Siemens PLM Software

High productivity
part manufacturing
NX CAM – a complete solution for
making better parts faster

siemens.com/plm/nxcam
The NX CAM advantage

How does NX™ software help you make better parts faster?
What NX advantages make part manufacturing more
productive?

More value in each key capability

NX CAM delivers real differences through key capabilities
such as its advanced programming, postprocessing and
simulation functionality. Each NX module provides more
than the standard functions you expect from typical CAM
packages. For example, the integrated machine tool simula-
tion is driven by output from the NX postprocessor rather
than just tool path data. As a result, NX facilitates a higher
level of program validation right inside its CAM system.

NX for manufacturing
NX provides a complete set of NC programming capabilities in
a single CAM system as well as an integrated set of manufac-
turing software applications. These applications facilitate
part modeling, tool design and inspection programming – all
based on proven NX technology.

Right for your industry A leader in manufacturing

NX has been adopted across many industries, delivering When the right design and manufacturing software is
proven capability for manufacturing in the aerospace, auto- matched with the latest controllers, machine tools and other
motive, medical device, mold and die and machinery shop floor equipments, you can implement a process chain
industries. that delivers maximum performance for your business.
Whether you have a small machine shop with a few machine Siemens is an established leader in advanced machine tool
tools or a large team of manufacturing engineers who utilize controller technology and drive equipment. This combina-
numerous machine tools, NX provides a solution to match tion of software and manufacturing equipment expertise
your business needs. enables us to develop part manufacturing solutions that
provide you with unique and powerful advantages.

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Key capabilities in NX CAM

Complete the
design-to-machining
process chain with NX

Advanced programming capabilities Postprocessing and simulation Integrated solution

NX CAM provides a wide range of NX CAM has a tightly integrated post- NX provides advanced CAD tools that
functionality, from simple NC program- processing system. Multiple levels of NC can be used by the NC programmer for
ming to multi-axis machining, enabling program validation include G-code- everything from modeling new parts to
NC programmers to address many tasks driven simulation, which eliminates the creating setup drawings directly from
using one system. need for separate simulation packages. 3D model data.
The flexibility of NX CAM means that For manufacturing, NX offers special
Ease of use
the most demanding jobs can be com- applications alongside CAM, including
For maximum productivity, users can
pleted easily. tool design and inspection program-
work on the system graphically. For
ming modules. The 3D model moves
example, selecting and moving the 3D
Programming automation seamlessly between applications with-
model of the tool to adjust a tool path is
Advanced feature-based machining out data translation.
a fast and intuitive way to drive the
provides extra value in programming
system. Connecting NX to Teamcenter® soft-
automation.
ware for data and process management
The dialog boxes use graphics with
With feature-based machining pro- establishes a basis for an extended part
clear annotation to indicate what values
gramming time can be reduced by as manufacturing solution. All types of
are required for menu input.
much as 90 percent. data from 3D part models to setup
sheets, tool lists and CNC output files
can be fully managed.

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 Advanced programming capabilities
Fixed-axis milling High-speed machining
NX CAM provides a wide range of 2-axis and Successful high-speed roughing in NX main-
3-axis machining capabilities for prismatic and tains high metal removal rates while
freeform parts – ranging from manual tool managing tool loads.
path creation and editing to advanced, auto-
HSM finishing operations, such as the
mated cutting methods.
Streamline feature, produce smooth flowing
• Optimized roughing methods maximize the cutting patterns that result in fine finishes at
material removal rate without overloading high feed rates.
the tool.
• Fully automated rest milling removes uncut
material from previous operations and
eliminates air-cutting.
• Wide range of finishing techniques deliver
superior surface finish quality.
• Automatic collision detection ensures
safe machining of the most demanding
geometry.
The trochoidal cutting pattern in NX
automatically prevents you from exceeding
permissible cutting conditions based on
user-specified criteria.

