CNC Software announces the release of Mastercam X8. Mastercam X8 brings a new suite of programming tools focused on delivering speed, automation, and efficiency for all machining jobs. Mastercam X8 introduces new Solids features, UI improvements, Usability/Workflow improvements, and so much more.

Dynamic Motion Technology
Mastercam's Dynamic Motion technology is a new and exciting approach to creating toolpaths. Dynamic Motion follows a proprietary and sophisticated set of rules that take into consideration a broad data set. To create the most efficient cutting motion possible, Dynamic toolpaths calculate not only the area where metal will be removed; they also take into account the changing condition of the material throughout various stages of machining.

Solids Improvements
The Solids interface and workflow has been completely redone for Mastercam X8 and makes constructing and editing solids easier and more intuitive than it’s ever been. Every existing Solids function has been updated to reflect this new workflow. Along with the new interface, there are new features such as Live Preview, Hands-on Drag Controls, and Direct Editing has been improved to make the process of model preparation easier.

Usability & Workflow
Mastercam X8 delivers improved usability and the ability to customize the way you work. Panels can now be automatically hidden, docked to either side of the window, or undocked and placed outside of Mastercam. The graphics display has been upgraded to provide cleaner aesthetics, and clearer, more responsive selection while delivering a much improved overall look and feel. In addition, new icons provide a consistent color palette that is modern, clean, and colorblind friendly.

More powerful tools in Mastercam X8 include:

•     2D High Speed Toolpaths have been greatly improved.
•     Mill-Turn includes the ability to define and select reference positions for the approach and retract moves in operations.
•     Multiaxis Roughing is a new strategy which allows for the easy creation of multiaxis pocketing toolpaths to rough out pockets based on a floor or ceiling shape.
•     Lathe toolpaths can now be included in stock model operations, which can be used for subsequent milling operations.
•     The new Contour Roughing toolpath is designed to take passes parallel to chained geometry.