Starrag’s new RCS 8.0 CAM software for the machining of turbine blades now has learning capabilities. Demonstrating over 30 years of software experience, the latest version of the software also integrates pioneering functions such as automated workflows and precise geometrical adaptation to variable unmachined parts – a clear step forward for complex freeform contours.

‘Le mieux est l’ennemi du bien’ – perfect is the enemy of good, noted French philosopher Voltaire over 300 years ago. He warned against destroying things that are already good in the pursuit of perfection. The skilled programmers in Rorschacherberg, Switzerland, have been heeding this warning for more than three decades. Instead of rashly discarding the tried and tested, the Starrag teams developed it further.

Early RCS versions 1 to 6 were mainly used in the five-axis machining of aerospace components. The subsequent 7 series brought advances such as best-fit workpiece alignment, automatic ‘dengeling’, collision avoidance and combined roughing/smoothing strategies, while updates to RCS 7.8 brought numerous optimisations for practical use. Importantly, users who switch to the latest version will not have to go without these tried-and-tested functions and the features that were introduced in version 7.8.

RCS 8.0 is characterised by comprehensive backwards compatibility with projects from RCS 7.x.Existing NC strategies, program structures and milling paths can be transferred over and seamlessly integrated into the new form of AI-supported machining. Users benefit from familiar processes – enhanced by automated workflows, modern geometry algorithms and AI optimisation. Notably, RCS 8.0 brings advances in user guidance, process control and real-time feedback. A modernised user interface, intelligent navigation with integrated error analysis and asynchronous workflows enable continuous work without interruption.

More information www.starrag.com

At the recent ERPALOOZA user conference in Texas, Cetec ERP unveiled two major AI-powered automation tools – Document Scan & Attach and AP Automation – designed to eliminate manual paperwork and accelerate back-office operations for manufacturers. Together, these features advance Cetec ERP’s mission to give manufacturers full control over their systems by reducing friction, improving accuracy and centralising operations within a single integrated platform.

The new Document Scan & Attach feature automatically files paperwork like receipts, work order packets and vendor documents directly into Cetec ERP. Using OCR and AI, the system reads scanned PDFs, intelligently matches them to the correct records and attaches them automatically. Any documents that cannot be matched are routed to a review queue for quick follow-up.

The new AP Automation tool streamlines invoice processing by turning emailed or scanned vendor invoices into vouchers automatically. Invoices are read with OCR and AI, then matched against purchase orders and receipts for a complete three-way match. When matches are verified, vouchers are automatically approved. Any discrepancies are flagged for review.

Starting at $250 per month, the AP Automation feature increases the capacity of accounting departments at small manufacturing companies by reducing administrative overhead and data entry. It also provides improved visibility into accounts payable operations without removing control of cash flow.

“These features take tedious, error-prone work off people’s plates and increase their capacity for more value-added work,” says Scott Ryan, senior consultant at Cetec ERP. “We want to make daily processes simpler, faster and more reliable for our customers.”

Built as a modern, cloud-native solution, Cetec ERP is a complete ERP platform – fully integrated, from quote to cash – for the complex realities of today’s manufacturing.

More information www.cetecerp.com

Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence Division has unveiled a major release of its Esprit Edge CAM software, addressing productivity and skills challenges with extensive user-friendly Swiss machining support and the first AI services powered by Hexagon’s cloud-based Nexus platform. 

For the first time, Esprit Edge introduces Swiss machining functionality, enabling safe, efficient and simplified programming for complex machines such as the Citizen L series and Star SR series. An intelligent digital twin acts as a precise virtual model of the machine, enabling advanced features like superimposition, composite axis control, and automatic prepositioning to optimise performance and ensure collision-free operations.

With tools for configuring collets, guide bushings and tool mounting blocks, Esprit Edge reduces user expertise requirements while making set-up faster and more consistent. Features such as automatic synchronisation, adaptive cycles and tilted plane rotation simplify programming for multi-channel operations, minimising manual coding and errors. 

Real-time simulation ensures safe and highly accurate, optimised machining, while high-quality, OEM-tailored G-code eliminates post-processor customisation. 

Leveraging AI to transform CAM programming with two new tools, Esprit Edge empowers manufacturers to automate repetitive tasks, reduce errors and improve overall efficiency, enabling faster time-to-market for their products.

Firstly, Hexagon Copilot, an AI-driven virtual assistant, provides 24/7 support for CAM programmers of all skill levels. With natural language processing, it offers tailored responses, expert guidance, and seamless integration into the software’s interface.

Secondly, ProPlanAI streamlines process planning and accelerates production. This self-learning automation tool uses historical machining data to predict and optimise processes for new parts, minimising manual intervention.

By combining Swiss machining capabilities with cutting-edge AI technologies, Esprit Edge now empowers manufacturers to overcome today’s challenges and prepare for the future of smart manufacturing.

More information https://hexagon.com/products/esprit-edge

When things go smoothly, everything falls into place – Max Hilscher GmbH is a striking example of how the right digital strategy and tools can drive a complete cultural shift in manufacturing. This progressive automotive and aerospace supplier has, since last year, been relying not only on automated parts production, but also on a fully digital process chain with Vericut and Vericut Force from CGTech. The results? No more crashes, significant time savings, and a production team working with greater calm and confidence.

Parts ranging from single items to medium batches are machined on automated Hermle machining centres. For about a year, the company has relied on end-to-end process simulation with Vericut and feed rate optimisation using Vericut Force.

“A machine crash can easily cost five figures,” says Christoph Hilscher, who has managed the family business for 11 years. “And if you’re manufacturing complex milled parts for the automotive and aerospace industries, you simply can’t afford those kinds of mistakes.”

Machining at Hilscher is far from simple. With a focus on aluminium components, tolerances are tight, geometries are complex and batch sizes change frequently. The decision to use Vericut Force was made deliberately – not as a nice-to-have, but as a strategic necessity.

“We have to move with the times,” says machinist and lead CAM programmer Tobias Konrad. “Especially in single-part production, we need tools that help us machine faster and more economically – without sacrificing process security.”

Force delivers exactly that: realistic optimisation that achieves measurable time savings while reducing the strain on both tools and machines.

At Max Hilscher GmbH, the results speak for themselves. Depending on part geometry and material, machining time can be reduced by 5 to 40%.

More information www.vericut.com