Connect with CGTech at EMO

CGTech, developer of CNC machine simulation software VERICUT, is launching the new VERICUT Version 9.4 at EMO from stand B24 inhall 9. Under the motto ‘Get connected’, CGTech says v9.4 offers outstanding features and functions. For instance, the new CNC ‘Machine Monitoring’ module focuses on increasing connectivity across the manufacturing workflow, enabling organisations to do more with the resources they already have. Via VERICUT, it is possible to stream events on the shop floor in real time to monitor what the machines are actually doing.
For further information www.cgtech.co.uk

RO-RA relies on VERICUT simulation software

As an aerospace supplier, RO-RA Aviation Systems GmbH is very successful, especially in the production of complex, high-precision and difficult-to-machine components, primarily for the aviation industry. With demands for high-quality components, it is essential that processes are safe and stable. For maximum process reliability and the best-possible performance, RO-RA uses VERICUT CNC simulation, verification and optimisation software, including the VERICUT Force milling module. The result: no more machine crashes and time savings of up to 25% per component.

Among the success factors at RO-RA is the digitalisation of development and manufacturing processes, which includes the networking of all engineering and testing processes.

“By setting up digital twins in product and process development, we achieve significant improvements in time-to-market,” explains managing director Helmut Wiesenberger.

By way of example, RO-RAmanufactures complex connectors made of aluminium for aircraft fuel lines, in which the machining rate is around 95%. Previously the company experienced machine crashes despite CAM simulation, which of course resulted in downtimes and service calls. In order to avoid this and ultimately increase process reliability, RO-RA introduced CGTech’s VERICUT simulation and optimisation software in 2018 after a selection process.

“In order to produce such sophisticated milled components efficiently and economically, we were looking for a software solution that simulates our NC programs in advance and checks them for any problems, such as collisions,” says Patrick Fellinger, head of engineering at RORA. “The fact is, CAM simulation only simulates the toolpaths and not the actual NC code. With VERICUT, we get a virtual machine and a machining digital twin, which means every travel path that we program is checked for 100% process reliability.”
For further information www.cgtech.co.uk

Dugard set for busy EMO exhibition

Engineers from UK machine tool supplier Dugard are on hand at EMO to welcome UK customers to the stands of technology partners that includeHanwha (hall 17, stand B14), Ibarmia (hall 13, stand B44),SMEC (hall 16, stand A10) and Kitamura (hall 14, stand D36). Hanwha is showcasingits new XV20/26 series of sliding-head turning centres that now incorporate a rigid double-hinged B-axis unit and improved Y2 back-tooling unit.Ibarmia is shining the spotlight on it re-vamped T-Series of five-axis universal machining centres, while SMEC is presenting its latest line of machining centres, turning centres and multi-axis machines.
For further information www.dugard.com

SW debuts two new machines

Schwäbische Werkzeugmaschinen GmbH (SW) is presenting two new products from stand C04 in hall 12: the two-spindle BA W03-22 CNC machining centre and the BA profile, a new machine concept for machining profiles. Furthermore, SW is showing the BA space3, currently its largest model for machining battery housings, and offering insights into current trends in manufacturing such as friction stir welding and giga-casting.

‘Innovate Manufacturing’ is the theme of this year’s EMO, which also captures the essence of SW’s ‘Smart Manufacturing Solutions’ corporate claim. “For us, innovative and smart manufacturing are two sides of the same coin,” says André Harter, head of marketing and business development at SW. “Both allow us to respond individually and efficiently to our customers’ needs.”
For further information www.sw-machines.com

Chemical simulation software tests new composites

Software company Molydyn is to use chemical simulation to test new composite materials, in collaboration with the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) and Bitrez, in order to make the testing process more sustainable.The project aims to use molecular modelling to develop a viscosity modelling capability for Molydyn’s accessible web simulation platform, Atlas, to help design better composite materials while reducing costs and environmental impact. Building upon previous collaborations with the AMRC, the project is utilising funding from an Innovate UK Transformative Technologies grant.

Chemical simulation allows researchers to test new materials quickly with virtual experiments, screening out prospects that are unfit for the lab. This saves laboratories time and money, while proving to be a more sustainable method –testing materials virtually requires no disposable gloves, single-use plastics or solvents.

With the rising price of electricity and raw materials, composite material manufacturers are feeling the pinch becauseinfusing viscous, honey-like resin into the fibres often requires high-pressure pumps and heating. However, resin tested for an optimised viscosity would flow like water and reduce the cost, environmental impact, and difficulty of manufacturing composite parts.

Matthew Bone, chief executive officer at Molydyn, says: “It’s good to be back working with the AMRC again, and tackling a major problem like viscosity. We’re hoping to expand Atlas and give materials scientists a tool to help them design better composite materials. Composites are shaking up many sectors with the environmental benefits of light-weighting, so we’re keen to help get better composites to market faster.”

The AMRC, part of the High Value Manufacturing (HVM) Catapult network of research centres, will conduct empirical lab testing from its innovation cluster in Rotherham.
For further information www.amrc.co.uk