Help/advice on CAM programs

[itsme]

Hello all,

I'm very interested in CNC machinery and would like to get a small CNC mill running. If I did, it would be a simple desktop machine with stepper motors using free controller software (like Kcam or turbocnc etc).

I would like to find out about CAD/CAM software. I can pretty much use Pro/Desktop which can export .stl files. I have seen CAM packages that can import these files and then create a toolpath from them. I would like to know if these CAM packages are able to produce g-code for the toolpath that can then be transferred to a program like TurboCNC for the machining to be done.

I am aware that .dxf files can be used to create g-code, but this only gives 2D (doesn't it???), whereas 'proper' CAM would give me full 3D capabilites (wouldn't it????)

I hope this all makes sense...

Thanks
Warren

[noid]

makes great sense I would like to find the same kind of software. Keep me posted on this.

[ger21]

SheetCAM http://www.sheetcam.com takes 2D .dxf's and gives you what's usually called 2-1/2D G-code. It does pocketing, and tool offsets and may be all you need.

MeshCAM http://www.grzsoftware.com takes .stl's and gives you 3D G-code.

Both are excellent, and affordable.

[BigDaddyG]

I second Gerry! Very reasonable in price and very powerful for the weekender.

[DareBee]

Following is a promo emailer I got today.
I use VisualMill 5 myself. They have always worked hand in hand with Rhino and now have released a combined software. I dont know much (anything really) about Rhino, but my Visualmill is 5 axis capable.
It might be worth looking into.


--------------------------------
Screaming New Year Special!


RhinoCAM 1.0 - was $1000 promo $699 (United States Only)
RhinoCAM 1.0 + Rhinoceros 3.0 - was $1500 promo $999 (United States Only)

[carlnpa]

I currently have an opportunity to manufacture the attached part 600 pieces a year. I am currently building the JGRO router and will need to hold 0.01 tolerance in nylatron gsm for this project. First is the tolerance achievable with a home brew router? Which would be the better choice for this project, Meshcam or Sheetcam? Meshcam with Mach 2 is currently on sale for $225, Sheetcam is $275. Thanks for any advice.

[carlnpa]

The file is to big to post. Material nylatron gsm, overall 6.50in x 5.00in flat part milled from 0.25 to 0.22, 4 - 0.44 x 0.19 pockets R0.06, 45degree beveled edges. Tolerance 0.01in.

[ger21]

I'm pretty sure you'd want SheetCAM. Download the demo and give it a try.