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Cutting Part Programming Times Through AI

CAM Assist cuts repetition from part programming — early users say it cuts tribal knowledge and could be a useful tool for training new programmers.

Inside a CNC-Machined Gothic Monastery in Wyoming

An inside look into the Carmelite Monks of Wyoming, who are combining centuries-old Gothic architectural principles with modern CNC machining to build a monastery in the mountains of Wyoming.

Refining Shopfloor Processes for Mission-Critical Parts

Pacon Mfg, Inc. has not rested on its laurels as the 2020 Top Shop Honoree for Shopfloor Practices and Performance. In the years since, it has refined its processes to continue excelling in a volatile market.

Continuous Improvement and New Functionality Are the Name of the Game

Mastercam 2025 incorporates big advancements and small — all based on customer feedback and the company’s commitment to keeping its signature product best in class.

Mastercam Software Improves Programming Flexibility

IMTS 2024: Mastercam introduces Mastercam 2025, with features including Mastercam Deburr for automated edge finishing, finish passes, mill-turn support for Y-axis turning and automatic license update notifications.

How I Made It: Trevor Hirschi, Instructor, Bridgerland Technical College

Student, operator, instructor, shop owner — Trevor Hirschi’s many roles have enabled him to understand both the technical and creative sides of manufacturing.

Mastercam Appoints New Chief Revenue Officer

Nicolas Le Moigne, who previously served as vice president of sales at Mastercam, will now lead the company’s sales, marketing, customer success and commercial strategy teams.

The Power of Practical Demonstrations and Projects

Practical work has served Bridgerland Technical College both in preparing its current students for manufacturing jobs and in appealing to new generations of potential machinists.

Mastercam Appoints New President

Susan Brandt is said to bring over 25 years of global business leadership and strategic expertise within B2B software, infrastructure design and engineering software.

ERP and Process Changes Increase Shop’s Revenue 64% YoY

Implementing ProShop has led to a massive process overhaul at Marzilli Machine. From 2020 to 2021, revenue increased 64% without capital investment.

Mastercam to Acquire Cimquest

Cimquest is a Mastercam reseller based in New Jersey.

Large-Format Machining With Small Cutting Tools and Dynamic Motion

Napoleon Machine, a defense contractor that provides parts for the M1 Abrams tank, recently took advantage of a CAM feature that allowed the company to streamline its cutting strategies and program offline. Here’s how the shop cut cycle times nearly in half with its large-format five-axis machining operations.

Mastercam Appoints New CFO

Karen Gibbs will lead financial efforts in support of the company’s ongoing market expansion.

Briquetting Manufacturer Tools Up for Faster Turnaround Times

To cut out laborious manual processes like hand-grinding, this briquette manufacturer revamped its machining and cutting tool arsenal for faster production.

Three-Axis Bridge Mill Opens New Doors for Construction OEM

Different industries often require different machining priorities, a truism recently demonstrated by Barbco, an OEM of heavy-duty boring equipment that opened up new design possibilities by pivoting toward rigid, less complex machining centers.

CAD/CAM Helps Team Win Advanced Manufacturing Competition

Minnesota State College Southeast’s “Average Joes” team took home the grand prize at the 2023 Project MFG Advanced Manufacturing Competition.

Mastercam Appoints New Vice President of Sales

Nicolas Le Moigne brings 23 years of experience working in the CAD/CAM sector, from technical positions through sales and management.

TTI Brings Specialty Gear Production In-House with Multiaxis Machining

By investing in a 3+2-axis machine and utilizing simulation software for diagnostic checks, Techtronic Industries turned a four- to ten-week lead time into a one- to two-week lead time.

Mastercam Acquires CAM Post-Processing Software Developer

Postability will enable Mastercam users to acquire a broader range of post-processing technology with streamlined support and responsiveness.

Mastercam 2024 Integrates Sandvik Coromant CoroPlus Tool Library

The integrated library enables users to work faster when importing tool geometries and cutting data.

5 Tips for Running a Profitable Aerospace Shop

Aerospace machining is a demanding and competitive sector of manufacturing, but this shop demonstrates five ways to find aerospace success.

Mastercam, Andrew Crowe Help High School Establish Manufacturing Program

Mastercam and Andrew Crowe recently provided resources to students at Benjamin Franklin High School to start an advanced manufacturing program.

Four-Axis Horizontal Machining Doubles Shop’s Productivity

Horizontal four-axis machining enabled McKenzie CNC to cut operations and cycle times for its high-mix, high-repeat work — more than doubling its throughput.

Kennametal Integrates New Tool Library With Mastercam

Mastercam users will be able to import data on Kennametal’s cutting tools, including GoDrill and Kenna Universal solid carbide drills, as well as a selection of end mills.

