CAM Manager Tree; and the right section is Drawing Area (Shown Fig 1.8).

Interfaz CAM:
Hay tres secciones en el entorno CAM: la sección superior es para la selección de la operación; la sección
izquierda es
Árbol gestor CAM; y la sección derecha es Área de dibujo (se muestra en la figura 1.8).

5
 Training

Fig 1.8 CAM Interface

You can left-click to choose different views of geometry on Tool Bar as picture shown below.

Fig 1.9 View Setting

6 / 101
Puede hacer clic con el botón izquierdo para elegir diferentes vistas de geometría en la barra de herramientas
como se muestra a continuación.
 Training
* NOTA: Puede usar "Ctrl + 1" para configurar rápidamente el centro giratorio; mantenga presionado el botón
derecho del mouse para
rotar la geometría a cualquier posición; mantenga presionado el botón central del mouse para desplazarse;
rodar la rueda hacia adelante
para acercar y retroceder para alejar; Haga clic derecho en la pantalla para abrir el menú contextual.
*NOTE: You can use “Ctrl + 1”to quickly set the rotating center; press and hold the right mouse button to
rotate the geometry to any position; press and hold the middle mouse button to pan; roll the wheel forward
to zoom in and back to zoom out; right click on the screen to pop up the context menu.

You can choose different display mode on the Tool Bar as picture shown below.

Fig 1.10 Display Mode

*NOTE: You can use “Ctrl + F” to change the geometry between “Wireframe” and “Shade”.
* NOTA: Puede usar "Ctrl + F" para cambiar la geometría entre "Wireframe" y "Shade".
You can select different operations or editor on the Ribbon Interface, including Drill, 2x Mill, 3x Quick Mill, 5x Mill,
Turning, etc.

Fig 1.11 CAM Ribbon Tab

Fig 1.11 Pestaña de la cinta CAM

Puede seleccionar diferentes operaciones o editor en la interfaz de la cinta de opciones, incluyendo Drill, 2x
Mill, 3x Quick Mill, 5x Mill,
Torneado, etc.

7 / 101
 Training

 Introduction of CAM Manager Tree:

Introduction of the Interface
1. Geometry
Used for selecting and managing the
machining objects including Part,
Stock, and the Features under the
Part

2. Clearances

Used for define the tool clearance

distance

3. Frames

Insert and define alternate Frames, in

other words, it used for create and
define programming coordinate
system

4. Tactics
Right click to add hole tactics and
milling tactics here

5. Ope rations

Management all elements of the tool-

path and including all operations
about the tool-path

6. Machine
Post Configuration
Introducción de la interfaz 7. Output
1. Geometría
Se utiliza para seleccionar y NC Code output control
gestionar el
mecanizado de objetos, incluida la 4. Tácticas
pieza, Haga clic derecho para agregar
Stock y las Características bajo el tácticas de agujeros y
Parte tácticas de fresado aquí
2. Despejes 5. Operaciones
Se utiliza para definir el espacio Gestión de todos los elementos de la herramienta.
libre de la herramienta. ruta e incluyendo todas las operaciones
distancia sobre la trayectoria de la herramienta
3. Marcos 6. máquina 7. Salida
Insertar y definir marcos alternativos, en Configuración del Control de salida de código NC
8 / 101 se usaba para crear y
en otras palabras, postprosesador.
definir coordenadas de programación
sistema
 Training

Consejos: Tips:
1) Haga doble clic en el icono o texto del 1). Double click on the icon or text of the
Manager Tree is different input.
El árbol del administrador es una entrada 2). Double click on the icon would enable
diferente. you to hide or display the tool path.
2) Haga doble clic en el icono permitiría 3). Double click on the text would enable
para ocultar o mostrar la ruta de la you to go to Parameters setting.
herramienta. 4). Right click on the text would open
context menu.
3) Hacer doble clic en el texto permitiría
ir a la configuración de parámetros.
4) Haga clic derecho en el texto se abriría
Menú de contexto.

