초록
An impeller is difficult to machine due to the complex, overlapping and twisted shapes that form the blades of an impeller. Therefore, most CAM software companies have developed a CAM module for manufacturing an impeller in addition to their CAM software. However, it is not easy for inexperienced users to machine impellers. The purpose of this paper is to outline the development of an automatic CAM module for the manufacturing of an impeller (E-ICAM) which is based on visual basic language and which uses a CATIA graphical environment in order to simplify the machining of impellers. The automatic CAM module generates a tool path and proposes the recommended cutting condition according to the stock and tool material. In addition, it includes a post-processor for five-axis control machining. Therefore, a user can easily machine impellers using this automation module. There are two types of impellers: the closed and open types. The closed-type impeller consists of the body and cover parts. To combine these two parts, it is necessary to create tap holes on the shroud of the body. Therefore, in the study, a drilling CAM program for a closed-type impeller is developed and manufactured by creating NC data from the developed drilling program. After manufacturing the test specimen, its compatibility was verified.