limited to the use of generic G and M codes; special posts are easily configured to suit different head configurations and table sizes.

(1)

(2)

Extensive range of CAD interfaces

PEPS WIRE EDM comes with an extensive range of integrated CAD data translators that allow the direct import of CAD drawings in their native form or as industry standards. The standard system configuration comes with interfaces for DXF, AutoCAD DWG, AutoCAD-Inventor, VISI, SolidWorks, SolidEdge, IronCad and Solid IGES. Optional CATIA V4, CATIA V5, Unigraphics, Pro Engineer, VDA and STEP translators are available. PEPS WIRE EDM can display the CAD data as simple wireframe, solids and surfaces or a combination of all three; which is used as the source for all cut-path programming and process simulation.

Comprehensive machine and postprocessor database

PEPS WIRE EDM contains a comprehensive database of Wire EDM machines from the leading Machine Tool manufacturers; including JOB and Script for Agie, CMD and CT Expert for Charmilles, Brother, Fanuc, Hitachi, Makino, Ona, Sodick, Seibu and Mitsubishi. The advanced postprocessors aren’t just

limited to the use of generic G and M codes; special posts are easily configured to suit different head configurations and table sizes.

Multiple tagging and auto tag removal

PEPS Wire EDM allows you to give the part multiple start holes and it will automatically establish tags near to the start of each new hole location. In PEPS Wire EDM it is possible to select from several different methods of unattended machining. If your machine is equipped with automatic wire threading, then you will most likely want to run unattended as long and as often as possible. Unattended machining is performed by leaving the slugs attached while all of the preliminary cuts are taken. Numerous strategies are available to cut the part; for instance, taking all of the rough cuts before finishing, in which case all rough cuts are taken while leaving the tags attached, then the tags are removed, and finally the trim cuts are taken. Alternatively, take the rough and finish cuts while leaving the tag in place and then to remove the tag and trim this area.

PEPS Wire EDM is the industry leading Wire EDM

CAD/CAM system developed specifically for the

precision engineering, tool-making, mould &

die, press and extrusion tool industries. It offers

an intuitive environment for the comprehensive

programming of all Wire EDM machines tools.

: peps wire edm

advanced 2 and 4 axis Wire EDM solutions

intuitive graphical user interface extensive range of CAD interfaces for both import and export comprehensive machine and postprocessor database feature recognition from solid models with cutting projection roughing and finishing cuts easily applied to multiple punches or dies variable land heights for extrusion dies and clipping tools solid and wireframe projection wizards multiple tagging options with auto tag removal reverse cutting with offsets and cutting technology changes multiple strategies for corner types

no-core pocket destruction of round and irregular shapes full solid 3D simulation, part sectioning and part comparison

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Applying cutting technologies

Geometry drawn in or imported into PEPS Wire EDM is used to create ‘Profile Figures’ ready for the application of cut technologies. Profile Figures are used whether a single component profile or no-core section is being programmed or as upper and lower sections for 4 axis machining. Individual Profile Figures can be generated by directly interrogating wireframe or solid geometry and PEPS Wire EDM can be used to quickly find linked items. Multiple Punch or Die profiles can be generated by the user selecting a set of lines and arcs representing the profiles, as typically appears on a press tool plate and where PEPS Wire EDM will automatically and rapidly create discrete profiles from the largest amounts of data. 4-Axis Upper and Lower profiles can be automatically synchronised, however,

PEPS Wire EDM also benefits from full manual override and the use of 3D constraint lines, which define how the upper shape will be matched to the Lower shape.

Toolpath verification and simulation

The completed wire path can be simulated using rendered solid model graphics, including fixtures and target parts. Any collisions that are detected are highlighted both on the model and via on-screen messages. As slugs become detached by cuts, the simulation advises the programmer that this is the case and graphically removes the part, emulating the cutting process on the machine tool exactly. Toolpath verification also tests whether the completed part is removable from the component. It is also possible to do a detailed part comparison between target model

and cut part, which highlights any rest material or gouges.