CNC Software Appoints New Marketing Director

Liz Shovlin will lead efforts in support of the brand’s ongoing market expansion and to further develop the company’s position in manufacturing technology.

Mastercam Integrates G-Code Simulation from CAMWerk

NC2Check detects errors that lead to machine downtime, damage to the workpiece or even expensive collisions on CNC machines before the real machining even begins.

Mastercam Mill Streamlines Multiaxis Machining Process

The Mastercam Mill software package includes multiaxis features, 3D enhancements and 2D high-speed toolpaths.

IMS Software, ModuleWorks, Mastercam Collaborate on G-Code Simulation

IMS Software, ModuleWorks and Mastercam’s IMSce combines IMS G-code emulation with the ModuleWorks simulation and post processing technology to provide a G-code parsing solution that connects directly to Mastercam.

When a Lathe With Live Tooling Rivals a Multitasking Machine

This shop is working its way up to a full-fledged B-axis multitasking machine. Meanwhile, turning centers with a Y-axis and live tooling are doing just fine.

When Too Many Customers Spoil the Part

Duo CNC used to take on as many customers as the shop could handle. But when growth stalled, a top-down audit by the company’s general manager revealed that its customer base was inhibiting growth — and causing the shop to be less efficient and productive.

Latest Software Version Features Multi-Axis, Mill-Turn Advancements

IMTS 2022: The company says one of the software’s top improvements is the ability to consolidate multi-axis toolpaths.

CAD/CAM Software Updates Reflect User Feedback

IMTS 2022: MasterCam debuts its 2023 software updates.

The Job Shop Is the First Half of the Business

By day, NTL Industries went from a lathe and a mill in a home garage to an 11-employee enterprise in under five years. By night, it tackles a new future.

CNC Software Releases 2023 Update

CNC Software LLC has released Mastercam 2023, with updates driven directly by users.

CAD/CAM System Requirements: An Overview

CAD/CAM programs are among the most demanding kinds of computer software. Smooth operation requires careful consideration of computer specifications.

Stars Slowly Align for Small Shop Merger

RPM Tool’s seemingly overnight expansion from a five-person machine shop to an almost 30-employee production business involved over a year and a half of planning.

Five-Axis Changes Weldments Into Monolithic One-Piece Parts

Moving from welding to five-axis machining enabled Barbco to redesign its weldments as monolithic one-piece parts with improved strength and repeatability.

CNC Software Establishes Mastercam UK

With the closing of reseller 4D Engineering Ltd., the company established an entity in the United Kingdom to support customers.

Mastercam Releases Beta for Global Public Testing

Public beta testing program for Mastercam 2023 is available to current customers. Users will test the updated software and provide feedback for improvements.

In Plastics Machining, One Sharp Tool Does It All

Milling plastic can pose a variety of challenges, but keep a few principles in mind and quality parts will follow.

Mastercam Software Enables Simultaneous 4- and 5-Axis Machining

The Multiaxis unified toolpath enables users to select multiple pieces of input geometry to generate the toolpath pattern.

Mastercam Announces Wildest Parts Competition Winners

Mastercam holds the Wildest Parts Competition each year to encourage student interest and participation in manufacturing. The competition is open to students at the secondary and postsecondary levels to create parts using Mastercam.

New CAD/CAM Features Extend Shop's Three-Axis Capabilities

Mastercam’s Dynamic Motion technology enables advanced tool paths that make Industrial Machine & Supply competitive with only a three-axis milling machine.

CNC Software Inc. Enhances Mastercam Turning Capabilities

According to CNC Software Inc., users can save time and avoid errors by creating reusable assemblies of modular components. These assemblies can be stored in a library and used for the creation of full 3D lathe tool assemblies.

August 2021 Manufacturing News Highlights

Acquisitions made for a busy month of news at Modern Machine Shop. Here are the top five news stories of August.

What Sandvik's Mastercam Acquisition Means For Users

While Sandvik says it plans to give recent acquisition Mastercam independence and keep its software platform-agnostic, the company also plans to leverage its new reach into the small to medium manufacturers to cross-sell tools.

Sandvik to Acquire the Creators of Mastercam

By acquiring CNC Software, Sandvik gains an installed base of around 270,000 licensed users, a strong market reseller network and partnerships with leading machine makers and tooling companies.

Mastercam 2022 Streamlines the Job Process

Eastec 2021: Mastercam 2022 adds the Unified Multiaxis toolpath, 3D High Speed Dynamic OptiRough toolpath and new mesh creation and editing capabilties.

