NX® software, the digital product development solution fromSiemens PLM Software, delivers a complete and proven system formachine tool programming. NXMachining software applies leading-edgetechnology and advanced machining methods to maximize efficiencyof manufacturing engineers and NC programmers.

NX Machining:A complete solution for machine toolprogramming

www.siemens.com/plmSiemens PLM Software

A complete solution formachine tool programmingNX, the digital product develop-ment solution from Siemes PLMSoftware, delivers a complete andproven system for machine toolprogramming. NX machiningapplies leading-edge technologyand advanced machining methodsto maximize efficiency of manu-facturing engineers and NCprogrammers.

Maximizing productivityand efficiencyWith NX Machining, companies cantransform their NC programming,manufacturing engineering andmachining processes to dramaticallyreduce waste and significantlyboost productivity of resources –both manpower and machinery.

Total design-to-manufactureconnectivityNX Machining is totally integratedwith the NX product developmentsolution.NC programmers candirectly access comprehensivedesign, assembly and drafting toolsin the same unified system.Designthrough manufacturing associativitymeans that design changes areautomatically propagated tomachining operations.With thiscomplete development solution,programmers and manufacturingengineers can work with partmodels, create and assemblefixtures, develop tool paths andeven model entire machinesfor 3D machining simulation.

Broad support of machine toolsand operations

Milling• 2- and 3-axis machining• 5-axis milling• Drilling• Feature-based machining• High-speed machining• Engraving

Turning•Turning• Merging lathes• Milling and turning combination

Other• Electrical discharge machining(EDM)

A full set of applications

Design/assembly• Fixture design• Part and assembly modelingand editing• Geometry translators

Automation tools• Process templates•Tool libraries• Feeds and speeds data

Verification and simulation•Tool path verification• Machine tool modelingand kinematics• Machine tool simulation

Output• Postprocessor buildingand editing• Shop documentation output• Data management

An all-inclusive solution for machining:

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The NX Machining advantage

NX Machining applications are fully integratedcomponents of the NX product developmentsolution, leveraging synchronized product and

process data from design through manufacturing.

All in one systemNX covers complete NC programming, building and executingpostprocessors, tool path and machine motion simulation. In addition,its market-leading design and assembly software can be used to modelthe product, tooling and fixtures and to create 3D models of themachine tool for the simulation.

NX

NX offers an extensive array oftools for the NC programmer.Driven by the real-worldrequirements of manufacturingcompanies worldwide,NXMachining offers great flexibilityin methods and a wide rangeof practical machine toolprogramming capabilities.

Productivity throughautomationNX Machining reducesprogramming time and requiredskill levels through advancedautomation of the programmingtasks.With feature-basedprogramming,NX automaticallycreates optimized machineprograms directly from partdesign models. Process templatesand wizards ensure the use ofpreferred and proven machiningmethods.The result is high levelsof quality in both the finishedproduct and the process.

First-time quality throughsimulationCompanies using NX Machiningcan take advantage of integratedsimulation tools to ensure thatprograms hit the shop floor withright-first-time quality,withoutrequiring tryouts at the machinetool. Full material removal andmachine tool motion simulationare immediately available in theNX programming environment –no separate system and no datatranslation steps are required.

Efficiency through leadingtechnologyNX Machining improves efficiencywith high-performance capabilitiesthat help companies reap thebenefits of the latest machinetool and machining technologies.It easily handles programmingof multiple-function machinesthat eliminate multiple machines,setups and transit time.NXsupports high-speed machiningthat maximizes cutting performance,material removal rates and surfacefinish. For advanced multiple-axismachining, NX enables fasterprogramming with total tool controlfor the most complex parts.

Experience and leadershipSiemens is the world’s leadingvendor of CAM software andservices, according to theCIMdata research firm.

“The breadth and depth of functionality,data integration, and knowledge-basedorientation of the NX CAM offering isimpressive. NX includes robust capabilitiesacross the entire CAM spectrum.”

Alan ChristmanCIMdata

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High-speed machining

Faster to finishDelivery yesterday may be impossible – but with NX you have thetools to get there faster, more efficiently and at lower cost, whilemaintaining the target product quality.

