ESPRIT CAM improves productivity for long part machining

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Offset-aware programming of spindle transfers and bar pulls helps manufacturers drive multi-channel CNC machinery with confidence

(CAMARILLO, Calif; April 28, 2020) 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.

Machining long parts, such as shafts and axles, is challenging because they require that the workpiece is supported throughout to maintain cutting speed and surface quality. The main and sub spindles must be synchronized to ensure that cutting can be performed while both spindles hold the workpiece for maximum support. Bars are also frequently repositioned in incremental steps to keep workpieces rigid, as well as to account for limited bed length. Because the repeat repositioning of the bar presents a collision risk, it benefits machinists if they are supplied with NC code that tracks machine motion for greater flexibility and readability at the machine control.

Without the ability to track machine motion, a significant amount of time is spent hand-editing NC code and troubleshooting programs before production begins using complex multi-tasking scenarios. 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.

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“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,” said 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 now also enables manufacturers to perform face-milling operations with a unique “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 ideal 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, high-quality surface finish. In addition to being less damaging to cutter inserts, this strategy eliminates the need to manually calculate face-milling stepovers during the programming process, which automatically ensures a consistent and even surface across the entire workpiece.

The new release also offers productivity benefits for 3-axis operations. Toolpath creation is now 20 times faster, meaning that toolpath that once took 30 minutes to generate can now be calculated in about two minutes. Furthermore, a new 3-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 now available from ESPRIT CAM. For more information please visit https://www.espritcam.com/info/upgra...the-new-esprit

Contact:
Stacey Wiebe (US based)
Global Media Relations Officer
Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence Division
Mobile: +1 209 479 9455
e-mail: [email protected]

Steve Glad (US based)
PR agent for ESPRIT CAM
e-mail: [email protected]

Robin Wolstenholme (UK based)
Global Media Relations and Analyst Relations Manager
Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence Division
Phone: +44(0)207 0686562
e-mail: [email protected]

About Hexagon and ESPRIT CAM
Hexagon is a global leader in sensor, software and autonomous solutions. We are putting data to work to boost efficiency, productivity, and quality across industrial, manufacturing, infrastructure, safety, and mobility applications. Our technologies are shaping urban and production ecosystems to become increasingly connected and autonomous – ensuring a scalable, sustainable future.

ESPRIT CAM, part of Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division, is a high-performance computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) solution for CNC programming, optimization and simulation. Learn more at espritcam.com. Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division provides solutions that utilize data from design and engineering, production and metrology to make manufacturing smarter.

Hexagon (Nasdaq Stockholm: HEXA B) has approximately 21,000 employees in 50 countries and net sales of approximately 3.8bn Euro. Learn more at hexagon.com and follow us @HexagonAB.