Mastercam

What is Mastercam?

Mastercam is a leading CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software solution designed to enhance the programming of CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines. The software combines CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM features into one seamless package, enabling you to design parts and transfer those plans directly to machining equipment. This leads to time-saving and cost-effective production processes that are critical for machinists and machine shops.

Mastercam supports a wide range of machining processes, such as milling, turning, drilling, and wire EDM. It enables both 2D and 3D design, offering comprehensive tools for creating complex toolpaths. The software’s ability to simulate and visualize toolpaths before actual machining reduces the risk of errors and optimizes the production process. In machine shops, this translates to significant cost savings and increased efficiency.

Mastercam features an intuitive user interface, and its Finnish version helps local machine shops and vocational schools adopt it more easily. This makes the software versatile and approachable, making it an excellent daily tool for machinists, machine shops, and manufacturing facilities worldwide.

Mastercam provides comprehensive support and continuous development, ensuring the software stays current with the latest machining technologies and methods. This makes Mastercam the go-to choice for machinists and manufacturers in need of high-quality solutions.

Mastercam’s History and Development

Mastercam is one of the pioneers in the CAD/CAM industry, tracing its roots back to 1983 when CNC Software Inc. was founded in Connecticut, USA. CNC Software Inc. began with the aim of providing cost-effective and efficient computer-aided manufacturing software, targeted especially at small machine shops and experienced mechanics.

The first version of Mastercam was released in 1984, quickly gaining popularity due to its simplicity and efficiency. Unlike many competing solutions at the time, Mastercam offered an interface that was intuitive and easy to learn without long trainings. This made the software especially attractive to small and medium-sized businesses.

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Mastercam expanded its features, evolving to support increasingly complex machining operations such as multi-axis milling and turning. The software’s growth and rise to global standard status accelerated in the 1990s, especially when it began supporting open file formats and adding even more advanced CAM features.

In 2021, Mastercam and its developer, CNC Software Inc., became part of the Sandvik AB group. This acquisition was a significant step forward, providing Mastercam with even more resources and opportunities to remain at the forefront of the industry. Under Sandvik AB’s ownership, Mastercam has maintained its position as a market leader while leveraging the broad expertise and global support network of the Sandvik group.

Today, the focus is on continuous innovation and integration of new technologies. Recent developments include dynamic toolpaths, advanced simulation tools, and enhanced CAD integration possibilities. Thanks to these improvements, Mastercam meets the demands of modern industry and delivers users powerful, accurate, and productive solutions.

Mastercam’s history is one of innovation and continuous development, enabling the software to become one of today’s leading CAM solutions. When CNC Software Inc. was established, the goal was simply to bring a cost-effective and useful CAM software to the market. Now, Mastercam is a pillar of support for countless machine shops, schools, and large manufacturers, helping them achieve top-level efficiency and accuracy in their machining operations.

Mastercam Usage and Capabilities

Mastercam is designed to provide powerful and versatile tools for programming hardware and software covering a wide range of CNC machinery, such as 3- to 5-axis machining centers, CNC lathes, multi-tasking lathes, and wire EDMs. Users can create precise and optimized toolpaths, simulate machining processes, and reduce the risk of errors and collisions.

Mastercam offers an intuitive user interface available in Finnish and other languages. This localization makes it easier especially for Finnish machine shops and vocational schools to fully utilize the software without significant language barriers. The software’s visual and logical design supports quick onboarding for new and experienced users alike.

One of Mastercam’s key features is the creation of advanced toolpaths. The software supports a wide range of milling operations such as pocket milling, slotting, drilling, threading, and multi-surface 3D machining. These enable handling complex geometries and the manufacture of precise, high-quality parts. Multi-axis machining is simplified through specialized functionalities like multi-axis machining and dynamic milling.

For turning operations, Mastercam allows users to create highly accurate and efficient turning routines. The software includes all traditional lathe tools such as roughing, finishing, grooving, threading, and drilling. In addition, advanced features like PrimeTurning™ bring significant benefits, especially when turning complex and challenging parts.

The software’s simulation tools give users the ability to review and analyze toolpaths before actual machining, reducing the risk of mistakes and collisions. This is especially important in complex, high-risk operations where errors can result in significant loss of time and resources.

Mastercam is more than just a tool; it covers the entire machining process from planning and implementation to optimization. Its comprehensive capabilities and tools allow users to customize and optimize their workflows for specific needs. This means that both small and large shops can leverage Mastercam to boost productivity and ensure product quality.

