GROB cuts CNC programming time by 30% with NX CAM
GROB, a German manufacturer of machine tools and automated production systems, uses NX CAM to automate design and feature-based machining. In Siemens’ official case study, GROB reports a 30% reduction in CNC programming time. Integrating Teamcenter with its ERP system also reduced bill of materials (BOM) compilation time by at least 80% and BOM mismatch errors by 95%.
These are results from GROB’s implementation as described by Siemens. Other manufacturers should assess their own processes and data before estimating potential gains.
The challenge: customized equipment and global engineering
GROB supplies equipment ranging from five-axis machining centers to automated production and assembly lines, mainly for the automotive industry. Its portfolio includes equipment for electric motors, traction batteries and fuel cells. Customers need high-volume production while changing between workpieces and configurations quickly. That increases the demands on design, data management and CNC preparation.
GROB’s engineering teams work across several global sites. They need a shared source of design data and a reliable way to pass BOM information to ERP for procurement and manufacturing.
NX, Teamcenter and Tecnomatix connect the workflow
GROB standardized 3D CAD design on NX and uses Teamcenter as the shared source of data for its engineers worldwide. Teamcenter Gateway for SAP Business Suite (T4S) exchanges information between Teamcenter and ERP. Siemens reports that removing separate data silos cut BOM compilation time by at least 80% and BOM mismatch errors by 95%.
For project planning, GROB uses Plant Simulation in the Tecnomatix portfolio to study material flow and machine utilization. Process Simulate helps verify robot cycle times and collisions. Engineers use Mechatronics Concept Designer in NX to develop and validate concepts and perform virtual commissioning before deployment on site.
Automating CNC programming with NX CAM
Instead of exchanging CNC programs between sites, GROB shares 3D models through Teamcenter. Each facility then creates programs for its own machines and available tools. GROB used the user-defined feature (UDF) capability in NX to build a machining rule library for standard bore types, pockets and surfaces.
According to Siemens, automatic feature recognition identifies 95% of GROB’s standard bore types and 70–80% of other features. This reduced CNC programming time by 30% and reduced the number of different tools used. The result reflects GROB’s feature-based process and its own rule library; it is not a default outcome for every NX CAM implementation.
Results reported by Siemens
- 30% less CNC programming time through feature-based machining in NX CAM.
- At least 80% less time required for BOM compilation after connecting Teamcenter and ERP.
- 95% fewer BOM mismatch errors between systems.
- A digitalized commissioning process and more reliable production information.
Siemens also describes GROB’s use of Mechatronics Concept Designer for virtual commissioning and Teamcenter/JT to provide valid information to workers on the shop floor. These improvements form part of a multi-stage digitalization effort supported by GROB’s in-house engineering expertise.
What manufacturers can learn from GROB
GROB’s experience shows that CAM automation depends on a usable machining feature library, reliable 3D models and connected data processes. Manufacturers can start by identifying frequently repeated features, standardizing tools and machining rules, and measuring programming time before and after implementation.
Where engineering data is split between CAD, PLM and ERP, teams can review how BOMs are created, approved and synchronized. BOM compilation time and mismatch rates offer measurable indicators of progress. GROB’s figures are a reference point, not a substitute for a site-specific assessment.
Frequently asked questions about the GROB case study
How much did GROB reduce CNC programming time?
Siemens reports a 30% reduction using NX CAM with feature-based machining and GROB’s machining rule library.
What is Teamcenter’s role?
Teamcenter serves as a shared source of engineering data across sites and connects with ERP for BOM exchange.
What do the 80% and 95% figures measure?
They refer to at least 80% less BOM compilation time and 95% fewer BOM mismatch errors after GROB connected Teamcenter and ERP, according to Siemens.
Explore connected design and manufacturing
Manufacturers evaluating ways to standardize design, CNC programming and BOM management can learn more about Siemens NX and discuss their current workflow with Top Solutions using the consultation form below.
Source: Siemens Digital Industries Software – GROB case study.
