WORKNC 2026.1 Introduces Smarter Automation and Faster Mold & Die Machining Workflows

WORKNC 2026.1 has been released with a focus on helping manufacturers program faster, machine more safely, and improve efficiency in mold and die applications. The latest version introduces several workflow and toolpath enhancements intended to reduce setup complexity while giving programmers greater control over machining operations.

One of the main additions in the release is Multi-Directional Rest Roughing, which extends 3+2 roughing capabilities with stronger machine awareness. The software now evaluates material removal directions, checks machine head accessibility, and generates safe rest-roughing toolpaths within a single operation. By combining collision avoidance with feasibility checks based on the machine configuration, the feature is designed to reduce uncertainty when machining deep cavities and other difficult areas. Users can also review and control machining orientations interactively while still benefiting from automatically optimized toolpaths.



Another notable development is the introduction of 5-Axis Dynamic Contact Finishing for circle-segment tools. This finishing strategy is aimed at mold and die components, using a surface-driven flank machining approach for walls and parting planes. It allows users to control the tool contact point and tilt, either by keeping contact on the largest radius or adjusting it dynamically along the tool arc. The goal is to maintain stable cutting conditions, improve surface quality, and lower the risk of collisions through built-in tilt management. Programming has also been simplified, as users only need to select the surfaces to machine rather than build complex 5-axis curve sets. For more demanding geometries such as tight concave corners, the system can automatically split toolpaths to preserve tilt control and machining consistency.

WORKNC 2026.1 also updates Curve Profiling with more flexible curve-based machining options. The enhanced functionality supports spiral strategies on overlapping curves, improved control over start points, and corner smoothing for cleaner 3D contouring. This updated method replaces the older Tangent to Curve toolpath with a more capable and modern approach.



In tool management, the new version introduces support for cloud-based tool libraries while maintaining compatibility with existing legacy libraries. This allows companies to adopt centralized tool data management gradually, without requiring immediate workflow or configuration changes. The approach is intended to support smoother transitions for organizations that want to scale tool management across multiple teams or locations.

The user interface has also been refined. The updated Ribbon Alternative has been adjusted based on user feedback to provide a more consistent experience across CAD, CAM, and PreCAM environments. The changes are intended to make navigation more intuitive and reduce the time needed to access commonly used functions.



In addition, the new toolpath dialog has been redesigned to present key information more clearly within the interface. Embedded help content is now included directly in the dialog and translated into all supported languages. This should make it easier for users to understand new functions without relying as heavily on external documentation, while also reducing trial-and-error during programming.

With these updates, WORKNC 2026.1 emphasizes automation, machine-aware programming, and usability improvements that support faster and more reliable machining preparation for mold and die manufacturers.

Source:  https://hexagon.com/products/product-groups/computer-aided-manufacturing-cad-cam-software/worknc/release-history?accordId=605098E9A76E462BA0E64BCCDCE97EE0