Company Overview
Located in Minneapolis, Third Wave Systems provides comprehensive, physics-based machining modeling software and services used by progressive companies to dramatically reduce costs of machined components, acelerate design cycles, improve part quality, and get to market faster. This validated material modeling technology gives engineers access to more information than traditional trial-and-error tests, allowing you to make better decisions. Understanding the collective influence of key performance indicators (workpiece material, cutting tool geometries and materials, CAD/CAM inputs, and machine tool dynamics) empowers manufacturers to implement machining strategies that achieve optimal tool life and part quality without investing in additional resources.
Third Wave's flagship product, AdvantEdge, was the first commercially-available machining simulation software to combine finite element analysis (FEA) with custom material models. Production Module was introduced in 2003, allowing users to analyze and optimize NC programs. The success of Third Wave software speaks for itself: the technology's modeling capabilities have made it possible for Third Wave engineers to work with the Department of Defense on numerous occasions, gaining valuable R&D knowledge through Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) contracts and from partnerships with industry leaders such as Boeing and Kennametal. Sandvik, Caterpillar, Bell Helicopter, Airbus, General Motors, and General Electric are among TWS’ national and international customer base.
Third Wave Systems has experienced consistent growth over the past 10 years, landing on Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal’s list of the 50 fastest growing private companies in the Twin Cities area in both 2007 and 2008, as well as Inc. magazine’s list of the 5000 fastest growing private companies in the United States in 2008, 2009, and 2010. In addition to Minneapolis, Third Wave has a remote office in Detroit and seven international distributors.