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Esprit Mold Version 10 from DP Technology is designed to be user-friendly and to maximize efficiency. Features and upgrades include an Esprit FreeForm five-axis composite machining cycle and a cycle designed specifically for machining impellers. For faster processing speeds, the software features multi-core processors (CPUs). Also, the software can run on both Microsoft Windows XP and Microsoft Vista operating systems.

Twenty-two new five-axis machining strategies increase machining flexibility and improve cycle times. The FreeForm five-axis composite machining cycle allows users to independently define machining patterns and tool orientation strategies for creating simultaneous five-axis tool paths. It also includes 20 different machining strategies (cycles) in one.

The composite machining cycle enables users to perform simultaneous five-axis machining on parts for a variety of different industries—including the aerospace, medical and automotive sectors—with one user interface. An impeller cycle includes a roughing strategy that optimizes the creation of the tool path based on the current stock. It also includes a strategy for finishing the hub. These two strategies support machining main blades as well as splitter blades.

The software can use separate stock allowances for vertical walls and floors, and it includes an option to set a different stock allowance for a given zone (surface or group of surfaces) of the workpiece.

All machining cycles, including those for five-axis operations, incorporate full collision detection during toolpath calculation for not only the tool, but also the tool shank and toolholder. An existing Esprit Mold file can now be used as a machining template for a new job, which reduces programming time.

Users also have the means to view simulation at any point on the tool path, which allows for inspection of the tool path at any location. The company says, this gives the user the ability to make a quick inspection, negating the need to simulate preceding areas.