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 Industry leader
in advanced
NC programming

5-axis machining • Curvature matching technology with a

Multiple-axis machining in NX enables you to continuously adjusted tool axis maximizes
produce precision complex parts with fewer tool contact to facilitate fewer passes with
operations and setups – reducing cost and larger tools.
delivery times.
• Automatic variable-axis profiling requires
NX CAM supports a range of methods for only minimum geometry selection to cut
defining precisely controlled multi-axis tool along drafted walls and other profiles.
paths on complex surfaces, with effective
collision and gouge checking. Wire EDM
NX Wire EDM programming works from both
• Fast and accurate roughing and finishing
wireframe and solid models, facilitating the
methods facilitate machining of complex
cutting of parts in 2-axis and 4-axis modes.
parts, such as those typically machined for
the aerospace industry. A wide range of wire operations are available,
including multi-pass profiling, wire reversing
• Z-level method with tilted tool facilitates
and area removal.
the use of of shorter tools to reduce tool
deflection.
• Smooth flowing Streamline strategy is an
ideal cutting method for multi-axis HSM
finishing.

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 Advanced programming capabilities
Multi-function machines Turning
NX offers a complete range of machining NX CAM provides a complete turning solution
capabilities for the latest multi-function that is easy enough to use on simple pro-
machines that support simultaneous multi- grams and capable enough to tackle your
axis operations. toughest geometry in multi-spindle, multi-
turret applications. Turning in NX can use
Using a graphical display the Synchronization
either 2D part profiles or full solid models. It
Manager provides interactive control for
includes routines for roughing, multiple-pass
machining sequences across multiple
finishing, grooving, thread cutting and cen-
channels.
terline drilling.
Keeping track of the in-process state of
NX turning enables A-axis and B-axis tool
the workpiece is a critical component
control. In addition to rich functionality
of effective mill-turning. NX CAM automati-
for common tasks, a special “teach mode”
cally generates an in-process workpiece (IPW)
capability provides extra user control for fine
to provide seamless transfer of workpiece
finishing and special cutting situations.
configurations between milling and turning.

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 NX Turbomachinery
Milling for easy
programming
of multi-bladed
parts

Application-specific programming
Application-specific software significantly Rest milling automates the removal of
improves the productivity of the NC program- remaining material from previous operations;
mer compared to the use of generic it also optimizes tool engagement with the
functions. part.
Hub finishing creates an optimized tool path
Turbomachinery milling
by precisely controlling the side stepover, cut
With NX, you can reduce programming effort
pattern and tool path smoothing.
by applying specialized 5-axis NC program-
ming operations for complex multi-bladed Blade finishing enables you to finish the main
rotational parts, such as blisks and impellers. blades by specifying which sides of the blade
to cut as well as tool axis stabilization param-
Simultaneous 5-axis roughing enables you to
eters for the edges.
efficiently remove material between the
blades by specifying parameters, such as cut Splitter finishing enables you to program blisk
level offsets, drive pattern and tool axis. and impellers with single or multiple splitter
blades (on some impellers there are smaller
blades, referred to as splitters, in-between the
main blades).

Tool axis parameters enable you to

create optimized 5-axis tool path.

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 Ten times faster
programming

Programming automation
Feature-based machining (FBM) configure, add or modify the feature-based
You can automatically create optimized machining operations and how they are
machine programs directly from part design selected using a simple editor (Machining
models by using feature-based machining in Knowledge Editor).
NX. FBM automatically recognizes and pro-
PMI-driven machining. NX can read product
grams a wide range of machining feature
and manufacturing information (PMI), such as
types including:
tolerances and surface finish, that is attached
• Prismatic to the model and drive the machining method
selection.
• Turning
For example, a tight tolerance might require
• Wire EDM
a specific finishing process and tool. NX CAM
• Color and attributes can read the tolerance data added to the
NX design model and use it to select the
Each machining step is selected using a
correct machining operations. In this way,
configurable logic and criteria managed in a
the PMI data drives the NC programming
machining database provided as a part of the
and machining.
system (as shown below). You can easily

Database of operations
Machining process elements

Operation 1
Roughing 3

Operation 2 Semi-finish 2

Finish 1
Operation 3

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Machining data library Process templates
NX CAM provides a customizable machining NX CAM enables you to apply predefined
database that enables you to manage and rules-driven processes and setup templates to
apply proven data to associative tool path standardize and speed the programming task.
operations.
Typically, processes are employed to ensure
NX automatically applies the right feeds the use of preferred methods and tooling.
and speeds for a given operation and tool
selection.

