The advent of CNC (Computer Numerical Control) cutting machines has revolutionised many fabrication industries over the last couple of decades. Almost all fabrication shops now use cad drawing tools to design their components, and automated cutting processes are a natural extension to this. Initially, the job of translating the drawing dimensions into machine code fell to highly trained (and often highly paid) CNC programmers. In recent times however, powerful software tools have been developed to make the job of cutting these components much easier. No longer do you need to write and edit cryptic G-code files (CNC machine instructions). CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) software is the link between CAD drawings and the machines controller. This CAM software reads the CAD drawings and allows the operator to specify machining parameters such as which tool is to be used, which direction to cut, how fast etc.
Tool Pathing
This process is usually referred to as “Tool Pathing” and is a vital step in producing good quality components on a CNC machine. Modern cutting processes have a wide range of specific requirements. Following is a quick summary of the type of parameters that the operator must specify exactly for each consumable type (tip or cutter), material type and thickness combination.