Maximum productivityWith process automation, the latest tool path technology and unifiedsolutions spanning tool design and manufacture, NX can help youachieve maximum productivity in mold and die work.

Extensive capabilities for efficient die/mold machining include Z-levelroughing, semifinishing, steep and nonsteep area milling, uncut materialremoval, finishing and profiling. Feature-based machining and process-based automation can greatly reduce mold and die structureprogramming times.

High-speed machining:hard milling made easyHigh-speed machining (HSM) techniques can provide significant savingsin machining hard mold and die metals.

Uniform metal removalSuccessful high-speed roughing maintains metal removal rates whilemanaging tool loads. NX tracks remaining material at each cut andadjusts subsequent tool paths for best finish with least machining time.

>Maximizedmachining

“With Siemens, we found software and support of thehighest quality and performance. Results show us thatour decision to introduce high-speed machining was rightand we are now collecting the fruits of our investment:excellent accuracy and surface finishing with reducedmanufacturing time.”

CM Sole, Spain

With high-speed machining, the rate of metal removal should remain asconstant as possible. Poor tool paths can cause sudden severe tool loading(as shown in the upper chart), resulting in broken tools. Simply reducingspindle RPM or depth of cut, as depicted by the yellow area on the chart,wastes the value of the machine tool and reduces productivity. NX tool pathtechnology and HSM methods offer results depicted by the lower chart,with the highest metal removal rate consistent with good tool life,maximizing productivity and optimizing machine and tool utilization.

The optimized trochoidalpattern automaticallyintroduces additional loopsto avoid exceeding permissiblecutting conditions based onuser-specified criteria.

Unsafe tool loading while slotting

Optimized trochoidal tool path eliminatesunsafe loading

PROVEN VALUE

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> Fasterandfiner

Chatter-free machining forlonger tool lifeExtensive research at Siemens deliversrecommendations for stable, chatter-freehigh-speed machining, critical for maximizingmetal removal while extending tool life.

Smooth continuous cuttingVarious options for noncutting movesenable tangential connections betweenadjacent cuts. Smooth helical cutting canbe achieved even on irregular shapes.

Proven, integrated machining dataNX includes a customizable machining database allowing the userto manage and apply proven data to associative tool path operations.A data set is included for P20, a typical steel for molds and dies.

Fast tool path generationThe latest software for Z-level rest-milling enables super-fasttool path computation.This allows tolerances to be tightenedfor highly accurate and robust rest-milling.

Fine-tuned output for high-speed machiningNX tool paths are fine-tuned for high-speed machine controllers.Uniformly distributed point-point, tangential circular records andNurbs output options enable users to match the method to theparameters of each task.

Consistent finish in steep and shallow regionsThe automatic addition of intermediate tool paths in Z-level inshallow regions leaves a constant depth of stock in semifinishing,ensuring uniform cutting in finishing operations.

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Proven multi-axis machining

“People say that you have to use a programming languagesuch as APT to get total control over machine function.But we have total control with NX CAM and it’s muchfaster than hand coding.With NX,we can get the toolto do anything we want, even for something complexlike 5-axis finishing.”

Brian CarlsonNC Programming ManagerAerospace Dynamics International

Mutiple-axis machining enables companies to produce precisioncomplex parts efficiently with fewer operations and setups –reducing cost, waste and delivery times. Efficient and accuratemulti-axis machining requires extreme flexibility in both parametersetting and cutting sequences. NX supports these requirementswith sophisticated NC processors, multiple levels of control anduser-defined drive methods.

ComprehensiveNX is the most comprehensive multi-axis NC programming systemavailable.With proven capability developed from years of experiencein aerospace and related industries, NX offers efficient and accuratemulti-axis machining. It supports a range of methods for definingprecisely controlled tool paths on complex surfaces, with effectivecollision and gouge checking.

FlexibleNX includes many flexible methods for defining precisely controlledtool paths on complex surfaces. Variable-axis milling includes multi-ple drive methods with a wide range of tool axis control options.These are coupled with the effective collision and gouge checkingthat is essential on many jobs.

>Unmatchedflexibility

PROVEN VALUE

Curvature matching is new technology that allows for fewer passeswith larger tools.

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Variable-axis surface contouring and a set of tool axisinterpolation options allow 5-axis machining on themost demanding of parts.

>Total toolcontrol

Automatic variable-axis profilingspeeds programming.

NX Simulation provides 5-axis programmers with the essential tools for proving outtheir machine motion.

“With NX,we get consistent and error-free tool paths,and we haven’t run across anything we couldn’tprogram with this software. By supporting state-of-the-art machine tools, NX is a key element of howwe’re speeding time-to-market.”

Bob CurwoodNC Programming SupervisorSmiths Aerospace Mechanical SystemsLanding Gear and Hydraulic Systems

PROVEN VALUE

NX enables fast, accurateroughing and finishing of typicalaerospace parts. Geometry selectionis highly automated for easier,faster programming.

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A complete solution set for multi-function machines

The value of multi-function machines

• Reduces the number of machines needed, as much as 8 to 1

• Eliminates time costs and possible position errors associatedwith multiple setups

• Reduces the need for fixturing

• Eliminates transit and wait time between separate machines

“We have evaluated other CAD/CAM systems, and NXhas always provided the best functionality of any systemavailable – and it can support any machine tool we needto support with its robust processing capabilities.”

Bob CurwoodSupervisor of NC programming for landing gear and hydraulic systemsSmiths Aerospace

NX offers a complete range of machining capabilities enablingsupport for the latest multi-function machines.

Not all systems can offer both high caliber turning and milling.In addition, the programming often requires more complexpositioning, work coordinate and tool-axis control. NX hasa highly flexible machining configurationto accommodate these demands.

Synchronization manager controlsmultiple functionsNX provides a dynamic display of eachmachining function as a channel on thedisplay. Start and wait code control theflow of each phase of the machiningprocess. Integrated machine toolsimulation provides visual validationof the entire process.

Postprocessing for multi-functionmachinesEach machine function requires a specificpostprocessor stream which is combinedinto one synchronized output set. Not limited by CL file content,the NX postprocessor connects directly to the internal tool pathdefinition. It can access any information in the NX Machining database,enabling automated software decisions at the postprocessing stage.

NX post builderCustomers and solution implementers can create or edit postprocessors,working from example configurations and their own specifications.Standard postprocessors for typical machine and controller configurationscan easily be edited. NX also creates CLS files that can be used asinput to third-party postprocessors.

PROVEN VALUE

Multiple program channels

Timeline display3D simulation and verification

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Maximizing productivity

>All inNX

Automation through process and setup templatesIn order to make the task easier for the programmer, process-basedmachining in NX employs templates embodying typical machiningmethods for each machine type and configuration. By selecting andapplying the templates to new jobs, many of the time-consuming tasksare automatically applied and specific machine control parameters arepreset, making the task faster, easier and repeatable.

Machining simulationPrecise simulation is essential to optimizing the complex interactionsof multiple parts of the machine. NX offers full tool path andmachine tool motion simulation. Motion simulation is driven bythe postprocessed output – and it all happens in the NXprogramming environment.

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Programming automation

> Maximumprogrammerproductivity

Maximum productivitySoftware that can apply the knowledge and skill of experts,automating the same decision processes, maximizes theproductivity of the everyday user.

Maximum resource utilizationSoftware that applies proven methods, tooling and fixturesautomatically ensures that the use of existing and preferredresources are maximized.

Automation in NC programming provides a major opportunity forcompetitive business advantage. Automation makes programmingmuch faster and repeatable and it provides expert results every time.

Practical automationWhile fully automated design-to-machining solutions in NX canprovide extraordinary business advantage, practical elements ofautomation applied to key programming tasks can transform eventhe most variable work.

Process wizardsFor everyday use of common tasks, companies can use NX to buildprocess wizards with easy-to-follow steps. Wizards can make complexsoftware settings based on simple user selections.

Process templatesNX enables programmers to apply predefined process andsetup templates that can be driven by rules.This automatesand speeds the programming task, ensures the use of preferredmethods and tooling and helps the less experienced user.The user can easily create new templates or modifyexisting ones.

CustomizationWith NX Machining companies can fine-tune the programmingenvironment for maximum productivity using:• Tool catalogs• Machining data tables• User interface customization•Wizards and templates

Siemens subsidiary Demag Delaval IndustrialTurbomachinery Ltd. uses knowledge-basedmanufacturing applications created with NXto make NC programming an automatic,repeatable process.

Incorporating proprietary programmingknow-how within templates and process assistants,the company now begins NC programming whilethe design is in progress, eliminating delays of up tothree months. NC programmers now support 40additional CNC machines, and tooling costs havebeen reduced through standardization.

PROVEN VALUE

The NX MachiningWizardBuilder provides an easygraphical way to constructcustom wizards to supportyour shop best practices.No programming skillsare required.

A familiar wizard interfacesteps the user along apredefined programmingprocess. Wizards likethese can help standardizeprogramming operationsand capture knowledgefor the future.

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> Users reportup to 90 percentreduction in

programming times

Feature-based machiningNX programming automationdirectly builds on manufacturingfeatures in part models. Featurerecognition, even from importedwire frame geometry, togetherwith automatic process selectionand tool path generation, canreduce programming time bymore than 90 percent comparedto standard techniques.

Feature managerThe feature manager allowsthe programmer to easily see allmanufacturing features by type,detail and programming status.

Feature identification

• Automatic• By feature type

Method selection

• Templates• Rules

• Parameters

Manufacturing output

• NC program• Shop documentation• Process information

• Analysis

Tool path optimization

• Tool changes• Tool path length

Automatic tool path generation

• Type• Method• Tools

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Machining simulation

>All inone system

NX Machining provides fully integrated tools for simulation andvalidation of the entire machining process. The solution is scalablefrom tool path display, through dynamic material removal, to fullmachine tool motion simulation.

Tool path verificationNX allows immediate replay of the computed tool path with arange of display options, including dynamic material removal fromthe stock model.

Machine tool simulationFull machine tool simulation within NX Machining displays motiondriven from the G and M code output of the NX internal post-processor. A 3D solid model of the machine, with the part, fixturesand tooling, moves in the way the machine tool will move as themachine code is processed.

Collision detectionNX Machining automatically provides checking for actual or nearcollisions between the part, the in-process workpiece, tooling andfixtures and the machine tool structure.

Full data display and control panelThe user can see the NC program running in the program window,shown as “goto statements” or as G and M codes from the postedoutput. Other data such as coolant status is also shown.

Easy-to-use replay controlsProgrammers have easy-to-use onscreen control buttonsthat work like a standard video player. The user can vary theprogram run speed, stop, back up or move to a specific partof the NC program.

Simultaneous displayWith NX, programmers can review simultaneous metal removalwith a live tool path in the context of a full machine tool simulation,with dynamic pan and zoom of the view.

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Multiple levels of simulationGeneric simulationSimilar to many systems that utilize an internal tool path, a CL file oranother prepost output to drive the simulation,NX offers a means todrive its machining simulation from the prepost processor data. Formany machines this provides adequate accuracy.

Postprocessor-driven simulationFor more advanced simulation and higher levels of accuracy for advancedmachines,NX Machining uses the output of the production postprocessoras G and M codes. This provides a more complete representation of themachine tool motion and reduces the possibility of errors. For users ofadvanced machines such as mill-turns or merging lathes, this is thepreferred solution.

Controller-driven simulationBy adding software within based on the real controller, Siemens canoffer the most accurate representation of the machine tool motion.Accelerations, speeds and timings as well as controller-specific machiningcycles can be simulated.

NXMachining – built in 3Dmodeling and assembliesFor users who wish to create or edit their own simulation models, there isaccess to full geometry modeling and assembly capabilities, all in NX. Thismeans that not only can the programmer edit part or stock shapes, but alsotools, complex fixtures and even the entire machine tool can be modeled.NX assemblies modeling allows all elements to be correctly positionedready for interactive programming and simulation.