Fig 1.12 CAM Manager Tree

If you want to switch from CAM environment to CAD, you can click the “Exit”button on the Tool Bar, or you can
double click the geometry on CAM Manager Tree.

Fig 1.13 How to Back to CAD in CAM (Way 1)

9 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.14 How to Back to CAD in CAM (Way 2)

10 / 101
 Training

1.3 ZW3D 2X Machining Case Study

1.3.1 Import the file and go to CAM environment

 Please open the “ZW3D 2X Machining" sample file, and go to CAM environment.

Fig 1.15 Example Model

1.3.2 Create Stock

 You can go to Setup>>Add Stock to add stock as picture shown below. In the popped out dialogue, please
set the Length, Width and Height with 5mm each as shown in Fig 1.17.

Fig 1.16 Create Stock

1.3.2 Crear stock
Puede ir a Configuración >> Agregar stock para agregar stock como se muestra a continuación. En el
diálogo emergente, por favor
Ajuste la longitud, el ancho y la altura con 5 mm cada uno como se muestra en la figura 1.17.
11 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.17 Stock Parameters

 Click or middle click on the rolling button to confirm. It will pop put the window “Hide [Part
001_Stock.1.2]”, just click “Yes”.

Fig 1.18 Hide Stock

Haga clic o haga clic en el botón central para confirmar. Aparecerá la ventana "Ocultar [Parte
001_Stock.1.2] ", simplemente haga clic en" Sí ".

12 / 101
 1.3.3 Agregar diferentes operaciones y crear la ruta de la herramienta
Training
Primero, puede elegir los comandos Distancia y Curvatura de superficie en la pestaña
Consultar cinta para verificar
longitud y tamaño de radio de la pieza.

1.3.3 Add different operations and create tool path

 First, you can choose Distance and Surface Curvature commands from Inquire ribbon tab to check the
length and radius size of the part.

Fig 1.19 Inquire

 Pick Distance command to check length size as below.

Fig 1.20 Check length size

 Pick Surface Curvature command to check radius size as below,

13 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.21 Check radius size

After we get the size of the part, then we can decide which cutter can be used.
Después de obtener el tamaño de la pieza, podemos decidir qué cortador se puede usar.

 Use "Zigzag" to create tool path to machining the top face. You can go to 2X Mill>>Zigzag.

Use "Zigzag" para crear una trayectoria de herramienta para mecanizar la cara superior. Puedes ir a 2X Mill >
Zigzag. Fig 1.22 Create Zigzag Operation

 Select "Create" in the pop-out dialogue; Select "profile" and click "OK".

14 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.23 Define Feature

 In the Profile dialogue, please hold “Shift”and select any line on the profile of top face to get all picked–
total 12, then click Ok or middle click two times to finish (Fig 1.24).

Fig 1.24 Select Curves to Create Profile Feature

*PS: You can get all tangent objects picked when holding “Shift”

15 / 101
 Training

 In the pop-out Profile Feature dialogue, click “OK” or middle click then the profile1 is created successfully.

Fig 1.25 Define Profile Feature

*NOTE: The features under the operation tree are used for define the machining object.

Normally, the Profile is the recommended feature for 2 axis milling operations except in Chamfer, Corner Round, Helical
and Nesting operations.

 Select cutting tool. After you click "OK" on Profile Feature then the cutting tool setting dialogue will pop
out automatically as picture shown Fig 1.26.

*NOTE: all operations can't be paused; otherwise the next-step dialogue wouldn't pop out automatically.

16 / 101
 Training

More parameters, Holder, Speed & Feed tables

Define the name of cutter

Define the radius of cutter

Define the diameter of cutter

Fig 1.26 Define Tool

*NOTE: In Tool Manager, we also can define the tool ID, Holder, Speed and Feed in the following tables.