Overall, Mastercam provides a complete solution to help shops and manufacturers achieve high efficiency and accuracy in machining operations. Its easy-to-use interface, extensive functionality, and advanced simulation tools make it an excellent choice for both new users and experienced professionals.

Mastercam Features and Licensing

Mastercam provides a wide range of features and licensing packages designed to meet the needs of different users. The software’s modular design allows users to choose exactly the tools they need and expand functionality as required.

Mastercam Mill (2D and 3D)

The Mastercam Mill license covers milling operations and provides tools for carrying out various milling tasks. Features include facing, pocket milling, slotting, drilling, and threading. The Mill 3D license also enables programming of complex 3D toolpaths, making it ideal for mold and die work or complicated geometries.

Mastercam Multiaxis

The Multiaxis license is specifically for multi-axis machines and includes tools for creating 4- and 5-axis toolpaths. Key Multiaxis features include Port Expert and Blade Expert, which allow for the programming of channels and impellers. This license helps unlock the full potential of multi-axis machines, improving flexibility and efficiency.

Mastercam Lathe

Mastercam Lathe is tailored for CNC lathes, equipping you with tools for traditional turning operations such as roughing, finishing, grooving, threading, and drilling. The software also supports modern features like dynamic turning and PrimeTurning™ technology, which optimize machining processes and reduce cycle times.

Mastercam Mill-Turn

The Mill-Turn license is designed for multi-tasking lathes with a B-axis. It offers tools for synchronizing operations between different spindles and turrets, along with machine simulation and collision checking. Mill-Turn enables complex part machining and minimizes setups and handling, thus increasing productivity and process safety.

Mastercam Wire

Mastercam Wire is a powerful tool for programming wire EDM machines. It provides capabilities for accurate and versatile wire cutting, supporting both two- and four-axis programming, including automatic lead-in/out, intermediate cuts, and core cutting options.

Mastercam Router

Mastercam Router is aimed primarily at woodworking and handles complex routing tasks. It features tools for part and path nesting, head aggregation, sawing, and complete 2- to 5-axis cutting. This license enables users to effectively and safely program their woodworking projects.

License Packages and Scalability

Mastercam offers various license packages for different needs and budgets. Users can select licenses that best fit their requirements, or combine multiple licenses to expand software functionality. This makes it highly scalable and suitable for small shops, large manufacturers, and educational institutions.

Each license package includes different tools and features designed to cover a wide array of machining and programming needs. This allows users to optimize their productivity, improving machining accuracy and part quality.

Mastercam’s versatile features and broad licensing options make it a flexible and powerful tool that meets the demands of modern manufacturing. Whether it’s traditional milling, multi-axis machining, or complex wire EDM operations, Mastercam provides everything needed to achieve the best possible results.

Post Processing and Simulation

Post processing is a fundamental component of any CAM system, and Mastercam is no exception. The post processor translates generated toolpaths into NC code compatible with various CNC controllers such as Fanuc, Heidenhain, and Siemens. This makes it easy to use Mastercam with machines equipped with different controls and enables the software’s extensive use across industrial sectors.

Post processor customization is also possible in Mastercam, allowing fine-tuning and optimization for specific machines and tasks. Custom post processors ensure the generated NC code is as efficient and accurate as possible, minimizing downtime and improving part quality.

Mastercam’s simulation tools are another key feature, helping users ensure toolpaths are safe and optimized before actual cutting. Simulation offers a realistic view of the machining process, allowing users to spot potential problems such as tool-part collisions or machine movement errors before they cause damage or delays.

Using simulation greatly reduces the risk of costly mistakes that could lead to damaged parts or even machines. This makes simulation an important part of the manufacturing process, increasing production efficiency and reducing material waste.

The simulation suite also includes advanced features like real-time visualization and the ability to view different cut layers. These help evaluate how toolpaths and parameters will affect the part, enabling changes before sending the NC code to the machine. This improves process control and quality assurance.

Mastercam also allows creating advanced toolpaths, such as dynamic milling. Dynamic toolpaths can extend tool life and reduce machining times by optimizing material removal and minimizing tool and machine wear. This technology significantly boosts productivity and efficiency, providing value for many user groups.

In summary, Mastercam’s post processing and simulation tools deliver comprehensive and advanced means for reviewing, optimizing, and converting toolpaths into NC code. These tools help ensure process safety and efficiency—crucial to meeting the demands of modern manufacturing. Mastercam therefore provides reliable and precise solutions for achieving top-quality results safely and efficiently.

