Hypertherm unveils ProNest 2021

Hypertherm, a manufacturer of industrial cutting systems and software, has released ProNest 2021, a major version update of its CADCAM nesting software for automated cutting. This new release contains new features and enhancements designed to make customers more efficient and profitable.

Among the new features is a redesigned 2D CAD package that provides improved font support, the ability to shape text, and other new functions that are especially popular among sign makers. Furthermore, a CAD editor preference allows users to set a default CAD program for edits to parts in the ProNest part list. Customers can simply select the embedded ProNest CAD software or choose a third-party software such as AutoCAD.

Another enhancement is interior bridge cutting, allowing users to add bridges to text and other interior geometry so that pieces do not drop when cut. This capability helps to minimise interior cut-outs on parts for aesthetic purposes and reduces tip-ups.

“ProNest 2021 builds on the strong foundation of ProNest 2019 to make the programming process more efficient,” says Tom Stillwell, marketing project manager for Hypertherm CADCAM software products. “Whether using plasma, waterjet, laser or oxy-fuel cutting, this new version provides the powerful tools that fabricators and manufacturers need to increase material savings, boost productivity, lower operating costs and improve part quality.”

In addition, Hypertherm is releasing upgrades to its ProNest LT software for lighter production environments. Users with an active subscription and customers with an active maintenance plan, can upgrade to the new version of their respective product at no additional charge and continue receiving unlimited technical support, and other benefits.

For further information
www.hypertherm.com/CAM

Sigma Labs and DMG Mori strike deal

DMG Mori has selected Sigma Labs Inc, a developer of quality-assurance software for the commercial metal 3D-printing industry, as the preferred melt-pool monitoring system supplier for its LaserTec SLM machines. Engineering teams from both companies worked extensively to test the integrated solution, ensuring that it meets the needs of industrial manufacturers utilising DMG Mori’s family of metal 3D printers. DMG Mori will be providing an interface with its printers so that the systems are PrintRite3D ready. The terms of the agreement remain private between both parties.

For further information
www.sigmalabsinc.com

Virtual laser sessions

Trotec UK Live is a virtual event taking place over three days later this month (26-28 January) that will focus on all things laser. The event promises to deliver live demonstrations, hints and tips, finance options, design inspiration and more. There will be 17 sessions covering a multitude of topics, split in to morning and afternoon blocks. Registration to the event is free and participants can pick and choose relevant sessions (only one registration required). The sessions will be interactive, with the opportunity to ask questions via the live chat function.

For further information
https://is.gd/ayumur

3D waterjet cutting of hard materials

ProdOpti AB in Jordbro, Sweden, has invested in a new machine from Water Jet Sweden. With its new FiveX waterjet machine, ProdOpti is today the only company in Scandinavia that can offer abrasive waterjet cutting in full 3D.

“ProdOpti should always be a company at the forefront of machining; to live up to this we invest in modern equipment to meet market demands,” says Gabriel Öfverberg, CEO of ProdOpti. “Our choice fell on Water Jet Sweden’s FiveX machine thanks to its flexibility in producing components in both small and large series. The FiveX machine gives us great opportunities to deliver a final product that exceeds customer expectations.”

Water Jet Sweden’s FiveX has an extra-stable frame design to manufacture 3D components in hard materials with high precision and positioning accuracy of ±0.050 mm/m. The model ProdOpti ordered is 4.2 m wide and 6.7 m long, giving a work table of 28 sq m. That size is not unique in itself, but with a Z-axis movement of 1.2 m, users receive a cutting space of 33.7 cu m. These dimensions make it one of the largest FiveX machines manufactured to date.

FiveX is said to have the only cutting head in the world with a ±120° movement, enabling the machine to process 3D parts with abrasive waterjet technology. This capability is also the reason why the FiveX model is equipped with solid safety walls around the perimeter of the cutting space. The front wall opens and closes automatically from the operator panel. Around the machine there are small windows made of safety glass so the operator can monitor cutting.

For further information
www.waterjetsweden.com

Automated welding deal

The Esab Group Inc and robot specialist Yaskawa have signed a global co-operation agreement to jointly develop and market a line of pre-engineered robotic welding systems called XCellerator. Yaskawa will engineer and build XCellerator, with Esab providing the marketing through its global sales channels. The cells target small and medium-sized manufacturers and fabricators seeking easy installation, set-up and operation, enabling them to take a confident step toward automating their welding operations.

For further information
www.esab.co.uk