Software developer Open Mind has upgraded its Hypermill CAM software for machine- and controller-independent NC programming. These include optimisations for Virtual Machining, enhancements to the 5-axis strategies for better results in terms of surface quality, new options for 2D functionalities, as well as efficient innovations in the area of electrode manufacturing that deliver even more convenient and faster programming.

As part of the Volz Group, Volz Engineering has ambitious growth plans. The Rochdale based company has recently invested in a new CMM, two 3-axis machining centres, a turning centre and most recently, a Mistubishi MV2400S wire EDM machine from the Engineering Technology Group (ETG).

UK — The latest wave of recruitment brings the total to 62 apprentices currently in training with Yamazaki Mazak, with over 200 successfully trained since the scheme began in 2011. The step underlines the company's commitment to the British site.

Six Hurco 3-axis vertical machining centres carry out a majority of prismatic machining in the toolroom of plastic packaging manufacturer in Beccles, UK. Instead of subcontracting machining jobs, the company is now able to offer the production of bigger multi-cavity moulds, for instance.

USA — As of the beginning of September 2021, the former On Demand Manufacturing business unit of 3D systems is now doing business as an independent company known as Quickparts. 3D Systems has sold its On Demand Manufacturing business unit to the US private equity company Trilantic.

When long-established cutting tool manufacturer AA Tools was acquired by new owners in 2014, the objective was to modernise the shop floor equipment with the very latest CNC machine tool technology. For the bespoke cutting tool manufacturer, the acquisition trail included a CNC tool and cutter grinder, a 4th-axis machining centre, a live tooling turning centre, an EDM drilling machine and a Mitsubishi MV1200R wire EDM machine from the Engineering Technology Group (ETG).

As machining jobs become more complex, tolerances tighter, delivery times shorter and skilled operators harder to find, shops need reliable access to advice that helps them find the most efficient tooling solutions. With Seco Suggest, users can reduce the time they need for process optimization with quick tooling recommendations.

CAD/CAM innovator Cambrio announced the new release of Gibbs CAM 2022. The latest developments see further emphasis on end-user productivity in all areas of the product.

Intelligent software algorithms are essential for real-time collision avoidance, but they are only half the story. The other half is a well-designed user interface that enables operators to drive the software effectively. In their latest cooperation Module Works, technology providers for digital manufacturing solutions, and the Chiron Group, CNC machine tool manufacturers, put operator experience at the center of a new GUI for the Module Works Collision Avoidance System (CAS).

UK — The British supplier of cutting tools, oils and lubricants CIS has joined forces with a tech spin-out from the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre to accelerate the adoption of Smart Factory data-analytics to improve machining shopfloor productivity.