Mastercam
Template:Short description Script error: No such module "Infobox".Template:Template other Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".Script error: No such module "Check for conflicting parameters".
Mastercam is a computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) software suite developed by CNC Software, LLC. The software runs on 64-bit Microsoft Windows and is used to generate toolpaths and numerical control (NC) code for milling, turning, mill-turn, and multiaxis machining. CNC Software and the Mastercam portfolio were acquired by industrial engineering group Sandvik in 2021.[1]
Independent trade coverage has reported that CIMdata’s annual CAM market analysis has ranked Mastercam as the most widely used CAM package worldwide, including in 2022.[2] First released in 1983 as a 2D CAM system with integrated CAD tools, Mastercam has since expanded to support 3D and multiaxis applications.[3]
History
Founding and early development
CNC Software, LLC was founded in 1983 by brothers Mark and Jack Summers; their brother Brian joined later.[4] In the same year, the company released Mastercam as a PC-based 2D CAM application with integrated CAD capabilities.[5] Over time, the software expanded to include support for 3-axis, multiaxis, and turning operations.[3][6]
Major milestones and product evolution
In 2005, CNC Software released Mastercam X, initiating the "X" series of versions.[7] In the mid-2010s, independent sources highlighted the software’s Dynamic Motion toolpath technology, which reduces cutting paths based on material engagement to reduce cycle time and tool wear.[8][9] Mastercam 2017, released in 2016, introduced a ribbon-style interface and marked a transition to year-based version naming.[10]
Subsequent releases introduced incremental changes. Mastercam 2023, for example, included a Unified Multiaxis toolpath and added B-axis contour turning.[11]
Acquisition by Sandvik
In August 2021, Sandvik announced an agreement to acquire CNC Software.[1] The acquisition was completed on September 30, 2021, and Mastercam was placed within Sandvik’s Manufacturing Solutions division.[12]
Key functions
Mastercam supports the programming of CNC machines for milling, turning, mill-turn, and multiaxis operations.[3] Its toolset includes model preparation, toolpath generation, simulation, and verification. Recent updates have introduced capabilities such as deburring and finishing toolpaths, hole-creation tools, and improved control over machining parameters.[13]
Integrations, add-ons, ecosystem
Since the acquisition by Sandvik, several resellers and affiliated businesses have been acquired to enhance distribution and technical support. These include MCAM Northwest, ShopWare, the CAD/CAM business of OptiPro Systems, acquired in February 2025.[14] Additional acquisitions in March 2025 included Barefoot CNC, CAD/CAM Solutions, CamTech Engineering Services, and selected CIMCO business units.[15] CIMCO's post-processor and Probing products were later rebranded as Mastercam Probing.[15]
Release history
Mastercam for Windows (selected releases)
| Year | Marketing name | Notable changes |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Mastercam 2026[16] | Improved machining capabilities; added AI assistance tools. |
| 2024 | Mastercam 2025[13] | Introduced a Deburr add-on for automated edge finishing; added finish passes to 2D Dynamic Mill and Area Mill. |
| 2023 | Mastercam 2024[17] | Interface and workflow refinements (e.g., Gview cube, setup updates). |
| 2022 | Mastercam 2023[11] | Unified Multiaxis toolpath; B-axis contour turning. |
| 2020 | Mastercam 2021[18] | Added new holemaking and multiaxis options, including Advanced Drill and Chamfer Drill (with other turning/mill-turn improvements). |
| 2019 | Mastercam 2020[19] | 3D Blend toolpath and improvements to Equal Scallop. |
| 2017 | Mastercam 2018[20] | New 2D/3D milling capabilities along with design, turning, and mill-turn updates. |
| 2016 | Mastercam 2017[10] | Switch from "X" series to year-based naming; ribbon-style UI. |
| 2015 | Mastercam X9[21] | Multiaxis updates; other design/system improvements. |
| 2011 | Mastercam X6[22] | Introduced a native 64-bit build. |
| 2005 | Mastercam X[7] | Start of the "X" series. |
Adoption and market position
In October 2022, Cutting Tool Engineering reported that CIMdata placed Mastercam first in both industrial and educational sectors, with over 300,000 installed seats.[2] A similar report in November 2021 noted that Mastercam had maintained this position for 27 consecutive years and had nearly twice as many installations as the next-largest provider.[23]
See also
References
<templatestyles src="Reflist/styles.css" />
- ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ a b c Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
- ↑ Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".
Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".