Due to the innovative configuration and complexity of certain millturn machines (508MT, 508MT2 X400, 408MT), programming and simulating using conventional computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software can be a challenge. Without the right software to drive those powerful machines, it is difficult to fully utilise their capabilities and realise their complete benefits.
By working directly with Willemin-Macodel and a number of key clients, DP Technology engineers developed highly optimised support for Willemin-Macodel within its Esprit CAM software to drastically improve the user experience and programming efficiency for the MT series, including output of machine-optimised, edit-free G-Code.
ESPRIT digital twin of Willemin-Macodel 508MT2
Some of ESPRIT’s key capabilities for these machines include:
●Create and sort operations in the required work coordinates
●Optimise simulation to match the output NC code and actual machine behaviour
●Display various operation information to make programming in ESPRIT easier
●Provide a simple interface to set global machine settings
●Offer an easy way to mount vice jaws on the turret
●Offer a quick solution to mount chuck and collet on the main and sub spindles
●Allow programming of tailstock engage and disengage cycles
●Enable programming of vice steady rest engage and disengage cycles
●Let the user flag a milling operation as a cut-off operation
DP engineers also worked closely with Willemin machine specialists to create a turn-key digital machine package, consisting of post-processors and virtual machines for the MT series. This eliminates the time spent on editing the G-code and streamlines the machine set-up and first article run off for the end users.
“Esprit post developers collaborated with the team at Willemin-Macodel to develop a WM-specific software solution that enables quick processing of complex parts on our full 5-axis mill-turn machine tools,” says Jim Davis, application manager at Willemin.
Esprit provides not only a dedicated CAM solution for the Willemin-Macodel machines, but also extensive engineering expertise and knowledge to make sure end users get started quickly and keep running at top efficiency using the MT series machines.
