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IndustryArena Forum > CNC Plasma, EDM / Waterjet Machines > Waterjet General Topics > Very complex DXF, cheap/simple Waterjet toolpath creator?
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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Nov 2011
    Posts
    41

    Very complex DXF, cheap/simple Waterjet toolpath creator?

    I have very complicated DXF images that get as big as 4' x 6'. They include over 3000 cuts. I've spent 2 days trying to find a CAM software that will work great with the waterjet. LazyCAM can't open the files. I think the closest I have come is SheetCam, but that even seems a bit odd.

    What is the go-to CAM software for me to convert my DXF into NC for a waterjet to cut? Budget is sub-$500

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Jun 2009
    Posts
    226
    I don't have a specific recommendation as to software but this is what I do when I have a very complicated piece to cut, especially if the pc / software has trouble processing the large file.

    I break the drawing up into several layers and then process each layer as a separate cut sequence. The one thing you must do is that after you have the initial torch ( I use plasma) zero reference point, you can't move anything until the last layer is cut.

    Hope this helps.

    Willy

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Jun 2007
    Posts
    3735
    Super X3. 3600rpm. Sheridan 6"x24" Lathe + more. Three ways to fix things: The right way, the other way, and maybe your way, which is possibly a faster wrong way.

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Jun 2008
    Posts
    562
    You could download a trial version of Vectrics Vcarve Pro and see if that can handle it. $600 if you buy.

    Mike

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