Machining Cloud
What is Machining Cloud?
Machining Cloud is a cloud-based software platform designed to support machine shops and manufacturing facilities in managing tool data, process planning, and job management before actual CAM programming begins. Its key role is to act as a bridge between design, programming, and production by providing a unified environment for tool data, process planning, and documentation. Machining Cloud is not a replacement for CAM systems but complements them by focusing on the decisions made before the first toolpath is created.
Machining Cloud and Job Planning
Machining Cloud enables structured job planning in a machine shop environment. Typically, decisions about machining order, tool assemblies, and cutting data are made in a decentralized manner—within CAM programs, spreadsheets, or as silent knowledge. Machining Cloud brings all this data together in one place, allowing you to define the workpiece, material, machine, schedule, and individual process steps in logical order for each job. This is especially helpful for repeat production and reduces the need for ad hoc solutions.
Machining Cloud and Tool Data Management
A core part of Machining Cloud is its centralized tool library, designed to serve the tool management needs of machine shops. Multi-brand tool assemblies can be created in the system, combining cutting tools, holders, and other components. Tools can be linked to materials, machining methods, and machines, making it easier to select the right tools for various tasks. Tool data managed according to the digital twin principle supports CAM programming, simulation, and tooling management systems.
Machining Cloud and Cutting Data
With Machining Cloud, machining parameters such as feeds and speeds can be saved as part of the job, not just inside individual CAM files. The system uses tool data provided by manufacturers as a starting point but also allows you to store your own shop-proven parameters. This gradually creates a knowledge base for the shop, reducing the need for trial and error on machines and improving process repeatability.
Machining Cloud and Integrations
Machining Cloud is designed to operate as part of a broader digital production environment. It supports data transfer to CAM systems, tool management systems, and other production information systems. Its ISO 13399-compliant structure enables tool data to be used across different systems without manual reentry. This is particularly important for shops using multiple software solutions and machine types.
Machining Cloud and Collaboration in the Machine Shop
Machining Cloud supports teamwork by providing a shared view of jobs, tools, and documentation. Programmers, tool maintenance staff, and machinists can all access the same data in real time, reducing misunderstandings and interruptions in information flow. The system’s historical records also help onboard new employees and support the long-term retention of shop expertise.
Machining Cloud as Part of the Digital Machine Shop
Machining Cloud is closely linked to the digital transformation of the machining industry and the Industry 4.0–5.0 approach. Its goal is to bring structure and transparency to pre-production planning, where a significant portion of the decisions that affect production profitability are made. The cloud-based model allows for scalability and the management of multiple sites and machines within the same environment.
Summary
Machining Cloud is a cloud-based platform that supports machine shops in job planning, tool data management, and information flow before CAM programming. It helps standardize processes, improve repeatability, and make more effective use of digital tool data in machining operations.
