CAM, or computer-aided manufacturing (FAO in French), is the software chain that turns the 3D model from CAD into a program the machine tool can run. It is the link between the design office and the workshop.
The programmer imports the model, defines the blank (see machining blank), the part origins and the workholding, then selects the tools from a library. Next come the strategies: facing, pocketing, contouring, 3D scanning, trochoidal roughing which limits the load on the tool. They set speeds and feeds, simulate the path to detect collisions and check the material removed, then generate the code with a post-processor specific to the machine and its CNC control: the same path is not “posted” in the same way for two controllers. Common packages include Mastercam, hyperMILL, TopSolid and Fusion. In 5-axis machining, simulating the machine’s full kinematics is essential.
CAM is used as soon as the part goes beyond a few holes or a simple profile. The quality of the toolpaths directly determines cycle time, surface finish and tool life: it is one of the key skills of a CNC machining workshop. Manual programming survives for simple operations, such as a batch of holes or basic turning.
In a quote request. You do not have to supply CAM files or a program: the workshop creates them from your model and your drawing. Programming is generally charged once per part reference, then reused on later orders; so state the repeat frequency and annual volumes, as the guide to the price of CNC machining explains.