SendCutSend Education

Lesson 2.4

How to Program a Part in CAM: 3 Axis Workflow

This series was filmed and edited by Keaton Bowlby

In chapter 2 lesson 4, we step into the role of a CNC programmer and walk through what it takes to machine our class project on a three axis mill.

We’ll go through the full programming workflow, including planning the order of operations, selecting tools, and creating multiple setups to access different features of the part. From drilling and tapping to roughing, finishing, and part flipping, you’ll see how material is removed step by step and how each decision impacts the final result. We’ll also use simulation to catch issues like collisions and better understand how the machine executes the program.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

  • How CNC programmers plan the order of operations
  • How multiple setups are used on a three axis machine
  • How different toolpaths are used to remove material
  • How simulation helps identify issues before machining
  • How programming decisions affect cost, time, and part quality

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