This two-day, hands-on class is focused on workholding, fixturing & Advanced CAM. We will discuss work holding strategies and methods, learn how to control and use 3D finishing strategies, and apply what was learned through the programming and machining of a fixture plate and bottle opener project. Each attendee will leave the class with a small bottle opener fixture and a bottle opener that you machine in the class.

Curriculum:

Workholding & Fixturing:

• Overview of workholding strategies
• Review and discussion of 50+ fixture examples including soft jaws, fixture plates, Mitee-Bite, Carr-Lane and other workholding and fixturing tools
• Discussion of workholding strategy, including balance of time, cost, fixture life, process reliability and setup time.
• Fixturing Best Practices (marking fixtures, swap-able, keeping soft jaws in pairs)

Advanced CAM:

• 3D toolpaths
• Advanced toolpath containment
• Rest Machining
• 4th Axis and 3+2 Machining

Hands-On

• Programming CAM to machine fixture and bottle opener
• Machining fixture plate and bottle opener using HAAS or Tormach CNC machines.
• NOTE: Students must have prior HAAS experience or have attended the 3-day Hands On CNC class in order to use the HAAS machines.

Instructors:  Kevin Ellingson

PREREQUISITES: Must be comfortable using Fusion 360 CAD and CAM.