Machining wizards
For everyday common tasks, you can build
process wizards using easy-to-follow steps.
Wizards can make complex software
settings based on simple user selections.
Wizards are easily available from the
NX menu.

Templates are one of the most powerful ways to

standardize NC programming in NX.

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 Optimized output for
Siemens Sinumerik
controllers

Postprocessing
Integrated postprocessor Optimized output for Siemens controllers
NX includes its own postprocessor system, NX CAM also provides an optimized Sinumerik
which is tightly connected to the core postprocessor that automatically selects key
CAM system. controller settings based on machining opera-
tion data.
You can easily generate the required NC code
for almost any type of machine tool and
controller configuration.

Postprocessor library
The postprocessor library is an online resource
that contains a variety of posts that support a
wide range of machine tools.

PostBuilder
A special menu in NX CAM enables you to select
NX CAM includes a PostBuilder capability that
key functions on the Sinumerik controller.
enables you to create and edit postprocessors.
Using its graphical user interface, you can
specify parameters for the required NC codes.

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 G-code-driven
simulation –
all in NX

Machining simulation
Machining process validation When the Siemens Virtual NC Controller
A key NX CAM advantage facilitates integrated Kernel (VNCK) is added to NX CAM, real
simulation and verification, which enables controller software is used to drive your
programmers to check tool paths within the integrated machining simulation solution.
NC programming session. Multiple levels of The integrated solution facilitates the closest
capability are available. possible digital representation of actual
machine tool motion with highly accurate
For example, the G-code-driven machine tool
speeds, accelerations, tool changes and cycle
simulation displays the motion driven from
times.
the NC code output of the NX internal post-
processor. A 3D model of the machine – with
Machine tool support kits
the part, fixtures and tooling – moves in the
For advanced machine tools, support kits
way the machine tool will move as the G-code
provide a complete solution that includes:
is processed.
• Proven postprocessor
• 3D solid model of the machine tool
• Example parts, templates and
documentation

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 Ease of use
Graphical-driven programming Operation navigator
NX encourages the user to drive the system The operation navigator keeps critical infor-
graphically as much as possible. It is much mation accessible to the programmer and
faster and more intuitive to control a tool by facilitates re-use. A rich information environ-
selecting and moving the 3D tool model on ment displays the operation sequences and
the screen than typing numbers into a menu. dependencies while tracking tool usage and
facilitating associative part data.
Intuitive user interface
You can increase productivity by leveraging Integrated workflow tutorials and
the latest user interaction techniques and documentation
predefined programming environment. NX provides step-by-step tutorials for various
programming processes, including die, mill-
turn and aerospace machining. These tutorials
are directly accessible from NX.
The internet-like search engine in NX enables
you to quickly find a command by searching
against a keyword.

Descriptive images provide visual feedback for

dialog options.

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 You can easily edit 3D
models with a simple
drag and drop

The CAD/CAM advantage of NX

3D part model preparation Master model concept
The latest CAD technology in NX enables the NX leverages the master model concept
NC programmer to rapidly prepare part mod- to facilitate concurrent design and NC pro-
els, including third-party CAD models. gramming by linking all functions, such as
CAM and CMM, back to the single model
With synchronous technology, you
definition of the part.
can directly edit the part model and prepare it
for NC programming, including closing holes As a result, the NC programmer can start
and gaps, offsetting faces and resizing part programming a part before the designer
features. is finished. Full associativity ensures subse-
quent updates of NC operations as the design
NX offers a set of specialized CAD functions
model changes.
that enables the NC programmer to quickly
analyze the part before creating the NC
Modeling, assemblies and drafting
operations.
NX provides one of the most powerful
sets of CAD functions available on the market
today. These functions are packaged with NX
CAM for the NC programmer who needs to
model parts, stock shapes, fixtures or machine
tools for simulation.