 After the cutter setting is finished, “Calculate [Zigzagcut 1] now” will pop out; just click “Yes" and the tool
path will be generated then.

Fig 1.27 Calculate Tool Path

* NOTA: En el Administrador de herramientas, también podemos definir la ID de la herramienta, el Titular, la

Velocidad y la Alimentación en las siguientes tablas.
Una vez finalizada la configuración del cortador, aparecerá "Calcular [Corte en zigzag 1] ahora";
simplemente haga clic en "Sí" y la herramienta
17 / 101
ruta se generará entonces.
 Training

Fig 1.28 Calculate Result

1.3.4 Tool path setting and modification

From the tool path generated, the top surface can't be machined fully. You can double click on “Zigzagcut 1” or
“Parameters” at manager tree to modify the parameters:

CAM Manager Tree>>Operations>>Zigzagcut 1>>Parameters

Double click to modify the setting of tool path

Fig 1.29 Parameter Define

 In dialogue “Zigzagcut 1", go to Limiting>>Boundaries, select "Past Boundary” on Tool Location and click
“Calculate”. The new tool path will be generated.

18 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.30 Re-generated Tool Path

*Key point: Parameters include 5 items: Primary, Limiting, Path Setting, Link & lead and Display. All Operations are
classified by the same way.

Primario: configuración
Primary: de parámetros
Setting basic parameters básicos relacionados con
related with
mecanizado,machining,
como velocidad
like spindledel husillo,
speed, tolerancia,
tolerance, step paso
size etc.

Limitación: defina el área de mecanizado del

Limiting: Define the machining area of tool-path.
recorrido de la herramienta.

Configuración de ruta: defina y controle la herramienta

Path Setting: Define and control cutting tool-path.
de corte de ruta.

Enlace & Entrada:

Link & Lead: configuración
Setting of Link, lead in andde Enlace,
lead out. entrada
adentro y entrada hacia afuera.

Pantalla: Configuración
Display: Setting del modo
the display mode de visualización de la
of tool path.
trayectoria de la herramienta.

Fig 1.31 Parameter Setting

19 / 101
 Training

Click “OK” to exit Parameter form.

*Tips1: The illustration would be displayed when rest the mouse pointer over the blank table.

Fig 1.32 illustration in Parameter form

*Tips2: Double click icon of Operation>>Zigzagcut1 to hide the tool path.

Fig 1.33 How to Hide Tool Path

20 / 101
 Training

1.3.5 Create tool path for grooves with “Spiral” Strategy

 Use command “Spiral" to create tool path for two grooves. Click 2X Mill>>Spiral

Fig 1.34 Create Spiral Operation

 Click“Create”

Fig 1.35 Create New Feature

 Select “profile" and click ok, then go to "profile" dialogue. Hold“Shift”to pick all lines on the top of both
two caves–since the depth is the same, both two caves can be done in one Operation. Then click OK

21 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.36 Select Feature Type

Fig 1.37 Choose Lines

22 / 101
 Training

 Click“OK" on the Profile Feature dialogue, shown as below.

Fig 1.38 Define Profile Feature

 On the pop-out Tool List dialogue, you can click "Manage" to modify the settings of cutters. Here you can
just pick D20 to proceed.

Fig 1.39 Tool List

23 / 101
 Training

 In dialogue “Calculate [Spiral1] now”, select “NO" to set more parameters; this way can save time and
improve efficiency.

Fig 1.40 Calculate request

 Set cutting step sizes in Primary table as picture shown below.

24 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.41 Setting Step Sizes

 Pick Limiting table, then click“Top" to select the surface of work piece and click “Bottom”to select the
bottom of cave as picture shown below.

Elija la tabla de limitación, luego haga clic en "Superior" para seleccionar la superficie de la pieza de trabajo y
25 / 101
haga clic en "Inferior" para seleccionar el
parte inferior de la cueva como se muestra a continuación.
 Training

Fig 1.42 Select Top and Bottom Limiting

 In Path Setting>>Cut order, select Region First. Then click “Calculate” to generate the tool path as picture
shown in Fig 1.44.

