Get Pricing
SolidCAM
Trusted CAM software for CNC manufacturers and machine shops

SolidCAM

SolidCAM is an integrated CAM software solution for CNC programming, simulation and machining. It runs directly inside SOLIDWORKS, Solid Edge and Autodesk Inventor, helping manufacturers, toolrooms and machine shops across South Africa move from CAD models to CNC programmes in one connected workflow. With modules for milling, turning, mill-turn, Swiss machining, 5-axis machining, probing, Wire EDM and more, SolidCAM gives manufacturers a flexible way to programme complex parts more efficiently.

Integrated
CAD/CAM

Faster CNC Programming

Accurate
Toolpaths

Smarter Machining Workflow

Request a demo
Request a quote
SolidCAM Trusted by manufacturers and machine shops worldwide

SolidCAM

SolidCAM is an integrated CAM software solution for CNC programming, simulation and machining. It runs directly inside SOLIDWORKS, Solid Edge and Autodesk Inventor, helping manufacturers, toolrooms and machine shops across South Africa move from CAD models to CNC programmes in one connected workflow. With modules for milling, turning, mill-turn, Swiss machining, 5-axis machining, probing, Wire EDM and more, SolidCAM gives manufacturers a flexible way to programme complex parts more efficiently.

Integrated CAD/CAM

Faster CNC Programming

Accurate
Toolpaths

Smarter Machining Workflow

Request a demo
Request a quote

What SolidCAM Can Do for Your Business

SolidCAM gives your team a practical way to programme CNC parts inside the CAD environment they already use.

Because it runs directly inside supported CAD platforms, your programmers can create, update and verify toolpaths without moving between disconnected systems or re-importing files. Full associativity means that when the CAD model changes, machining data can stay linked to the updated design, helping reduce rework and keeping programming aligned with design revisions.

From everyday 2.5D milling to advanced mill-turn, Swiss machining and simultaneous 5-axis work, SolidCAM is built for manufacturers that need flexibility across different machines, materials and job requirements. This makes it suitable for subcontract machine shops, production environments, toolrooms and engineering-led manufacturers looking for a more connected CNC workflow.

Simutron is the authorised SolidCAM reseller in South Africa, providing local support, training and licensing.

Request a demo

One CAD Environment. Full CAM Capability.

SolidCAM is not a separate application you switch to after designing a part. It runs as an integrated add-in directly inside your CAD system, so your team can go from 3D model to verified G-code without leaving the software they already work in.

This matters because it removes the file transfers, format conversions and disconnected workflows that slow down CNC programming and introduce errors. When your CAD model changes, your toolpaths update with it. No re-importing. No rework.

SolidCAM CAD Integration

How SolidCAM Integrates with Your CAD Platform

SOLIDWORKS

SolidCAM operates as a fully embedded add-in inside SOLIDWORKS. Access all machining operations, simulation and G-code generation from the same window where you design. Toolpaths stay associative to your SOLIDWORKS model, so design revisions carry through automatically.

Autodesk Inventor

InventorCAM, powered by SolidCAM, provides the same integrated CAM workflow for Autodesk Inventor users. Programme your parts directly from Inventor geometry with full associativity and in-context machining.

Solid Edge

SolidCAM for Solid Edge brings integrated CNC programming to Siemens’ design platform, maintaining the same single-window workflow and automatic toolpath updates.

Why Integration Matters

  • No file transfers: Work directly from your native CAD model. No STEP, IGES, or parasolid exports to manage.

  • Automatic updates: Design changes propagate to your toolpaths without manual intervention.

  • Familiar interface: SolidCAM lives inside the CAD environment you already know, so the learning curve is shorter.

  • Assembly context: Program in assembly mode with full visibility of fixtures, clamps, vices, and tooling for more accurate collision checking and simulation.

  • Scalable: SolidCAM grows with your needs, from basic 2.5D milling through to simultaneous 5-axis and complex Swiss-type machining, all within the same integrated interface.
See it in your CAD System

See Why Titans of CNC Rely on SolidCAM

Watch the Titans of CNC team use SolidCAM in real shop conditions to handle precision machining with ease.

Their real-world results show just how reliable and powerful SolidCAM can be.

If top machinists turn to SolidCAM for serious projects, you can trust it to give your work the same level of performance and accuracy.

Get SolidCAM now

Explore SolidCAM’s Key Machining Modules

SolidCAM Swiss Machining

SolidCAM Swiss Machining supports Swiss-type CNC machines with multiple turrets, spindles and channels. It helps programmers manage turning, milling, synchronisation and simulation for high-precision Swiss machining workflows.

