At Setefer, a Brazilian steel processing company, simplifying CNC programming for plasma cutting operations was a key objective. By adopting Almacam nesting CAD/CAM software, the company automated essential programming tasks while retaining the flexibility to make adjustments. The result: less manual programming, easier preparation of cutting programs and a smoother workflow. Gilberto, a CNC programmer with more than 20 years of experience at Setefer, shares how this automation makes his work easier.
Interview of Gilberto Silvano Lucas
Gilberto Silvano Lucas, CNC Programmer at Setefer
The challenge of Setefer : simplifying the preparation of plasma cutting operations
Founded in 1986 and based in São Paulo, Brazil, Setefer is part of the Fercoi Group. The company specializes in steel distribution and processing, serving industries such as construction, shipbuilding and automotive. Its production facilities include CNC plasma cutting and industrial grinding equipment.
At Setefer, preparing plasma cutting operations involves several stages, from part preparation and CNC programming to cutting operations on the shop floor.
For Gilberto, who has worked at the company for 21 years and is responsible for CNC programming, the objective was to make these tasks easier through automation, while keeping the possibility of making manual adjustments when needed.
Almacam was adopted to support this approach, helping simplify the preparation of cutting programs and their execution by machine operators.
Automating plasma cutting programming with Almacam
One of the main advantages highlighted by Gilberto is the level of automation provided by Almacam’s software.
Once parts have been designed, the software assists with preparing the cutting program, including part orientation and cutting entry points.
Almacam makes things much easier for us because it practically automates our process.
— Gilberto, CNC Programmer at Setefer
Instead of requiring extensive manual intervention throughout programming, the software handles much of the preparation process automatically. The programmer can still make adjustments when necessary, but these interventions remain limited.
This balance between automation and manual control allows the team to prepare cutting programs more comfortably while retaining the flexibility needed for specific operations.
Once the CNC program is ready, it is transferred to the plasma cutting machine, where the operator selects it and starts production.
This workflow allows programming and cutting operations to be managed separately, with programs prepared in advance for the workshop.
Less manual programming, easier daily operations
For Gilberto and his colleagues, the main benefit of Almacam is the simplicity it brings to everyday plasma cutting operations.
By automating key programming tasks, the software reduces the need for manual intervention while allowing programmers to retain control when adjustments are required.
Machine operators receive ready-to-use CNC programs, making the transition from programming to cutting straightforward.
After 21 years at Setefer, Gilberto particularly values how Almacam makes his daily work easier, from preparing parts to delivering cutting programs to the workshop.