Fig 1.43 Set Cut Order

En Configuración de ruta >> Orden de corte, seleccione Región primero. Luego haga clic en "Calcular" para
generar la ruta de la herramienta como imagen
mostrado en la figura 1.44.

26 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.44 Calculate Result 1

 You can go to Link and Lead to select Link Type to Blank Plane, then click “Calculate” to change tool path
as Fig 1.46.

Puede ir a Enlace y guía para seleccionar Tipo de enlace al plano en blanco, luego haga clic en "Calcular"
27 / 101
para cambiar la ruta de la herramienta
como en la figura 1.46.
 Training

Fig 1.45 Change Link Type

Fig 1.46 Calculate Result 2

1.3.6 Create tool path for slots with “Spiral" Strategy

 Use command “Spiral" to create tool path for 4 slots on the round cave. Right click on Spiralcut 1
operation, pick Duplicate to copy this operation.

1.3.6 Crear ruta de herramienta para ranuras con la estrategia "Espiral"

Utilice el comando "Espiral" para crear la ruta de la herramienta para 4 ranuras en la cueva redonda.
Haga clic derecho en Spiralcut 1
operación, seleccione Duplicar para copiar esta operación.

28 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.47 Copy Operation

 Right click on profile 2 feature to remove it from new Spiralcut 2 operation.

29 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.48 Remove Feature

 Right click on Features and pick “Add” to create a new Profile feature for this operation,

Fig 1.49 Add Feature

 Repeat Profile feature creation steps to pick all lines on the top of slots to create a new profile feature.

30 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.50 Add Feature

Fig 1.51 Pick All Lines

 After Profile feature was created, right click on Tool: D20, select“Manage" to add new cutters.

31 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.52 Add New Cutter

 Create a new tool named D10 and set the Radius and Diameter then click OK, and pick Yes in popup
dialog box.

Fig 1.53 Define Tool

32 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.54 Use New Tool

 Double click "Parameters". Change Top and Bottom limiting point.

Tips: You also can type into -20, -25 directly.

Fig 1.55 Set Top and Bottom Limiting

 Click "Calculate" and get the following tool path Fig 1.56:

33 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.56 Calculate Result 1

 You can go to Path Setting table to select "Side Finish Type" as "None", and go to Link and Lead table to
select Auto engage/retract as "None", then pick "Calculate" to changed tool path as Fig 1.57.

Puede ir a la tabla Configuración de ruta para seleccionar "Tipo de acabado lateral" como "Ninguno",
y vaya a la tabla Enlace y guía para
seleccione Enganche / retracción automática como "Ninguno", luego seleccione "Calcular" para
cambiar la trayectoria de la herramienta como se muestra en la figura 1.57.

34 / 101
 Training

35 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.57 Calculate Result 2

1.3.7 Use Command “Ramp” to create tool path for slots

 Go to 2X Mill>>Ramp

Fig 1.58 Create Ramp Operation

 In dialogue “Select Feature for operation”, click "Create">> "Profile">>"OK", hold “Shift” key to pick t he
lines to create new profile feature,

36 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.59 Create New Profile

 Click tool "D10"in the automatic pop-out window "Tool List". Then Click“Yes” in the pop-out window to
calculate the tool path.

37 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.60 Tool List

*PS: If the window “Tool List” is not popped out automatically, please go to Manager Tree>>Tool (double click) and
select the tool “D10”.

Fig 1.61 How to Define Tool

38 / 101
 Training

 Please go to Manager Tree>>Rampcut 1>>Parameter (double click) to set the parameters. Please define
the exact point for Top and Bottom.

Fig 1.62 Define Top and Bottom Limiting

 Please set Profile Side to "Left" to change cutting postion of tool path.

