ModuleWorks has launched the 2025.04 release of its software components for digital manufacturing. This latest release of the ModuleWorks SDK (software development kit) includes new and enhanced features designed to enhance process safety, improve tool-path generation efficiency and increase part quality.

For example, take multi-axis edge finishing in deburring operations and the introduction of a user-defined edge sequence. With automatic sorting, it is often difficult to meet the deburring requirements of each part because the pre-defined order does not always match the specific needs of the job. The ModuleWorks 2025.04 release introduces a practical alternative to automatic sorting: users can now preserve the input order of the curves, with the resulting tool path sorted accordingly. This capability gives users more flexibility, enabling them to machine edges in their preferred sequence to improve overall machining efficiency and precision. 

On the same subject, ModuleWorks 2025.04 introduces automatic machining direction. Previously, determining the appropriate machining direction for three- and four-axis tool paths often led to sub-optimal ordering, resulting in discontinuous tool paths. ModuleWorks 2025.04 contains a new option called ‘automatic machining direction’ that takes the contour direction into account to ensure optimal ordering. This makes deburring tool paths more user-friendly while also reducing cycle time. 

As a further enhancement, three-axis machining now benefits from corner peg removal for constant cusp. Generating a consistent surface finish in corner regions is often hampered by pattern collapse and corner smoothing. The intelligent corner peg removal solution tackles problematic cusps where the pattern collapses or corner smoothing shifts the tool path. This new approach automatically adds strategic peg loops in corner areas, ensuring smooth, consistent results and minimising the need for manual polishing.

More information www.bit.ly/43fBmT5

At this year’s Drives and Controls Exhibition, part of Smart Manufacturing Week (NEC, Birmingham, 4-5 June 2025), Netherlands-headquartered JC-Electronics is launching a sustainable impact calculator that enables customers to view the CO2, resource and cost savings of refurbishing HMIs, rather than replacing with new. 

Parts obsolescence has long-posed a challenge for industry, often leading to unnecessary waste when older components are discarded prematurely. Coupled with mandatory reporting procedures for the largest organisations under the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), businesses are being driven to find new ways to improve their sustainability credentials and reduce carbon emissions.

Chief commercial officer Caspar Botter explains: “Many companies struggle with the product lifetime management policies of the big OEM machinery manufacturers and feel forced to spend considerable time and expense on new upgrades. At the same time, they are being encouraged to reduce their use of raw materials and consider reuse where feasible.”

He continues: “We want to show customers that there’s an alternative through the purchase of refurbished industrial automation spare parts. When they choose JCertified refurbished electronics, they save on water, raw materials and the CO2 needed for the production of new electronics and benefit from a two-year warranty. When combined with our new sustainable impact calculator, we can give our customers clear, at-a-glance information on the cost, CO2 and resource savings that can be achieved.”

In a comparison between a typical mid-sized HMI and a refurbished unit, JC-Electronics can demonstrate that the refurbished part saves 80% of CO2 equivalent, 99% of metals and minerals use, and 86% of water use.

More information www.jc-electronics.com/uk

SYSPRO has released new research to support executives in mid-sized manufacturers considering the value of implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system in their business. Manufacturing organisations require practical tools to drive growth and cultivate a data-driven culture that empowers decision-makers throughout the supply and value chains.  

“In today’s digital age, effective data management, security and storage have become critical for any significant 21^st century manufacturing business,” says Nick McGrane, managing director of NexSys, a SYSPRO company. “And yet, many manufacturers are struggling with legacy systems that fail to support their long-term growth aspirations.”

This information was revealed during a webinar hosted by SYSPRO, which discussed the company’s new e-book: ‘A Guide to Successful ERP System Implementation’. This e-book, compiled by market intelligence and strategy firm Frost Sullivan, is a treasure trove of essential information on investment considerations, avoiding pitfalls and best implementation practices. It provides the knowledge that various companies have identified as essential to ensure sustainable value. By asking 10 essential questions, companies can evaluate whether an ERP solution can unlock their full potential in the foreseeable future.

“As manufacturers and distributors expand their operations, the complexity of their processes tends to increase, placing additional strain on both systems and personnel. This shift in expenditure underscores the growing recognition of technology as a critical driver of efficiency and competitiveness in the manufacturing and distribution sectors,” says McGrane.

The e-book is available for free download from the link below.

More information www.bit.ly/3Z0edl1