Problem: Generic UG Tools Load with a Nonzero Z Offset
In NX8, selecting a generic UG tool from the library populates the Z Offset field with a negative value (e.g., -xx.xxx) instead of 0. User-created library tools are unaffected — they retain the Z Offset of 0 they were saved with. The issue appeared after upgrading from NX7.5 to NX8.
The machine-risk consequence is direct: an unexpected negative Z offset shifts the toolpath, and operators have reported crashes (tool driven into the part) when the offset went unnoticed before posting and running.
Root Cause and Resolution
This is a known NX8 software defect, not a library configuration error. The fix is delivered in NX 8.0.1. Siemens PLM published the patch under Software Field Bulletin SFB-NX-6237, which describes how to obtain it. Two paths exist:
- Update the installation to NX 8.0.1, which contains the correction.
- If a full update is not immediately possible, obtain the patch per the instructions in SFB-NX-6237 through official Siemens PLM support channels.
Confirmation from the field: after applying the update, generic UG tools no longer load with a nonzero Z Offset.
Interim Workaround and Verification
Until the patch is installed, enforce a manual check on every tool selection: when picking a generic UG tool from the library, verify the Z Offset field reads 0 before proceeding. Because the defect only affects generic library tools, tools you created and saved with Z Offset 0 require no rework, but any operation built before the patch should be re-inspected if a generic tool was used.
Post-update verification: open the tool library, select a generic UG tool, and confirm the Z Offset field displays 0. Repeat for a representative sample of generic tools before releasing programs to the machines.
FAQ
Why does NX8 show a negative Z Offset on generic library tools?
This is a known defect introduced in NX8. Generic UG library tools load with a negative Z Offset value, while user-created library tools correctly keep their saved value of 0.
How do I fix the NX8 Z Offset bug?
Update to NX 8.0.1, or obtain the patch as instructed in Software Field Bulletin SFB-NX-6237 via official Siemens PLM support channels.
What should I do before the NX 8.0.1 patch is installed?
Manually verify the Z Offset field is set to 0 every time you select a generic UG tool from the library, and re-check any existing operations built with generic tools to prevent machine crashes.