View SolidCAM Module

SolidCAM iMachining 2D

SolidCAM iMachining 2D supports high-performance 2D pocketing, profiling and contouring. It helps programmers create efficient toolpaths with calculated cutting conditions for suitable materials and machining setups.

View SolidCAM Module

SolidCAM iMachining 3D

SolidCAM iMachining 3D applies iMachining technology to 3D parts. It helps generate roughing and rest roughing toolpaths for complex 3D geometry, with calculated cutting conditions and controlled step-down machining.

View SolidCAM Module

SolidCAM Prismatic Parts Machining

SolidCAM Prismatic Parts Machining applies iMachining technology to prismatic components – parts with flat faces, pockets and stepped profiles. It helps programmers generate efficient roughing and finishing toolpaths for box-type and block-form parts commonly found in production and toolroom environments.

View SolidCAM Module

SolidCAM 2.5D Milling

SolidCAM 2.5D Milling supports drilling, pocketing, profiling, contouring and other common CNC milling operations. It is suited to prismatic parts, production components, prototypes and general milling work.

View SolidCAM Module

SolidCAM Mill-Turn Machining

SolidCAM Mill-Turn Machining supports machines that combine turning and milling operations. It is used for complex parts that need coordinated operations across spindles, turrets and driven tooling.

View SolidCAM Module

SolidCAM HSR and HSM (High-Speed Roughing & Machining)

SolidCAM HSR and HSM support 3D high-speed roughing and machining. These modules help create efficient toolpaths for complex 3D shapes while supporting smoother cutting motion and improved machining control.

View SolidCAM Module

SolidCAM HSS (High-Speed Surface Machining)

SolidCAM HSS, or High-Speed Surface Machining, is used for finishing individual surfaces and shallow areas. It gives programmers control over surface-based toolpaths for mould, die and detailed 3D machining work.

View SolidCAM Module

SolidCAM Solid Probe

SolidCAM Solid Probe supports on-machine probing for setup, measurement and verification workflows. It helps manufacturers check part positions, work offsets and machining accuracy within the CNC process.

View SolidCAM Module

SolidCAM Turning

SolidCAM Turning supports CNC lathe programming for roughing, finishing, grooving, threading and related turning operations. It is suited to single-spindle and multi-spindle turning workflows.

View SolidCAM Module

SolidCAM AFRM

SolidCAM AFRM, or Automatic Feature Recognition and Machining, helps recognise machinable features from CAD models. It supports faster setup for pockets, levels, depths and repeated prismatic features.

View SolidCAM Module

How SolidCAM Compares to Other CAM Software

When South African companies compare CAM software, the biggest differences often come down to workflow continuity, associativity and how easily the system fits into existing CAD and CNC processes. SolidCAM stands out through its direct integration inside supported CAD platforms, which helps eliminate unnecessary file transfers and keeps machining data linked to the original model.

Feature Area SolidCAM Mastercam Autodesk Fusion hyperMILL
CAD integration Integrated CAM for SOLIDWORKS, Solid Edge and Autodesk Inventor, with machining operations created inside the supported CAD environment. A dedicated CAD/CAM platform with its own CNC programming environment. A connected CAD/CAM platform that combines design and manufacturing tools in the Autodesk Fusion environment. A CAM solution with CAD integration options, including hyperMILL for SOLIDWORKS.
Workflow style Suited to teams that want CAD and CAM connected inside supported desktop CAD systems. Suited to teams that want a dedicated CNC programming platform for a wide range of machine types. Suited to teams that want CAD, CAM and manufacturing tools in one connected Autodesk platform. Suited to teams that need advanced CAM strategies, especially for complex milling and multi-axis work.
CAD associativity Supports associativity between the CAD model and CAM operations inside supported CAD systems. Supports CAD/CAM workflows within the Mastercam environment, with the setup depending on the user’s chosen workflow and imported or native model data. Supports connected design and manufacturing workflows within Fusion. Supports CAD associativity through its CAD integration workflow.
Machining coverage Supports 2.5D milling, HSS, HSR/HSM, simultaneous 5-axis, turning, mill-turn, Swiss-type machining, probing, Wire EDM and more. Supports mill, lathe, mill-turn, Swiss, Wire EDM and router machines, from 2-axis turning to full 5-axis simultaneous milling. Supports 2D to full 5-axis machining, with intelligent toolpathing for milling, turning and turn-mill workflows. Supports 2.5D, 3D and 5-axis milling, mill turning, HSC and HPC machining strategies.
Good fit for Manufacturers already using SOLIDWORKS, Solid Edge or Autodesk Inventor who want CAM connected to their CAD workflow. Machine shops and manufacturers that want a proven CNC programming platform across many machine types. Teams already working in the Autodesk Fusion ecosystem for design and manufacturing. Manufacturers focused on advanced CAM strategies, complex parts and multi-axis machining.
Selection factor CAD platform, required SolidCAM modules, machine type, postprocessor setup and programming process. Machine type, programming workflow, available Mastercam products, postprocessor setup and team experience. Autodesk platform fit, manufacturing extension needs, collaboration workflow and machine requirements. Advanced machining needs, CAD integration preference, machine complexity and programming requirements.

