Let me guess: you’re not interested in the average manufacturing software? your colleagues and competitors have. No. You want something unique. You seek CAM software to streamline complex production tasks like milling, machining and turning.
Wish granted! Read on for the 411 on the best computer-aided manufacturing software, top features, benefits and more.
Compare Top Manufacturing ERP Software Leaders
Table of Contents
Best CAM Software
Feast your eyes on our fine-tuned list of the top computer-aided manufacturing software.
Compare Top Manufacturing ERP Software Leaders
GibbsCAM
This computer-aided manufacturing software caters to CNC programmers, machinists, manufacturing engineers and more. It serves all company sizes and offers cloud and on-premise deployment.
An example of GibbsCAM’s advanced solid capabilities.
Top Benefits
- Reduce Errors: Use animated machine tool models to detect flaws. This feature helps you avoid expensive mistakes.
- Boost Control: Maximize complete control of wire-EDM machining workflows for increased efficiency. You also gain 2, 3 and 4-axis CNC machine centralization to avoid constant switching between different platforms.
- Save Time: Diminish lengthy preparation periods on machining blisks, blings and impeller parts with blades thanks to this system’s geometry library. Less preparation time means more streamlined operations and profits.
- Diminish Production Downtime: Define and adjust off-center rotary machining on all workpieces. Readjustments reduce human errors and production downtime.
- Perform a Test Run: Manage a 30-day free trial before committing to the product to get a taste of the entire experience.
Primary Features
- Production Milling: Manage 2-axis on a 3-axis machining wireframe to contour, pocket, thread mill, face mill and more. You can also perform 4th-axis positioning, 2D and 3D spiral creation, drilling and more.
- Production Turning: Perform turning centers for 2-axis wireframe machining tactics for contouring, automatic roughing, multiple hills and valleys and other capabilities. Advanced capabilities include lathe programming and current stock condition.
- 2.5D Solids: Create, import and modify solid models and develop programs to machine each piece. Import, harden and repair surface information.
- SolidSurfacer: Access all modeling and 3-axis machining capabilities in this suite package. Craft, expand and revise solid CAD models and draft toolpaths with native geometry.
- Tombstone Management System: Streamline multi-part setups, programmings, toolpath verifications and tombstone machining post-processings. The TMS dialog offers required options for CNC programmers to identify and modify machining protocols and develop machine G-codes.
Limitations
- Lacks smart-guessing capabilities.
- Not compatible with Doosan turning machines.
Platform:
Company Size Suitability: S M L
Fusion 360
This cloud-based, 3D computer-integrated manufacturing software aids product designers, mechanical engineers and machinists in unifying engineering, designing, and manufacturing in one platform.
Targeted for midsize and extensive facilities, Fusion 360 has modules for simulation, documentation, data management and more.
A preview of Fusion 360’s 3D modelling feature.
Top Benefits
- Access Customizations: Review and manage the NC program library for free, open-source and adjustable processors for easy adjustments. These edits can ensure the program meets your company’s needs.
- Maximize Production: Use translators and editing tools for more than 50 file types. This editability strengthens production and on-time deliveries.
- Build Communities: Send queries or start conversations with similar users on discussion forums. This portal enables you to build a community of like-minded people who use similar products and expedite problem-solving.
- Expedite Design Workflows: Draft and revise sketch dimensions, constraints and more. The analytical toolset speeds up curve and spline designs.
- Gain High-Quality Renders: Produce photographic model images with local and cloud rendering. More high-quality models mean diminished errors.
Primary Features
- Design: Conceptualize numerous design interactions in a consolidated system to merge several modeling techniques. This fusion allows you to create improved products.
- 3D Modeling: Design products with modeling and analysis modules. These tools help you form, function or fit consumer merchandise.
- Documentation: Share and discuss designs with internal and external stakeholders. Send 2D drawings, renderings and animations.
- Simulation: Construct digital product simulations for practical what-if analyses. Supervise prototype costs with fully validated solvers.
- Manufacturing: Program CNC machines such as high-efficiency roughing with Adaptive Clearing to perform multi-axis machining. Work with 2.5, 3, 4 or 5-axis milling, probing, turning, mill-turning and more.
Limitations
- Has a steep learning curve for first-time CAD users.
- Unreliable internet connections cause interface lags.
- Biweekly updates cause interface changes.
Platform:
Company Size Suitability: S M L
SolidWorks CAM
This CAM software builds early blueprinting designs. This solution works in four versions: standard, professional, machinist standard and machinist professional.
Some of its capabilities include knowledge-based machining, automatic feature recognition and part import and modeling.
An example of SolidWorks CAM’s interface.
Top Benefits
- Find Faster Solutions: Send queries and start discussions in user group communities. Find quicker answers from congenial users.
