Buy VERO WorkNC Software

 

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Vero WorkNC x64

Version Price & Buy
2024.1 (Hexagon)
2023.1
2021.0
2018 R2
24.01A

 

What Is WorkNC CAM Software?

WorkNC is CAM software designed specifically for manufacturers who need to machine complex molds, dies, and tooling components without spending hours on manual programming. The software handles the entire programming workflow from roughing through finishing operations, automatically generating toolpaths that work correctly on the first try.

Unlike general-purpose CAM systems, WorkNC was built from the ground up for the mold and die industry. This specialization means the software understands the unique challenges of deep pockets, complex curvatures, and tight tolerances that define this type of work. Manufacturers can load their CAD files and move directly into machining operations without extensive manual setup or geometry manipulation.

Introduction to WORKNC CAD/CAM Software

What Are the Main Benefits of Using WorkNC?

WorkNC eliminates repetitive manual programming tasks through intelligent automation, allowing programmers to focus on higher-value activities while the software handles routine toolpath generation and optimization.

Automated Programming Workflow

The software analyzes imported 3D geometry and automatically creates machining strategies appropriate for the job. Programmers don't need to manually calculate stepover values, adjust cutting patterns, or modify toolpaths for different regions of the part. WorkNC's algorithms handle these decisions based on the geometry, delivering consistent results regardless of which operator runs the job.

Dynamic stock management tracks material removal throughout the entire process. When programming rest-machining operations, the software already knows exactly where material remains, automatically generating toolpaths that cut only what's necessary. This awareness dramatically reduces unnecessary tool movements and machining time.

Built-In Collision Detection

WorkNC checks every toolpath for potential collisions before a single line of G-code reaches the machine. The verification system examines the cutting tool, tool holder, machine components, and physical machine limits to identify problems that would cause crashes. Operators can run jobs unattended overnight, confident that validated toolpaths won't damage equipment or scrap expensive workpieces.

Visual simulation displays the complete machining process on screen. Programmers can verify tool approach angles, check for interference in tight areas, and confirm that finishing passes will produce the intended surface quality before committing machine time. This preview capability catches issues during programming rather than discovering them during production.

WORKNC Software for Mould and Die Manufacturing

What Applications Is WorkNC Best Suited For?

The software excels in environments where complex 3D geometry and tight tolerances define daily production requirements. Shops producing injection mold cavities and cores benefit from automated strategies that handle intricate surface blends and deep ribs automatically. Die manufacturers use the software to program stamping dies, forging dies, and die casting molds where surface finish and dimensional accuracy directly impact part quality.

Application Type WorkNC Capabilities
Injection Mold Manufacturing Automated cavity/core programming with optimized finishing strategies for A-surface quality
Die Production High-speed machining toolpaths for hardened materials with collision-free verification
Tooling and Fixtures Mixed 2.5-axis and 3-axis programming for components combining simple and complex features
Complex 3D Components Multi-axis capabilities handle sculptured surfaces and undercut features

Tooling shops producing custom fixtures, gauges, and specialized manufacturing aids use WorkNC to handle jobs with mixed complexity levels. A single part might combine simple pockets requiring basic 2.5-axis machining with organic surfaces demanding full 3D toolpath control. The software handles both scenarios within the same programming environment, eliminating the need to switch between different CAM systems for different feature types.

How Does WorkNC Simplify Complex Machining?

Automatic Geometry Recognition

WorkNC reads your CAD files and identifies machinable features without requiring manual selections or region definitions. The software recognizes surfaces that need finishing, areas requiring rest-machining, and regions where standard roughing strategies apply. Programmers can accept the automatically generated approach or make targeted adjustments to specific areas while leaving the rest of the job unchanged.

The system works directly with native CAD files from CATIA, SolidWorks, Siemens NX, and other major systems. There's no need to ask customers to export neutral formats or worry about translation errors corrupting geometry. Files open cleanly, preserving the original design intent and surface quality.

