The latest 2020.0 release of Radan CADCAM software for the sheet-metal industry sees a further reduction in mouse clicks, along with improvements to nesting and reporting, allowing customers to see an increase in efficiency, saving both time and costs.

Radan product manager Olaf Körner says: “The number of mouse clicks needed to use automatic nesting or work on a 3D model has been reduced by around half, making workflow much easier.”
The newly developed quick nest mode in Radan 2020.0 provides a more visual interface, with limited upfront set-up for projects, while a redesigned ‘new project’ dialog allows users to “get nesting quicker”. Time benefits can also be achieved with machine-specific projects and templates.
Says Körner: “The template contains automation. For example, a fibre-laser template will switch to your correct laser machine and put in all the settings needed.”
Along with a quicker start to projects, it is also easier for users to pick up on previous projects. The newly created streamlined mode benefits from reduced mouse travel and an autosave function so that work is never lost. Ease of use ensures the software is simple to learn and allows more complex projects to be completed efficiently.
Complex projects can also be fulfilled using the newly introduced punching tool type. Punching plays an important part of the manufacturing process, and Körner says customers are getting more creative with their tooling for punch presses, to set them apart from lasers. For instance, there is now a newly created tool type in the tool editor for flattening features.
For further information www.radan.com

Chantiers de l’Atlantique (CDA), formerly STX France, has ordered two highly automated PEMA panel-cutting stations to Saint-Nazaire shipyard.

Each of the stations consists of plasma cutting, grinding and marking functions, with special fume-extraction tables. The stations are used to cut the panel to the correct size, grind the primer away from the position of profiles, and finally to mark the position of profiles. Plasma-cutting portals for both stations are made by Pemamek’s partner, MicroStep.
Florent Camaret, investment project manager, CDA, says that thanks to Pemamek’s proven track record in welding and production automation technology, and the companies’ previous collaboration, CDA was convinced to continue co-operation with Pemamek.
“Our previous solutions needed to be updated to new and modern production technology that could provide higher capacity and better quality,” he says. “We’ve collaborated with Pemamek in other major shipyard automation projects, so we trust their expertise and technology.”
With the new PEMA panel-cutting stations, CDA will be able to significantly improve throughput times, add capacity and maintain high production quality in panel processing.
“CDA is one of the world’s leading shipyards and we’re delighted to continue our collaboration,” says Jukka Rantala, vice president, key accounts at Pemamek Ltd. “High-technology PEMA panel-cutting stations will raise CDA’s level of automation and bring a significant productivity boost to panel production.”
The panel-cutting stations, which will be ready for production by the end of 2020, will be delivered as turnkey solutions, including installation, commissioning, testing, training and production support.
For further information https://pemamek.com/

Paul King is a man who knows what he wants and, when it came to specifying a new fibre laser, he knew he wanted automation. “I’ve always been a believer in automation, pushing to run machines lights-out wherever possible,” he says. “I don’t understand why more laser users aren’t using it.”

Founded in 1978 and inspired by its motto, ‘From Concept to Creation,’ CSM specialises in the manufacture and supply of sheet metal parts into a wide range of commercial and retail products on a subcontract basis.
Like many, King was a CO2 laser user, but, after 18 years, was keen to investigate fibre-laser technology. However, any new solution also had to take into account the logistics of the company’s Swansey Mill layout.
“We operate from a former cotton mill, so it is hard to accommodate a large laser machine because of the type of building, with all of the columns that are in the way,” says King. “Laser machines lend themselves to big, sprawling factories, so while the easy option is often to buy another machine, the footprint doesn’t always suit the space you’re trying to exploit. So, my first thought was – what fits the space?”
Requiring a solution that would meet CSM’s footprint, technology and capacity demands, King contacted Yamazaki Mazak to see what could be offered. Mazak suggested an Optiplex Nexus 3015 Fiber 4 kW laser machine with bespoke 10-shelf automation towers.
“What really won me over was that Mazak’s technical team was very accommodating, providing constant dialogue and feedback whilst configuring the system’s layout,” says King. “They were able to make it fit my space and, more than anything, they didn’t compromise the efficiencies I was getting with existing machines.”
For further information www.mazakeu.co.uk/laser