Nesting is our first skill in the cutting process to get your boat in kit. To optimize this step, and above all, its result, some preconditions need to be specified.

Types of cutting files

The exchange of files is based on 2D .dxf files composed of different layers. We can work on files coming from all DAO softwares of the market (Catia, Rino, Maat, Circé, Maxsurf, Solidwork, etc …).

According to the rule, we use a standard file structure that allows the best working with a minimum of error risks:

– a layer for inside and outside lines,

– a layer for marking (which is automatically done by the machine: floating, bending, welding lines, etc …),

– a layer for the names of the pieces and comments.

Each layer can be subdivided to specify thicknesses and/or further information.

Standard cutting files are made of concrete elements: lines, arcs, circles, and sometimes polylines.

3D elements or spline are forbidden.

Working on files and nesting

The file sent by the customer is split and worked to create another file for each piece to cut, ensuring the traceability of each piece: name, alloy, thickness and quantity. Moreover, separately from the cutting file via an excel document, or an a dedicated layer, a list (= nomenclature) is compulsory to guarantee this traceability.

Each file with the piece to cut is integrated in our nesting system, ACT CUT, which has specific developments for ALMET Marine. These developments have been done to meet the production specificities of our customers, whoever they are: shipyards, naval architects or technical departments.

Nestings are done by alloy and thickness. They will allow to handle quantities and symmetries (port and starboard sides) of the pieces.

We do several nesting simulations, comparing different sizes of plates and mixing them (from 2000x4000mm to 2500×8000 and 2500x12000mm) to guarantee the best output rate.

The flexibility and setting of our nesting system allow to answer some specific sorting needs:

– Necessity to cut several boats at the same time,

– Need to cut by “units”: hulls, decks, superstructures …,

– Possibility to bulk a special part(s) of the boat by references with a label system.

Each launching (set of the nested plates by thickness and alloy) is optimized and prepared for our means of cutting.

Each case is studied to find the best ratio cost/result according to leadtimes and initial inquiry of the customer.