Computer Aided Manufacturing…Simple?

Tim Moss
Tim Moss
Nov 2 · 2 min read

If you are involved in CNC Machining then there is no doubt you will have come across the word CADCAM at some point. Computer Aided Design gained huge popularity with design engineers with the development of the famous AutoCAD Software. This reduced the need of freehand drafting and allowed a speedy method of producing a 2D engineering drawing. The computer software uses a coordinate system to draw lines and other shapes.

Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) has been derived from the introduction of mainstream CNC Machinery in the 1990’s. CAM moved into 3D drawing of a turned component using AutoCAD’s basic system and taking it further. This new technology introduced the ability to create a tool path for each machining operation of the component. Thus, this then created the G-Code program which could be outputted to the CNC Machine with the aid of a post processor.

Is it Really That Easy to Use?

Anything is easy if you know what you are doing and CADCAM software is no different. Firstly, you need to be familiar with using a computer and I say this without joking. You would be surprised at how many precision engineers are not computer literate. Another key factor is being able to produce an engineering drawing and understanding the relevant ISO symbols. If you can master these skills then you will get to grips with using CADCAM software and use it to its full advantages.

With many different packages available from companies such as AutoDesk, One CNC and others it is critical to have the post processor for your CNC machine. Without the post processor you can’t output the program direct to your machine. Many of the software manufacturers cater for Fanuc based CNC Machinery as its the most popular CNC control. You will need to check beforehand with the software developer that a post is available for your particular control.

Thanks for reading 👍

Tim Moss

Written by

Tim Moss

Have a passion for CNC Turning and Machining. Work as a Commercial Manager at M&M Turned Parts Ltd. www.mmturnedparts.co.uk

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