ESPRIT CAM Improves Productivity for Long-Part Machining

New computer-aided-manufacturing (CAM) technology has been introduced by ESPRIT CAM, part of Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division that provides manufacturers with the control and flexibility needed to use multi-spindle and multi-channel computer-numerical-control (CNC) machinery for the machining of long parts. More accurate simulation of spindle transfers and bar pulls enables manufacturers to exploit multi-tasking machinery with high productivity program creation of error-free toolpaths. 

ESPRIT TNG CAM software now automatically tracks the location of work offsets regardless of part position by enabling programmers to define the offset and offset translations, or the points at which offset changes occur. In addition to enabling precise simulation, this eliminates the need for custom settings or calculations to the machine post to ensure that parts are machined accurately and makes it possible to program a greater number of complex machining scenarios without error. 

“ESPRIT TNG is ‘the next generation’ CAM because it provides an exact digital replica of every facet of the machining environment to help manufacturers use the world’s most sophisticated, cutting-edge machine tools with confidence,” says Olivier Thenoz, ESPRIT principal product manager. “The ability to accurately track parts throughout complex operations means that users can make the most of the combined power of software and machinery for advanced multi-tasking, and that they have the freedom and flexibility needed to machine exactly the way they want to.”

ESPRIT TNG also enables manufacturers to perform face-milling operations with a “roll-in” lead-in strategy recommended by Sandvik Coromant to improve surface quality, reduce cycle time and extend tool life. This lead-in technique positions the cutter for thick-to-thin chip formation, which indicates that the insert engages the material deeply enough at entry to make a significant cut before exiting smoothly to reduce vibration and ensure consistent surface finish. This strategy eliminates the need to manually calculate face-milling stepovers during the programming process. 

The new release also offers productivity benefits for three-axis operations. Toolpath creation is now faster, meaning that toolpath that once took 30 minutes to generate can now be calculated in about two minutes. Furthermore, a new three-axis toolpath can now be created in ESPRIT TNG from an existing operation without recalculating the entire toolpath. Areas in collision can be trimmed from toolpath generated for use with short cutting tools, or re-machining operations can be created with a long tool to cut only areas that cannot be reached with the shorter tool.

ESPRIT TNG 4.7 is available from ESPRIT CAM now. For more information, click here.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.

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