CNCPlasma_CuttingPreview

CNCPlasma_CuttingPreview

Working with Programs and File Formats

It is important to understand that there are several programs used in the production process. As

many as three different programs may be used to produce a single part. All three types are discussed

below.

The CAD Program

In some cases a CAD program may be used to create the geometry. Examples of CAD programs

include AutoCAD, VersaCAD, CADKey and any other computer aided drafting programs. These

programs are used to create the geometry. The geometry is then imported into the CAM program so

toolpaths can be applied. In many cases the geometry is created in the CAM package and a CAD

program is not even used. Always remember that a CAD program , like AutoCAD, is only used for

creating the geometry. CAD programs can not be used to create toolpaths, generate machine code or

control the machine tool.

The CAM Program

The CAM program is used to create toolpaths, emulate the proposed machining and generate the

machine code. Examples of CAM programs include Mastercam, Visual Mill and Virtual Gibbs.

Often the geometry for a part can be created in the CAM program and a CAD program will not even

be necessary. CAM programs do not control the machine tool.

The Production Interface

The production interface is the software that is used to actually control the machine tool. This

program is generally supplied by the tool manufacturer. In this manual, the Techno CNC Interface

that is supplied with the CNC plasma cutter is used to control the machine. This is the program used

to drive the torch manually, set the tool origin or offset and run the machine code to product the part.

On many CNC machines, the production interface is built into controller that is part of the machine.

The production interface is not used to create geometry or toolpaths. Many production interfaces

also have the ability to run a simulation of the proposed machining.

All of these programs generate and use different types of files that are specific to the program. It is

important to learn to work with the different file types used in the design to production process. The

best way to manage the files is to pay attention to the file type and location. Always make sure you

save your files in a location that you can find later and always pay attention to the file’s extension so

you can determine which type of file it is. It is recommended that you create a folder to keep your

files in and always change the location to this folder when saving. The file extension, the part after

the ‘.’ in the name, will help you identify the file type. There can be as many as three different files

associated with a single part. The three file types are explained below.