Optional functionality

PEPS Wire EDM also includes specific functionality for turning tool design manufacturers. Component Profile geometry can be automatically modified to Tool Profiles by entering combinations of Top, Side and Front tool rake angles. CAM and GEAR profile generation is delivered to DIN/ ISO and AGMA standards. Extrusion Toolmakers benefit from the Variable Land feature. Changes in land heights are easily applied at any number of points around the die face.

By using PEPS WIRE EDM, not only will programming time be minimised,

but also the eventual cut-path will be far more efficient, saving further time

on the machine. Add in the comprehensive simulation and proofing tools

and you have a system that not only streamlines day-to-day production,

it also reduces costly errors and eradicates the need for dry-runs, giving

you’re company a competitive advantage.

(4)

PEPS Pentacut is an industry leading 5 axis

Laser CAD/CAM system developed specifically

for the general engineering, automotive and

aerospace industries. PEPS Pentacut offers an

intuitive environment for the comprehensive

programming of multi-axis laser or water-jet

cutting machines.

: peps pentacut

multi-axis laser technology for 3D sheet

metal components

intuitive graphical user interface extensive range of CAD interfaces

for both import and export comprehensive machine and postprocessor database locate large parts with simplified

part location system automated fixture design one-click application of toolpath

for inner and outer profiles manual application of toolpath for selected areas edit cut technology and nozzle setting at unlimited positions total control of nozzle angle

interactively or explicitly create and apply technology data at any point inter- and intra-cut collision

detection full solid 3D simulation of machine, nozzle and part

laser

PEPS Pentacut comes with an extensive range of integrated CAD data translators that allow the direct import of CAD drawings in their native form or as industry standards, such as IGES, STEP and DXF. The standard system configuration comes with interfaces for DXF, AutoCAD DWG, AutoCAD-Inventor, VISI, SolidWorks, SolidEdge, IronCad and IGES. Optional CATIA V4, CATIA V5, Unigraphics, Pro Engineer, VDA and STEP translators are available. PEPS Pentacut can display the CAD data as simple wireframe, solids and surfaces or a combination of all three; which is used as the source for all cut-path programming and process simulation.

PEPS Pentacut contains a comprehensive database of laser and water-jet machines from a large number of Machine Tool manufacturers; including NTC, Prima, Trumpf and Amada. Should a machine not be supported, PEPS Pentacut also contains a

Machine Setup utility that allows the configuration of bespoke machine types and postprocessing information. The advanced

postprocessors aren’t just limited to the use of generic G and M codes; special posts are easily configured to suit different head configurations and table sizes.

Automated fixture design

Stamped forms typically need to be held using fixtures and within PEPS Pentacut this can be done in a number of ways. One way is to import clamps and fixtures from external files and then manually reposition them. Another way is to use the Fixture Design utility to create the support fixtures using sheet metal. Simply define the number of horizontal and vertical support sheets, how they interlock - including locking features if you require them - and how they run-off the part. Once these details have been defined, PEPS Pentacut creates each sheet, nests them on standard sheet metal sizes, adds assembly notes such as number references and creates the NC code with which to manufacture them.

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Cutting-path creation

Cutting operations within PEPS Pentacut can generally be divided into two areas: inner and outer trims. Outer trims are the external forms of the part whilst inner trims represent the internal cut-outs and other features to be machined. The basic toolpaths for these cutting operations can be automatically generated by the automation tools built into to PEPS Pentacut. User interaction is available for all toolpath types to allow for manual creation and refinement. PEPS Pentacut provides a great amount of control over how each inner or outer trim is handled; for example, creating micro-joints to hold the material in place until processing is finished becomes quick and uncomplicated. The toolpath can also be edited in terms of how the cutting nozzle is angled towards it or how it handles jigs and fixture features.

Reduce machine wear

PEPS Pentacut has a wealth of in-built features that allow for the optimisation of the laser toolpath. For example, by smoothing out the toolpath in areas around tight corners or small features, PEPS Pentacut will optimise the toolpath to reduce the wear on the machine tool at the same time; ensuring that feeds and speeds are maintained across the job.