Fig 1.63 Set Parameters

 Click "Calculate" on window “Rampcut 1”to re-calculate the tool path.

39 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.64 Click Calculate

Fig 1.65 Calculate Result

*PS: If the tool path generated in a wrong position, you can double click "Parameter" and go to Path Setting
>>Profile Side and change the input to 'Left" then click “Calculate”

1.3.8 Hole Machining –ZW3D Hole Tactic

 Right click on Manager>>Tactics and select “Insert Hole Tactic”.

* PD: si la ruta de la herramienta se generó en una posición incorrecta, puede hacer doble clic en
"Parámetro" e ir a Configuración de ruta
>> Perfil lateral y cambie la entrada a 'Izquierda "y luego haga clic en" Calcular "

40 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.66 Create Hole Tactic

 Double click "Features" then pick Part and click OK.

Fig 1.67 Define Machining Object

41 / 101
 Training

 Right click on “Hole Tactic 1”and select “Create/Calculate Operations”.

Fig 1.68 Click Calculate

Fig 1.69 Calculate Result

42 / 101
 Training

1.3.9 Product Contour Machining –Profile Operation

 Click 2X Mill >>“Profile" for machining the contour of the part, as shown below.

Fig 1.70 Create Profile Operation

 Select“Profile 1” as the machining object.

Fig 1.71 Machining object

 Pick “D10”in the Tool List, as shown below:

43 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.72 Select Tool

 Pick No to move on to Parameters form.

Fig 1.73 Parameters Form

 Define the Bottom limiting point as below（The lower surface of part）.

44 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.74 Define Bottom Limiting

Tips: You can skip the limiting point setting if this point is on the current horizontal feature.

 Change Profile Side to “Right” in Path Setting tab show as below.

Fig 1.75 Path Setting

 Click “Calculate”, then you can get the tool path show as below.

45 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.76 Calculate Result

Note: Tool Management

Right click on the “Tool”to manage the tools.

Select the existing tools which are
previously created or loaded from Library
in current CAM Plan.

Edit the current tool, but it will affect

other operations where this tool was
Remove the tool from the current applied.
operation.
Rename current tool.

Delete selected tool in current CAM

Plan, it will affect all operations where
this tool was applied.
Create new tool, load tool from other
tool library or manage tools.

Fig 1.77 Tool Right Click Menu

*P.S.: Double click “Tool” is to manage the current tool. If no tool is applied, “Tool List” would pop out.
* P.S .: Haga doble clic en "Herramienta" para administrar la herramienta actual.
Si no se aplica ninguna herramienta, aparecerá "Lista de herramientas".
46 / 101
 Training

1.3.10 Solid Verify

 If you want to verify all operations, please right click “Operations” and select “Solid Verify”.

Fig 1.78 Select Solid Verify

*P.S.: If you want to verify some specific operations, hold “Shift” or “Ctrl" key to pick any operations then right click
to select “Solid Verify”.

Fig 1.79 Solid Verify Some Operations

47 / 101
 Training

 The window below is to manage the Solid Verify.

Fig 1.80 Solid Verify Setting

 Clicking “Option” allows you to have more setting on Simulation, as picture shown below Fig 1.81.

48 / 101
 Training

Fig 1.81 Solid Verify Option

 Also we can use quick verify to check the tool-path, right click on an operation, select “Verify”.

Fig 1.82 Select Quick Verify

49 / 101
 Training

 Click “>”, the tool will move forward, click “<”, the tool will move backward.

Fig 1.83 Quick Verify Dialog box

 Click “Pick” to positioning cutter on anywhere of tool path, and you can check Feed, Speed, and X, Y, Z
value of current position in Tool path Verify dialog box.

Fig 1.84 Check the details

50 / 101
 Training

1.3.11 Selection on Machine and Post

 Double click Manager Tree>>Machine and then click “Post Configuration" to select the right Post on the
list, then pick “OK".

