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| Version | Price |
|---|---|
| CAMWorks 2026 SP2 for SolidWorks 2025-2026 | |
| CAMWorks 2025 SP5 for SolidWorks 2024-2026 | |
| CAMWorks 2024 SP5 for SolidWorks 2023-2025 | |
| CAMWorks 2023 SP5 for SolidWorks 2022-2024 | |
| CAMWorks 2022 SP5 for SolidWorks 2021-2023 |
What Is CAMWorks for SolidWorks?
CAMWorks for SolidWorks is integrated CAM software that runs directly inside SolidWorks to automate CNC programming for milling and turning operations. It combines Automatic Feature Recognition, Knowledge-Based Machining, and high-speed toolpath generation to reduce programming time and deliver production-ready G-code without leaving the SolidWorks environment.
CNC programmers and manufacturing engineers use CAMWorks to shorten the design-to-machining cycle, reuse proven machining strategies across jobs, and automatically update toolpaths when part geometry changes. The software covers 2.5-axis through 5-axis simultaneous milling, turning, and mill-turn operations on CNC machining centers and turning centers.
How Does CAMWorks Work Inside SolidWorks?
CAMWorks installs as a SolidWorks add-in and operates from within the SolidWorks interface — no file export or format translation is required. It reads SolidWorks geometry, PMI tolerance data, and model changes directly, maintaining a live associative link between the CAD model and the CAM toolpaths. When the design changes, CAMWorks updates toolpaths automatically rather than requiring the programmer to restart from scratch.
Is CAMWorks Still Actively Developed?
Yes. CAMWorks follows an annual release cycle aligned with SolidWorks, with service packs released throughout the year. The current version is CAMWorks 2026 SP2. Each release adds updated post processors, extended machine simulation support, and improvements to AFR and KBM rule sets.
What's Included in the Purchase
- Full offline installer for the specified CAMWorks version and service pack
- Compatible with Windows 10 (64-bit) and Windows 11 (64-bit)
- All built-in modules: AFR, KBM, VoluMill, TBM, TechDB, Virtual Machine Simulation, NC Code Editor
- Turning and mill-turn operations included
- 4 and 5-axis simultaneous machining included
- No internet connection required after installation
- No cloud account required to run the software
- Installation instructions included
CAMWorks Key Features
Automatic Feature Recognition (AFR)
AFR analyzes SolidWorks geometry and automatically identifies over 20 prismatic machinable features including holes, pockets, slots, bosses, and faces. Feature recognition eliminates manual operation selection and reduces CNC programming time by up to 90% compared to traditional CAM workflows where programmers define every feature individually.
Knowledge-Based Machining (KBM)
KBM automatically selects machining strategies, cutting tools, feeds, speeds, and depths of cut based on the recognized feature type and material. It generates production-ready toolpaths with minimal manual editing by applying stored machining rules to each feature — the same rules a skilled programmer would apply manually, applied automatically at recognition time.
VoluMill High-Speed Roughing
VoluMill uses adaptive constant-engagement toolpath technology to maintain consistent chip load throughout roughing cuts on complex 3D shapes and prismatic parts. On hard materials such as titanium, Inconel, and hardened steels, VoluMill reduces cycle times by up to 80% and extends cutting tool life by up to 500% compared to conventional roughing strategies. It is particularly effective for mold cavities, aerospace structural parts, and deep-pocket components.
Tolerance-Based Machining (TBM)
TBM reads tolerance ranges, surface finish callouts, and GD&T annotations directly from SolidWorks PMI data attached to the model. It automatically selects the correct machining strategy for each tolerance zone — applying finish passes where tight tolerances are specified and skipping them where they are not required — without the programmer manually interpreting drawing callouts.
Technology Database (TechDB)
TechDB stores proven machining strategies, tool definitions, feeds, speeds, and operation templates that were developed and validated on the shop floor. Stored rules are applied automatically by KBM when recognizing matching features on new parts, allowing shops to institutionalize their best practices and reduce redundant programming work across future jobs.
Milling Operations
2.5 and 3-Axis Milling
CAMWorks programs area clearing roughing, constant step-over finishing, pencil milling, z-level contouring, and face milling operations with full control over toolpath parameters and cutting conditions. Prismatic parts, cavities, and pockets are handled through the standard milling module with direct access to all tool and operation settings.
4 and 5-Axis Simultaneous Machining
The multi-axis module generates simultaneous 4 and 5-axis toolpaths for complex geometries including impellers, turbine blades, undercut pockets, and compound-curved surfaces. Multi-axis machining reduces the number of setups required for complex parts, lowers fixturing costs, and improves geometric accuracy by machining in a single clamping.
Turning and Mill-Turn
CAMWorks programs lathe operations for cylindrical parts including facing, roughing, finishing, grooving, threading, and parting. The mill-turn module combines milling and turning operations for CNC turning centers with live tooling, enabling complete machining of complex rotary components — including off-center features and cross-holes — in a single setup.
Virtual Machine Simulation
The simulation module runs complete machine motion verification using the actual G-code output rather than the internal toolpath representation. It simulates the full CNC machine kinematics — including spindle, rotary axes, tool changers, and fixturing — to detect collisions, verify tool clearances, and confirm program correctness before the part runs on the shop floor machine.