Meet the Automation That Makes Machine Tool Automation

A new manufacturing cell at Mazak’s North American headquarters is one part machine tool production unit and one part demonstration facility. And it’s here to provide a lesson about how automation can tackle skilled-worker shortages and supply chain issues at the same time.

Tool Libraries and Simulations in CAM Software Accelerate Cycle Times

Schupan Aluminum was able to reduce its CNC machining cycle times and perform complex five-axis work through Mastercam’s toolpaths and advanced features.

Mastercam Highlights Design Tool Updates

Mastercam has added several enhancements to its Design software, including hole recognition, updated Note capabilities and geometry modification through mouse movement.

CNC Software Appoints Paco Agrafojo as Marketing Director

CNC Software has hired Paco Agrafojo as marketing director, a position in which he will help the company continue its market success with Mastercam.

Mastercam and Edge Factor Develop Three Free Career Programs

Mastercam will sponsor three of Edge Factor’s free 2021 Experiences, which aim to highlight the benefits of a manufacturing career to students and job seekers.

FANUC and CNC Software Introduce Five-Axis Postprocessor

FANUC and CNC Software have launched a Mastercam postprocessor optimized for five-axis simultaneous contouring accuracy on FANUC CNC machines.

Mastercam Adds Support for Kyocera SGS Precision Tools

Mastercam users can now download 10 libraries of SGS tools in a native Mastercam format, providing fast, seamless access to SGS’s cutting tools.

Mastercam, Haas Partner with American Precision Museum

Mastercam applications engineers designed and machined a scaled-down version of the waterwheel originally used to power the factory that now houses the American Precision Museum.

CNC Machining and Manufacturing Students Find CAM Software Intuitive

A Lincoln College of Technology machining instructor details the most useful features of Mastercam — his school’s software of choice.

Standardization Leans the Way to High-Mix Automation

An increasingly digitalized, lean manufacturing process begins with a common selection of cutting tools and five-axis machining fixtures.

How to Slash 5-Axis Finishing Time

Finally there is an alternative to ballnose endmills for finishing 3D parts. The combination of finishing tools shaped to provide more cutting surface and a CAM system with the ability to apply them on a five-axis machining center can dramatically reduce finishing cycle times while delivering better surface finishes.

Titans of CNC Aerospace Academy Uses Mastercam

Titans of CNC will use Mastercam to produce additional aerospace tutorials for the Aerospace Academy website.

Mastercam 2021 Improves Safety, Speed of NC Programming

Mastercam 2021 increases machining productivity and reduces overall production costs with speed and flexibility improvements in multi-axis and turning applications.

CAD/CAM Software Helps Shops Shift to Coronavirus Work

A sampling of CNC machine shops serving a variety of industries have this in common: They are using Mastercam CAD/CAM software to shift their focus and quickly produce medical supplies necessary to aid in responding to the coronavirus.

Executive VP of Mastercam Retires

Working with his brothers, Brian Summers helped to start CNC Software in the early 1980s out of a home office.

November 2019 Product Spotlight: 5-Axis Machining

This month’s Modern Equipment Review Spotlight focuses on five-axis machining technologies.

Mastercam 2020 Lathe Improves Usability and Tooling Options

Mastercam 2020 Lathe is designed to accept and program any CAD file to Dynamic Motion roughing and precise finishing.

Mastercam 2020 Mill Improves Curved Surface Finishes

The updated Mastercam 2020 Mill from CNC Software Inc. offers expanded machining flexibility and an increased emphasis on speed and automation.

Hitting the Zone with Five-Axis Machining

By investing in five-axis machining technology, Advance CNC Machining has done more than just add new capabilities to its roster. It has found a way to achieve something that most of us strive for: a way to work “in the zone.”

Heidenhain, Mastercam Introduce Five-Axis Postprocessor

In a collaborative aimed at enabling five-axis machining for those using Heidenhain TNC controls and Mastercam CAD/CAM software, the companies have introduced a new postprocessor.

CNC Software Hosts Mastercam Education Summit 2019

The second annual event catered to educators seeking to teach their students about CAD, CAM and engineering.

Boost Metal Removal Rates with Constant Chip-Load Machining

The benefits of constant chip-load machining have been known for a while, but efficiently programming the toolpaths was impractical for most shops. However, new CAM technology makes the process easy, and the improvements in machining productivity can be dramatic.

Mastercam 2020 Streamlines Machining from Setup to Completion

CNC Software has released Mastercam 2020, which increases machining productivity and reduces production costs with 2D as well as multi-axis milling automation features, CAD and model preparation improvements, improved machine configuration, and 3D tooling.

CNC Software Announces Masters of CAM Wildest Parts Competition

New for 2019, at least one Masters of CAM story submission is required for each part entered.

