CAD/CAM Software for Machining
CAD/CAM Software is used to generate part designs and CNC machining programs corresponding to part designs. Short for “computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing,” these systems create these programs for CNC machine tools. In general, CAM development has proceeded along two different tracks. Geometry-based CAM systems used in die/mold machining and other applications focus on complex milled geometries. Algorithms provide specific and efficient ways for machining complex geometries with both high precision and long tool life. By contrast, feature-based CAM systems are generally used in the production machining of geometrically simpler components.
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Blueprints to Chips: CAD/CAM Tips and Tricks
This collection of articles delves into the latest CAD/CAM innovations, from AI-driven automation and optimized tool paths to the impact of digital twins and system requirements.
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When to Use Custom Macros With a CAM System
Custom macros can offer benefits even when using a CAM system to prepare programs – but must be implemented with the right considerations.
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Simulation Saves Money When Machining Expensive Parts
Jobs machining expensive materials mean Keselowski Advanced Manufacturing needs to be extremely cautious. The operations manager says Vericut not only prevents mistakes, it shortens cycle times.
Read MoreMastercam Offers Free CAD/CAM Courses to Take From Home
The free Mastercam University courses are available through Dec. 31, 2021.
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4 Things to Incorporate in CAM-System-Generated CNC Programs
Streamline G-code programs created by CAM systems.
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7 Tips for Programming Ceramic Cutting Tools
Ceramic tools require different thinking and a willingness to tweak tool paths developed with carbide in mind.
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Latest CAD/CAM News And Updates
Associative CAD/CAM Increases Shop’s Productivity Fivefold
Fully integrated CAD/CAM and revision control have enabled Willis Custom Yachts to confidently perform lights-out work for a fivefold productivity gain.
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Concepts NREC Software Enhances Turbomachinery Toolpath Programming
The Agile Engineering Design System version 2026.1 enables engineering teams to reduce development time, improve design fidelity and accelerate the path from concept to production.
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HCL Software Optimizes Swiss-Style Machining Tool Paths
HCL CAMWorks 2026 includes CAD/CAM programming for Swiss-style CNC machines to promote advanced automation and precision.
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Advanced CAM Features Cut Programming and Cycle Times
Feature-based programming automation, advanced tool support and high-precision tool paths all share one goal: Improve the programmer’s ability to get things done. Learn more about the cutting edge of programming your cutting edge.
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RoboDK CAM Solution Cuts Robotic Machining Deployment Times
RoboDK has launched a CAM solution designed to reduce deployment times for machining automation by eliminating traditional, manual programming requirements.
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Extend Tool Life with Tooling, Toolpath and CAM Developments
Advanced tooling and tool path strategies can do just as much as a new machine tool to cut cycle times and improve tool life. Learn from tooling specialists about recent optimizations, as well as the tool paths and advanced CAM features they see improving job shops’ productivity.
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How I Made It: Clint Smith
Learn how Mastercam senior education market specialist Clint Smith jumped into a machining program after high school with no prior experience, and why he thinks the future of manufacturing is in good hands.
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Preventing Spindle Crashes with Digital Twins
With only four machine tools, high-mix shop Novo Modo needed a surefire way to prove out programs and prevent spindle crashes. But when it adopted a CAD/CAM software with digital twin simulation capabilities, it found that its benefits ran even deeper than anticipated.
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Inspection Data Drives Engineering Insights
For Flying S, Verisurf is more than inspection software — it’s a source of data for engineering, manufacturing and customers, as well as a common platform to communicate that data.
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CAM Copilots and the Next Digital Shift in American Machining
As AI reshapes programming and automation, Mastercam is betting on a future where human expertise and intelligent software evolve together on the shop floor. A conversation with Mastercam President Russ Bukowski.
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Refining the Handoff Between the CAM Program and the Real-World Process
Despite the best intentions in the virtual world, the manufacturing process is limited to what survives the handoff from screen to spindle.
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AI Creates CAD Files From Scan Data
While 3D visual scanners are useful, converting a visual scan to a usable CAD file can be a time-consuming process. With generative AI, it may be much simpler and faster.
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FAQ: CAD/CAM
What is CAD/CAM?
In the world of metalworking, the CAM part of CAD/CAM (computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing) generally means software for programming CNC machine tools. CAD is the computer-aided process that creates a design of a part or object.
Source: CAM at a Crossroads
What is CAD/CAM programming?
There are three methods of writing CNC programs, including using CAD/CAM software. CAD/CAM programming minimizes the need for the programmer to perform complex math calculations. Due to the minimal amount of math required by the programmer, CAD/CAM programming tends to be more efficient than manual programming.
By using an existing CAD drawing file and importing data into the CAM software, the programmer only needs to decide on which process and tooling to employ, typically using a list of tooling data and cutting conditions. The CAM software then calculates all of the moves necessary to machine the part.
What are the disadvantages of using CAD/CAM?
Programmers must keep in mind that there is some potential for unintentionally entering incorrect data. Another problem is that sometimes, the original drawing file is not available to the CNC programmer.
What is the relationship between CAD and CAM?
Most product design is performed on computers using CAD software. Then, that design or drawing file data is imported into the CAM software. After a few selections from the programmer, the CAM software will use that data and calculate the necessary moves to machine the part.
What are the advantages of CAD/CAM?
CAD/CAM programming minimizes the need for the programmer to perform complex math calculations. Due to the minimal amount of math required by the programmer, CAD/CAM programming tends to be more efficient than manual programming.
