PRODUCT REVIEWS
The GEMINI LASER.
Tube cutting programming with an Almacam PASS subscription.
Laser cutting and machining
FICEP offers modern solutions that integrate advanced cutting and machining technologies, combining thermal cutting( plasma and oxyfuel) with mechanical operations( drilling and milling using high-performance spindles). These are for processing materials of varying thicknesses and geometries and are designed to optimise production times and minimize waste.
“ The evolution of high-power laser systems and cost reduction has transformed the steel construction industry. Now, combining laser cutting with precision machining is crucial to achieving accurate results. To meet this demand, we have developed GEMINI LASER, an automatic CNC gantry machine for marking, milling, drilling, tapping and bevelling,” the Ficep Group told ISMR.
“ GEMINI LASER has now been enhanced with a laser source ranging from 12-30kW( or higher for specific applications), capable of cutting plates from 5-60mm thick. The system delivers highquality cutting, reducing kerf width and waste, while allowing for complex bevel cutting at ± 45 ° for V, Y, X and K cuts,” it explained.
Safety is addressed by a mobile protective enclosure that contains the laser beams, supported by an exhaust system that removes gases, while an automated nozzle changer offers strong performance and extended tool life. GEMINI LASER integrates high-speed milling and drilling capabilities( spindle up to 7000 RPM) and an automatic tool-changer( up to 24 tools) to minimize downtime. Steel Projects software manages the entire production process from design to fabrication, while reducing time and material waste.
“ The machine’ s compact dual-beam structure reduces deflection and ensures better stability without requiring special foundations. Smart clamping and referencing systems reduce set-up times, optimise nesting and minimize waste. The system can also be paired with an automatic part unloading system( 4 / 6- axis robotic or Cartesian) for seamless component removal and storage, ensuring continuous production flow,” concluded the Ficep Group. n
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:// ficepgroup. com / en /
Flexible CAD / CAM subscription
Alma is a leading developer of CAD / CAM software for sheet metal working, cutting and robotics.
Designed to meet the needs of businesses with fluctuating workloads and offer greater flexibility, Almacam PASS is a flexible subscription service that provides access to Alma’ s premium CAD / CAM software suite“ without requiring a significant initial investment,” Alma told ISMR. The subscription service, for 2D and 3D cutting, has been designed to give businesses the flexibility to adjust their plans according to their activity levels.
“ A growing number of SMEs are opting for this subscription model due to its adaptability. With Almacam PASS, they can adjust their plans according to their requirements. Experiencing a surge in 2D cutting activity? Simply purchase three additional licenses. Need sheet metal costing software for just one year? That’ s entirely possible,” explained the software specialist.
“ Almacam PASS offers various subscription levels: from basic plans covering essential CAD / CAM features to advanced plans with enhanced automation, seamless import capabilities and efficient part unfolding. Available for 2D cutting and costing, Almacam PASS has been extended to include 3D cutting for tubes and profiles. Almacam PASS is an allinclusive subscription service: usage, support, corrective maintenance and new features are all included,” it added.
In February, Alma announced the release of its Almacam 4.1 software suite, including new tools and capabilities. It overhauled the entire user interface of its Almacam Space Cut for five-axes and robot cutting. More customisation options are also available for its Webquote feature. The overall aim was to simplify workflows for its customers.
With over 40 years of experience in cutting optimisation and sheet metal CAM software, Alma is present in eight countries and represented in other countries via its distribution network. n
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:// almacam. com / pass
66 | ismr. net | ISMR April 2025