CAD/CAM Software
Computer-aided design (CAD) software and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software is used to design and manufacture prototype parts, finished products, and production runs. An integrated CAD/CAM system uses CAD software to design models and assemblies of a product and interface with CAM software that references and applies those models and assemblies created in the CAD software to program specific manufacturing processes, perform functional simulation that optimizes each process step, then drive the machine tools used to produce physical parts from the product designs.
Intelligent CAD/CAM Toolpaths Allow Tools to Cut Metal at Impressive Speeds
By implementing intelligent toolpath strategies, one company was able to reduce cycle time for one part from 40 minutes to 10-to-15 minutes by achieving a full depth of cut, increasing feeds and speeds, and normalizing the load on the tool. How low can you go with these solutions?
By implementing intelligent toolpath strategies, one company was able to reduce cycle time for one part from 40 minutes to 10-to-15 minutes by achieving a full depth of cut, increasing feeds and speeds, and normalizing the load on the tool. How low can you go with these solutions?
Curating a variety of technologies on the shop floor gives manufacturers a range of capabilities to meet customer demands – here’s how to overcome complications when dealing with different programming, operating, maintenance, and parts for a mix of machine brands.
Even the most sophisticated nesting software won’t eliminate the need to manually finish an edge if the job’s not thought through from start to finish. Follow these three best practices to minimize wasted time and material.
One of the fastest-growing sectors of North American metal manufacturing is laser processing of tubes and profiles. Design software and machines that automatically perform multiple manufacturing steps are making this complicated fabrication process cost-effective for smaller companies.
Quoting software saves time and money throughout the entire production process if it’s properly integrated with CAD/CAM and manufacturing system software. If it’s not, your team’s doomed to constantly reinvent the wheel.
Hypertherm Inc. (Hanover, NH) has announced the release of Production Manager, an optional module for its ProNest® advanced CAD/CAM nesting software.
LVD Co. nv (Gullegem, Belgium) has released CADMAN® v8.7, which introduces the ability to integrate foreign operations (such as tapping, chamfering, and painting) and updates other features (such as the manufacturing execution system, smart drawing importer, punching, laser cutting, bending, and sort and validate).
Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division has updated its ESPRIT CAM software so it provides the digital tools needed to prepare 3D-printed components for manufacture using powder bed fusion (PBF) technology.
Metal Forming & Fabricating Industry News