From-Scratch CNC Post Processor Lets Dual-Toolhead Mill-Turn Shine

A dual-toolhead multitasking machine made coordination of tool paths difficult, if not impossible. A new post processor for use with Mastercam Mill-Turn resulted in smooth programming of tight-tolerance tool paths using both toolheads.

Milling Software Introduces Deburring Tool Path Strategy

Eastec 2019: Mastercam 2019 Mill offers expanded machining flexibility, 2D high-speed tool paths, 3D enhancements and multi-axis features to improve shopfloor productivity.

Milling Postprocessor Supports Sinumerik 808D Control

CNC Software, producer of Mastercam CAD/CAM software, has released a postprocessor for three-axis and four-axis milling machines designed with help from Siemens CNC engineers, that provides support for Siemens’ Sinumerik 808D CNCs.

CAM Software for Lathes Enables More Aggressive Grooving

Mastercam 2019 Lathe is designed to enable users to accept and program any CAD file for dynamic roughing and precision finishing.

Rise Up Industries’ Machine Training Program Rises Up to Help on Many Levels

This CNC machine-operator training program helps individuals prepare for sustainable employment as a vital element for successful reentry into society and departure from gang life.

Mastercam Launches Website for User-Generated Content

Masters of CAM is a content-driven platform for Mastercam users to post stories of their skills and accomplishments.

Overcoming Racing CNC Machine Shop Challenges

Automotive racing teams’ machine shops are essentially job shops. An IMTS panel discussion I moderated highlighted ways Stewart-Haas Racing’s shop meets the challenges of a high-mix/low-volume machining environment.

Milling Postprocessor Supports Sinumerik-Controlled Machines

Mastercam has released a four-axis milling post processor that is said to enable productivity on Sinumerik-controlled machine tools.

Updated CAD/CAM Software Streamlines Job Setup

CNC Software Inc. has released Mastercam 2019, developed to streamline the manufacturing process from job setup to job completion.

Students Experience the Manufacturing Classroom of the Future

As the future of our manufacturing workforce, it’s important for students attending the Smartforce Student Summit to understand what technologies they will be working with once they enter the workforce.

Mastercam Spotlights Masters of CAM

This software developer highlights customer success to provide a natural context for displaying the latest release of Mastercam 2019 CAD/CAM, which was developed to streamline the manufacturing process from job set up to job completion.

Shop Works to get the Most Out of Its Five-Axis Capabilities

Vertical machining centers with rotary tables helped this Indiana job shop set itself apart, but specific machine features and additional equipment have helped it use them more efficiently to grow its business.

Managing Risk Is This Shop’s Bold Strategy

Flying S routinely makes bold moves in how it processes machined parts and pursues business growth. This boldness comes from carefully minimizing risks.

Mastercam Sponsors National Robotics League

The company is a Diamond-level sponsor of the program, providing its software to students.

Updated CAD/CAM Software Improves Machine Simulation

IMTS 2018: CNC Software Inc.’s Mastercam 2019 improves productivity with multi-axis milling automation features.

Understanding Circle-Segment Milling Tools

The circle-segment cutter represents a class of milling tool in which the CAM software is key for using the tool effectively. Cutting profiles presented at the proper angles realize cycle-time reductions in contoured workpieces such as molds. A CAM company engineer discusses the role of this tooling.

Machining Parts for the World’s Largest Digital Camera

SLAC is building the world’s largest digital camera, to be installed inside the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope. Getting there requires the machining expertise of shops like Keller Technology.

Overcoming the Limits of Hard Milling with EDM

An unusual opportunity led a maker of die-cast dies to reconsider its emphasis on hard milling and take another look at its use of EDM.

Milling CAM Software Optimizes Tool Motion

Mastercam 2018 Mill expands machining flexibility and emphasizes speed and automation.

Mastercam Celebrates 35th Anniversary

This year marks the 35th anniversary of the founding of CNC Software, the company behind Mastercam CAD/CAM software.

Imported Tool Assemblies Save Time in CAM Programming

CNC Software Inc. has partnered with Kennametal to enable users to import tool assemblies from Novo to Mastercam 2018, saving them time when searching for tools and giving them the ability to build 3D tool assemblies that can be brought directly into the CAM program.

Taking the Drag out of Automotive Machining Setups

Paired with the right cutting tools, workholding and software, multi-tasking and multi-axis equipment enables this race team to also bill itself as a full-fledged parts supplier.

Applying Automotive Machining Lessons to Aerospace

Although motorsports are a natural focus for a shop owned by a former NASCAR driver, five-axis machining and an emphasis on process planning have opened the door to new aerospace work.

