SolidCAM
Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software
- Features
- Ease of use
- Ease of management
- Quality of support
- Affordability
- Market presence
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What is SolidCAM
SolidCAM is computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software used to create CNC toolpaths and post-processed NC code for milling and turning. It is commonly deployed by manufacturing engineers, CNC programmers, and machine shops, particularly in environments that use SOLIDWORKS for CAD. The product is offered as an integrated CAM add-in for SOLIDWORKS and also as a standalone CAM system, with modules for multi-axis machining and turning/mill-turn workflows.
Tight SOLIDWORKS integration
SolidCAM runs as an add-in inside SOLIDWORKS, which can reduce context switching between CAD and CAM for teams standardized on that CAD platform. Associativity between the CAD model and CAM operations helps keep toolpaths aligned with design changes. This setup can simplify data management compared with exporting/importing neutral files for many day-to-day programming tasks.
Broad CNC programming coverage
The product supports common CNC programming needs such as 2.5D/3D milling, multi-axis machining options, and turning/mill-turn capabilities through modular packages. This breadth allows a shop to use one CAM environment across different machine types and job complexity levels. It also supports post-processing to generate machine-specific NC code for production use.
Simulation and verification tools
SolidCAM includes toolpath simulation/verification features intended to help programmers review operations before running on the machine. These tools can assist with checking tool motion, stock removal behavior, and potential collisions depending on the configured machine/fixture models. This can reduce trial-and-error on the shop floor when the digital setup is maintained accurately.
Best fit for SOLIDWORKS shops
While SolidCAM is available beyond SOLIDWORKS via a standalone offering, many workflows and user expectations center on SOLIDWORKS integration. Organizations using other primary CAD systems may see less benefit from the integrated approach and may need additional data translation steps. This can affect collaboration when multiple CAD tools are used across engineering and manufacturing.
Module licensing complexity
Capabilities are typically delivered through separate modules (for example, advanced multi-axis or turning/mill-turn), which can make packaging and cost planning more complex. Teams may need to manage which seats have which modules to match machine capabilities and job requirements. This can also complicate standardization if different programmers have different feature access.
Setup and postprocessor effort
Achieving reliable NC output often requires careful postprocessor selection/configuration and validation for each CNC control and machine configuration. Machine simulation accuracy depends on maintaining correct kinematics, tooling, and fixture data. These implementation tasks can require specialized expertise and time, particularly in multi-axis and mill-turn environments.
Seller details
SolidCAM Ltd.
Or Yehuda, Israel
1984
Private
https://www.solidcam.com/
https://x.com/solidcam
https://www.linkedin.com/company/solidcam-ltd/
