Using multiple software systems to manage cutting-tool data and tool-holder assembly models is both time-consuming and error-prone.

Software developer CGTech Ltd (www.cgtech.co.uk) has announced that it now offers a connection with Siemens’ Teamcenter software as part of its Vericut tool-path simulation software.

Siemens PLM Software is a leading global provider of product life-cycle management (PLM) software and services. Its Teamcenter portfolio of digital life-cycle management software is used widely in the aerospace, automotive, medical and other industries.

Its NX software is a leading integrated solution for computer-aided design, manufacturing and engineering (CAD/CAM/CAE).

NX users can click, connect and import files directly from NX, saving time and eliminating problems.

CGTech’s managing director, Tony Shrewsbury, said: “Often, the most labour-intensive part of tool-path verification is modelling the various cutting tools and assemblies.

“This is especially true with the large complex machining work common with NX users, where 30-40 tools in a single job is not unusual.

“Because we now connect directly to Teamcenter, it’s easy to search for individual tools within the PLM system or NX project files, and then read them into Vericut — either individually or asa group. It’s a huge time-saver.”

Vericut customers migrating their CAM systems to NX and Teamcenter can use their existing models, importing them directly into Teamcenter; thay can also download models from such sources as Tools United, Machining Cloud or the tool vendor’s Web site, thus creating a master library within the PLM system.