Lantek’s New Software Feature Improves Part Identification and Streamlines Workshop Operations
Lantek, a global leader in software solutions for the sheet metal industry, has enhanced its Nesting by Attribute feature in the latest v45 release of its Lantek Expert software.
Developed to improve part handling and shop floor efficiency, this updated feature enables manufacturers to set custom nesting priorities based on operational requirements. The enhanced tool allows users to group and organize parts on sheet metal using selected criteria, making part identification faster and operator workflows smoother.
Parts from the same job or production stage can be visually organized through color-coding, offset zones or visible dividing lines. This makes it easier for operators to identify, remove and process parts while maintaining production flow.
Adam Ball, Commercial Director at Lantek, explains: “The latest Nesting by Attribute tool is extremely user friendly, helping machine operators quickly identify which parts belong to which job. With today’s high speed modern laser cutting machines, shop floor operators often struggle to sort cut parts quickly enough. Grouping parts from different jobs on a single sheet can sometimes disrupt the production flow if the parts require different post-processing steps. This new feature helps to avoid that, reduce errors and save valuable time.”
Users can now define nesting priorities using attributes stored in Lantek Expert or Lantek MES, such as delivery deadlines, follow-up processes, container type, associated job orders or assemblies. During nesting, parts that match the selected properties are prioritized, while remaining parts are placed in leftover spaces.
This functionality was developed in response to customer feedback and evolving industry needs.
Adam Ball continues: “The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with customers valuing the flexibility it offers. In some cases, full material optimisation is ideal, but in other cases, it’s far more practical to nest in a way that supports faster and more efficient part handling on the shop floor.”
About Lantek
Lantek is a leading provider of industrial software solutions, combining manufacturing expertise with advanced technology. With more than 36,000 customers in over 100 countries, Lantek continues to drive digitalization and Industry 4.0 in the sheet metal sector.