CAM Software Helps Shop Take on Complex Work

For Sluterbeck Tool and Die, programming at the machine created substantial downtime. Mastercam Mill Level 1 software improved machine uptime with offline programming.

CAM Software Offers Chip Break Settings for Machining Stringy Metals

CNC Software Inc.’s Mastercam 2018 offers several new features and improvements.

A New Turning Process Enables Cutting “In Reverse”

A methodology for cutting in both directions on a CNC lathe promises to make turning a much more productive operation in certain applications. New types of inserts driven by new CAM tool paths are key enablers of this development, but implementing the whole multifaceted system as a system is essential.

CNC Software Inc. Partnership to Distribute Software in United Kingdom

Engineering Technology Group will sell Mastercam and Cimco software in the United Kingdom.

Turning Toolpaths Offer Controlled Chip Breaks

New features in Mastercam 2017 Lathe turning CAM software include a Chip Break option, TNRC Control, Stock Model enhancements and more.

CAM Software Integrated in SolidWorks Streamlines Design, Manufacturing

CNC Software’s Mastercam 2017 CAM software is fully integrated into SolidWorks.

New Mastercam Business Serving India, Middle East

Vineet Seth will be the Managing Director of Mastercam India.

Not Every Successful Career Starts with a College Degree

“It’s time to redefine the definition of success.” That was a key point made by CNC Software President Meghan West, who was the keynote speaker at University of South Florida College of Education’s luncheon in Tampa. She explained why specialized training in manufacturing skills may be better career preparation for smart students with a talent for making things.

Updated CAM Software Better Prepares CAD Models for Efficient Programming

CNC Software Inc. offers Mastercam 2017, introducing dozens of significant improvements intended to make it easier to create CNC programs for complex parts, improve safe material removal and extend support for a broader range of equipment.

CAD/CAM Software Grows Customer Base, Product Offerings

Forward Technologies needed to expand its customer base and broaden its capabilities. With Mastercam CAD/CAM software, it was able to do just that.

Chip Removal Chamber of Horrors

This case history from Mastercam is appropriately themed for Halloween.

Integrated CAM Software Enables Programming from CAD

Mastercam X9 for SolidWorks is a CAM application that is fully integrated into Dassault Systèmes’ SolidWorks CAD software, enabling the user to program parts directly in SolidWorks using Mastercam’s tool paths and machining strategies.

Constant-Chip-Load Machining Yields a Better Tool Path

With its in-house R&D program, this aerospace shop seeks to be a leader, not a follower, on the path to innovation in advanced manufacturing. Finding and embracing a better way to generate tool paths for highly efficient and economical metal removal is a prime example of the value of this program.

CAM Software Integrates ISO 13399 Tool Library

CNC Software has integrated Sandvik Coromant’s Adveon Tool Library with its Mastercam software for programming milling and turning machining.

How a CAD/CAM Consultant can Help

This article from CNC Software (developer of Mastercam software) gives a good picture of why and when some shops turn to an independent software specialist for CAD/CAM services such as CNC programming of difficult or complex parts.

CAM Software Ensures Collision-Free Positioning in Multi-Axis Operations

CNC Software’s Mastercam X9 introduces improvements to the software’s dynamic motion tool path capability, design features, multiaxis capabilities and more.

New CNC Equipment, CAM Software Bring Shop to a Fast Start

The startup Dynamic Balance Machine invested in advanced CNC machines and Mastercam software from CNC Software Inc. to more quickly rough out material and reduce cycle times.

Leveraging CAD/CAM for High-Density Machining

CAD/CAM software streamlines the design of high-density fixtures for this machine shop.

CAD/CAM Software for Precision Programming

CNC Software’s Mastercam Swiss is specialized CAD/CAM for precision programming.

CAM Software, New Employees Help Job Shop Ramp up on Small Budget

By optimizing and standardizing its CAM programming and investing in employees rather than new equipment, Wieber Machine has grown into a successful company, despite small start-up funds.

Digital Thread Boosts Data-Driven Manufacturing

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is initiating a project to demonstrate how a standardized 3D model of a product can integrate and streamline production from initial design through final inspection in a continuous, coherent data-driven process.

CAD/CAM Helps Aerospace Shop Machine Aluminum Guitars

Using CAD/CAM software from Matercam/CNC Software Inc. helped Wolfert’s Tool and Machine Co. develop and produce a single-billet aluminum guitar body.

Useful Advice for CAM Software Users

In a whitepaper, Mastercam calls useful advice for CAM software users “CAM Initiatives.” These initiatives are practical projects and procedural policies designed to help a machining company make more effective use of its CAD/CAM resources. Although primarily targeted to Mastercam users, many of these initiatives contain useful advice that benefits users of any CAM software system.