.

Within PEPS Pentacut the toolpaths are presented showing the angle of the nozzle as it moves around the part. Instant feedback is provided about whether or not a specific move is possible - either in terms of machine head movement limits or accessibility. Any collisions that are detected are highlighted both on the model and via on-screen messages.

The trim-path parameters can be edited directly or, in the event of a collision, automatically corrected at any time; ensuring that your toolpath is both safe and using the optimum strategy to reduce processing time. Once the toolpath has been optimised, simply select the piercing and cutting conditions from the pre-defined technology tables and PEPS Pentacut quickly generates reliable NC code.

NC code simulation

The NC code can be re-imported into PEPS Pentacut and simulated within the same environment in which it was created. The NC simulation shows how the tool moves through space, allowing the toolpath to be sanity checked before any metal cutting occurs.

By using PEPS Pentacut, not only will programming time be minimised,

the eventual cut-path will be far more efficient, saving further time on

the machine. Add in the comprehensive simulation and proofing tools

and you have a system that not only streamlines day-to-day production,

it also reduces costly errors and eradicates the need for dry-runs.

laser

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PEPS Tubecut comes with an extensive range of integrated CAD data translators that allow the direct import of CAD drawings in their native form or as industry standards, such as IGES, STEP and DXF. The standard system configuration comes with interfaces for DXF, AutoCAD DWG, AutoCAD-Inventor, VISI, SolidWorks, SolidEdge, IronCad and Solid IGES. Optional CATIA V4, CATIA V5, Unigraphics, Pro Engineer, VDA and STEP translators are available. PEPS Tubecut can display the CAD data as simple wireframe, solids and surfaces or a combination of all three; which is used as the source for all cut-path programming and process simulation.

PEPS Tubecut contains a comprehensive database of laser machines from a large number of Machine Tool manufacturers; including Adige, NTC, Trumpf and Amada. Should a machine not be supported, PEPS Tubecut also contains a Machine Setup utility that

allows the configuration of bespoke machine types and post processing information. The advanced

postprocessors aren’t just limited to the use of generic G and M codes; special posts are easily configured to suit different head configurations and table sizes.

Library of standard tube sections

PEPS Tubecut supplies a library of parametric tube shapes that simplify the creation of the tube material to be cut. If a suitable section does not exist, the ‘Freeform’ option is used to create the special shape section. Freeform shape tubes can even be created from one of the libraries of PEPS Tubecut parametric shapes. If none of these standard shapes are suitable, the user simply draws the section centre line profile or outside / inside shape using the integrated CAD tools. All modelling in PEPS Tubecut is done entirely in 3D.

PEPS Tubecut is an industry leading Laser CAD/

CAM system for rotary and multi axis cutting

machines

developed

specifically

for

tube

cutting and manipulation industry. The intuitive

programming system allows tubes or sections

to be parametrically defined from a library of

standard shapes into which cutting apertures

and profiles can be defined.

: peps tubecut

multi-axis laser technology for tubular

components

intuitive graphical user interface extensive range of CAD interfaces

comprehensive machine and postprocessor database built-in library of standard tube and aperture types nesting over single or multiple pipes or sections one-click application of toolpath

manual application of toolpath for selected areas total control of nozzle angle both

interactively and explicitly create and apply technology data at any point inter- and intra-cut

collision detection full solid 3D simulation of

machine, nozzle and part ability to import 3D geometry

and machine them directly

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Library of standard shapes

In a similar way to tube sections, PEPS Tubecut supplies a library of parametric hole shapes, again with the option to define ‘freeform’ shapes; so specialist joint features such as duck tails, clips and key holes are easily added. Holes in the tube are created by generating a solid object to represent the shape, which is then extracted from the tube. The solid can pass through all walls or one wall and can pass through the edge of the section creating a gap. For holes passing through the tube section at a single or compound angle, positioning can be defined at the mid-point of the section or at a position on the top face. For hole shapes that repeat along the tube in a standard pattern, five pattern shapes are supported: Circle, Line at an Angle, Arc, Square and Grid.

