CAM software keeps contractor up to date

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Aug 28, 2006

All new releases of SolidCut Wire are shipped with the latest CAD design integrators, keeping CTE up-to-date with industry requirements and ensuring that it can handle all future components.

CTE, based in York, Pennsylvania, is a vertically integrated contract manufacturer with capabilities to design and build high precision progressive tooling, prototype metal stamping and reel to reel plating.

After purchasing an Agie Challenge machine in 1999 the company also purchased an alternative CAM system.

The system was extremely slow to work with and CTE could not get it to generate code for the new machine.

After 6 weeks of failing to output accurate NC code for the machine the company took advice from Agie, which recommended PEPS SolidCut Wire.

The system was installed in 1999 and was immediately outputting 100% accurate NC code.

Said Joe Gallagher, EDM Technician at CTE: "After our previous experience I was impressed that we could get accurate code every time".

"I also found the system extremely fast and easy to use in comparison".

"I didn't even have the formal training after the initial installation but was able to get to grips with the system straight away".

After using the system for a few weeks further benefits became clear.

Gallagher added: "The solid modelling capabilities were outstanding, and the slug retention module alone saved us at least 30 minutes in programming time per job".

"The knowledge base for the wire machines is very useful because it simplifies learning and saves time - at least 10 minutes per part".

"Time is money, so this is very important to us".

Since installing PEPS SolidCut Wire, CTE has also expanded the services that it can offer its customers.

Gallagher explained: "Originally we were producing standard profiles, but now with SolidCut Wire and the new Agie machine's capabilities we are able to do any four axis programs with varying tapers and no core operations, which enables unmanned operation by removing the core automatically".

"We have had great success with no core operations as there are no resulting slivers in wire guides".

Compatibility with all CAD formats has also been assured, thanks to Camtek's relationships with all major CAD vendors.

CTE can receive data in all popular formats (such as 2D line/arc,3D wireframe, surface, and solid data) and immediately apply simple or complex wire paths to it.

All new releases of SolidCut Wire are shipped with the latest CAD design integrators, keeping CTE up-to-date with industry requirements and ensuring that it can handle all future components that customers might need.

Customer service is always an important issue for mission-critical systems, and CTE has been extremely pleased with the service provided by US distributor Camtek North America.

"Whenever I had a question it was either answered straight away or within 10-20 minutes".

"Staff at Camtek were always friendly and courteous, and always able to help".

CTE plans to expand its range of wire EDM machines in the future, with PEPS SolidCut Wire playing an important part.

Gallagherconcluded: "SolidCut was recommended by the machine manufacturer, is extremely easy to learn and use, produces accurate code and is backed by excellent customer service".

"When we buy more machines PEPS SolidCut Wire will be driving them".