The Costs and Benefits of Horizontal Machining

The shift from vertical to horizontal machining was even more expensive than this shop anticipated. It was also more valuable. Most of the shop’s machining centers are HMCs now—here’s why.

Dynamic Motion Moves Past Old Boundaries

The Dynamic Motion option in CNC Software’s Mastercam generates tool paths by following an expansive set of rules that are different from those most CAM software has traditionally followed. The motion of the tool is not defined strictly by boundaries of the area to be machined. Instead, the rules take into consideration not only the area from which metal is to be removed, but also the changing condition of the material throughout the various stages of machining.

Refueling Manufacturing Through Storytelling

New media company Edge Factor is partnering with Purdue University and industry leaders to produce educational materials based on episodes of its shows.

CAM Software Improves Turnaround Times

Mastercam CAM software from CNC Software helped Cope Plastics reduce lead time while improving efficiency, quality and consistency.

Innovative Approach Drives Software, Employee Development

During CNC Software's 30th anniversary celebration, MMS Editor Emily Probst got a chance to tour the facility and get a brief glimpse into the company culture.

Native CAD Files Improve Pump Manufacturer’s Productivity

Implementing an integrated CAM package helped a pump manufacturer improve fixture design, offer single setup manufacturing processes and better communications and submissions to third-party vendors.

CAM to Conversational to CAM

Despite having turning centers with conversational controls, this gear manufacturer has benefited from going back to CAM as its primary method of programming those machines.

Consistency Is Key to Titanium

An important part of this shop’s successful approach to titanium machining is a toolpath strategy that keeps the load on the cutter constant. Another important element is the way this shop captures and reapplies what it learns about how effective it can be in this metal.

CAM Software Keeps “Grave Digger” Alive

Talking shop with visitors to Mastercam’s Booth E-3340 all day Wednesday and Thursday is a departure of sorts for Pablo Huffaker, a monster truck driver whose public appearances are typically more about pulverizing metal than shaping it. However, when he’s not crushing cars, buses or even mobile homes from behind the wheel of the crowd-favorite Grave Digger, he and the rest of the team at the RaceSource fabrication shop in Tomball, Texas, rely extensively on Mastercam CAM software to keep the black-and-green behemoth in working order.

Shop Thrives on Evolving CAM Capabilities

High speed, turn-mill and “hybrid” tool paths that combine functionality are among the Mastercam CAM software features that help keep this shop competitive.

Vector Programming Eases Five-Axis Aerospace Machining

Because the CNCs on this shop’s largest five-axis machining centers accept vector coordinates as program input instead of traditional G codes, critical jobs can be shifted readily from machine to machine.

Software Update Includes New Stock Models

Mastercam X6 from CNC Software features new functionality for stock models, multi-bladed parts, Z-level cuts and more.

Software Add-On Creates Head Porting Toolpaths

Mastercam's Port Expert add-on is designed to create accurate, efficient engine cylinder head porting toolpaths on port surface or solid data.

Glimpse into an Unreal Machine Shop

Mastercam’s machining test lab operates unlike any ordinary machine shop for extraordinary reasons. The shop’s manager explains why it does so.

Skills Shortage: Different Means to the Same End

Companies and organizations are pursuing different strategies to address the critical shortage of skilled technical personnel.

CAD Design Tools Provide Flexibility, Ease of Use

Mastercam Design X5 from CNC Software features a suite of design tools, including 3D surfacing and solids analysis, that enables users to easily model and edit geometry.

How Micromachining Patience Speeds Prototype Production

A molder of tiny, silicone components for the medical industry explains how a patient, conservative approach to micromachining enables it to deliver prototypes faster.

Cycle Efficiency

Automated machining processes enable this maker of high-performance mountain bike parts to manufacture efficiently with minimal staff.

Flexible CAD/CAM Supports Flexible Machining

Programming offline using Mastercam CAM software supports the flexibility that accounts for much of this shop’s success.

Minimizing Turnaround Times for Big Parts

The key to success (and the primary challenge) for any job shop is minimizing turnaround time for non-repeating work. This Indiana shop shares some of its strategies for reducing lead times for the various large-scale jobs it encounters.

The In-House Advantage

A shop that introduced its own product realizes the advantages of designing and machining a part under the same roof.

CAD/CAM Integrates into SolidWorks

CNC Software’s Mastercam X5 for SolidWorks enables operators to use its tool paths and machining strategies to program parts directly in SolidWorks.

Going Lean in Order to Grow

This shop has a plan for dramatically expanding its contract machining business in high-value markets.

