Software
Plug-And-Play CNC Monitoring
These CNC monitoring appliances are preloaded for detailed reporting, e-mail notifications, cell phone notifications and real-time CNC status display for plug-and-play installation.
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CAM Package Unlocks Turn-Mill Capabilities
While multi-spindle turn-mill machines can improve productivity by enabling users to machine parts complete in one setup, fully realizing their benefits requires a CAM package that is capable of synchronizing multiple spindles. With Delcam’s FeatureCAM software, cutting tool manufacturer Parlec eliminated the time-consuming process of programming each spindle of its turn-mill machines separately before manually synchronizing them on the shop floor.
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Software Aids Transition To Production Mindset
Over the years, aerospace manufacturer Costa Precision has developed a reputation for taking on large, complex parts that other shops can’t handle. However, overly optimistic customer expectations and lengthy cycle times led Costa to struggle with generating revenue on the manufacturing side of its business. With a new production-oriented mindset and CAD/CAM software from Mastercam, the shop was able to maintain the high precision for which it is known while improving manufacturing efficiency and profitability.
Read MoreSimulation Software Reduces Setup, Rework
Vericut 7 features performance-improving enhancements that are said to reduce the time required for manufacturing engineers to develop, analyze, inspect and document the CNC programming and machining process. Instead of focusing on new features or add-on modules, the software focuses on diligent code optimization and customer-driven enhancements. According to the company, CNC machine simulation, verification and optimization software enables users to eliminate the process of manually proving-out NC programs.
Read MoreCAM Upgrade Offers Milti-Threading Support
Due out in the second quarter of 2009, Mastercam X4 brings users a suite of new tool paths, multi-threading ability and more. The release’s dynamic machining technique allows utilization of the entire flute length of the cutting tool, saving both time and money, the company says. Dynamic machining offers flexible retract options to keep the tool down for smaller parts and rapid retract for larger parts.
Read MoreCNC Increases Productivity For Aerospace Applications
The Sinumerik 840D is said to increase performance and user productivity on the manufacturing floor, especially for high-speed and five-axis aerospace machining. The solution line is a universal and flexible CNC system featuring Sinamics S120 drives that can be used for as many as 31 axes. It is a distributed, scalable, open and inter-connecting system that offers a range of specialized functions for milling, drilling, turning, grinding and handling technologies.
Read MoreCAM Software Features New Machining Strategies
 The company has added 22 five-axis machining strategies to the existing functionalities of both Esprit SolidMill and SolidMillTurn FreeForm CAM software packages. These simultaneous five-axis machining cycles are available for both milling and turn-mill machines. The FreeForm 5-axis composite machining cycle allows users to independently define the machining patterns and tool orientation strategies to be used when creating the simultaneous five-axis tool paths.
Read MoreCombining Geometry And Surface Measurements
 The company’s Calypso 3D measuring software allows measurement and automatic documentation of geometries and surface roughness in a single set-up. The interface permits the measurement of geometry and surface data of workpieces. When used with the Handysurf surface measuring instrument and the DuraMax CMM, the software offers comprehensive measurements of the workpiece shape and surface.
Read MoreDistributor Showcases Customer Solutions
The company features live Web demonstrations of the Vendor Managed Inventory (eVMI) and Customer Managed Inventory (CMI) systems on a large flat screen. These barcode scanning systems allow users to maintain full control of the ordering process and spending levels, and they improve productivity. Additionally, the company’s ToolBoss vending machine is part of its Competitive Advantage Program, which aims to drive costs out of the manufacturing process, the company says.
Read MoreSoftware For High-Speed Machining
 PowerMILL CAM software is designed for high-speed and two- to five-axis machining, The latest enhancements include improvements to two-axis machining and three- to five-axis surface finishing options. Other improvements include tool database improvements, the ability to transform multiple tool paths using groups and integral machine simulation for optimal toolpath verification. The company’s FeatureCAM 2009 package incorporates increased options for more complex machines, such as multi-tasking and multi-axis machines.
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