Free CD Shows Anilam 6000M Digital CNC Benefits In Action
A free CD detailing the features and benefits of the Anilam 6000M multi-axis CNC, "the complete digital solution" for milling machines and vertical machining centres, is now available from measurement and control specialist ACI (UK).
Packed with live footage of the control/machine in action and of user interviews – "anyone with CNC machines should try an Anilam control," says one – the CD outlines how the 6000M is the world's first CNC to offer standard G Code and true conversational programming (Anilam's Machinist Language) together in a single system.
The result is an easy-to-use CNC that enables programs to be created accurately and quickly – "in some cases reducing programming times by 50 per cent," says one user – and one that is gaining users throughout the UK. For example, the 6000M is being offered as an option on the 600 Centre's cost-competitive range of Richmond vertical machining centres and is enjoying "substantial" success in both production and toolroom applications.
With a powerful 586 DX4 133 PC processor and 16 Mbyte of RAM, plus 12 inch TFT screen, the control features enhanced mould and die capability (scaling, mirror image, modal corner rounding/chamfering, for example) as well as a host of advanced canned cycles as standard, including mould rotation and draft angle, as well as:
- Irregular pockets - a simple routine of prompts produces clearances of irregular shapes;
- Geometry - the geometry calculator, for determining points, lines and circles, automatically forms the program foundation; and
- Bolt hole pattern and drill cycles are created by simple question and answer routines.
Able to import CAD files from any system, the Anilam 6000M also boasts an integrated CAM programming mode for interactive programming using icons (moves shown as they are being programmed), menu-driven tooling, tool compensation and interference checking, and built-in post-processor along with built-in probing cycles for part verification and edge finding as well as tool wear and breakage. Additional cycles can be written for customised probing routines.
Simulation graphic functions embrace rapid, feed and compensated moves (colour differentiated) isometric views, auto part fit, window zoom and static tool display, for instance.
Importantly, the Anilam 6000M has a networking capability that provides auto-sensing at 100 Mbit per second for data transmission with the result that users can gain improvements of up to 50 per cent in program verification, and performance improvements of 15 per cent in the processing of 8,000-block programs featuring 0.003 inch step-over increments.
The control also features Anilam's Integral Programmable Intelligence, so there is no need for a separate PLC unit and, compared to older CNC systems accompanied by a separate bank of drives, these are now housed in one compact module.
Source: ACI (UK) Ltd