Fig 1.85 Define Machine

1.3.12 Generate NC Code

 Right click Manager Tree>>Output and then click "CL/NC Setting".

Fig 1.86 Pick CL/NC Setting

51 / 101
 Training

 Pick the "open" icon to set a folder for output NC files, and then pick “OK”.

Fig 1.87 Output Program Form

 Right click "Operations" and go to "Output" to generate a NC file for all operations, (You can also
generate different NC files for each operation).

Fig 1.88 Output NC Codes

52 / 101
 Training

*P.S.: If you want to generate a NC file for a specific operation, please pick the operation name and right click to
select "Output". If more than two specific operations are required, please hold "shift" or "control" and follow the
above same operation. Also you can double click on “Output” to create a new nc node, then select the operations
and press left mouse button and drag them into new nc node.

 Double click "P0001" allows you to have more setting on current NC file.

Fig 1.89 Output Setting Form

*P.S.: The Output Setting form is a little different with Output Program form, the setting within Output Program
form affect the NC files which will be generate, the Output Setting form just affect current NC file.

53 / 101
 Training

 Click "NC Code File" to generate NC Code.

Fig 1.90 Output NC Code

 Click "Operation List" to generate the Operation List.

Fig 1.91 Output Operation List

54 / 101
 Training

Chapter 02
3 Axis Milling Operation

2.1 Introduction

In this chapter, we will talk about the operation of 3 axis milling. Now, let's begin with a bottle mold example. The
example is shown in figure 2.1.

Fig 2.1 Bottle Mold

2.2 Tool Library Customization

 Before we start to programming, let’s customize a tool library first, it will save your programming time in
the actual production.

 Click “New” >> “CAM Plan” >> Input a new name “Tool Library” >> “OK”.

55 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.2 Create a New CAM Plan

 Pick “Save” icon or use “Ctrl + S” to save CAM Plan to a folder.

Fig 2.3 Save CAM Plan

56 / 101
 Training

 Right click on drawing area, then pick “Tool Manager” icon.

Fig 2.4 Open Tool Manager

 Set parameters of tool as following pictures (Diameters 20, Radius 0.8)

57 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.5 Set Tool Parameters

 Set parameters of tool holder as below picture shows.

Fig 2.6 Set Tool Holder Parameters

58 / 101
 Training

 Set speed and feed parameters as below picture shows,

Fig 2.7 Set Speed & Feed Parameters

 Click “Save All” and “Cam Browser” window would pop put. Follow the steps in Fig 2.9 to find Tool
Library.Z3 (.z3 file created previously) and pick “Tool Library” from the bottom on the right-hand side, all
parameters of tool, tool holder, speed & feed would be saved. The configuration of first tool was finished then.

59 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.8 Save All

Fig 2.9 Specify Tool Library to Save

 Use the same method (from page 55 to current page) to create other two cutters, the parameters setting
for these two cutters show as following pictures (these two cutters skip the holder setting)

60 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.10 Parameters of D6R3

61 / 101
 Training

62 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.11 Parameters of D8R4

 Pick “Save”, then pick “Close” icon to finish tool library setting.

Fig 2.12 Save and Close Tool Library

63 / 101
 Training

2.3 Orientation

 Please open the “Mill_Bottle” sample file under the installation folder <…:\Program Files\ZWSOFT\ZW3D
2017 Eng\training>, then double click to open “blowmold”.

Fig 2.13 Open “blowmold”

 First, use “Move” command to set the origin point of programming on the corner of the mold, please
follow the steps in below pictures to operating.

*PS: The step 4 is used for choose filter type, here you could select “Shape” type.

64 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.14 Pick “Move” Command

Step 5, Pick Part >> Middle click >> Step 6, Pick corner point >> Step 7, Pick origin point >> Middle click

Fig 2.15 Pick

Continue Middle click to repeat the Move command, then operating as below pictures to rotate part as 270 degree to get
the finally result.

