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Metal Folding Software

Metal Folding Software

Metal Folding Software

(OP)
My employer manufactures folded sheet metal products for the roofing and cladding industry. The material is typically less than 2mm (1/16") thick mild steel and product lengths are 8mtrs max. The pressings are simple 2D profiles and high levels of accuracy is not critical. At the mment all product details are sketched on pieces of paper and issued to the shop floor where the machine operator enters the details to the machine controller. I am trying to source software that will allow us to program the parts in the office and generate a file that can be transmitted to the machine without the need to produce sketches. We already have AutoCAD and SolidWorks so maybe there is some add-on. There are lots of programs for Turret Presses, laser cutters etc., but metal folding software seems to be scarce. If anyone can offer any guidance on this I would be grateful.

Thnks,
David

RE: Metal Folding Software

(OP)
Thanks for the reply CorBlimeyLimey. Nothing here that quite matches what I am looking for. I was thinking that if I could get a typical example of an NC file for a folding machine then maybe it might be viable to have a custom application develped assuming nothing else is available. Does anyone know where I might view an NC file of this type - I assume they are ascii text files

Thanks

RE: Metal Folding Software

As far as I know there is not any software to do this. I know there wasn't 15 yrs ago when I tried it, but have not heard anything lately.

Chris
Sr. Mechanical Designer, CAD
SolidWorks 05 SP3.1 / PDMWorks 05
ctopher's home site (updated 06-21-05)
FAQ559-1100
FAQ559-716

RE: Metal Folding Software

(OP)
Thanks for that ctopher, I'm wondering how does everyone else using folders deal with the problem of data input if there is no appropriate software. I assumed our setup where I work was grossly lagging behind everyone else but maybe its not, either way there has got to be a more efficient way of doing things.

RE: Metal Folding Software

As far as ACAD goes, it would be somewhat simple to create an AutoLISP routine to create the geometry for drawings.  Google "nc code editor" or something similar.  AutoEditNC at http://www.betatechnical.com/autonc.htm  is one free program that pops up. EdgeCam has a free nc code editor also: http://www.pathtrace.com/

By the looks of it, it looks like you would be able to create an Excel file to input the variables, and then have a row with the x, y, and z values etc. to create your code.

Also Google "nc code sample".

Flores

RE: Metal Folding Software

(OP)
Thanks for that smcadman, will examine what you have suggested.

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