Software Helps Students Learn CAD/CAM

Mastercam QuickPart, a standalone product developed on the Mastercam Demo/Home Learning Edition platform, is designed to offer students a fast, easy way to design and cut parts while learning the principles of CAD/CAM through step-by-step instructions.

Hey Students, Let’s See What Kind of Chops You’ve Got

Attention students. Mastercam wants to see how much design and machining talent you’ve got. And there’s $1,000 at stake.

CAM Software Offers New Techniques, Interfaces

Capabilities introduced in Mastercam X5, the latest version of the company’s CAD/CAM software, include new techniques for dynamic milling, high speed roughing, multi-axis machining, smart hybrid finishing and more.

How Do You Equip a Startup Micromachining Shop?

A response to a reader’s question includes a checklist for launching a small shop focused on micromachining.

Software Upgrade Features Dynamic Milling Techniques

Mastercam X5 from CNC Software features dynamic milling techniques, multi-axis machining, smart hybrid finishing and more.

A Refined Approach to Roughing

Mastercam's OptiRough roughing feature starts with a small tool that cuts very efficiently at an initial depth using the full length of its flute.

CAM Features Facilitate Five-Axis “Hog-Outs”

A point of pride for this shop is its ability to take on projects others wouldn’t touch. Recently, capabilities within Mastercam CAM software enabled the company to overcome challenges with a difficult aerospace component and, more significantly, to bring in new, similar work.

Software/Tooling Partnership Promises Easier HSM

High-efficiency parameters are calculated automatically—partly using a slider that lets the programmer set the level of aggressiveness.

CAM Offers Dynamic Milling Techniques, Supports Multi-Axis Machining

The X5 version of the company’s CAD/CAM software introduces significant new capabilities, including new dynamic milling techniques, multi-axis machining, Smart Hybrid Finishing and more.

Understanding Post Processors

What is a post processor? A software engineer from CNC Software, makers of Mastercam programming software, explains the different types of CNC post processors, the different types of post processor users and the different levels of functionality in post processors.

Multi-axis Machining Increases Speed and Finish

Mastercam’s multi-axis machining offers a range of both basic and advanced strategies.

Software Saves Time, Prolongs Tool Life

Mastercam's Dynamic Machining is said to create a constantly adapting toolpath that delivers more-consistent cutting conditions and allows use of the entire tool flute length, often eliminating the need for multiple depth cuts.

When to Mill Keeps Changing

Technology improvements steadily expand the range of tool and die parts that justify high speed machining.

It Takes Firm Resolution To Master The Micro

This shop’s experience of successfully machining a micro aneurysm clip in silicon nitride ceramic points out the need to have CAD, CAM and CNC capability at high resolution—plus the commitment to pull it all together.

CAM Software Improves Productivity, Lead Times

Implementing Mastercam CAM software has enabled this manufacturer to improve productivity and lead time despite limited staffing resources.

Toolpath Refinement Produces Finer Finish

CNC Software’s Mastercam X4 provides expanded machining flexibility and an increased emphasis on speed and automation. It also introduces 3D surface toolpath refinement, a technique that is said to deliver a much finer finish on complex parts.

Justin Amos Wins “Innovator of the Future” Contest

The developer of Mastercam sponsors this contest each year to get students excited about CAD/CAM and the manufacturing process.

Multi-Axis Machining Increases Speed, Finish

Mastercam offers a range of basic and advanced multi-axis machining strategies with enhancements to the Port5ax and Flow5ax tool paths, TrueSolids five-axis Verify improvements and more. The Port5ax and Flow5ax tool paths include features that allow an overlap or blend to be added at the beginning and end of a tool path.

Software Aids Transition To Production Mindset

Over the years, aerospace manufacturer Costa Precision has developed a reputation for taking on large, complex parts that other shops can’t handle. However, overly optimistic customer expectations and lengthy cycle times led Costa to struggle with generating revenue on the manufacturing side of its business. With a new production-oriented mindset and CAD/CAM software from Mastercam, the shop was able to maintain the high precision for which it is known while improving manufacturing efficiency and profitability.

Software Supports Cell-Based Production Process

Implementing advanced manufacturing cells can help a shop improve productivity, but the cells themselves may be only part of the solution. That’s the case at Wilcox Industries, which combined advanced manufacturing capabilities of automated machining with the flexibility of Mastercam CAD/CAM software to keep up with continuing growth.

Machining And Operator Productivity Get A Boost From Mastercam

This magnetic workholding manufacturer wanted an advanced CAM package to go along with some new machine tools it recently purchased. Mastercam not only kept these machines operating to their full potential, but also breathed new life into the shop’s older CNC equipment.