65 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.16 Finally Result

*PS: Besides of move or rotate part in the CAD environment, you also can define the programming origin point in
CAM environment directly by use Frame function.

66 / 101
 Training

 Click “CAM Plan” icon to create a CAM Plan and pick “OK” to enter CAM Plan.

Fig 2.17 Create new CAM Plan

2.4 Create Stock

 Click “Add Stock” in the setup ribbon tab (Fig 2.18).

Fig 2.18 Pick Add Stock

 Add 2 mm in the top of part, then click “Ok” >> “Yes”.

67 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.19 Define Stock

2.5 Create Top Face Cut Operation

 Click “2x Mill” >> “Topface Cut”

Fig 2.20 Create Topface Cut

 Hold Ctrl key to select the part and stock in the pop up "Select Feature" window (Fig 2.21). Then click OK.

68 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.21 Select Feature

 Click the "Load All" in the pop up tool manager dialog box.

Fig 2.22 Define Tool

69 / 101
 Training

 Then follow the steps as below picture to load D20R0.8 cutter from Tool Library which are we created
previous,

Fig 2.23 Load Tool from Tool Library

*PS: You can load cutter combine tool ID, tool holder, speed and feed by use “Load All”

 Then click “OK” >> “Yes”, Fig 2.24.

70 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.24 Confirm Tool Selection

 Then Click “Yes” to calculate tool-path,

Fig 2.25 Calculate Tool path

 The calculate result is shown in below.

71 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.26 Calculate Result

 And you can right click on operation to select “Verify” to check the tool path, you will find out the Speed,
Feed, and holder already load into this tool path.

Fig 2.27 Verify Tool path

72 / 101
 Training

2.6 Create Roughing Operation

 Double click icon of Operation “ Topface1” to hide the tool path.

Click “3x Quick” >> “Offset 2D” of rough operation.

Fig 2.28 Create Rough Milling Operation

 Select the Part and then click “OK” (Fig 2.29).

Fig 2.29 Select Feature

*PS: In 3x quick milling module, if you don’t add the stock to Feature tree under the operation, the system will
consider the stock as the minimum box which can cover current part.

 Click “D20R0.8” in the Tool List to use the same cutter, Fig 2.30,

73 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.30 Select Tool

 Click “No” in “Calculate [Rough Offset 2d 1] now ?” to enter parameters form.

Fig 2.31 Define Reference Operation

 Input the parameters as following three pictures. Then click “Calculate” in the bottom. The result is
shown in Fig 2.35.

74 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.32 Set Thickness and Step size

75 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.33 Set Corner Radius of Tool path

Fig 2.34 Set Link and Lead

Fig 2.35 Calculate Result

2.7 Create Rest Rough Operation

 Right click “Rough Offset 2d 1” operation then select “Duplicate”

76 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.36 Copy Operation

 Right click on “Tool : D20R0.8” under “Rough Offset 2d 2” then pick “Manage” to open Tool Manager
form,

Fig 2.37 Open Tool Manager

 Use “Load All” command to load D6R3 from previous tool library and pick “OK” to use it for the “Rough
Offset 2d 2” operation,

77 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.38 Load D6R3 from Tool Library

 Double click on the "Ref Op" of "Rough Offset 2d 2" operation. Select “Rough Offset 2d 1” operation,
then click OK.

Fig 2.39 Define Reference Operation

78 / 101
 Training

 Double click on "Parameter" of "Rough Offset 2d 2" operation, input the parameters as following three
pictures. Then click “Calculate” in the bottom. The Result is shown in Fig 2.43.