You can examine the part and the workpiece

by viewing a cross section.

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 Expandable
solution for the
manufacturing
engineer

NX for manufacturing
NX also provides a wide range of additional NX provides a solution for automotive stamp-
manufacturing applications such as tool ing dies that includes planning, die face
design and inspection programming. design and feasibility, structure design and
validation.
Tool design
NX Electrode Design incorporates numerous
NX Mold Design automates the entire process
industry best practices into a step-by-step
of designing the parting line and surfaces,
approach that automates the design, under-
core and cavity, and mold base directly from
sizing, validation and documentation of
the part model. Key feature data is added to
electrodes.
drive automated tool path programming in
NX CAM.
NX Progressive Die Design includes expert
die-making knowledge to automate the
design process. This guides you through a
series of steps for formability analysis,
strip layout, die base design and validation.

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Expandable Inspection programming NX offers CMM machine simulation,
NX offers a programming application that which you can use to run kinematic model-
helps you create inspection programs for based simulations of the machine to verify
coordinate measuring machines (CMM). that all features are reachable, as well as
to verify that machine limits are not
NX CMM Inspection Programming enables
exceeded.
you to use streamlined workflows to
minimize rampup time and quickly generate
collision-free programs. You can reduce
nonconformance and ensure accuracy to
design requirements by programming directly
on the CAD model.
By using product and manufacturing informa-
tion (PMI) on the model (including GD&T and
3D annotation) to automatically generate
programs, you are well positioned to guaran-
tee completeness. You can further automate
the programming process by applying your
own standard inspection path methods, tools
and project templates.
You can output DMIS or create a custom post-
processor for a specific CMM.

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 Product Design

Manufacturing Engineering Shop Floor

CAD CAM CNC

CAD-CAM-CNC process chain

To maximize the value of a machine tool, you CAM
need to optimize the process that drives it. NX CAM includes NC programming, postpro-
A tightly connected overall process leads to cessing and machine tool simulation. In an
faster deployment of a new machine and optimized process chain each of these CAM
greater production efficiency. elements is configured to match the target
machine tools.
CAD
The manufacturing process starts with input A complete package
from the part design data – usually a 3D CAD Siemens is an established leader in advanced
model, but in some instances from a 2D machine tool controller technology and drive
drawing. equipment.
3D CAD software often is needed to prepare This combination of software and manufactur-
or adjust the part design model to make it ing equipment expertise enables us to support
ready for NC programming. a CAD-CAM-CNC process chain that maximizes
the value of your latest machine tool
CAD applications can also be used to design
investments.
and assemble fixtures. NX CAM packages
are available with fully integrated CAD func-
tions – all in the same NX system.

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Part model Tooling and Direct numerical Virtual machine
preparation fixture design CAM control CNC

Data and process management

CMM Process Tool Shop floor Tool CMM inspection

programming planning libraries data access management execution

A part manufacturing solution

The CAD-CAM-CNC process chain supports Shop floor applications are available, includ-
the core machining solution. Many companies ing distributed numerical control (DNC), to
need additional applications and other equip- connect Teamcenter-managed data directly to
ment to complete their part manufacturing machine tools. Shop floor tool data manage-
process. ment solutions can use plan data and
interfaces to equipment such as tool
A solution to match your needs presetters.
Being able to use the same 3D model in
multiple applications, such as tool design or Our solution
CMM programming, is a major advantage. As you define a part manufacturing plan
NX can support these initiatives by enabling and take it to the shop floor for execution,
all of these applications to share the same 3D Siemens PLM Software can support you with
model technology for a faster, more inte- a solution that matches your business-specific
grated process. requirements.