How to Get SolidCAM for Your Business

Step 1: Schedule Your Demo
Speak to the Simutron team about your machines, materials, CAD platform and machining requirements. This helps identify which SolidCAM modules suit your production environment.
Step 2: Test with Your Own Projects
Review how SolidCAM performs on your own parts and workflows. Testing real components makes it easier to assess programming speed, machining strategy fit and simulation needs.
Step 3: Implement and Optimise
Deploy SolidCAM in your CAD environment, configure the right modules and build a workflow that supports faster, more consistent CNC programming across your operation.

Is SolidCAM included in SOLIDWORKS?

SolidCAM is not included as a standard feature with SOLIDWORKS licences. It is a separate CAM software solution that runs directly inside SOLIDWORKS as an integrated add-in, giving users a single-window CAD/CAM workflow with associative toolpaths.

Can SolidCAM handle 5-axis machining and simulation?

Yes. SolidCAM includes dedicated 5-axis machining capabilities, and the platform also supports simulation and toolpath verification across its machining workflows. The exact simulation depth can depend on the selected modules, machine setup and postprocessor configuration.

Can SolidCAM handle 5-axis machining and simulation?

Yes. SolidCAM includes dedicated 5-axis machining capabilities, and the platform also supports simulation and toolpath verification across its machining workflows. The exact simulation depth can depend on the selected modules and machine setup.

What is SolidCAM iMachining and how does it improve performance?

iMachining is SolidCAM’s patented high-performance milling technology. It uses intelligent toolpath strategies and technology-driven feed and speed calculations to support more efficient cutting. SolidCAM states that, in suitable applications, iMachining can reduce cycle times and extend tool life.

Frequently asked questions

Find answers to common questions about SolidCAM software, CNC programming, supported machining modules and pricing in South Africa.

SolidCAM is a CAM software platform for CNC programming that runs inside supported CAD systems such as SOLIDWORKS, Solid Edge and Autodesk Inventor. It is used to create, calculate and verify machining operations in an integrated environment.

SolidCAM is used to program CNC machining operations for milling, turning, mill-turn, Swiss machining, 5-axis machining, Wire EDM and related manufacturing workflows. It helps manufacturers move from CAD geometry to machine-ready toolpaths more efficiently.

SolidCAM supports a wide range of machining applications, including 2.5D milling, high-speed machining, turning, mill-turn, Swiss machining, mould and die work, simultaneous 5-axis machining, probing and Wire EDM.

SolidCAM runs directly inside supported CAD software, which allows programmers to define and verify machining operations without leaving the CAD environment. It also maintains associativity, so toolpaths can update when the model changes.

iMachining is SolidCAM’s patented milling technology designed to optimise tool engagement, feeds and speeds for more efficient cutting. SolidCAM promotes it as a major productivity feature for suitable machining applications.

SolidCAM is used by CNC programmers, machine shops, toolrooms, production manufacturers, mould and die operations and engineering businesses that need CAD-integrated CAM software for machining workflows.

SolidCAM supports efficiency by keeping CAD and CAM in one workflow, reducing manual transfer steps, maintaining toolpath associativity and offering advanced machining modules for different production needs.

Yes. SolidCAM offers modules for simultaneous 5-axis machining, advanced mill-turn operations, Swiss machining and complex 3D machining strategies, making it suitable for more demanding parts and production requirements.

SolidCAM fits between CAD design and machine execution by turning model geometry into machining operations, toolpaths and verified CNC programs inside a connected software environment.

In South Africa, SolidCAM is available through Simutron. The best route is to request pricing based on your CAD platform, required modules, machine type and production needs. That gives you a more accurate recommendation than using generic package assumptions.

Experience SolidCAM in Action

See how SolidCAM can fit into your CNC programming workflow, evaluate the right modules for your machines and explore South African pricing based on your production requirements. Request a personalised demo and assess the software against your own projects.

Request a demo
Request a quote

Experience SolidCAM in Action

See how SolidCAM can fit into your CNC programming workflow, evaluate the right modules for your machines and explore pricing based on your production requirements. Request a personalised demo and assess the software against your own projects.

Request a demo
Request a quote