Machine-Ready Toolpath Creation

Generated toolpaths are optimized for the specific machine tool and controller in your shop. The software accounts for machine kinematics, spindle power, axis travel limits, and controller capabilities when creating cutting paths. Post-processors output G-code that runs correctly without manual editing or trial-and-error adjustments.

Advanced toolform roughing calculates precise material removal patterns, even with complex insert geometries, delivering more accurate stock conditions for subsequent operations and reducing rest-roughing time significantly.

Surface finishing operations produce consistent results across the entire part. The software maintains uniform scallop heights, optimizes tool engagement angles, and adjusts feedrates based on surface curvature. Finished parts meet surface quality specifications without requiring extensive manual polishing or secondary operations.

Die and Mould Machining Efficiency with WORKNC

How Does WorkNC Work With Your Existing Systems?

CAD file compatibility covers both neutral formats and native files from industry-standard design systems. Standard support includes STEP, IGES, DXF, and STL files that import without additional translators. Native file readers are available for CATIA V4/V5/V6, Siemens NX, SolidWorks, Pro/ENGINEER, and other widely used CAD packages.

The included Designer companion software provides model preparation capabilities when CAD files need repairs or modifications before machining. Users can heal missing faces, extend surfaces, cap holes, and make direct modeling changes without returning files to the original CAD system. Prepared models transfer directly into WorkNC for immediate programming.

Multi-core processor support means calculation times remain reasonable even with large assemblies or highly detailed surface models. The software distributes computational work across available CPU cores, maintaining productivity when programming time-sensitive jobs.

How Do You Get Started With WorkNC?

Typical Implementation Approach

Most shops begin by programming one or two representative jobs to familiarize themselves with WorkNC's automated workflow. The software's approach differs from manual CAM systems, so initial projects help programmers understand how to leverage automation effectively. Starting with moderately complex parts—not the simplest or most difficult jobs—typically provides the best learning experience.

Shops can maintain existing CAM systems during initial implementation, using WorkNC for projects where automation delivers clear time savings while continuing familiar workflows for routine work.

The software includes post-processors for common CNC controls, though custom configurations may be needed for specialized machine tools or modified controllers. Validating post-processor output with simple test parts before running production jobs ensures G-code compatibility with specific equipment.

WorkNC 5-Axis Machining Demonstration

Frequently Asked Questions About WorkNC

Can WorkNC handle both roughing and finishing in the same environment?

Yes, the software manages complete programming workflows from initial roughing through final finishing operations. Automated strategies handle material removal, semi-finishing, and finish passes without switching between different modules or systems.

Does the software work with files from our customers' CAD systems?

WorkNC reads native files from CATIA, SolidWorks, Siemens NX, Pro/ENGINEER, and other major CAD packages without translation. Standard neutral formats like STEP and IGES are also fully supported, ensuring compatibility with virtually any design system.

How does collision detection prevent machine crashes?

The software verifies every toolpath against the complete machine configuration including tools, holders, spindle components, and machine structure. Collision checks identify interference before generating G-code, automatically adjusting toolpaths or alerting programmers to situations requiring manual attention.

Can we run jobs unattended overnight?

Many WorkNC users operate unattended machining shifts because validated, collision-checked toolpaths eliminate crash risks. The software's reliability and comprehensive verification make lights-out operation practical for shops looking to maximize equipment utilization.

What happens when we need to remachine areas with remaining material?

Dynamic stock management tracks material removal throughout all operations. Rest-machining strategies automatically identify remaining material and generate toolpaths that cut only where necessary, dramatically reducing unnecessary tool movements and cycle time.

Does WorkNC support 5-axis machining?

Yes, the Auto5 module automatically generates 5-axis toolpaths based on 3-axis strategies while accounting for specific machine kinematics. This automation makes 5-axis programming accessible without requiring extensive manual axis control and collision management.