AutoCAD 2D Milling CAM Recommendations

[BradS.]

CAM Software Recommendations
CURRENT:
1) Have a old benchtop mill/engraver that is near dead and never could cleanly import the AutoCAD files in.
2) Ordered for a Haas MiniMill to replace and expand our capabilites some.
3) NON-machine house (no CNC operators - our Tech guy and Engrs are support to the assemblers).
4) Primarily this cell assembles custom light electro-mechanical assemblies where we mill low volume (5-10/day) plastic cases for switches, etc to be mounted into the case.
5) AutoCAD 2007 files.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
- One local knowledgable rep. is advising SurfCAM (he also carries FeatureCAM and DELCAM). My brother's large machining company uses MasterCAM. I have heard some use BobCAM as well.

We need good same day support and software that works. Thanks!

[harley4ever]

Take a look at Dolphin cad cam. Seems right down your alley.

[blowlamp]

Are you planning on making much/any curvy 3d shaped stuff like vases and computer mice etc? If not then those recommended CAM programs are probably going to be way over the top with a price to match.

Check out the CamBam forum and some of the work it can produce here: Members Projects

CamBam does 2d/2.5d better than just about anything else out there and wipes the floor with other 3d software of similar (and greater) price.

The forum is busy and usually 'manned' 24/7, so help is never far away.



Martin.

[DareBee]

Sounds like 2D would be more than enough for you.
Do you use SolidWorks?
HSMWorks is a free integrated solution that is very high end (they are teasing us into wanting to buy the full HSMWorks pkg)