Nesting multiple parts on a single pipe or section

Where a number of small parts can be produced from a common tube section, it is possible to use the PEPS Tubecut nesting option. This allows the user to create individual programs for each part (including cutting path), simulate and check the cutting path. Parts of suitable section are then selected and the quantity required specified. New parts and quantities are added until PEPS Tubecut reports that the material length specified is full. As each part is selected, PEPS automatically checked the section of the material and reports if it is a suitable part for the nest. An advanced nesting option is also available which will nest previously machined parts into a multiple number of tubes, where each nested tube can be then be postprocessed to form a complete NC program. This advanced nesting functionality an easy route to using stock material most effectively and economically.

Within PEPS Tubecut the toolpaths are presented showing the angle of the nozzle as it moves around the part in a full solid simulation. Instant feedback is provided about whether or not a specific move is possible - either in terms of machine head movement limits or accessibility. Any collisions that are detected are highlighted both on the model and via on-screen messages. The toolpath parameters can be edited directly or, in the event of a collision, automatically corrected at any time ensuring that your toolpath is both safe and using the optimum strategy to reduce processing time. Once the toolpath has been optimised, simply select the cutting conditions from the pre-defined technology tables and PEPS Tubecut quickly generates reliable NC code.

By using PEPS Tubecut, not only will programming time be minimised,

the eventual cut-path will be far more efficient, saving further time on the

machine. Add in the comprehensive simulation and proofing tools and

you have a system that not only streamlines day-to-day production, it

also reduces costly errors and eradicates the need for dry-runs.

(8)

PEPS Milling is a leading CAD/CAM system that

provides a practical and intuitive solution for

the offline programming of 2 and 3 axis Milling

machines, with support for indexable rotary

axes. PEPS Milling is used in thousands of

product manufacturing, precision engineering

and tool making companies around the globe.

: peps milling

effortless prismatic machining

intuitive graphical user interface extensive range of CAD interfaces;

both for import and export comprehensive machine and

postprocessor library standard hole cycle functionality profiling of simple or complex geometric boundaries with CRC

extensive pocketing cycles for regular and irregular geometry canned cycle output for standard

hole and pocketing cycles user configurable and expandable

tool and material database user controllable cutting depths,

direction and tool overlap fully customisable visualisation

of machining sequence sub-programming output for suitable control systems calculation of cycle time for

complete part

milling

PEPS Milling comes with an extensive range of integrated CAD data translators that allow the direct import of CAD drawings in their native form or as industry standards, such as IGES, STEP and DXF. The standard system configuration comes with interfaces for DXF, AutoCAD DWG, AutoCAD-Inventor, VISI, SolidWorks, SolidEdge, IronCad and IGES. Optional CATIA V4, CATIA V5, Unigraphics, Pro Engineer, VDA and STEP translators are available. PEPS Milling can display the CAD data as simple wireframe, solids and surfaces or a combination of all three; which is used as the source for all cut-path programming and process simulation.

Comprehensive machine library

PEPS Milling contains a comprehensive library of milling machines from a large number of leading Machine Tool manufacturers; including Acramatic, Deckel, Fadal, Fagor, Fanuc, Haas, Heidenhein, Hitachi-Seiki, Hurco, GE, Maho/ Philips, Matsuura, Mori-Seiki, Num, Protrak, Siemens and Yasnac.

Comprehensive tool and material database

PEPS Milling has a fully integrated tool management database. Tools and tool holders are stored with all the relevant data associated to material types and cutting conditions. Default programming styles can be set up so that accurate information is automatically returned to the programmer; such as feed and speed information. The tool database can be intuitively interrogated using standard searching, ordering, grouping and filtering functionality.

