ESPRIT EDGE 2026.3: New Features & What You Need to Know

September 17, 2026/Mariano Torrez/

Hexagon has released ESPRIT EDGE 2026.3, bringing new machining capabilities, workflow improvements, and a large number of fixes across the platform.

This release focuses on improving machining efficiency and expanding capabilities across 3-axis milling, 5-axis machining, turning, mill-turn, and CAD integration.

Here are some of the key updates in ESPRIT EDGE 2026.3.

Dynamic Cutting Optimization for 3-Axis Roughing

Dynamic Cutting Optimization has been expanded to support Variable Z-Milling operations.

Previously introduced for Pocketing in ESPRIT EDGE 2026.2, the technology can now automatically adjust cutting parameters throughout a 3-axis roughing toolpath based on machining conditions.

The goal is to maintain consistent cutting performance while improving machining efficiency and reducing cycle times.

The release also introduces Depth-Driven Optimization. When a toolpath contains both deep and shallow cutting depths, ESPRIT EDGE can automatically adjust the radial stepover as the depth changes. This helps maintain a more consistent material removal rate and tool engagement throughout the operation.

For shops looking to get more out of their 3-axis roughing strategies, this is one of the most notable additions in 2026.3.

U-Axis Turning Is Now Available for Production

ESPRIT EDGE 2026.3 also expands its U-axis Turning capabilities and makes the technology generally available for production use.

Machine compatibility has been expanded to support more configurations and U-axis tooling setups, including machines with a built-in U-axis, in addition to configurations where the U-axis is carried by the tool holder.

For shops working with more advanced turning applications, this expands the range of machines and setups that can take advantage of U-axis programming in ESPRIT EDGE.

New 5-Axis Composite Machining Patterns

The 5-Axis Composite strategy continues to expand in ESPRIT EDGE 2026.3 with two new machining patterns:

  • Flow for Drive Profiles
  • Radial Around Point for FreeForm Part Driven machining

The new Flow pattern creates tool motion by morphing between two or more user-defined drive curves. This gives programmers more control over machining direction and can be particularly useful when working with variable-width features and complex surface transitions.

Radial Around Point creates toolpaths that radiate from a selected central location. It is designed for circular, oval, and localized machining areas and includes optional boundary tracing to help with edge cleanup and surface finish.

Both additions are designed to reduce manual programming workarounds while improving tool motion, engagement, and pass spacing.

Improved Positioning for Complex Mill-Turn Machines

ESPRIT EDGE 2026.3 introduces a new RTCP Approach Rotate Activation Mode for supported mixed-construction mill-turn machines.

The new approach changes how rotary and linear axis movements are handled during approach and linking moves when RTCP is active.

The goal is to help prevent over-travel conditions and provide more predictable machine positioning, particularly when working with tilted tools during tool changes and approach motions.

Updated SOLIDWORKS Integration

The transition away from the legacy SOLIDWORKS FX option continues in ESPRIT EDGE 2026.3.

The integrated SOLIDWORKS import workflow now supports additional sketch-related geometry and data. ESPRIT EDGE also continues to natively import the CAD feature tree and PMI information from SOLIDWORKS files.

As part of this transition, the separate SOLIDWORKS FX add-in is no longer required and has been removed from the ESPRIT EDGE installation.

Stability and Quality Improvements

In addition to the new features, ESPRIT EDGE 2026.3 includes a significant number of fixes across the software.

Updates address areas including CAD Exchange, KnowledgeBase, milling, links, operations, post processing, probing, machine setup, simulation, tooling, turning, Wire EDM, and general system stability.

Several fixes specifically address crashes, simulation and collision behavior, toolpath issues, machine setup problems, and post processor functionality.

 

Ready to Move to ESPRIT EDGE 2026.3?

ESPRIT EDGE 2026.3 continues to build on the 2026 release with improvements aimed at reducing programming time, expanding support for advanced machining applications, and improving overall reliability.

PMT customers who have questions about ESPRIT EDGE 2026.3, upgrading their current installation, licensing, or machine compatibility can contact our team for assistance.

Our team can help you determine what you need to get started with the latest release.

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