- Strengthen Collaboration: Enable operators and engineers to review 3D models with relevant toolpaths to comprehend all machining order types. This increased collaboration eliminates communication bottlenecks.
- Tackle Complex Product Designs: Manufacture products with larger scrap pieces with efficient toolpath guidelines. These toolpaths ensure products are created efficiently and without errors.
- Make the Right Decisions: Access this solution’s free trial with sample files and the ability to upload files online without installations or waiting. This experiment allows you to test the system’s performance and make the right choices for your company’s needs.
- Enhance Data-Sharing: Develop and import parts so users can collaborate with designers, read model-based definition (MBD) information and develop required revisions. Strengthening data-sharing across departments keeps everyone on the same page.
Primary Features
- Automate Machine Times: Cipher and compare machining times with traditional methods to ensure part documentation before making production commitments.
- Turning: Implement face rough and finishes, rough and finish turns, and more. You can also perform cut-offs, drill and tap on center, and ID and OD threading.
- 3 + 2 Programming: Merge 3-axis milling with the cutting tool locked in a tilted position with two rotational axes for a unique machining method.
- Automatic Feature Recognition: Detect holes, bosses, pockets and other prismatic parts at a feature-centric level according to machinable shapes.
- Assembly Modeling/Import: Verify component fits and tolerances. Use manufacturing assemblies to input clamps and vises for accurate creation.
Limitations
- Sluggish interface.
- TCO is pricey.
- Lacks auto-saving capabilities.
Platform:
Company Size Suitability: S M L
NX CAM
This computer-aided manufacturing software by Siemens utilizes 3D models, data and processes to link planning and shop floor operations with a digital thread.
Special tools include complex parts machining, mold, die and electrode machining, and post-processing and machining simulations.
A preview of NX CAM’s tools. Source
Top Benefits
- Foster Client Relationship: Perform rapid cutting techniques, automatic rest milling, multi-axis machining and more for accelerated production methods. More efficiency means high on-time delivery rates and better customer satisfaction.
- Handle Challenging Jobs: Use consolidated simulation tools to approve intricate shape manufacturing. Working on challenging jobs ensures a broader customer base and more company revenue.
- Boost Accuracy: Manage tool lead angles, rotary axis locations, short and long segments, and more to increase cutting precision for elaborate shapes. Accurate cuts mean less time fixing costly mistakes.
- Plan High-Caliber Machining Projects: Allocate, balance, simulate and schedule operations with several machines and configurations. Effective planning allows you to finish in-depth machining jobs with ease.
- Document All Processes: Compile total output shop records, such as 3D drawings, tool lists, setup files and more. Consolidating this information into one interface saves space and time when locating or sharing it with colleagues.
Primary Features
- Complex Parts Machining: Construct accurate 5-axis toolpaths to machine unique shapes. Manage programming time and develop collision-free cutting operations.
- Mold, Die and Electrode Machining: Conduct machining, rest milling and finishing methods to create near-mirror finish molds and dies. Automatically design and program electrodes.
- Post-Processing and Machining Simulation: Build NC programs for machine tools and controls via an embedded post-processor. Manage machine and process digital twins to confirm manufacturing setup time and machine uptime.
- Prismatic Parts Machining: Draft enhanced procedures to machine more accurate components. Access volume-based milling, automatic feature recognition and other advanced technologies.
- 5-Axis Operations: Access a range of advanced 5-axis methods with tool axis and collision avoidance management. Gain barrel tools with substantial cutting-edge radii offer bugger material engagement for better multi-axis machining and part quality.
Limitations
- IPW stock control needs improvements.
- Kernel crashes when working with large parts.
- The help function needs refinement.
Platform:
Company Size Suitability: S M L
SolidCAM
Lastly, this computer-integrated manufacturing software supervises manufacturing practices and administers CNC milling methods. Top features include indexial multi-axis machining, solid probe and advanced mill-turn.
An example of SolidCAM’s workflows.
Top Benefits
- Simplify Edits: Review model fixtures and work offsets, machining operations and data, established shapes, cutting conditions and more with the editor tool. A centralized view of these and other jobs increases productivity.
- Reduce Damages and Mistakes: Manage complete simulations and designs to decrease needless crashes, collisions or other damages. This supervision enables you to reduce costly maintenance and maintain machine usage.
- Minimize Production Downtime: Apply quick edits to designs without interrupting programmers. This swift action allows real-time updates and diminishes downtime.
- Mitigate Prep Times: Walk through every G-code move to avoid rehearsals and prep times. Reducing dry runs increases project focus and better on-time client deliveries.
- Manage Complex Workpieces: Perform automated rest material recognition for all pockets for simplified operations. Work with all geometry and dimensional requirements for consolidated workflows.
Primary Features
- Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining (AFRM): Use simultaneous interactive workflows and automated features to complement milling tools and protocols.
