Gibbscam
What is GibbsCAM?
GibbsCAM is an industrial CNC machining CAD/CAM software widely used in machine shops and machining facilities for programming various types of machine tools. The software is suitable for turning, milling, mill-turn, multi-tasking machines, as well as wire EDM. GibbsCAM is developed to support practical machining work, allowing for efficient and controlled creation, editing, and simulation of CNC programs, even in complex production environments.
History and Background of GibbsCAM
The development of GibbsCAM began in the United States in the early 1980s when Bill Gibbs set out to create a user-friendly CAM software to meet the needs of growing CNC machining. The first commercial version of the software was released in 1984 for the Macintosh platform. Later, the development shifted to focus on the Windows environment, and the software became an internationally used CAM solution. Today, GibbsCAM is part of the Sandvik Group and integrated into a broader manufacturing industry software and technology ecosystem.
GibbsCAM in the Manufacturing Industry
In the manufacturing industry, GibbsCAM is especially used for CNC programming where flexibility, machine-specific solutions, and precise control of machining paths are required. The software supports a wide range of CNC machine tools, from traditional CNC lathes and milling machines to multi-channel multitasking machines and Swiss-type automatic lathes. This makes GibbsCAM suitable for both one-off production and series manufacturing.
GibbsCAM Machining Features
GibbsCAM covers a wide array of machining methods, such as 2–5 axis milling, turning, drilling, mill-turn, and multi-tasking as well as Swiss-type machining. The software supports simultaneous multi-axis machining and the management of multiple spindles and tool turrets. Simulation of machining paths and collision checking help anticipate potential errors before actual machining, which is vital for reliability in machine shop production.
GibbsCAM and CAD Compatibility
GibbsCAM includes its own CAD environment for handling 2D geometry as well as 3D models, but it is often used together with external CAD systems. The software supports common CAD formats, allowing models to be imported without separate file conversion. This reduces the risk of errors and speeds up the preparation phase in shops where design and manufacturing are closely integrated.
GibbsCAM's Modular Structure
The software is based on a modular structure, where basic functionalities can be expanded as needed. A machine shop can start with basic milling or turning CAM programming and later expand the system to include, for example, 5-axis machining, multitasking machines, or wire EDM. This makes GibbsCAM a scalable solution for machine shops of various sizes and changing production needs.
GibbsCAM in CNC Programming
CNC programming with GibbsCAM is based on a clear user interface and logical workflows that support the daily work of machinists and CAM programmers. Through post-processors, the software enables machine-specific G-code generation for different control systems such as Fanuc, Heidenhain, and Siemens controls. This is a key part of the production chain in modern machine shops.
Summary
GibbsCAM is a well-established CAD/CAM software that offers versatile tools for CNC programming in the manufacturing industry. Its strengths include broad machining support, modular structure, strong CAD compatibility, and suitability for complex CNC environments. GibbsCAM is ideal for both small and large machine shops where flexible and controlled CNC programming is required.
