Delcam for SolidWorks wire EDM to be launched at EMO

Delcam will launch the 2012 version of Delcam for SolidWorks, its integrated CAM system for SolidWorks, at the EMO World of Metalworking exhibition to be held in Hannover from 19th to 24th September. The new release will include programming of 2D wire EDM for the first time alongside the comprehensive options for the programming of turning and mill-turn equipment, drilling and two- through five-axis milling. Four-axis wire functionality is planned for the 2012 R2 release, due in January 2012.

Other enhancements will include target-part comparison, the ability to compare a model of the desired final shape with the shape achieved by the programmed toolpaths, and multiple-instance programming, the programming of multiple SolidWorks components in one operation, either in the same orientation or in different orientations.

Fully-automated de-burring and chamfering will also become available to give faster programming of these finishing operations on 2- or 2.5-axis parts. The ability to incorporate chamfers, even when they are not shown in the original SolidWorks model, duplicates functionality previously available in FeatureCAM 2011.

Delcam for SolidWorks 2012 will also incorporate enhancements from the 2012 release of FeatureCAM, including improvements in the use of stock models and new options in the tooling database.

Stock models allow the user to visualize the material remaining after each operation. This makes it easier to eliminate air cutting and so generate more efficient toolpaths with reduced machining times. The models also simplify the selection of the most appropriate tool sizes for rest-roughing and finishing operations.

The tooling database is a key part of the automation in Delcam for SolidWorks as it allows the optimum operating conditions to be associated with each tool. In most companies, the database is developed by the most experienced user. It then ensures that even inexperienced operators use safe and efficient cutting parameters.

Delcam for SolidWorks combines the benefits associated with Delcam’s PowerMILL and FeatureCAM CAM systems. It is based on Delcam’s proven machining algorithms that are already used by more than 35,000 customers around the world. The software offers PowerMILL’s exceptional speed of toolpath calculation, plus the advanced strategies for high-speed and five-axis machining, to ensure increased productivity, maximum tool life and immaculate surface finish, even when cutting the hardest, most challenging materials. At the same time, Delcam for SolidWorks has the same strong focus on ease of use as FeatureCAM, including all of the knowledge-based automation that makes that system so consistent and reliable.

Delcam for SolidWorks is fully integrated into the SolidWorks environment so that the program looks and behaves like SolidWorks. It offers full associativity so that any changes in the CAD model are reflected automatically in the toolpaths. However, this associativity is more intelligent than that offered in many other integrated CAM systems. Delcam for SolidWorks doesn’t simply modify the existing toolpaths but also reviews the choice of cutting tools and machining strategies, and changes them if necessary.

All toolpaths generated with Delcam for SolidWorks can be checked by the integrated simulation module on the computer before being passed to the machine tool. In addition, the software comes with Delcam’s full range of post-processors to allow fast accurate data transfer to all leading types of machining equipment.