- Surface Machining: Work with localized undercuts and surface areas with standard and shaped tools.
- Mold Machining: Handle iMachining 3D, high-speed machining and other modules for better mold and insert-machining techniques.
- Solid Probe: Manage probes on CNC machines for better stability. Prep setup and measurements to manage machined part quality.
- Turning: Access multiple turning toolpaths and methodologies. Maintain inventory in real time for all turning and milling needs.
Limitations
- Can’t edit computed toolpaths.
- Has a weak post-processor editing option.
- Difficult to interpret cut simulations when cutting intricate structures.
Platform:
Company Size Suitability: S M L
Should You Get CAM, CAD or CAM-CAD?
Although CAM software works, you can also get CAD or CAM-CAD systems. So which option is best for you?
CAM
CAM software is a system that enables you to develop numerous programs and commands for CNC machines to conduct manufacturing procedures, such as turning, milling, cutting and more.
CAD
CAD software is a system that streamlines part designs and prototypes. Conduct what-if analyses and simulations to test items in multiple scenarios.
CAD-CAM
CAD-CAM software is a hybrid system of both characteristics that streamlines product creation and engineering phases for faster turnaround times and customer satisfaction.
Dan Miller, founder of FinePowerTools.com, advised that CAD-CAM solutions are the best choice because they centralize design and manufacturing tools in one hub.
This integration offers a seamless transition from design to production, reduces errors and saves time, making it a better investment for companies looking to streamline their entire product development process. We use Solidworks and SolidCAM at our machine shop.”
Mike Ciaccio, general manager of Polymershapes, said CAD-CAM software creates a hassle-free design zone.
CAD-CAM lets users design products and generate a toolpath without needing to toggle between different systems or needing to translate data between systems, which reduces error and creates a more efficient product development process.”
Compare Top Manufacturing ERP Software Leaders
Primary Benefits
CAM software comes with many advantages to streamline your manufacturing practices.
Boost Accuracy
Computer-aided manufacturing software can ensure better design accuracy to avoid mistakes, save money and increase on-time deliveries.
Miller said this system’s automation “ensures strict adherence to design specifications, which drastically reduces the margin for error.”
Fewer flaws mean less wasted time and money rectifying problems.
Improve Productivity
CAM software boosts productivity by streamlining the design process with in-depth modeling tools and fewer physical prototypes. The system could work during your after-hours with little supervision so you and other workers can go home.
Miller said computer-integrated manufacturing software can “cut down on manpower requirements, thereby reducing labor costs and overheads. This reduction in manual involvement not only saves money but also enhances operational efficiency.”
Save Money
Since you’re building products in a digital workspace with simulated tests, there’s no need to invest in physical prototypes. You can test models in different temperatures and other scenarios to determine resiliency.
Initiate Complex Designing
Work on the most complicated designs with the best CAM software.
Miller said integrated workflows can tackle intricate design patterns with “more efficient and cost-effective manufacturing operations by minimizing time and resources required in project management.”
Compare Top Manufacturing ERP Software Leaders
Key Features
Some vital computer-aided manufacturing software features include CAD integration, multi-axis machining and milling, machining templates, turning, and simulation. Ciaccio described the importance of these tools.
[These features] ensure that the product development process can quickly move from the design to prototyping phase. Moreover, CAM — when paired with multi-axis machining and milling, machining templates and turning technology — allow[s] for more precise milling as well as the ability to create more complex final products.
“Some CAM software even includes the ability to create a simulated model of the product using different CNC codes to compare options.”
Let’s discuss these features further.
CAD Integration
Merging your CAM and CAD tools streamlines design and manufacturing tasks while avoiding the stress of toggling back and forth between separate interfaces.
Miller said CAD integrations preserve “the integrity of the design throughout the process.”
Multi-Axis Machining/Milling
Perform multi-axis machining and milling to create better products because milling removes excess materials from objects.
Miller stated these tools allow you to produce “complex geometries with high precision.”
Machining Templates
Investing in the right CAM software offers machining templates that display material fees, thicknesses, manufacturing operation expenses and setup fees. This information ensures you know what you’re getting into before starting production.
Turning
Turning uses a lathe, or cutting tool, that removes excess materials from rotating workpieces’ diameter and makes different shapes.
Some turning types include:
- Regular turning
- Facing
- Parting
- Grooving
Simulation
Lastly, simulation is the act of digitally testing models in different situations.
Miller said simulation is necessary to anticipate “potential errors and testing machine operations before actual production, eliminating accidents, [and] reducing material waste and machine downtime.”
Compare Top Manufacturing ERP Software Leaders
FAQs
What is CAM software?
Computer-aided manufacturing software, aka CAM software and computer-integrated manufacturing software, is a solution that streamlines manufacturing practices via a computer interface.
Miller said investing in this system can boost manufacturing capabilities regarding quality and productivity.
