Once that is complete, the G-Code Program is loaded and it is time to make chips. The first step in that process is to Qualify each tool to the height of the stock.Īfter all the tools are qualified, we need to set the machine zero to match our Setup Coordinate System in SOLIDWORKS CAM, which was set to the Top Center of the Workpiece. SOLIDWORKS CAM will generate the G-Code program needed to run the Mill for both setups used to machine the workpiece.Īfter everything is complete in SOLIDWORKS CAM, the Mill machine needs to be setup. The last step before going back into the shop is Post Processing. The final Machined Geometry can be compared back to the SOLIDWORKS CAD geometry for any differences to assure accurate final geometry. These Toolpaths can then be simulated for review to make sure the workpiece is being machined correctly, and also to detect any collisions between the Tool or Holder. Once Operations are setup as needed, SOLIDWORKS CAM will generate the Toolpaths needed to machine the workpiece.

Which is customizable database that can be modified to match the desired practices for machining. The Default Parameters used for those operations are stored in the SOLIDWORKS CAM Technology Database. If the CAM Feature is setup with a Rough and Finish Strategy, Rough and Contour Mill Operations will be created. So 2.5 Axis or Multi-Surface Features can be created that way if needed.Īfter the Machining Features are finished, Operations are generated based on the Strategies specified in the CAM Features. Machining Features can be created interactively as well. This can be done using Automatic Feature Recognition, which compares the Final Model Geometry to the machine stock and creates Machining Features that are linked to the SOLIDWORKS Model geometry. Once the setup is complete, we need to create SOLIDWORKS CAM Features. Next the size of the Machine stock is set, and lastly the Machining Coordinate System is established at the Top Center of the Part Model. To start the CAM Setup, the correct Mill Machine must be chosen.

Here we use SOLIDWORKS CAM to program the machining without leaving SOLIDWORKS. The process starts inside SOLIDWORKS with the CAD Model.

Solid works cam