Free cad software for cnc plasma

Go from Drawing to Toolpath to Cutting all in one Integrated CAD/CAM/CNC Software

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Our intuitive CAM Software creates accurate toolpaths instantly
What is CAD/CAM software?
Cabinet Pro
Ramp up production and precision with ShopSabre CNC

FlashCut CAD’s intuitive user interface makes it simple to draw and edit any 2D and 2.5D shape
Simple import of any 2D drawing
Convert any bitmap image or photo into a toolpath (outline or centerline)
Advanced Boolean operations like welding multiple shapes into one
Shape library allows you to instantly draw and customize common shapes
DXF export for sharing drawings with other CAD programs
Fix tool finds and corrects CAD mistakes instantly
Easily bridge internal cut outs such as the center of an “O”

Our intuitive CAM Software creates accurate toolpaths instantly

FlashCut 2D and 3D CAM generates perfect toolpaths for plasma, oxyfuel waterjet, laser, or marking
Automatic generation and simple manipulation of lead-ins and lead-outs
Automatic generation of fixture tabs
Automatic kerf compensation
Simple import of DXF or DWG files
Sheet management for multiple sheets per job
Advanced true shape nesting includes nesting of multiple CAD or DXF files and multi-sheet nesting
Corner looping strategies for reducing dross in corners
Editable plasma and oxyfuel charts for many models from Hypertherm® and Thermal Dynamics® and other popular models takes the guesswork out of important cutting parameters like feedrate, kerf, cut height and voltage

There are many varieties of FlashCut CAD/CAM to suit your unique needs, budget or application. The chart below outlines the differences between our Standard and Pro versions of the software. It also includes a-la-carte features that can be added to either the Standard or Pro editions for an additional fee.

Standard CAD/CAM/CNC - Includes enough features to easily draw or import parts in CAD, make efficient tool paths in CAM and cut parts accurately in CNC
Pro CAD/CAM/CNC - Everything in the Standard version plus many other features for the professional such as shading and multi-layer management in CAD, True-Shape Nesting and advanced lead-in management in CAM, and auto lead-in on restart in CNC to name a few.
A-la-carte features - Special features for demanding applications such as Smart360 hole cutting technology and dynamic vent zones. Also includes targeted features that are only included in application specific versions such as water jet, laser and HPR plasma.

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When it comes to developing your CNC capabilities, knowing which CAD/CAM software to use and how to use it can have a serious impact on your versatility and on the quality of your production. Considering aspects like user experience, variety of features, and affordability can all help guide you toward the right platform that can deliver the best results.

Here is a closer look at what CAD/CAM software is and several options that can work well for everyone from a weekend hobbyist to a full-time CNC professional.

What is CAD/CAM software?

CAD/CAM software is a software package that combines computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) to produce 2D and 3D parts.

While CAD is used to create and modify designs on a computer, CAM software is used to facilitate the manufacturing of the workpieces by computer-controlled machines like CNC routers and plasmas. CAM software converts the design files into g-code before sending them to the machine that will then perform the cuts.

Rather than utilizing two separate software platforms to perform both phases of the work, CAD/CAM packages allow operators to leverage both ends of the spectrum with the same tool, handling everything from concept to creation in one place.

Here is a breakdown of some of the most popular CAD/CAM software packages available on the market today.

VCarve Pro

VCarve Pro is a powerful but intuitive platform that allows operators to produce complex 2D patterns with profile, pocket, drill, and inlay toolpaths. It enables the creation of designs with v-carving textures and also allows for unlimited job and toolpath sizes and true shape nesting.

Beyond its complete set of 2D design and layout tools, VCarve Pro also allows you to create 2.5D toolpaths, from prism carving and mouldings to textures and fluting. It also enables the import and machining of single 3D models. In all, VCarve Pro is one of the easiest-to-use and most versatile options for v-carving in the industry today, and is a trusted option for pros and beginners.

Fusion 360

Available for both Windows and MacOS, Fusion 360 serves as a unified CAD, CAM, and PCB software that is free for personal and hobby use, with an option to upgrade to the full package for $60 per month to unlock more advanced features.