Simulation, sample machines includedNX Machining is offered in packages that include machining simulation asa standard capability. Also included is a set of typical 3D machine examples.These can be modified by the user with the graphical tools provided.

Machine tool support kitsFor advanced machine tools, support kits provide an out-of-the-boxsolution that includes:• Proven postprocessor• 3D simulation model (NX solids assembly)• G and M code simulation driver• Example parts, templates and documentation

No need for duplicationWith tool path verification and machine tool simulation included in NXMachining, there is no need to duplicate data and effort or introduce errorsby moving to third-party software solutions.The same models and assemblyof the parts, stock, fixtures, tooling and the machine tool are employed inboth programming and simulation, all within NX.

Creating new machine tool modelsWith NX, users can easily create or edit 3D machine simulation models, usingpowerful 3D modeling and assemblies.NX also imports 3D machine modelscreated in other systems and formats.

Image courtesy of Makino

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Turning, wire EDM and standard milling

NX Machining has a wide range of milling capabilities. Fixed-axis millingdelivers comprehensive tools for producing 3-axis motion tool paths.Automatic operations like cavity milling and flow cutting reduce thenumber of steps required to cut the part. Optimization techniquesfor operations such as planar milling help reduce cutting time forparts with multiple pockets.

TurningTurning in NX can use either 2D part profiles or full solid models. Itincludes routines for roughing, multiple-pass finishing, grooving, threadcutting and centerline drilling. Programmers specify parameters suchas feedrate, spindle speed and part clearance. NX turning enablesA- and B-axis tool control. In addition to rich functionality for commontasks, a special “teach mode” capability provides extra user controlfor fine finishing and special cutting situations. NX is very flexible andallows programming in XY or ZX environments for horizontal,vertical or inverted vertical orientations.

Wire EDMFacilitating the cutting of parts in 2-axis and 4-axis modes, the NX wireEDM programming works from wireframe or solid models. A wide range ofwire operations is available, including multi-pass profiling, wire reversingand area removal. The package also supports paths that accommodateglue stops, various wire sizes and power settings. Broad support of wireEDM packages, includes AGIE Charmilles and many others.

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Postprocessing and shop documentation

Integrated postprocessingNX includes a post builder capability that graphically createspostprocessors for 2-axis through 5-axis motion.With the

postprocessor builder, users specify parameters for therequired NC codes and machine tool kinematics required

to interpret the internal NX tool path.

Shop documentationProcess documentation – including setup sheets, operations sequenceinformation and tool lists – is often a significant time drain and processbottleneck. NX automatically generates shop documentation and outputsit in various formats, including ASCII text or html format for shopfloor intranet access.

The NX postprocessor builder can create the driver for the3D machine tool simulation to match the postprocessor.

The NX machine tool builder allows the user to add the kinematicsto a 3D assembly model of a the machine – all in NX.

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NX: supporting a part manufacturing solution

NX managed development environmentNX provides a seamless capability to manage and synchronize productand process information across each phase of the lifecycle, utilizingTeamcenter® software technology.

Design to manufactureWith manufacturing extensions the managed environment supportscollaboration between product designers, tool engineers and allmanufacturing disciplines.

The value of the managed environment formanufacturing specialistsTypically manufacturing staff spend up to 60 percent of their time justlooking for information. Using the wrong data is often the cause ofdelay or material waste. Everyone with access to the manageddevelopment environment can find and apply the correct data neededfor their task, saving time and ensuring right-first-time process andproduct quality.

“Teamcenter Manufacturing is a powerful and unique product.No other product offers such extensive and distinctive informationmanagement functionality that is focused on manufacturing.It serves as the information management engine for all NX 3manufacturing applications.The integrated combination of CAM,digital manufacturing and tool design utilizingTeamcenterManufacturing as the core component, provides a solution thatis unmatched in the industry.”

Alan Christman, CIMdata vice president and noted authorityon NC software and market trends.

NC programmingThe NX managed environmentprovides a means to manage NCprogramming data, including tool paths,output code, shop documentation,tooling and setup data, all linked tothe part model.

