Solidworks to G-code, cheap or free

[darryl]

Hi,

I’m sort of new to the CNC world. I want to build a low cost CNC for machining foam that will be used for composite parts. So accuracy is not critical. That is why I have decided to convert a drill press that I have. I’ll make an X-Y table and modify the drill press for the Z-axis.

I have been using a student version of Solidworks for a few years now and like to use it for the models for this project. I’m not sure of everything that I need both hardware and software. How do I go from my Solidworks CAD model to a physical foam piece?

This what I know I need so far:

1. Computer for running software
2. CAD package – Solidworks
3. Program for converting CAD to G-code
4. Program for transmitting G-code to the CNC
5. A device-card for transmitting the G-code to the stepper motors
6. Stepper motors
7. XYZ table and cutting device

I understand 1, 2, 6 and 7. Even 5, I understand but won’t be able to make myself. What I’m not sure about is 3 and 4. Going from CAD to G-code being sent out to the stepper motors.

I can’t afford Mastercam or other expensive CAM software. I hope to build this thing as inexpensive as possible.

I guess what I really need to know is what free software is available to go from Solidworks CAD to sending G-code to the stepper motors.

Sorry for the long post, I was kind of talking myself through the whole thing.

Thanks,
Darryl

[ger21]

3) Look at MeshCAM, www.meshcam.com for the most affordable 3D CAM you're likely to find.

4) Mach3, www.artofcnc.ca The only "free" machine controll software would be EMC, which runs on Linux. www.linuxcnc.org

You can get the 2 bundled together from MeshCAM.