Why Design Software Matters in Machining

When people think about precision machining, they often picture CNC mills cutting metal or lathes spinning parts to perfect tolerances. But long before any cutting begins, there’s an equally critical step: programming.

For customers across North Carolina and South Carolina, the difference between a successful project and a costly one often lies in how well a shop uses its CAD/CAM software. At Wilson Machine & Tool, we rely on SolidWorks and GibbsCAM to transform designs into production-ready instructions with unmatched accuracy.

SolidWorks: Turning Ideas Into Detailed Designs

SolidWorks is industry-standard for 3D mechanical design. It allows engineers to create precise, fully detailed models of parts—even highly complex geometries. For our customers in Raleigh, Charlotte, and the broader NC/SC region, this means:

• Clear visualization of the final part before cutting begins.
• Easy communication of design intent between customer and machinist.
• Quick iteration when design changes are needed.

When a customer provides a SolidWorks file, it’s like handing us the blueprint to success. We can analyze every feature, tolerance, and requirement up front, eliminating surprises on the shop floor.

GibbsCAM: Bridging Design and Production

Once the design is finalized, it needs to be translated into machine instructions—a critical step where errors can ruin entire production runs.

That’s where GibbsCAM comes in. It’s a powerful CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software that generates precise toolpaths optimized for our equipment and the material being cut.

With GibbsCAM, our machinists can:

• Simulate cuts to detect and prevent collisions.
• Optimize feeds and speeds for better tool life and faster cycles.
• Program complex 5-axis movements for intricate parts.

This reduces setup time, eliminates mistakes, and ensures consistency even on repeat runs.

Advantages for NC and SC Customers

For manufacturers in the Carolinas, working with a shop that uses advanced CAD/CAM isn’t just a nice bonus—it’s essential. It means:

• Fewer mistakes and reduced scrap.
• Faster turnaround times thanks to efficient programming.
• Ability to handle complex shapes that simpler shops might reject.
• Easier revisions when your engineering team updates the design.

In industries like aerospace, automotive, medical devices, and energy, these advantages directly impact cost, timeline, and quality.

Supporting Local Industries with Advanced Software

We don’t see software as an overhead expense—we see it as a service to our customers. Our team is trained to make the most of SolidWorks and GibbsCAM, collaborating closely with your engineers to ensure your vision becomes reality.

Whether you’re in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, or Georgia, you’ll benefit from our commitment to staying at the cutting edge of manufacturing technology.

Ready to Streamline Your Next Project?

If you want a machining partner who doesn’t just cut metal—but truly understands your design:

• Begin a Quote to get started today.
• Contact us to talk through your project details.

At Wilson Machine & Tool, we turn your designs into precise, high-quality parts—every time.