Data and process management

Siemens PLM Software facilitates data
and process management through the
Teamcenter suite, which you can leverage to
manage a complete manufacturing plan.

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 NX CAM –
A full range of capability
NX CAM offers a wide range of in-depth NC programming
capabilities that allows the NC programmer to address
many tasks using one system.

2 1/2-axis milling This module facilitates simple milling and drilling that’s used on almost every job. Zig-zag,
offset and plunge milling are examples of the tool paths provided. Methods can range
from manual tool positioning to advanced trochoidal roughing. Any of the milling
modules can be combined with the turning module for mill-turn support.

3-axis milling Roughing, rest milling, semi-finishing and contoured surface finishing address the
challenges of freeform surfaces. This capability includes additional functions needed for
high-speed machining.

5-axis milling Flexible 5-axis programming functions are available with highly automated geometry
selection and precise tool axis control.

Turbomachinery milling Specialized 5-axis NC programming operations are supported for complex multi-bladed
rotational parts, such as blisks and impellers.

Turning This module provides simple 2-axis turning as well as multi-spindle, multi-turret applications.
The system can work with solids or wireframe or even 2D profiles. For mill-turn machines,
this module can be combined with any of the milling modules as needed.

Wire EDM 2- to 4-axis programming is supported, including multi-pass profiling, wire reversing and
area removal.

FBM Author These capabilities enable you to create and modify feature definitions and rules-driven
automation processes through our Machining Knowledge Editor.

NC simulation Fully integrated, G-code-driven machining simulation uses postprocessed output for the most
complete simulation. Simultaneous multi-channel motion is synchronized and analyzed.
The included Machine Tool Builder constructs realistic, kinematic machine assemblies.

Advanced CAD for The latest NX CAD technology is provided to facilitate fast 3D model preparation and
NC programming editing. This NC programming capability can be used to create 3D models of stock shapes,
machine tool assemblies, tools and fixtures. The level of the CAD functionality depends
on the selected CAM package.

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 Maximize the
value of your
software investment

NX CAM modules and packages

NX CAM packages

CAD/CAM CAD/CAM CAM-only Advanced

Software modules Turning Milling 5-Axis 5-Axis Total
Foundation Foundation Machining Machining Machining

Foundation • • • • •
2 ½-Axis Milling • • • •
3-Axis Milling • • • •
5-Axis Milling • • •

Turbomachinery Milling •
Turning • •
Wire EDM (NX30431) •
Feature Based Machining Author •
NC Simulation • • •
Advanced CAD for NC programming* • • • •

* The Foundation module includes a range of CAD editing functions. The Advanced CAD for NC programming functions (level 1 or level 2) are included
in the NX CAM packages as shown above. Each of the other CAM modules is available as a separate add-on.

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About Siemens PLM Software
Siemens PLM Software, a business unit of the Siemens
Digital Factory Division, is a leading global provider of
software solutions to drive the digital transformation of
industry, creating new opportunities for manufacturers
to realize innovation. With headquarters in Plano, Texas,
and over 140,000 customers worldwide, Siemens PLM
Software works with companies of all sizes to transform
the way ideas come to life, the way products are
realized, and the way products and assets in operation
are used and understood. For more information on
Siemens PLM Software products and services, visit
www.siemens.com/plm.

Headquarters: +1 972 987 3000

Americas: +1 314 264 8499
Europe: +44 (0) 1276 413200
Asia-Pacific: +852 2230 3308

© 2018 Siemens Product Lifecycle Management Software Inc. Siemens, the Siemens
logo and SIMATIC IT are registered trademarks of Siemens AG. Camstar, D-Cubed,
Femap, Fibersim, Geolus, GO PLM, I-deas, JT, NX, Parasolid, Simcenter, Solid Edge,
Syncrofit, Teamcenter and Tecnomatix are trademarks or registered trademarks of
Siemens Product Lifecycle Management Software Inc. or its subsidiaries in the United
States and in other countries. All other trademarks, registered trademarks or service
marks belong to their respective holders.
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