This Will Change How You See Your CAM Software | 11

11/26/24 • 80 min

Topics:

How ModuleWorks powers your CAM system.
The challenges of full machining automation.
Industry trends and the future of toolpaths.

Think you know your CAM system? Think again.
In this episode, we sit down with Julia and Greg from ModuleWorks, the hidden powerhouse behind many of the advanced toolpath strategies you rely on every day. Whether you're programming for a 5-axis machine or exploring automation, chances are ModuleWorks is behind the scenes making it all work.
We dive into the story of how ModuleWorks started, their game-changing role in CAM software, and why they’re shaping the future of machining automation. From tackling industry challenges like skill gaps to developing cutting-edge solutions like feed control and smart routing, this conversation is packed with insights every machinist and programmer will appreciate.
What’s in it for you?
✔️ A better understanding of how CAM systems really work.
✔️ Insider knowledge on what’s next in machining automation.
✔️ Practical takeaways to improve efficiency in your shop.
Join the conversation:
Did you know about ModuleWorks before this episode?
What challenges do you face with your CAM system? Let us know in the comments!
Make sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone who loves learning about the technology driving modern machining.

🔔 Subscribe, Rate, and Review to never miss an episode. Your feedback helps us bring you the content you love!
Drop your comments or topic ideas in the forum here:
https://www.practicalmachinist.com/forum/categories/the-impractical-machinists-podcast.102/
Or listen to our podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxzIM06jyJCYTCMGUQLgKXNtpq-HqvV2Q
Connect with the hosts on Instagram:
Patrick Mcclintock: IG: https://www.instagram.com/job_shopper_tn/ or PM@Job Shopper TN
Cameron Graves: IG: https://www.instagram.com/machiningiscool/ or PM@Machiningiscool
Bradley Thomas: IG: https://www.instagram.com/marvelmachining/ or PM@Marvel
Thanks for listening!!!

Topics:

How ModuleWorks powers your CAM system.
The challenges of full machining automation.
Industry trends and the future of toolpaths.

Previous Episode

Our Worst Machine Crashes Yet... | 10

Topics:

Crash Stories
Shop Updates
Thread Rolling
ERP Softwares
Best Way to Position Jaws
Giveaways

It’s every machinist’s nightmare—CRASHING a machine!
In this episode, Bradley, Patrick, and Cameron dive into their worst machine crashes and share the painful (and sometimes funny) lessons they learned along the way. 🛠️💥

From manual lathe mishaps to CNC disasters, they’ve all been there. The guys talk about why crashes happen, how they deal with them (hint: there’s no yelling involved!), and what changes they’ve made in their shops to prevent repeat mistakes. Whether you’re a seasoned machinist or just starting out, this episode will have you nodding along and maybe even cringing a bit.

Plus, Bradley, Patrick, and Cameron share tips on staying calm under pressure, making quick adjustments, and how to turn these “uh-oh” moments into valuable learning experiences. Don’t miss this one—it’s real shop talk with no sugarcoating.
🚨 GIVEAWAY ALERT! 🚨
To celebrate our 10th episode, we’re giving away some awesome gear:

A Lixie dead blow hammer
A Machinist Calculator Pro
Swag packs with stickers, shirts, and hats from each of the podcasters

👉 To enter, drop a comment on THIS YouTube episode! Tell us what you like about the podcast. We can’t wait to hear from you!

Next Episode

Is It Worth Spending $300K on a 5-Axis Machine? | 12

Topics:

Shop Updates
Why We Don’t Have a 5-Axis Machine
Managing Too Much Work
Supplying Tools: Shop vs. Personal
Medium-Term Shop Goals
Improving Tooling Manufacturer Support
Dealing with Costly Mistakes
Importance of Air Quality in the Shop
Teasers for Next Episode - Shawn Brown from SBSOLOCO!

Could a 5-axis machine save your shop thousands—or is it just overhyped?
In this episode, we dive into some of the biggest questions machinists face: Why don’t we have a 5-axis machine yet? How do you handle too much work without losing your sanity (or customers)? Should shops supply tools, or should employees bring their own?

We also get into the nitty-gritty of medium-term shop goals, compare horizontals to 5-axis machines, and share tips on prioritizing jobs when your schedule is bursting at the seams. Whether you’re a seasoned machinist or just getting started, this episode is packed with insights you don’t want to miss!