VERICUT Takes Pole Position with Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team
When every millisecond counts in Formula One, precision and efficiency are everything. The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team relies on VERICUT’s solutions to verify, simulate, and optimize their machining operations, ensuring each race car component is perfect long before it hits the track.
As the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team gears up for a new racing season, preparation for the next year’s car begins well before the current one crosses the finish line. A key element in their success is the use of VERICUTsoftware, a critical part of their production engineering for over two decades. With VERICUT, the team is able to verify NC programs, optimize machining, and simulate complex parts—enhancing their production processes and achieving unparalleled accuracy.
How VERICUT Revolutionized Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS’ Machining Process
In the high-stakes world of Formula One, component accuracy is essential. Each redesigned car part is assessed for its machining operations, fixture requirements, and programming before it ever touches a CNC machine. The team uses AIM’s VERICUT solutions to optimize machining processes and ensure flawless execution.
“The VERICUT Air Cut Optimization module, in particular, has helped us reduce cycle times while maintaining part quality,” says James Peddle, Production Engineer at Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS. “By minimizing air cutting and maximizing contact with the material, we can machine components faster and more efficiently.”
Simulation and Safety: The Winning Formula
Safety and precision are vital for Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS. VERICUT enables them to simulate millions of lines of G-code and catch potential collisions, gouges, or excess material before the machining process even begins.
“Without VERICUT, machining complex parts would be far more labor-intensive and risky,” explains Robert Brown, Machine Shop Manager. “Thanks to VERICUT, we can safely run new CNC code without risking machine or part damage.”
Pushing the Limits of Innovation with NX Interface and Custom Tooling
The NX® Interface in VERICUT allows the team to verify NC programs directly from their CAM system, ensuring seamless integration and faster verification. This streamlined process saves time and provides confidence that the simulation matches real-world machining.
In addition, VERICUT helps the team tackle the unique challenges of Formula One component production, such as machining lightweight parts with thin walls. By simulating these operations and using customized tools in VERICUT, the team can confidently machine even the most complex parts.
“Weight reduction is crucial, and VERICUT helps us simulate and optimize every step,” Brown adds. “Without it, we’d need a skilled operator on hand just to listen for changes in the machine’s harmonics. But with VERICUT, we know it’s safe.”
Empowering Designers and Engineers with VERICUT
Beyond production, VERICUT empowers design engineers to push boundaries. The software enables quick feedback on whether new components are machinable, helping engineers make informed decisions at the concept stage.
“VERICUT gives our designers the confidence to be creative,” says Brown. “Without it, we’d have to ask them to hold back their ideas, potentially limiting performance. Thanks to VERICUT, we can continue to innovate and deliver top-tier performance.”
At AIM, we provide the VERICUT solutions that drive innovation and precision for elite teams like Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One. Ready to optimize your CNC operations and push the limits of what’s possible?
Contact AIM today at info@aim-cnc.com to learn how VERICUT can enhance your machining capabilities.
