CNC Post Processors

How Custom Post Processors Improve CNC Programming Productivity

Programmer time is one of the scarcest resources in a machine shop. Custom post processors give much of it back by removing repetitive work and rework.

Where the time goes today

  • Editing posted code for each machine.
  • Checking edits and fixing mistakes found at the machine.
  • Proving programs slowly because output is unpredictable.
  • Writing setup notes and tool lists by hand.
  • Answering operator questions about unusual code.

Productivity gains

AreaWith a custom post
Program preparationPost and send, no editing
Proving timeShorter, because output is predictable
DocumentationSetup sheets and tool lists automatic
ConsistencySame format from every programmer
OnboardingNew programmers productive quickly
Machine utilisationLess waiting for program fixes

Post properties replace manual edits

Common choices become simple options in the CAM post dialog:

Use high-speed mode ........ [Yes]
Pre-select next tool ....... [Yes]
Use subprograms for patterns [Yes]
Output tool list header .... [Yes]
Safe retract method ........ [G28 | G53 | clearance]
Coolant default ............ [Flood | Through spindle | Air]

Templates and posts together

Combine custom posts with CAM templates (standard tools, feeds and operation sequences) so programmers spend time on part-specific decisions, not repeated setup.

Measure it

Track time from CAM completion to approved first part, and number of edits per program, before and after. These two numbers usually show the benefit clearly.

Every minute a programmer spends fixing output is a minute not spent programming the next part.

Boost your programming productivity

See our CNC post processor development service and post modification and optimisation.

EM
ENGIMANDI CNC Team

We develop, customise and commission CNC post processors for Fusion, NX CAM, Mastercam, SolidCAM and other CAM systems.