The free version is fairly robust on its own and can be used for 2- and 3-axis milling, turning, adaptive clearing, and more, in addition to being compatible with waterjets, laser cutters, and plasma cutters. Fusion 360 supports a wide range of 3D file types, including 3MF, STL, and DXF. It can be used for modeling and rendering, with the ability to leverage local or cloud rendering to create photorealistic images of models much more quickly than with other software options.

EnRoute

EnRoute provides both 2D and 3D design and toolpath capabilities for everything from routers and plasmas to lasers and waterjets. It is particularly suited for everyday cutting, nested-based production, and creative design projects, with sign-making, textured panels, woodworking, and metal machining all serving as ideal applications.

Known for its user-friendliness, EnRoute makes designing simple for beginners thanks to features like perspective view, which allows you to easily select and move objects during design. You can even draw freehand using a stylus or mouse while also taking advantage of a variety of precision editing tools for modifying texts and shapes. EnRoute comes with ready-to-use texture templates, a customizable material library, and realistic simulation that allows you to test models which can help reveal errors before getting to the manufacturing phase.

KCD

Specifically tailored for woodworking, KCD features a visual interface that allows you to go directly from design to CNC while quickly setting tools, measurements, and sizes. Its touchscreen usability also makes design, price, and build much more mobile.

KCD’s CNC Manager tool allows shops to run multiple jobs and individual parts from other jobs together for optimal efficiency. It also integrates with Cabinotch for simplified outsourcing and includes hundreds of MDF cabinet door stiles most libraries only offer in solid wood. With the Doors Plus feature, users can leverage easy and accurate scaling, sizing, and modifying, with the ability to go directly to the manufacturing phase at the push of a button.

Mozaik

Mozaik is one of the most popular and widely trusted PC-based software platforms for cabinets, closets, and casework, with packages capable of tackling everything from jobsite planning to design and manufacturing.

As mentioned, Mozaik’s focus is firmly on custom cabinetry, with applications for labeling, cutting, and assembling. It’s a fairly easy-to-use and easy-to-learn platform that’s available on a monthly subscription basis that includes all software updates and online support services.

Cabinet Pro

Cabinet Pro is an all-in-one solution for both small cabinet shops and larger manufacturers, capable of creating detailed and finished drawings, floorplans, elevations, and 3D perspectives. It is an industry leader in terms of its formatting choices, accuracy, and the completeness of its cutlist reports.

Cabinet Pro is also designed to sync across devices, so you can work on your laptop at home or in the field and then easily transfer files and information to your office or shop desktop. The platform supports CNC routers by generating g-code directly without a CAD software package.

RhinoCAM

RhinoCAM is a CAM software plugin that combines the power of Rhino’s freeform modeling with the elite CAM functionality of VisualCAM. It offers full parametric modeling out of the box, built-in version control and cloud backups, and easy-to-use file format translators.

RhinoCAM also features a web interface for part drawing, reviewing, markup, and approval from customers, and is a great way for hobbyists to hone their skills.

ProNest LT

ProNest LT, formerly known as TurboNest, is a preferred software solution for conventional plasma and oxyfuel cutting machines. It allows you to import CAD files, artwork, and signs, in addition to creating your own designs using powerful built-in tools.

With ProNest LT, operators can nest jobs quickly and efficiently using the platform’s intelligent auto-nesting capability. Modules like Common Line Cutting and Chain and Bridge Cutting can also increase efficiency and reduce cutting time and consumable wear.

Ramp up production and precision with ShopSabre CNC

ShopSabre’s industry-best CNC routers and plasmas are designed to help shop owners grow their production through unmatched precision, repeatability, and automation – all at an affordable price.

Our machines are easy to get up and running and to learn how to operate, even without any formal training. Our team of dedicated experts offers one-on-one support to help find the right machine for you and to make sure it works the way you and your business need it to.

Here are a few of the reasons ShopSabre is able to develop and produce such revolutionary CNC technology: