Systems & Software

CAM for Production Machining

CAM software for production is focused on programming machining centers, lathes and turn/mill machines to execute a variety of typically simple machining operations in the most efficient sequence possible. Milling, pocketing, slotting, drilling and OD and ID turning are all examples of operations that might apply to the machining cycle for a particular production part. CAM software for production also often features tools for software automation, or knowledge-based machining. Many of the decisions necessary to machine a production part are repetitive, involving assigning particular tools and parameters for particular varieties of drilled holes or milled features. CAM software with some knowledge-based functionality can allow the programmer to input his “knowledge” about tool, process and parameter preferences for certain fundamental types of machined features, so that the software can recognize those features in the future and program them automatically, saving the programmer time.


Featured Zone Content

June 2011

Video: Milling with Full Flute Length


A shop captured this footage of the way a software feature permits deep cutting in steel.

November 2010

CAM Software Considerations for Bar-Fed Mills


Time will tell, but increasingly, there is evidence that points to the fact that bar-fed mills could well represent the future of complex, small parts manufacturing.

June 2010

New Opportunities with CAM


A shop’s first steps into programming with CAM can be intimidating. But this company found success in fearless flexibility and the right software to fit its applications.



May 2012

Optimizing B Axis on Gang Tool-Based Swiss Machines

By: Hanan Fishman
This technological innovation has been increasing in popularity as well as multitasking sophistication.

May 2012

CAM Considerations for Plunge Roughing

By: Edited by: Matt Danford
Plunge roughing is often more complicated than it appears. Here’s how one CAM program addresses some common challenges associated with this technique.

May 2012

Creating Machine-Specific Tool Paths

By: Derek Korn
A new CAM capability takes a snapshot of an individual machine’s performance characteristics and uses the information to tailor an optimized tool path for that specific machine.

May 2012

Validating CAD Translation Accuracy Prior to Machining

By: Derek Korn
An add-on to Verisurf or Mastercam, this product quickly compares translated CAD models to an OEM’s authority models to determine translation accuracy.

April 2012

Hardware/Software Automates CNC Machining

By: Modern Machine Shop
ToolMaster hardware/software is a combination of software and a laser-measuring device.

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