Versatile CAD/CAM Software Helps Small Shop Excel At Overnight Prototyping

This shop needed a CAD/CAM package with the versatility to take on a wide range of prototyping jobs. MasterCAM X's multitasking capabilities has enabled the shop to turn around a variety of complex parts overnight.

Successfully Feeding The Medical Market

This medical shop has adopted five-axis, bar-fed machining technology to adapt to compressed delivery schedules and increasingly complex part geometries.

Cycle Shop Streamlines Startup With CAD-CAM

This start-up motorcycle manufacturer is an offshoot of Lucas Oil, a private oil marketer that supplies truckers, auto-racers and bike racers with oil formulations that are designed to offer protection while enhancing engine performance. Having already attended bike shows and racing events with its own promotional motorcycle, the company says it felt that introducing its own line of bikes and apparel seemed like a logical brand extension.

CNC Machining Fuels Guitar Innovations

Could Ron Thorn produce a gorgeous electric guitar completely by hand? Sure. Would he now that he has a “metalworking” CNC machine tool? Probably not.

Everything Changes

Through a sweeping transition to high speed machining, a Maryland contract shop realizes its goal of same-day, "in by 9, out by 5" turnaround.

Mainstream Technology Keeps Shop On Track

In its toolroom, Branchline Trains takes a practical approach to machining with end mills as small as 0.005 inch in diameter.

Pursuing Lean With On-Machine Inspection

After decades of tinkering with the machined part process, some might consider it nearly impossible to improve on the methodology. Not so, states Michael Angulo, an applications engineer in the Manufacturing Research Division, aeronautics sector at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics (Palmdale, California). The quintessential troubleshooter, Mr. Angulo and a team of quality engineers focused on evaluating the company's manufacturing and dimensional inspection operations, and also on creating a time reduction plan for the machined parts process.

CAD/CAM Speeds Design And Machining For Cycle Shop

To stay competitive on the street and the strip, this aftermarket motorcycle parts manufacturer takes advantage of CAD/CAM software to develop customized racing parts that it would otherwise not be able to produce.

Turning Ideas Into Parts

To get maximum leverage from its manufacturing know-how, Krieger Machine, a CNC shop in Stuart, Florida, draws on all of its software resources - CAD, CAM and shopfloor programming. The shop relies on KeyCreator from Kubotek as its main CAD resource. Mastercam from CNC Software is its main CAM resource. On the shop floor, conversational programming on the Hurco vertical machining centers proves to be another vital resource. All three systems help the shop succeed as a reliable producer of precision parts for a variety of industries.

Five-Axis Machining When You Want It

This California job shop has managed to demystify the application of five-axis machining. Using a portable trunion attachment on a vertical machining center, five-axis capability can be on the machine or off the machine as the production mix dictates.

Boat Parts Production Is More Precise With Five-Axis Machining Software

With Mastercam and Vericut CNC simulation software, this company was able to produce even the tightest of tolerances for its demanding boat parts.

How to Choose the Right Tool for Milling Titanium

Milling titanium is different from other metals because of the risk of heat build-up. Thanks to the metal’s low thermal conductivity, overly aggressive milling may even pose a risk of combustion. With titanium, in other words, there may be more than one reason why the cutting speed can’t be increased. And yet the speed of production still can be increased.

Speeding To Success

Using a company-wide mantra of faster, faster, faster, some innovative processing techniques and a rationalized deployment of personnel, this Detroit mold maker is snatching success from the jaws of competition.

Getting To Know Knowledge-Based Machining

The term refers to different levels of automation that CAM software developers are building into their NC programming software.

Plugging Into STEP NC

CAM software companies are offering software programs that allow their users to read STEP-NC files into their existing CAM software to generate the tool path and output for specific CNC machines. These "plug-ins" make many of the benefits of STEP-NC available to the average machine shop today.

The Right Start For A Fine Finish

Developers of CAM software have introduced many programming features for the initial removal of excess stock prior to finishing operations. By preparing the workpiece surface for more effective finishing, these roughing routines often determine how efficiently a CNC machining center can perform.

Start With Waterjet For More Effective Milling

For aircraft components machined out of plate stock, this shop roughs with abrasive waterjet before finishing with conventional milling. Removing roughing from the machining center cuts cost and lead time.

Shop Owes Growth To CAD/CAM Versatility

This shop's programmer/operators, equipped with the most versatile CAD/CAM software they could choose, moved on to the tool path and cut more combinations of amazingly diverse parts, as a company confident of its ability to meet any of its customers' molding, machining or manufacturing needs.

Plunge Roughing Right Now

This mold shop makes plunge roughing work using the kind of machine and the kind of tooling it’s been using all along. In other words, this shop achieved a faster metal removal rate just by changing direction.

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