CAD/CAM Workflow: From Design to Chips
An end-to-end walkthrough of a real CAD/CAM project — from sketching the part through CAD modelling, CAM toolpath generation, post-processing, and finally cutting chips on the machine.
8 min read
4 posts
An end-to-end walkthrough of a real CAD/CAM project — from sketching the part through CAD modelling, CAM toolpath generation, post-processing, and finally cutting chips on the machine.
Preventive maintenance keeps CNC machines running and keeps you employed. Here's a practical checklist, common failure modes, and how to decide when to call a tech vs. handle it yourself.
The full workflow of CNC machining a real part — from design intent and CAD modelling through toolpath generation and cutting. What the textbooks don't tell you.
No manuals. No support contracts. No CAD files. Just a 30-year-old CNC machine, an internet connection, and a lot of determination. Here's how I figured it out.