Waterjet CAD/CAM Software Eases Complex Work

Flow International releases FlowXpert 2016, a robust CAD/CAM waterjet software platform for 3D pathing and cutting, enabling users to work more effectively and with less difficulty on complex, 3D parts.

The software integration was engineered in partnership with Ansys SpaceClaim. Incorporating waterjet best practices such as application tips, material cut speed knowledge, improved pathing algorithms and expanded lead in/out customization, the program anticipates what steps are needed to provide a quality cut. Users get faster, smarter, interactive modeling integrated into a familiar interface, the company says. This version of the software is the end result of extensive field testing and feedback from customers, the company says, enabling work to be completed in fewer steps within a more intuitive design process.

The integration with the CAM Flow Sequencer module lets users design a part and path it in the same program. Modifying the geometry of a part is possible without losing the path, and the integration with Flow Sequencer will automatically update the path to accommodate the changes. The software will detect model and path errors and suggests fixes. The straightforward control means users get to the cutting stage faster.

New capabilities in FlowXpert 2016 include the ability to create full 3D models and assemblies; optimized pathing, including new pathing algorithms for smarter auto-pathing; one-click pathing for 2D files; the ability to program directly from the native model without converting file types; fast, versatile sheet metal processing from SpaceClaim; and waterjet-specific geometry analysis with advanced clean up tools customized to the user’s waterjet machine.