News | March 13, 2001

Westec 2001: Pathtrace to demo 'rest machining' methods with EdgeCAM V5.50

Source: Pathtrace Systems, Inc.

Pathtrace Systems, Inc. will demonstrate advanced "rest machining" methods for finishing and for roughing with multiple tools in its flagship software, EdgeCAM Version 5.50, at the WESTEC 2001 show opening March 26 in the Los Angeles Convention Center.

The term "rest machining" refers to machining surfaces with progressively smaller-diameter tools. EdgeCAM V5.50 automatically identifies and machines areas where stock has been left from all previous cutter passes. Previously this "pick up" work had to be done by trial and error.

Pathtrace, in Booth 3375, South Hall, will show five other significant programming and machining advances in EdgeCAM 5.50 including:

  • Machining sequence rationalization which is especially valuable when using tombstone fixturing on large, high-hourly-rate machine tools.
  • Web-based reporting allowing shop personnel to quickly share details of individual jobs such as tooling lists, kitting instructions, and fixturing.
  • Drill cycle optimization to calculate the shortest time through any hole pattern.
  • Island facing for quick and accurate clearing of flat-topped projections during rough-machining.
  • Finish Shallow for machining using a constant-cusp tool path.


Based in Southfield, Mich., Pathtrace Systems is the Western Hemisphere operations of Pathtrace plc, Reading, England. Founded in 1981, Pathtrace has nearly 20,000 seats of EdgeCAM installed worldwide. EdgeCAM is the system of choice for many users of SolidWorks, Solid Edge, AutoDesk Inventor, and Mechanical Desktop.

Pathtrace Systems, Inc., 3000 Town Center, Suite 830, Southfield, MI 48075 USA. Tel: 248-356-8800. Fax: 248-356-8811.

Source: Pathtrace Systems