CIMdata PLM Industry Summary Online Archive
4 July 2008
Product News
New WorkNC Module Optimizes Feedrates to Cut Machining Times by up to 20%
Sescoi is bringing its latest technology to the USA market to further reduce machining times for complex parts, molds and dies. Its CAM/CAD software, WorkNC G3, already automatically generates optimized roughing and finishing toolpaths for 2 to through to 5-axis machining applications. Now, the new NCspeed module, developed by Formtec and fully integrated into WorkNC, can produce additional cycle time reductions of up to 20% using its proven technology.
Unlike other CNC feedrate optimizers that simply look at the programmed points of the CNC file and search for direction changes, NCspeed uses a computer generated stock model that is updated dynamically and continuously. This more advanced method allows the NCspeed module to calculate the load and thus forces generated on the cutting tool. NCspeed will then adjust the feedrates up during conditions of a light cutter load. Conversely, for cutter safety, NCspeed can lower feedrates where appropriate, such as during areas of high cutter loads.
Furthermore, by keeping tool loads as constant as possible, NCspeed will help engineers to achieve the best possible cutting conditions across the whole job, which will have a positive impact on accuracy and the quality of the surface finish. In particular, the performance of small diameter and long cutters will benefit from optimization with NCspeed. By avoiding excessive load conditions and endeavoring to keep the volume of material being cut the same at all times, cutter deflection will be minimized, tool life increased, excessive vibration and chatter eliminated and cutter breakage avoided.
The software also checks for tool engagement with the material, maximizing movements at rapid feed where the cutter is out of the material, and shortening the overall length of rapid toolpaths where it is safe to do so.
NCspeed is most effective when machining hard or tough materials, however, even free cutting materials can show significant savings in tooling costs and cycle times, making it a worthwhile investment for every machine shop.
Jeff Jaje of Sescoi Inc said, “We are always trying to help our customers to improve the productivity they get from using WorkNC. The new NCspeed module is a powerful addition which will enable American engineers to make major reductions in manufacturing costs through faster machining and longer tool life.”
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