PowerMILL
PowerMILL is a 3D CAM (Computer-aided manufacturing) solution that runs on Microsoft Windows for the programming of tool paths for 2 to 5 axis CNC (Computer Numerical Control) Milling machines developed by Autodesk Inc. The software is used in a range of different engineering industries to determine optimal tool paths to reduce time and manufacturing costs as well as reduce tool loads and produce smooth surface finishes. More than 15,000 organisations use PowerMILL worldwide for 2,3 and 5-axis machining.[1][2]
 | |
| Developer(s) | Autodesk Inc. |
|---|---|
| Initial release | 1995 |
| Stable release | 2018
|
| Operating system | Microsoft Windows |
| Type | CAM |
| Website | |
History
The code of PowerMILL originates from the software DUCT which was developed in 1973 by Donald Welbourn and Ed Lambourne along with the help of Delta Metal Group, whose funding aided the transferral of the system into industry. DUCT was initially developed with the sponsorship of Control Data in Germany in the form of access to their time-sharing computing resources. The advancement of mini computers from 1982 meant that it became economically viable to design complex 3D shapes using a computer.[3]
From 1995 to 1998 DUCT was gradually replaced with a new range of products, which covered the full manufacturing cycle from conceptual design through to manufacture. Delcam's Power Solution range of products that built upon the functionality of the DUCT suite, incorporated the latest user interface technology and offered users many new benefits.[4]
Release History
| Release Version | Date |
|---|---|
| PowerMILL 2.0 | 1995 |
| PowerMILL 3.0 | 2000 |
| PowerMILL 4.0 | 2002 |
| PowerMILL 5.0 | 2003 |
| PowerMILL 6.0 | 2005 |
| PowerMILL 7.0 | 2006 |
| PowerMILL 8.0 | 2007 |
| PowerMILL 9.0 | 2008 |
| PowerMILL 10.0 | 2009 |
| PowerMILL 2010 | 15/03/2010 |
| PowerMILL 2011 | 22/11/2010 |
| PowerMILL 2012 (R1) | 01/09/2011 |
| PowerMILL 2012 (R2) | 19/03/2012 |
| PowerMILL 2013 | 02/01/2013 |
| PowerMILL 2014 (R1) | 06/09/2013 |
| PowerMILL 2014 (R2) | 20/02/2014 |
| PowerMILL 2015 (R1) | 25/06/2014 |
| PowerMILL 2015 (R2) | 02/01/2015 |
| PowerMILL 2016 (R1) | 16/07/2015 |
| PowerMill 2017 | 2016 |
| PowerMill 2018 | 2017 |
Ad-ons
PowerMILL Pro includes PS-Exchange a CAD data translator for all neutral import and export (IGES and VDA and STEP)
PowerMILL 3+2 Machining where a 3 axis milling program is executed with the cutting tool locked in a tilted position
PowerMILL 4&5 axis machining for 4 and 5 axis machines
PowerMILL Rotary Axis for machines using a rotary axis
PowerMILL Training Seat/IGES Viewer
PowerMILL Port Machining for the machining of tubular apertures
PowerMILL Blade, Blisk & Impeller Machining
PowerMILL Robot Interface for programming of robotic arms
See also
References
- Dean, Al (2010-04-13). "Delcam PowerMill 2010". Develop3D. Retrieved 2012-10-25.
- "PowerMILL Overview". Retrieved 2012-10-25.
- "Delcam's History". Retrieved 2012-10-25.
- Delcam Plc. (2009). PowerSHAPE * Parasolid - More than the sum of its parts? (White Paper) (PDF). p. 11.