The ProtoTrak SMX CNC system available from XYZ Machine Tools is now available with an optional DXF file converter. By importing CAD files in DXF or DWG formats, via USB or a network connection, operators can quickly simplify the data by turning off layers such as borders and dimensions before choosing their initial datum point. Once selected, the standard ProtoTrak conversational programming language is used to create the machining path. The added advantage is that all points are taken from the CAD file, so no dimensional mistakes can occur as a result of the operator inputting incorrect data.

Once the program has been created, the operator can use the standard features of ProtoTrak to confirm the tool path or verify the part in 3D to show the machining process on screen.
For companies using 3D solid-modelling software, ProtoTrak is also able to import Parasolid data (.X_T format), which can be viewed in 3D with the ability to zoom, rotate and pan the drawing. Furthermore, using ProtoTrak’s ‘Inquiry’ function, the operator can interrogate the Parasolid file to ensure the correct tooling is used and that cycle times are minimised.
“The functionality and power of the ProtoTrak CNC control system, puts it head and shoulders above other systems aimed at one-off and low-to medium-volume production,” states XYZ’s managing director Nigel Atherton. “The option of the DXF converter and Parasolid model data takes the efficiency of ProtoTrak to the next level.”
For further information www.xyzmachinetools.com

At EMO 2017 in Hanover, Siemens exhibited new and expanded digital and classic services with capabilities for identifying and exploiting additional productivity potential for machine tools. Machining companies can use the new ‘Digitalisation Check as a Service’ to create transparency of the digitalisation capability of their machine shops. With ‘Virtual Commissioning as a Service’, machine tool OEMs use a virtual twin to accelerate both commissioning and time-to-market.

‘Digitalisation Check as a Service’ examines how well machines, control units and processes can be networked. With this service, the data of the control equipment in the machine shop is recorded and analysed on site. This is followed by a recommendation for the optimal connection strategy on the path toward digitalisation.
‘Virtual Commissioning as a Service’ shortens time-to-market by using a virtual twin, whereby real commissioning can be accelerated by up to 70%, says Siemens. Moreover, the mechanical development and electrical design departments can save time by co-operating in parallel rather than sequentially as previously. Before the real machine is built, its virtual twin is connected to the real control system, and the machine is commissioned virtually.
These retrofit services include new Sinumerik and Sinamics control and drive technology, workshop-oriented programming with ShopMill and ShopTurn, as well as mechanical overhauls when required. According to Siemens, customers benefit from reduced downtimes, fast machining cycles, a more reliable spare part supply, improved precision and quality, as well as simplified programming and operation.
For further information www.siemens.com

CNC Software Inc, developer of Mastercam, has announced the integration of Sandvik Coromant’s CoroPlus ToolLibrary into the new release of Mastercam 2018. The move allows users to save significant time searching for desired tools and building 3D tool assemblies that can be brought directly into Mastercam via the ISO 13399 data format.

Mastercam developers worked closely with Sandvik Coromant product management to let users import 3D tool assemblies directly into toolpath operations. Customers benefit from having the correct tooling for the material and type of machining operation, plus an accurate 3D model that can be used for visualisation and collision checking.
“In the past, customers had to search through thousands of catalogue pages and cross-reference multiple sources to create the tool assemblies needed to machine their parts,” says Dave Boucher, director of product at CNC Software. “Now, they can save significant time and effort by quickly searching and building 3D, virtual tool assemblies using the CoroPlus ToolLibrary interface, and import them directly into Mastercam when they program their parts.”
Pernilla Lindberg, product manager – process planning at Sandvik Coromant, adds: “The tool library solution allows you to put the different tool items together – for example a milling cutter, the inserts and the holder – and then have an accurate representation of the actual tool.”
For further information www.mastercam.com

Open Mind Technologies exhibited its NC code-based HyperMill Virtual Machining Centre machine simulation for the first time at EMO in Hanover last month. In addition, live machining demonstrations using the strategies provided by the HyperMill Maxx Machining performance package were presented, while the company also offered a first glimpse of its upcoming HyperMill 2018.1.

With HyperMill Virtual Machining Centre, Open Mind has developed a solution that uses the NC code after the post-processor run as the basis for simulations. This ensures that virtual machine movements correspond exactly to the motion of the real machine.
According to Open Mind, the HyperMill Maxx Machining performance package is able to help manufacturers achieve time savings of up to 90% during finishing and 75% during roughing. Visitors to the show were able to see live machining demonstrations and experience first-hand the potential for savings, especially with the five-axis tangent-plane machining strategy.
In HyperMill 2018.1, 2D contour milling based on the 3D model strategy will make it much easier to program vertical surfaces. The milling contour is generated automatically by selecting the perpendicular surfaces of the workpiece model.
For further information www.openmind-tech.com

Edgecam is helping a “toys for boys” manufacturer offer an important new service for model-making companies and private enthusiasts. And all within a few months of installing the software.

Matlock-based 17d Miniatures produces a range of scaled working models of locomotives, carriages and wagons, for three miniature railway gauge systems: 5”, 7¼” and 10¼”. The company’s locomotives for the 5” gauge are a scale of one-twelfth, at around 6 ft long, growing to approximately 12 ft for the 10¼” gauge. All trains are “sit-on”, with enthusiasts actually able to get inside some of the bigger ones.
“A large number of hobbyists have spent 20 or 30 years making working steam engines in their sheds, and are now finding that time is against them as they’re getting older,” explains partner Tristan Dengate. “As a result, they’re now looking for as many components as possible to be machined for them – and Edgecam has given us the opportunity to say: yes, we can machine that for you at a sensible cost.
“The ability to move away from castings is changing how we work,” he continues. “Due to the speed of Edgecam, products can be machined from a solid block, which is far quicker even though there’s more material to remove. With the Waveform Roughing Strategy we’ve been able to triple feed rates and have the cutter going in considerably deeper than we could with traditional roughing.”
And now, after switching to Edgecam in early 2017, 17d is looking to apply these techniques to manufacturing components for model cars, boats, lorries and aircraft. This will be a natural progression for the business, as it already offers a subcontract machining service for other companies.
For further information www.edgecam.com