The CAM software you choose depends upon the types of parts you want to make. There are three basic types of operations that you can do with a CNC router:
- Bitmap relief carving
- 2.5D carving
- 3D carving
The first and simplest type of operation is bitmap relief carving. This is for working with photographs… jpeg and bitmap images. The software converts the image to grayscale. Then you define the maximum and minimum depth of cut, and the software creates the tool paths to carve a 3D relief carving of the images. The 3D lithophane is an example of this type of carving. Vectric’s PhotoVCarve works very well for this. (Other Examples)
The second type of operation is called 2.5D – pocketing, profiling, drilling, and text engraving. These are basically flat features in flat parts. With this type of operation, you can make ribs for your model airplane wings, coasters, Christmas ornaments, wooden clocks, parts for your quadcopters, signs, and plaques, and so on. At only $150, Vectric’sCut2D is the easiest way to get started with these types of parts.
The third type of operation is a 3D carving. This is for more organic shapes with curved surfaces. To do this type of operation, you use a ball end mill. The amount of detail that you get is determined by how small a tool that you use on the finish pass. There are limitations to this type of carving because the tool is always perpendicular to the table. Most 3D carving software will allow you to do 2-sided machining, and also to slice your model into manageable pieces that you can glue together to make objects that are much larger than you CNC router’s work envelope. MeshCam and Cut3D are both great 3D carving programs.
All three of these types of software programs will export g-code that can be run on any CNC router.
PROBOTIX™ is the leader in digital manufacturing with fully assembled precision CNC routers. Contact us today at 844-472-9262 or email support@probotix.com and speak with an Applications Engineer to determine the best CAM software and CNC accessories for your business needs.