I was given guidelines of how to formulate toolpaths and what to look for when actual cutting is incorrect. High-speed machining cutter paths are much different from CNC paths. For example, now I use a ball nose endmill during roughing more than I did before. Back at the shop, the whole process is now done right at the V55 from start to finish. The CAD files are sent down and Burrows and the programmer determine which features to cut and which ones to burn.
Burrows then generates toolpaths from the shop floor system.
These files then go back to the programmers for creating toolpaths for the graphite electrodes. Camfferman appreciates the flexibility this process gives the operators. We want them to be able to edit the programs and have total control over their own tool- paths. They can ensure the cutter is engaged as much as possible. The learning environment also proved helpful during Burrows' training.