CAM software is a game-changer in automating processes, leading to enhanced productivity and reduced costs. By adopting CAM, companies not only achieve superior quality in their products but also adeptly manage intricate designs, giving them a competitive edge in markets where precision and operational efficiency are paramount.”
What is the best CAM software?
There are numerous CAM solutions to choose from nowadays. Our research points to these five solutions as the best of the best:
- GibbsCAM
- Fusion 360
- SolidWorks CAM
- NX CAM
- SolidCAM
How do I choose the right CAM software?
There are numerous ways to pick the ideal computer-aided manufacturing software. Some web search results may pull in 12 steps, while others may be seven or fewer. Our Lean Selection Methodology implements nine easy-to-follow steps.
Here’s a brief overview of each step.
- Establish: Determine why you need new software.
- Collaborate: Gather a software selection committee of department leaders, stakeholders, power users and more for better input.
- Define: Compile a requirements list with your software selection committee.
- Distribute: Compare potential CAM software vendors with your must-have requirements list and shortlist the best choices.
- Justify: Determine if you need new software, add-on features or to end the selection process.
- Prove: Ask software providers for demos, use cases, POCs or other forms of feature demonstrations.
- Rank: Prioritize your top two or three solutions that best meet your company’s needs according to their demo scores and TCOs.
- Negotiate: Converse with your highest-ranked provider. Review their contract. Ask for additional legal counsel if something seems odd. Repeat this step with the following vendor if you can’t reach a compromise.
- Sign: Evaluate, sign the contract and establish a solid implementation plan with your vendor.
What is CAM software used for?
CAM software has several uses, such as CAD integration, turning, milling, multi-axis machining/milling, machining templates and simulation.
Ciaccio stated AI integration is on the rise because “AI can determine the optimal CNC coding by analyzing millions of data points at a speed much faster than any human can.”
Miller talked about other vital features to look at when reviewing different computer-aided manufacturing vendors.
Buyers should consider features like user-friendly interfaces, customization options, compatibility with a range of machinery and tools, advanced material handling capabilities, and robust post-processing functions. Additionally, looking for strong technical support, training resources and a community of users can be beneficial for long-term software usability and problem-solving.”
Who uses CAM software?
Some sectors that use CAM software include automotive, aerospace and defense, education, medical devices and components, energy and utilities, and more.
What’s the difference between CAD and CAM software?
Computer-aided design (CAD) software is a system that streamlines product designing practices via a computer. You can buy standalone CAD software or invest in PLM software with CAD capabilities.
CAM software is a system that focuses on manufacturing and bringing the product to life in a digital atmosphere.
You can merge CAD and CAM software, search for CAD capabilities in promising CAM systems or buy CAD-CAM software.
What are the benefits of using CAM software?
Some benefits of using CAM software in your manufacturing operations include:
- Offering strengthened accuracy
- Improving productivity
- Saving money
- Initiating complex design protocols
Miller stated that this software “contributes to improved workplace safety by eliminating many of the risks associated with manual machine operation. This not only ensures a safer manufacturing environment but can also lead to reduced insurance and liability costs.”
Ciaccio said this system can also “quickly create prototypes and respond to emerging customer demands while reducing waste by optimizing toolpaths.”
What are the disadvantages of using CAM software?
There are also drawbacks to investing in CAM software, such as the system being too complex, having a high TCO and taking up too much hard drive space.
Ciaccio mentioned that this solution comes with growing pains.
Some drawbacks of investing in CAM software are challenges that companies may have building CAM into their manufacturing processes. They may need to hire new employees who have experience using CAM and train current employees on using it. IT teams must also be vigilant about updating the software and guarding against cyber theft.”
Compare Top Manufacturing ERP Software Leaders
Next Steps
The right CAM software can meet your turning, milling and cutting requirements while saving time, strengthening productivity and meeting consumer needs.
Not sure where to go from here? Take a peek at our free comparison guide for unbiased solution match-ups.
What has CAM software done for your business? What are you looking for in a new system? Let us know in the comments!
SME Contributors
Dan Miller, the founder of FinePowerTools.com, is a qualified toolmaker with expert knowledge in the manufacturing industry, primarily in the metalworking and tooling industries. Miller has more than 20 years of experience in machining, including CNC milling, turning, EDM and more.
Mike Ciaccio is the general manager of Polymer Shapes, a top plastics manufacturer in California, providing materials and CAD/CAM services to hundreds of markets. Ciaccio has rich experience in manufacturing, both in metal and plastics fabrication. Ciaccio has demonstrated leadership, people skills, and sales expertise throughout his career.
Analyst-Picked Related Content
Pricing Guide: Discover the true cost of Manufacturing ERP software
Comparison Report: An interactive analyst report with comparison ratings, reviews and pricing for Manufacturing ERP software