Configurable postprocessors

An extensive library of advanced postprocessors is available to suit most machine tools and all postprocessors are fully configurable to suit individual requirements; they aren’t just limited to the use of generic G and M codes. Canned cycles for drilling, subroutines to reduce program length, circular interpolation, cutter radius and tool length compensation all combine to produce reliable NC code which is easy to use on the shop floor.

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Full range of drilling cycles

Centre drilling, drilling, tapping, reaming, boring, helical milling, thread milling and mill drill cycles give the user a choice of operations to cover any combination of hole type. Selection of diameters and depths straight from the model makes it easy to enter drilling parameters and eliminates the possibility of errors. Optimisation of the toolpaths ensures the shortest distance for the tool travel, saving machining time on complex hole patterns.

.

2D profile machining and face machining operations

The profiling operations give a choice of machining direction, circular or direct approach, and the ability to cut down to a depth with a sequence of profiling moves all in one command. Cutter radius compensation capability provides practical CNC code for use

on the shop floor. Where the cutter cannot machine tight internal radii, the system will automatically provide the correct information to enable re-machining with a smaller tool. Spiral or zigzag face milling operations provide a choice of methods to clean up faces offering maximum flexibility.

.

2.5D toolpaths from 3D forms

Within PEPS Milling it is possible to generate 2.5D toolpaths for simple standard 3D forms; such as cylinder, plane, sphere or ruled surface, without the need to have PEPS Surface Milling or creating a 3D model. Standard machining routines are included for machining blends and chamfers onto sharp edges.

Open and closed pocket machining

PEPS Milling allows pocketing operations with multiple islands with multiple depths and the ability

to define draft angles and top and base radii for the pocket and on the islands, or to apply a freeform shape to the pocket or island to define its wall. For open sided pockets the user can identify the open faces and the cutter will then automatically move across the open edge to remove any residual material.

Once programmed, the job can be simulated in realistic rendered solids. PEPS Milling automatically checks the tool and the holder against the model and fixturing and provides collision warnings. Graphical verification of the completed toolpaths shows the sequence of operations and the surface finish. The cut part can be compared with the original model, to ensure that the part has been completely finished.

PEPS Milling has the functionality to create user-defined macros which

can automate the most common and preferred methods of machining

features. By setting depths of cut, tools, sequences of operation and

cutting conditions, your parameters will be used automatically every

time. Encouraging the use of consistent working methods will reduce the

time spent on deciding the best machining method and make sure that

the quality of finish meets the requirements of each job.

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PEPS Surface Milling comes with an extensive range of integrated CAD data translators that allow the direct import of CAD drawings in their native form or as industry standards, such as IGES, STEP and DXF. The standard system configuration comes with interfaces for DXF, AutoCAD DWG, AutoCAD-Inventor, VISI, SolidWorks, SolidEdge, IronCad and IGES. Optional CATIA V4, CATIA V5, Unigraphics, Pro Engineer, VDA and STEP translators are available. PEPS Surface Milling can display the CAD data as simple wireframe, solids and surfaces or a combination of all three; which is used as the source for all toolpath programming and simulation

Fully integrated CAD functionality

PEPS Surface Milling CAD module offers a powerful, fully functional CAD system with a large number of possibilities for constructing surfaces and solids. Solids can be created by adding or subtracting simple solid shapes or by more advanced techniques; such as, sweeping, extruding and lofting. Surfaces and solids can also be constructed from 2D drafting or 3D wireframe geometry. PEPS Surface Milling also has an extensive number of geometry modification tools that can be applied to either existing geometry or imported models; including repairing / removing holes and other features, creating constant / variable radius blends and adding draft angles.

Tool library with holders, cutting parameters and sister tooling

Catalogues of tools, holders, extensions, adapters, feeds and speeds make it easy to keep control of and make use of the available tooling and utilise the optimum feeds and speeds. For long machining cycles, PEPS Surface Milling will keep track of the amount of machining completed with a tool. When the specified tool life has been reached the system will automatically call for a sister tool, minimising the risk of damage to the part being machined, by worn or broken tooling.