NC programmer

PROVEN VALUE

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Fixture designThe managed developmentenvironment provides fixturedesigners with structured accessto part models and libraries ofstandard components that streamlinedevelopment of workholding fixtureassemblies for machining.

Tool, fixture and generalresource managementUsing Teamcenter technology themanaged development environmentprovides a resource library with fullclassification capability.The data maybe retrieved directly into applicationssuch as NX Machining.

Fixture designer Tooling manager

Manufacturing engineer

Process planningManufacturing engineers can build process plansusing Tecnomatix® software applications that are fullycompatible with the managed environment.

Shop floor outputCorrectly configured packages of datacan be sent from the managed environmentto the point of manufacture, includingtool and fixture lists, postprocessed data,setup sheets and work instructions.

Synchronized productand process data

NXmanageddevelopmentenvironment

The NX portfolio offers a set of highly automated solutions formold and die design. NX MoldWizard, NX Progressive DieWizardand NXTransfer Die Design dramatically reduce the time requiredto create fully functional tools – and just like an expert.

The shared technology of NX means that NX tool design applicationsand NX Machining are a combination providing unmatched processtime reductions, maximum efficiency and highly repeatableproduct quality.

Transfer die designNX offers a set of process-oriented tools to address die processspecification, die layout, die analysis and detail die design.Thepackage automates the more costly and time-consuming processesassociated with the production of stamped sheet metal parts,significantly reducing their typical lead times.

Integration with machiningThe automated tool design applications create mold and die faces,bases and structures that can be machined directly with NXMachining using shared 3D geometry and with associative updatingfor easy changes, all in one system.

Progressive die designProgressive DieWizard maximizes progressive die design productivitythrough intelligent automation of industry-proven processes. It providesa complete environment for progressive die design and encapsulatesdie making expert knowledge,while allowing flexibility to incorporatecustomer-specific requirements.

Value added in tool design – maximized in manufacture

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Mold designNX MoldWizard automates the entire process of designingmold faces and structure components directly from the part model.Key feature data added by MoldWizard drives automated tool pathprogramming in NX Machining.

The NX advantageThroughout its broad product application suite,NX leverages key attributes that help companiesachieve business objectives of waste reduction, qualityimprovement, shorter cycle times and greater productinnovation.These unique attributes directly supportbusiness process initiatives aimed at transformingproduct development:

Managed development environmentNX solutions include fully integrated, synchronizedmanagement of all product data and processknowledge to transform product developmentwith a structured collaborative environment.

Unified product development solutionSeamless integration of NX applications rapidlypropagates changes of product and processinformation, replacing point solutions with a unifieddevelopment system, from concept to manufacturing.

Knowledge-driven automationWith NX, companies can apply product and processknowledge across all elements of product developmentto automate processes and maximize re-use.

Simulation, validation and optimizationComprehensive simulation and validation tools in NXautomatically check performance and manufacturabilityat every step of the development process forclosed-loop, continuous, repeatable validation.

System-based modelingNX structured conceptual models standardizedesign practices and allow rapid creation of variants,transforming development from component-baseddesign to a systems engineering approach.

© 2007. Siemens Product Lifecycle Management Software Inc. All rights reserved. Siemens and the Siemens logo are registered trademarks of Siemens AG. Teamcenter, NX, Solid Edge,Tecnomatix,Parasolid, Femap, I-deas, JT, UGSVelocity Series, Geolus and the Signs of Innovation trade dress are trademarks or registered trademarks of Siemens Product Lifecycle Management Software Inc.or its subsidiaries in the United States and in other countries. All other logos, trademarks, registered trademarks or service marks used herein are the property of their respective holders.

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About Siemens PLM SoftwareSiemens PLM Software, a division ofSiemens Automation and Drives (A&D),is a leading global provider of product lifecy-cle management (PLM) softwareand services with 4.3 million licensedseats and 47,000 customers worldwide.Headquartered in Plano,Texas, SiemensPLM Software’s open enterprise solutionsenable a world where organizations andtheir partners collaborate through GlobalInnovation Networks to deliver world-classproducts and services. For more informationon Siemens PLM Software products andservices, visit www.siemens.com/plm.

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