Mastercam’s Leading Technologies

Mastercam is known for innovative technologies that have made it one of the most popular CAM programs worldwide. These technologies are central to Mastercam’s ability to provide users with powerful and innovative solutions for complex machining challenges.

• Dynamic Milling: One of Mastercam’s most renowned technologies is dynamic milling. This feature optimizes tool movement to remove material as efficiently as possible while minimizing tool wear. Dynamic milling uses advanced algorithms that adjust cutting depth, tool speed, and feed rate in real time, extending tool life and reducing cycle times. It’s especially valuable for short-run and prototype manufacturing as well as high-volume production.
• 5-Axis Machining: Mastercam’s 5-axis capability allows users to perform complex operations in a single setup, reducing setup times, improving manufacturing accuracy, and enabling the machining of intricate geometries that are difficult to achieve with conventional 3-axis machines. 5-axis machining also supports programming strategies such as simultaneous machining and swarf cutting, making it ideal for aerospace and medical applications.
• PrimeTurning™: PrimeTurning™, developed by Sandvik Coromant and integrated into Mastercam, is an innovative turning method that allows material to be removed both forwards and backwards, extending cutting edge life and supporting higher material removal rates. It improves both productivity and safety by reducing machine and tool wear and optimizing chip evacuation.
• A-Axis Turning: With A-axis turning, Mastercam offers comprehensive tools for machining complex rotational parts. This technology allows multiple lathe operations, such as drilling, threading, and grooving, in a single setup. A-axis turning is particularly useful in aerospace and automotive manufacturing where parts require intricate and precise machining.
• Simulation and Verification: Mastercam’s simulation and verification tools ensure toolpaths are safe and efficient before they’re sent to the machine. These tools help detect potential collisions, tool-workpiece interference, and other errors that could cause damage or delays. Simulation also allows testing and optimizing various cutting strategies, improving production quality and reducing waste.
• CAD Integration: Mastercam supports most popular CAD file formats, including SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and CATIA. This enables seamless data transfer between design and Mastercam, accelerating design-to-manufacturing workflows. Built-in CAD integration includes geometry repair and optimization tools for better part quality assurance.

The cutting-edge technologies offered by Mastercam make it highly competitive and versatile for modern manufacturing environments. Its advanced toolpaths, simulation tools, and dynamic programming options help users boost productivity, lower costs, and achieve high-quality results.

Mastercam Markets

Mastercam has achieved a significant position in the global CAM market, with its versatility and effectiveness making it a favorite across many industries. The software’s ability to meet the needs of a wide variety of users—from small machine shops to large industrial giants—has been key to its success.

Worldwide Reach and Customer Support

Mastercam has a broad and well-organized reseller network covering over 80 countries. These resellers provide local support and training, ensuring a smooth adoption and user experience everywhere. Their expertise and local knowledge ensure users get the help and guidance they need in their own language and within their cultural context.

Diverse Market Segments

Mastercam is designed to serve many industries and market segments. This broad applicability has helped establish it as a market leader. Typical Mastercam user groups include:

• Aerospace industry: The rigorous standards and tight tolerances of aerospace manufacturing make Mastercam’s advanced toolpaths and 5-axis machining especially useful.
• Automotive industry: Car manufacturers and suppliers rely on Mastercam for various components and mold manufacturing, where high accuracy and fast turnaround are critical.
• Medical industry: The production of medical components demands extremely precise machining, where Mastercam’s ability to handle complex geometries and tight tolerances is a major asset.
• Energy sector: Energy companies use Mastercam for producing parts and equipment that require both durability and precision, covering both traditional and renewable energy infrastructures.
• Consumer goods: Producers of electronics, appliances, and other consumer goods use Mastercam’s robust CAM tools to optimize manufacturing processes and reduce costs.
• Education: Mastercam has a strong presence in education. It is used widely in technical schools, universities, and colleges as a key teaching tool for future machinists and engineers. Educators appreciate Mastercam’s ease of use and its alignment with current industry needs, enhancing students’ readiness for the workforce.
• Small and medium-sized businesses: Mastercam is also well suited for small and medium enterprises. Its pricing and modular structure mean even smaller companies can benefit from advanced CAM tools without huge investments, making it attractive for niche manufacturers and small shops.

Extensive User Base

Mastercam boasts over 250,000 installations worldwide across industries. This broad user base and the associated communities provide valuable knowledge and experiences on using the software and innovative ways to improve machining efficiency. The close collaboration between user communities and resellers helps Mastercam stay current with evolving industry needs and continually improve the software.

