CAM software increases CAD system compatability

AlphaCAM V6 features enhanced support for "one-hit" machining operations as well as faster and more intuitive CNC programming.

AlphaCAM V6, the latest release of Licom's high capability CAD/CAM system, will be launched at the EMO International Machine Tool Exhibition at Hanover with enhanced support for "one-hit" machining operations, as well as faster and more intuitive CNC programming.

The provision of combined milling and turning operations within an integrated programming package is a key addition to AlphaCAM V6, which builds on the proven capabilities of previous Licom releases.

When combined with the software's improved feature recognition functionality, customers can create complete libraries of user-configurable machining strategies for all their components.

Operators need only input the part geometry to be worked on, select the required machining style - including multiple roughing, turning, drilling and finishing routines, complete with nominated tooling and associated speeds and feeds - and AlphaCAM will produce fully specified CNC machining programs at the touch of a button.

AlphaCAM's ability to combine any number of stored machining routines provides true "drag and drop" compilation of new machining strategies, which can be checked quickly and easily using the system's advanced visualisation tools.

As a result, AlphaCAM V6 not only slashes programming time and improves programming quality, but also reduces the skill levels required for "right first time" programs to be produced by inexperienced users.

In parallel, the system's consistent application of manufacturing parameters to programs produced by different operators allows companies to capitalise on in-house best practice, as well as achieve substantial tool cost savings through standardisation and rationalisation of their tooling inventory.

Further enhancements in AlphaCAM V6 include seamless importing of product data from a wider variety of CAD systems, including Parasolid, SolidWorks and both Catia V4 and V5 parts files.

In addition, the system's parametric module has been upgraded to further streamline the specification and manufacture of families of products - by enabling new machining programs to be created from existing parts simply by entering numerical values for product variables.

Like previous Licom CAD/CAM software releases, AlphaCAM V6 available worldwide in all major languages.

It is also backed by local customer helpdesks, advanced on-site or remote system support, comprehensive product training programmes and the company's networking, installation and IT consultancy services.

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