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Mastercam Part 1 (1)

Mastercam Part 1

4-Day Hands-On Training | Beginner to Intermediate Level

Build Essential CNC Programming Skills with Mastercam

This course covers the basics of Mastercam to create 2.5D toolpaths. Students will learn through instructor-led demonstrations followed by practical student exercises covering icon functions, geometry creation, and toolpath development. Participants will progress to programming a wide variety of parts from start to finish.

Students will build upon foundational principles by working on over 40 real-world part files to develop their skills. By the end of the course, they will be able to create and modify wireframe geometry, import solid models, and generate toolpaths for drilling, advanced pocketing, helical entry, and introductory dynamic milling.  



Overview

    • Mastercam interface and layout
    • Creating/modifying 2D wireframe geometry
    • 2D drafting (notes, dimensions, etc.)
    • Transforming geometry (rotate, scale, etc.)
    • Levels control
    • Preparing to machine – machine definition and properties
    • Machine group setup – stock setup, workholding tools
    • Toolpath utilities – toolpath manager, verify, backplot, posting
    • 2D contouring, pocketing, and drilling
    • Chaining basics
    • Tool control (ramping, lead-in/lead-out)
    • Helical entry
    • Dynamic milling – advanced contouring and pocketing
    • Advanced drilling
    • Work offsets
    • Rotary axis substitution
    • Indexing

Assessment

Practical project tasks, toolpath creation exercises, toolpath verification, and NC code generation assessments.


Target Audience

This training is ideal for:

    • CNC programmers new to Mastercam or seeking to refresh their CAD/CAM skills
    • Operators and engineers transitioning into programming roles
    • Technical staff requiring foundational CAD/CAM knowledge
    • Individuals aiming to build confidence in programming and toolpath verification



Prerequisites

No prior Mastercam experience is required; basic CNC milling knowledge is beneficial.  

Learning Outcomes

1. Navigate the Mastercam Interface

  • Confidently use Mastercam’s interface, toolpaths manager, levels, planes, and views.

  • Customise the workspace for efficient access to essential tools and functions.

2. Import and Prepare Geometry

  • Create, import, and modify 2D/3D geometry for machining.
  • Use wireframe and solid-model preparation tools required for programming.

3. Set Up Milling Jobs Correctly

  • Define stock, fixtures, and work coordinate systems (WCS).
  • Understand plane setup for 2D and introductory 3D machining operations.

4. Create Core 2D/2.5D Toolpaths

  • Program facing, drilling, contouring, pocketing, tapping, and similar operations.
  • Select appropriate tools and toolpath strategies for various materials and part features.

5. Control Toolpath Parameters

  • Adjust depths, stepovers, compensation, linking parameters, and entry/exit moves.
  • Apply proper feed and speed settings for safe and efficient machining.

6. Use Verify and Simulation Tools

  • Simulate toolpaths to check for collisions, gouges, or machining errors.
  • Evaluate stock removal and confirm machining accuracy before posting.

7. Manage Tool Libraries and Machine Definitions

  • Create, edit, and organise tools using Mastercam’s tool library.
  • Select and configure machine definitions for 3-axis milling operations.

8. Post-Process and Output NC Code

  • Generate accurate G-code using the correct post processor.
  • Understand the relationship between toolpath parameters and machine code output.

9. Apply Best Practices for Safe and Efficient Programming

  • Follow workflows that reduce programming errors and improve part consistency.
  • Use methods to minimise cycle time while maintaining accuracy.

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Funding is available for qualifying companies. Find out if you qualify by registering your interest below.

Register your interest

*Limited to 8 places

Register Your Interest - Mastercam Part 1