Lantek Expert is a comprehensive CAD/CAM nesting software designed for the sheet metal industry, automating CNC programming for cutting and punching through integrated design, inventory management, and production control. The platform features advanced automated, manual, and remnant-based nesting strategies designed to maximize material utilization and streamline workflows for various cutting technologies. For more details, visit Lantek.
CAD/CAM nesting software for cutting machines - Lantek Expert Cut
Lantek Expert is a premier CAD/CAM nesting software designed specifically for automating the CNC programming of sheet metal cutting machines (laser, plasma, oxy-cut, waterjet, and punch).
This write-up covers the essential workflow for a standard project, from importing geometry to generating the final CNC code. 1. Job Setup and Material Selection
The process begins by defining the environment for the specific task. Create a New Job: Open the Lantek Expert explorer and start a new project. Material and Thickness:
Select the appropriate material (e.g., Stainless Steel, Aluminum) and thickness from the database. This ensures the software applies the correct cutting technology tables, such as feed rates and lead-ins. Machine Selection: Choose the specific CNC machine you will be using. 2. Importing and Preparing Parts lantek expert tutorial
Parts can be drawn directly within Lantek or imported from external CAD files. Importing Geometry: Lantek Import tool to bring in DXF, DWG, or IGES files. Cleaning Geometry:
Ensure all contours are closed. The software often includes a "Clean" function to remove duplicate lines or small gaps that could cause errors during machining. Defining Quantities:
Assign the number of units required for each part within the "Part Data" window. 3. Machining (Toolpath Generation) Before nesting, the software needs to know to cut each individual part. Automatic Machining:
For most standard parts, use the "Automatic Machining" feature. It automatically assigns lead-ins/lead-outs and cutting directions based on your machine's technology tables. Manual Machining:
If a part has complex internal cutouts or requires micro-joints (tabs) to keep it from falling through the slats, you can manually place these elements using the Manual Machining 4. Nesting Optimization Lantek Expert is a comprehensive CAD/CAM nesting software
Nesting is the process of arranging parts on a sheet to minimize scrap. Automatic Nesting:
Lantek’s algorithm calculates the most efficient layout. You can define parameters like part rotation (e.g., 90° or 180° increments) and the distance between parts. Manual Adjustments:
You can drag and drop parts to fill gaps or use "Common Line Cutting" to share a single cut between two adjacent parts, saving time and gas. Remnant Management: If a sheet is not fully used, Lantek can create a remnant
, saving the leftover geometry back into the library for future jobs. 5. Simulation and G-Code Generation
The final step is verifying the sequence and exporting the instructions for the machine. Simulation: Press Auto Nest (puzzle icon) Options:
Run the 2D/3D simulation to watch the cutting head's path. Check for potential collisions or inefficient rapid movements between cuts. Post-Processing:
Once satisfied, click "CNC Generation." The software translates the visual layout into the specific G-code language (e.g., ESSI, ISO) required by your machine controller.
Generate a "Nesting Report" for the machine operator, which typically includes a visual map of the sheet, a list of parts, and estimated cutting time. Punching-specific AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more
An advanced tutorial concept involves "Common Cutting." This technique allows two parts to share a single cut line. The tutorial demonstrates how to activate this feature to reduce both material waste and cutting time by up to 15%.
Steel – 2.0 mm