Associative Toolpath Updates
CAMWorks maintains a live associative link between SolidWorks geometry and CAM toolpaths. When the designer modifies the model — changes a pocket depth, adjusts a hole diameter, or repositions a feature — CAMWorks detects the change and updates affected toolpaths automatically. Design iterations no longer require manual CAM rework for each revision.
NC Code Editor and Backplotting
The integrated NC editor displays generated G-code with syntax highlighting and allows direct editing before sending programs to the machine. The backplot engine replays the toolpath graphically from the G-code output, providing a final verification step that confirms the post-processed code matches the intended machining sequence.
CAMWorks vs. SolidCAM
| Criterion | CAMWorks | SolidCAM |
|---|---|---|
| SolidWorks integration | Native add-in, fully embedded | Native add-in, fully embedded |
| Automatic feature recognition | AFR — 20+ prismatic features | AFR available, narrower feature set |
| High-speed roughing | VoluMill (built-in) | iMachining (built-in, proprietary) |
| Knowledge-based machining | KBM with TechDB rule storage | No equivalent rule-based automation |
| Tolerance-based machining | TBM reads SolidWorks PMI directly | Not available |
| 5-axis simultaneous | Included in full version | Included in full version |
| Turning / mill-turn | Included | Included |
| Offline operation | Full offline, no cloud required | Full offline, no cloud required |
CAMWorks Applications by Industry
| Industry | Typical Applications |
|---|---|
| Job Shops | Prototype parts, custom fixtures, short-run production components, specialty tooling fabrication |
| Mold & Die | Injection molds, stamping dies, EDM electrodes, cavity and core machining with tight tolerances |
| Automotive | Engine components, cylinder head porting, transmission housings, suspension brackets, fuel system parts |
| Aerospace | Turbine blades, impellers, structural brackets, precision connectors, aerospace hardware |
| Medical Devices | Surgical instruments, implant components, diagnostic equipment housings, precision surgical tools |
| Precision Engineering | Custom mechanical components, specialty fasteners, precision pins and bushings |
| Consumer Products | Electronic enclosures, product housings, mechanical assemblies, plastic injection molds |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CAMWorks for SolidWorks used for?
CAMWorks is used for CNC programming directly inside SolidWorks. It automates toolpath generation for milling, turning, and mill-turn operations using Automatic Feature Recognition and Knowledge-Based Machining, producing G-code for CNC machining centers and turning centers without leaving the SolidWorks environment.
Does CAMWorks require an internet connection?
No. CAMWorks runs fully offline after installation. No internet connection, cloud account, or remote server is required to operate the software.
Does CAMWorks require a separate SolidWorks installation?
Yes. CAMWorks is a SolidWorks add-in and requires an existing SolidWorks installation on the same machine. Select the CAMWorks version that matches your installed SolidWorks year from the compatibility table above.
What is Automatic Feature Recognition in CAMWorks?
Automatic Feature Recognition (AFR) analyzes SolidWorks part geometry and identifies machinable features — holes, pockets, slots, bosses, and faces — without manual selection. It reduces CNC programming time by up to 90% by eliminating the step where programmers manually define every operation.
What is VoluMill in CAMWorks?
VoluMill is an adaptive high-speed roughing technology built into CAMWorks. It maintains constant tool engagement throughout the cut, reducing cycle times by up to 80% and extending tool life by up to 500% on hard materials such as titanium, Inconel, and hardened steel compared to conventional roughing passes.
Does CAMWorks support 5-axis machining?
Yes. CAMWorks includes 4 and 5-axis simultaneous machining for complex geometries including impellers, turbine blades, undercut pockets, and compound-curved surfaces. Multi-axis toolpaths reduce the number of setups and allow complete machining of complex parts in a single clamping.
Does CAMWorks support turning and mill-turn operations?
Yes. CAMWorks programs standard lathe operations — facing, roughing, finishing, grooving, threading, and parting — as well as mill-turn operations on CNC turning centers with live tooling for complete machining of complex rotary components in a single setup.
What is Tolerance-Based Machining in CAMWorks?
Tolerance-Based Machining (TBM) reads tolerance values and GD&T annotations directly from SolidWorks PMI data and automatically selects appropriate machining strategies for each tolerance zone. It eliminates manual interpretation of drawing callouts and ensures the programmed operations match the specified tolerances.
What is the Technology Database in CAMWorks?
The Technology Database (TechDB) stores validated machining strategies, tool definitions, feeds, speeds, and operation templates. KBM draws from TechDB when generating toolpaths for recognized features, allowing shops to reuse proven strategies across jobs and standardize programming practices.
What is the difference between CAMWorks and SolidCAM?
Both are native SolidWorks CAM add-ins. CAMWorks differentiates through Tolerance-Based Machining (reads PMI data directly), Knowledge-Based Machining with TechDB rule storage, and VoluMill for high-speed roughing. SolidCAM offers iMachining as its high-speed roughing technology. Both support 5-axis simultaneous machining and mill-turn operations.
How to Order
- Place your order and complete payment
- Receive a download link from our FTP server
- Download the original installer and activation instructions
- Contact support if needed - we assist until the software runs on your machine
Choose your version in the table above - delivery within 1–3 hours after payment.