Fig 2.40 Change Step size

Fig 2.41 Change Path Pattern Guide and Corner Radius

79 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.42 Change Link and Lead Parameters

Fig 2.43 Calculate Result

80 / 101
 Training

2.8 Tool path Editing

 Right click on Operation “Rough Offset 2d 2” to pick “Trim”,

Fig 2.44 Pick Trim Command

 Roll the middle mouse button to zoom in the part, then pick several points to define the area for trim,
Middle click to confirm and then pick “OK”

Fig 4.45 Define Trim Area

81 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.46 Trim Result

2.9 Create Finishing Operation – Z Level

 Double click icon of Operation>> “Rough Offset 2d 2” to hide the tool path. And pick triangle symbol as
below picture to pack up the operations.

Fig 2.47 Pack up Operations

 Click “Z level” to create z level operation,

Fig 2.48 Create Z level Operation

82 / 101
 Training

 Double click “Part” in “Select Feature for operation” to add part to Feature tree, then click “Create” to
create a profile feature,

Fig 2.49 Add Part to Feature tree

 Hold “Shift” key to chain select the lines on top of part for create Profile feature, middle click to confirm.

Fig 2.50 Pick Lines for Create Profile feature

83 / 101
 Training

*PS: In 3x quick milling module, add “Profile” feature for define machining area is recommend way. But if you
change the Feature type as Part, it will used for guide tool path in some operations.

 Click “Manage” >> “Load All”, to load tool D8R4 from previous tool library, and click “OK” and “Yes” to
use D8R4 for this operation.

84 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.51 Load Tool D8R4

 Click “No” to switch to parameters form.

Fig 2.52 Switch to Parameters form

 Set parameters as following Fig 2.53, then click “Calculate” to get tool path as Fig 2.54 shows.

85 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.53 Define Machining Area

Fig 2.54 Calculate Result

86 / 101
 Training

2.10 Create Finishing Operation – Lace

 Click “Lace” Operation in 3x Quick mill ribbon tab,

Fig 2.55 Create Lace Operation

 Select the “Part” and “Profile1” as the Feature and then click “OK”,

Fig 2.56 Define Feature

 Click “D8R4” to use the same cutter for this operation.

87 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.57 Select Tool

 Click “No” to switch to parameters form,

Fig 2.58 Switch to Parameters form

 Set parameters as following Fig 2.59, then click “Calculate” to get the tool path as Fig 2.60.

88 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.59 Define Machining Area

Fig 2.60 Calculate Result

 Double click icon of operation “Z level 1” to show z level tool-path, and you can rotating part to check Z
level combine Lace tool path.

89 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.61 Check Z level combine Lace Tool path

2.11 Create Finishing Operation – Offset 3D

 Here introduce one more Finishing operation.

Click “Offset 3D in the 3x Quick mill ribbon tab

Fig 2.62 Pick Offset 3D Operation

 Do the same way, select the “Part” and “Profile1” as the Feature and then click “OK”,

90 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.63 Define Feature

 Click “D8R4” to use the same cutter for this operation.

Fig 2.64 Select Tool

 Click “No” to switch to parameters form,

91 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.65 Switch to Parameters form

 Set parameters as following Fig 2.66, then click “Calculate” to get the tool path as fig 2.67.

92 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.66 Parameter Setting

Fig 2.67 Offset 3D Calculate Result

2.12 Solid Verify

 Right click on the “Operations” in CAM manager, and select "Solid Verify" (Fig 2.68).

93 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.68 Pick Solid Verify Command

 Click “Run Simulation” button (Fig 2.69). Also you can click “Rapid to end” to quick finish simulation.

Fig 2.69 Run Simulation

 The simulation result is shown in Fig 2.70.

94 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.70 Solid Verify Result

 Click “Options” >> “Analysis” >> “Visual” to check the rest materials.

Fig 2.71 Analysis Rest Materials

2.13 Generate NC Code

 Double click “Machine” to select “Fanuc Basic” post.

95 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.72 Machine Setting

 Hold shift key to select five operations to output NC file.

96 / 101
 Training

Fig 2.73 Select Operations to Output

 And you can find out the Tool ID already output which are setting in tool library.

Fig 2.74 NC Output Result

97 / 101