PEPS Surface Milling is a leading surface

machining

CAD/CAM

system

developed

specifically with tool & die and mould

manufacturers in mind. It offers an intuitive

environment for the design and comprehensive

programming of complex parts.

: peps surface

milling

generate high quality 3D toolpaths

intuitive graphical user interface extensive range of CAD interfaces area clearance roughing and

rest roughing toolpaths adaptive roughing flat surface machining

of planar surfaces complete list of finishing

strategies rest machining of

fine details combined finishing using

multiple strategies tapered tools supported on all cycles smooth point distribution

and smooth transitions toolpath verification and

simulation high speed machining full 3D machine kinematic simulation

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Hole Recognition

PEPS Surface Milling has built in functionality to enable all hole machining to be created completely automatically from a solid model. The user can edit the results of hole recogntion, or add operations manually. The hole operations are drilling, boring, reaming, circular pocketing, back-boring, tapping, thread milling. When no solid model is available, the knowledge base machining can be used by adding hole features, where only the dimensions of the hole and the machining type need to be specified.

Area clearance roughing and rest roughing toolpaths

Ramp and helical entry paths with a spiral toolpath, smooth corner radii and smooth transitions between passes, will maintain the maximum feedrate on the machine tool, and prevent the cutter from dwelling in corners. For subsequent roughing operations, PEPS Surface Milling will

Adaptive roughing

Adaptive Roughing eliminates full width cuts using a concept similar to trochoidal milling. This unique cutting technique provides the ability to cut using the full depth of the tool and safely run your machine at the optimum speed. Tool wear is spread evenly across the cutting surfaces and the centre of force is half-way up the tool, reducing deflection and the potential for vibration. Using Adaptive Roughing, the cycle automatically adjusts the toolpath for efficient and safe machining, improving cutting conditions and allowing higher machining speeds to be maintained. The most important benefits from this new strategy are that there is a reduction of up to 40% in machining time over conventional roughing (with less wear), the machine uses the full depth of the cutting tool, and the machine runs at the optimum speed without exceeding its limits.

Flat surface machining of planar

3D offset finishing toolpath

This toolpath provides a constant surface finish irrespective of the shape of the part. By morphing the toolpath across the surface of the component, one pass will finish the whole job, keeping the tool on the surface, minimising retract movements and eliminating duplicate cutter paths. Because the step over is smoothly adapted to the shape of the part, shock loading of the tool will be minimised, enabling the machine tool to run at high feedrates.

Radial finishing toolpath

For parts which are generally round, this toolpath provides a good method of finishing. Cutting upwards only, downwards only or zigzag makes it possible for the machining method to match the ideal cutting conditions for the tool being used, while minimising unnecessary machine travel.

True spiral finish machining

By having one start point and one

In PEPS Surface Milling, the Program Wizard guides users through the

necessary steps to set up a successful program; such as defining and

configuring billets, target parts and machines. The user can then use the

Machining Wizard to add all machining strategies to the job in an intuitive,

interactive, consistent manner.

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Zigzag finishing

Unidirectional and zigzag paths can be applied at any angle to suit the shape of the part. If the shape of the component has some steep areas, limits can be set to skip machining above a specified angle, ensuring that cutter paths, which would cause a poor finish are not created. To cut the complete part in one operation the user can specify optimised cross machining. This automatically creates additional toolpaths at 90 degrees to the original toolpaths, cutting only where necessary to produce a constant surface finish across the whole component.

Waterline finishing

For parts, which have steep walls cutting in Z slices provides a good surface finish. Adaptive Z steps help to maintain a constant surface finish where the angle of the wall changes, putting more Z passes in where the wall angle gets shallower. Angle limitation can be applied to force the system to skip machining on very shallow areas, where a poor surface finish might be expected. To further improve the quality of finish, Z transitions can be by helical movements to keep the tool on the job and eliminate machining marks where the tool enters the material.

