SprutCAM
The cost of large envelope CNC machines typically runs
well into six or even seven fi gures.
histle Rose Holdings Ltd in Skipton have
adopted an emerging technology -robotic
arm machining - to create a machining cell
that can machine 6m x 1.8m x 1.8m for a total
investment, including specialist software for
around the cost of an entry level 2m 2.5 axis table.
T
The hardware involved in the cell was relatively
straightforward to select and confi gure, but the software
choice was more problematic.
As Managing Director Peter Occardi says “There is lots of
CAM software available primarily written for gantry machine
X,Y,Z,A,B,C movements. The problem with a robotic arm is
that to move say in X+ requires all 6 axis to work in harmony
– this is a tough call for most CAM software.”
Thistle Rose Holdings evaluated and tested eight diff erent
software packages before selecting SprutCAM. Why
SprutCAM? Peter has very sound reasons. “As we looked
at using a robotic arm, it became clear that simulation
was an absolute necessity to ensure that the robot didn’t
collide with itself or produce singularities. Only 3 pieces of
software evaluated these phenomenon.”
There are better-known names in Robotic Software,
but after evaluation, SprutCAM came out on top. “With
very large parts to machine, our toolpaths can run into
kilometres rather than metres”, says Peter, “We found that
SprutCAM calculated the toolpaths and robot axis up to 10
times faster than the competition, meaning our engineers
are not watching the ‘toilet swirl’ all day long.”
Thistle Rose were productive within hours of SprutCAM
installation. SprutCAM was the clear leader based on
functionality after the Thistle Rose evaluation, but price
always plays a part. Peter was pleasantly surprised when
he fi nally compared like for like costs of SprutCAM to its
competitors. “We all receive ‘demo software’ then fi nd out
that to actually attain that level of function requires several
pricey bolt-ons.” says Peter, “The delight with SprutCAM
was that 5-axis, complex blank, cell simulation, toolpath
optimization, postprocessor coding etc were all in the basic
robotic package. Comparing like-for-like, SprutCAM was the
best economic choice as well as the best for functionality
and performance.”
What about support? Surely the ‘big boys’ will have this
licked? Peter doesn’t think so. “I would rarely shout from
the rooftops about support, but I will with SprutCAM.
Throughout evaluation, commissioning, post install, training
etc support from Sprut Technology UK has been superb, for
once I don’t grudge paying an optional maintenance fee!”
Thistle Rose are extremely happy with their SprutCAM
purchase and the tools and effi ciency within the Software.
As an expansion path there is even the possibility to utilise
the licence with other machines, which all bodes well for
the future use of the software by Thistle Rose Holdings Ltd.
Website: www.thistleroseholdings.com
Telephone: 01756 795771
36
98
28
PECM Issue 25