In summary, Mastercam’s market spans a wide range of industries and geographies, and its comprehensive solutions bring significant benefits to users striving to optimize manufacturing processes. Its global popularity demonstrates its ability to meet diverse and complex manufacturing challenges in a unique and effective way.

Mastercam’s Board and Company Leadership

Mastercam’s success and ongoing innovation rely heavily on the expertise and clear vision of its board of directors and leadership team. The leadership comprises professionals with diverse backgrounds and decades of experience in business, manufacturing technology, software development, and sales. The board guides the company through strategic decisions, ensures operational stability, and keeps Mastercam at the forefront of CAD/CAM technology. Their efforts enable the company to meet growing customer demands and rapidly adapt to changing markets.

Susan Brandt, Mastercam’s current CEO, is a prime example of the leadership’s strength. With over 30 years of experience in CAD/CAM and engineering software, she focuses on fostering sustainable growth through both acquisitions and organic expansion. Under Susan’s leadership, Mastercam has become a stronger global player and broadened its markets significantly. Her background includes senior leadership roles at companies like Hexagon and Bentley Systems, bringing Mastercam a wealth of strategic and operational expertise. Such strong, experienced leadership ensures that Mastercam not only keeps pace with the industry but also helps set its direction.

Mastercam’s Partners and Network

Mastercam’s success is rooted not only in its strong leadership and innovative software development but also in its extensive network of partners. Partners are a critical part of Mastercam’s strategy, with collaborative solutions that bring added value for customers and improve production efficiency. This network extends from machine tool builders to cutting tool manufacturers and educational institutions, making Mastercam seamlessly integratable across different manufacturing and learning environments.

Mastercam’s partners include leading companies like machine tool manufacturers Mazak, Haas, DMG Mori, Matsuura, Okuma, DN Solutions, and Tsugami. These respected manufacturers are known for high-quality machines, and their integration with Mastercam ensures customers achieve the best productivity and accuracy in their production environments. For example, Mazak and Okuma are widely recognized for versatile and innovative machines that, together with Mastercam, deliver solutions for even the most complex and demanding machining tasks.

Other major partners include cutting tool manufacturers like Sandvik Coromant, Kennametal, Iscar, Walter Tools, Seco Tools, and Emuge. Close cooperation with these companies enables optimal use of tooling for different machining processes. The collaboration with Sandvik Coromant for the PrimeTurning™ technology is a prime example of how deep innovation can significantly improve the productivity and precision of turning processes. Kennametal and Iscar, meanwhile, are known for their broad range of high-performance tools specially optimized for dynamic machining and high-precision work.

The partner network is not limited to machine and tool manufacturers; Mastercam also closely collaborates with educational institutions to ensure future machinists and engineers receive the best possible training and have access to the latest technology during their studies. This strategic collaboration ensures new professionals are prepared to tackle the ever-changing demands and challenges of the industry.

Thanks to these broad partnerships, Mastercam can offer tailored and optimized solutions that address the special requirements of different machines and materials. This makes Mastercam a highly efficient and versatile tool suitable for everything from small job shops to major manufacturing plants. Collaboration with industry leaders ensures Mastercam users always get access to the world’s best machining solutions—ones that are powerful, safe, and compatible with the full spectrum of production environments.

Mastercam’s Future Outlook

The future looks bright for Mastercam, as the company continues to grow as a leader in CAM software. Its strategy emphasizes investment in emerging technologies like Industry 4.0 solutions, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to drive automation and productivity. Customer focus and improved user experience are also central, reflected in more intuitive interfaces and broader language support. Mastercam is additionally committed to sustainable development, working to reduce the environmental impact of its software and support customers in sustainable manufacturing. These strategies ensure that Mastercam remains an industry leader ready to meet evolving customer needs.

Summary

Mastercam is the world’s leading CAM software, providing comprehensive solutions for a wide array of machining needs. With roots dating back to 1983, it has become one of the most popular and versatile tools for programming CNC machinery. Mastercam fuses CAD and CAM features, enables the creation of complex toolpaths, and offers extensive support for various machines such as mills, lathes, and wire EDMs. Its renowned partners include Mazak, Haas, DMG Mori, and cutting tool manufacturers like Sandvik Coromant, Kennametal, Iscar, Walter Tools, and Seco Tools. The future is focused on emerging technologies, customer-centric development, and sustainability, ensuring Mastercam remains an industry leader and meets the growing challenges of manufacturing worldwide.