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Machine shops spend thousands of dollars per year writing long, complex G-codes for their CNC machines. CAD/CAM software is the best way to optimize CNC machining and reduce costs. Autodesk Fusion is the best all-in-one option to achieve this.

AutodeskFusion offers a fully integrated CAD/CAM solution for all phases of product design, development, manufacture, and quality control. Here are five benefits your machine shop can experience if it partners with Autodesk Fusion for CNC machining.

1. Create optimized CNC machining tool paths

Fusion creates fully editable tool paths to allow for optimized CNC machining. Engineers can customize every aspect of the CNC machining operation by editing start and finish points, the cutting direction, and the type of tool used.

Automated toolpath creation in Fusion adds an extra layer of time savings to the toolpath creation process by translating 3D models of 3-axis components into machining strategies in seconds. It acts as a co-pilot, helping you automate repetitive CAM programming tasks. Strategies and estimations that might have once taken hours or days to develop are now available almost immediately.

2. Reduce the risk of equipment and workpiece damage

Fusion analyzes tool paths to identify and rectify potential crash conditions. During programming, the software recognizes collision conditions and can automatically program a tool change to avoid the collision. This enables engineers to identify areas of the workpiece that may create problems during CNC machining ahead of time to avoid high-risk collision situations.

3. Maintain model associativity

Fusion maintains model associativity, meaning that changes made to a CAD model automatically update in the CAM workspace without the need to fully reprogram tool paths. This ensures that the latest design changes are effectively communicated before machining starts, reducing the risk and cost of machining “old” level components.

4.  Better workforce utilization

Fusion enables expert machinists to set up machining templates and make them available to all programmers, irrespective of their level of experience. The advantage of this is the automatic transfer of knowledge and experience without the need for time-consuming, dedicated training sessions.

5. Optimize shop floor operations

The need for project data management doesn’t stop in the CAD environment. Fusion Operations enables true smart manufacturing by combining production planning, job tracking, and machine monitoring in one environment. Users get real-time access to production data, providing insight into overall equipment effectiveness and production efficiency.

There you have it — five ways your machine shop could benefit from using Autodesk Fusion. Try Autodesk Fusion for free today!