Morph finishing and Profile finishing

The user can control the cutting area by machining between two leading curves across a model. Parallel and perpendicular toolpaths give a choice of cutting directions, allowing more control of the machining method. A Profile can be created in space, on the surface of the model or a 2D curve may be projected onto the model. Machining the curve in space forces the cutter to run along the Profile, which is ideal for scribe lines. For projected curves, patterns and text can be engraved into the surface of the model by attaching the cutter to the curve and the surface.

Rest machining of fine details

Small features on a model will usually require machining again with a smaller tool to completely finish the part. The rest machining command will reliably detect details left by previous tools, so that they can be re-machined. For very fine details, this process can be repeated as many times as required to make it possible to successfully machine with very small cutters. The toolpath can work from the outside to the centre or from the centre to the outside of small blends. For features, which are very close together, the toolpath will morph and blend together around obstacles to provide a smooth and flowing path without any sudden direction changes. The features in

rest machining, which provide smooth tool movement and which minimise the number of retract movements all help to eliminate shock loading on the tool and keep feedrates as high as possible.

Combined finishing

Combined finishing allows the machining of Steep areas and Shallow areas using different machining strategies. This is a ‘one-step’ finishing routine. Using this strategy, it is possible to finish machine very complex parts using only one operation. It is possible to define an angle to split the Steep areas from the Shallow areas and select different machining strategies for each zone.

Tapered tools supported on all cycles

Where models have no draft, it is possible to use a tapered tool to machine draft directly onto the model. Straight tooling will require modification of the model to add the correct draft before machining can start. Adding draft to an imported model can sometimes be very difficult and time consuming for complex parts.

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Smooth point distribution, and smooth transitions

As PEPS Surface Milling creates each toolpath it ensures that there is an even distribution of co-ordinates. By sending a smoothed CNC code to the machine tool control, it will reduce unnecessary acceleration and deceleration on the machine, making it possible for the machine to operate as close as possible to the programmed feedrate. All the toolpaths have smoothing radii in the corners, smooth transitions between passes and options for looping movements linking the ends of each pass. All these elements help the machine tool to run faster and prevent sudden direction changes, which would cause the machine tool to slow down and put excessive strain on the tool.

Full gouge protection

All the 3D toolpaths are checked against neighbouring surfaces to eliminate the possibility of the tool digging in. In addition small smoothing radii are automatically

added to internal corners. These movements stop the tool from dwelling in the internal corners, which can cause the tool to be pulled into the job creating an unexpected gouge, which would not be detected by verification.

Checking the tool and the holder against the model provides a warning where there is going to be a collision, together with information about the length of tool required to complete the job. By limiting the Z cutting envelope for the tool, the programmer can use several tools to cut a cavity, taking advantage of the stiffness of shorter tools to remove most of the material. graphical verification of the completed toolpaths shows the sequence of operations and the surface finish. The cut part can be compared with the original model, to ensure that the part has been completely finished. Using visualisation helps to make sure the job is made right first time.

An extensive library of

postprocessors is available to suit most machine tools. In addition postprocessors are fully configurable to suit individual requirements. Canned cycles for drilling and boring, subroutines to reduce program length, circular interpolation, cutter radius compensation, tool length compensation and handling of 3 + 2 axis machining all combine to produce CNC code which is easy to use on the shop floor.

High speed machining

The 3D toolpaths inside PEPS Surface Milling are designed to minimise the number of times the tool retracts, to keep the tool loading constant, to minimise sudden direction and speed changes, to avoid cutting into excess material, to smooth out the CNC code, and to eliminate tool collisions. Put together, this underlying technology makes it easy to successfully program high speed machine tools with PEPS Surface Milling.

milling

By using PEPS Surface Milling, not only will programming time be

minimised, the eventual toolpath will be far more efficient, saving further

time on the machine. Add in the comprehensive simulation and proofing

tools and you have a system that not only streamlines day-to-day

production, it also reduces costly errors and eradicates the need for

dry-runs.

