CGTech’s (Irvine, CA) next version of VERICUT CNC machine simulation and optimization software, VERICUT 7.1, features significant enhancements to reduce the time required for manufacturing engineers to easily develop, analyze, inspect and document the CNC programming and machining process. Along with proactively adding new features, CGTech developers and engineers focused on addressing hundreds of customer-driven enhancements.

This software enables users to eliminate the process of manually proving-out NC programs. It reduces scrap loss and rework. The program also optimizes NC programs in order to both save time and produce higher quality surface finish. VERICUT simulates all types of CNC machine tools, including those from leading manufacturers such as Mazak, Makino, Matsuura, Hermle, DMG, DIXI, Mori Seiki and Chiron. VERICUT runs standalone, but can also be integrated with leading CAM systems such as Catia V5, NX, Creo (Pro/E), MasterCAM, EdgeCAM and GibbsCAM.

The Project Tree, first introduced in VERICUT 6.0, continues to be refined to make VERICUT sessions simple to set up. A shortcut Toolbar has been added to enable quick transitions to a particular Project Tree branch. Holding the cursor over the icons will display what branch the icon goes to. Model file names are shown in parentheses for all models that have model files associated with them. Double clicking on NC Programs, or NC Subroutines, displays the appropriate file selection window. Also, NC Programs and NC Subroutine files can be added by simply right-clicking in the Project Tree. To quickly correct any possible user errors, a general purpose Undo/Redo button is available at the top of the Project Tree.

Cutting conditions are shown in the status display and available when stepping through the program using NC Program Review. The feature shows detailed information about the cutter’s engagement with material, including: axial depth, radial width, volume removal rate, chip thickness, maximum surface speed and contact area.
To further simplify creating a VERICUT tool library, CAD solid models of inserts and holders can be imported into VERICUT. The new feature added to the Tool Manager displays the CAD Geometry window that allows easy identification of which parts of the CAD model file corresponds with holders, cutters, or inserts. CATIA v5 and STEP models are supported.