The company also produces components for large-scale transport infrastructure projects such as bridges and railways.

Synectix uses the Amada EMZ3610 sheet metal punching machine for the majority of its projects, and recently purchased Radan software from Planit (Australia) to interface with the Amada system, confirmed Synectix general manager Mr Laurie Osmand.

"The reason we purchased the Radan software from Planit is because it could offer us full functionality of all features of our new Amada machine.  The resulting system is fully automated which means you can load it up with material, set it on its way and walk out the door."

Synectix first looked at purchasing Radan software in October 2007, said Mr Osmand.

"We trialed another software but found that it didn't work very well, so by November we'd decided to go with Radan and we've been really happy with it.

"The system is extremely user friendly and intuitive.  We're also able to use multiple post processors to create programs for all of our NC cutting equipment including turret punches, laser cutters and NC routers.

"Having them all on one platform makes our operations considerably more streamlined.  Radan's window-based system also makes for very efficient file storage."

Synectix fully anticipated achieving enhanced efficiencies and increased productivity through the use of Radan, he said.

"We're extremely impressed with the Radan product and with the support that comes as part of the package.  Radan provided around five training days initially, while ongoing training is also available."

Planit has been monitoring benefits derived from software on production lines and certainly with its own product, Radan, understands that the market is after a software product that can be in place to design and build on, yet is not a big capital investment.

A world leader in the field of CAD/CAM for the sheet metal industry, Radan software programs use a range of innovative design, manufacture and production control techniques that have become synonymous with production of the industry's components and products.

Whether in the fabrication of general sheetmetal, whitegoods, electronics, automotive or IT enclosures, Radan's applications help improve returns at every step of the manufacturing process.

www.planit.com