(14)

PEPS Turning comes with an extensive range of integrated CAD data translators that allow the direct import of CAD drawings in their native form or as industry standards, such as IGES, STEP and DXF. The standard system configuration comes with interfaces for DXF, AutoCAD DWG, AutoCAD-Inventor, VISI, SolidWorks, SolidEdge, IronCad and IGES. Optional CATIA V4, CATIA V5, Unigraphics, Pro Engineer, VDA and STEP translators are available. PEPS Turning can display the CAD data as simple wireframe, solids and surfaces or a combination of all three; which is used as the source for all cut-path programming and process simulation.

Comprehensive machine library

PEPS Turning contains a

comprehensive library of Turning machines from a large number of leading Machine Tool manufacturers; including Acramatic, EltroPilot, Fagor, Fanuc, GE, Num, Okuma OSP, Philips, Siemens and Traub.

Comprehensive tool and material database

PEPS Turning has a fully integrated tool management database. Tools and tool holders are stored with all the relevant data associated to material types and cutting conditions. Default programming styles can be set up so that accurate information is automatically returned to the programmer; such as feed and speed information. The tool database can be intuitively interrogated using standard searching, ordering, grouping and filtering functionality; also it can be expanded by importing tool information from external sources.

Parametric Models

PEPS Turning allows the user to parametrically model stock material, chucks, jaws, collets, face drivers, mandrels, centres and tailstocks. All of the parametric models can be used in simulating the programmed job, providing more accurate collision checking.

PEPS Turning is a leading CAD/CAM system that

provides a practical and intuitive solution for the

offline programming of Turning machine tools,

from simple 2-axis lathes through to turning

centres with live tooling, B, C and Y axes, and

multiple spindles.

: peps turning

expertise in generating reliable turning

toolpaths

intuitive graphical user interface extensive range of CAD interfaces;

both for import and export comprehensive machine and

postprocessor library standard hole cycle functionality selectable machine settings extensive range of roughing, semi-finishing and semi-finishing strategies profiling of simple or complex geometric boundaries with CRC

full hole cycle functionality simple plunging routines allows

machining of predefined part user configurable and expandable

tool and material database fully customisable visualisation

of machining sequence calculation of cycle time for

complete part

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Full range of turning cycles

PEPS Turning offers an extensive range of interactive turning cycles for roughing, semi-finishing, finishing, grooving, threading and facing operations, including shapes with undercuts. These flexible cycles are supported on both main and sub spindles. PEPS Turning also provides the user with the option to apply freehand turning independent of any on-screen geometry. Various canned cycles, sub routines and work offsets are also supported.

Full range of milling cycles

Centre drilling, drilling, tapping, reaming, boring, helical milling, thread milling and mill drill cycles give the user a choice of operations to cover any combination of hole type. Pocketing and profiling operations give the user a choice of machining direction and the ability to

cut down to a depth with a sequence of moves all in one command. Spiral or zigzag face milling operations provide a choice of methods to clean up faces offering maximum flexibility. Various canned cycles and sub routines are also supported.

Once programmed, the job can be simulated in realistic rendered solids. PEPS Turning automatically checks the tool and the holder against the model and fixturing and provides a warning when there is going to be a collision, both graphically and via on-screen warning messages. Graphical verification of the completed

toolpaths shows the sequence of operations and the surface finish. The cut part can be compared with the original model, to ensure that the part has been completely finished. Using

visualisation helps to make sure the job is made right first time.

An extensive library of advanced postprocessors is available to suit most machine tools and all postprocessors are fully configurable to suit individual requirements; they aren’t just limited to the use of generic G and M codes. Canned cycles for roughing and finishing, drilling cycles, subroutines to reduce program length and tool length compensation all combine to produce reliable NC code which is easy to use on the shop floor.

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By using PEPS Turning, not only will programming time be minimised,

the eventual cut-path will be far more efficient, saving further time on the

machine. Add in the comprehensive simulation and proofing tools and

you have a system that not only streamlines day-to-day production, it

also reduces costly errors and eradicates the need for dry-runs.