Introduction
Autodesk HSMWorks 2019 is an integrated CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) solution designed to work natively inside SOLIDWORKS, enabling designers and machinists to generate production-ready CNC toolpaths directly from their CAD models. By combining CAD and CAM in a unified environment, HSMWorks eliminates the need to export or convert models, streamlining the workflow from design to manufacturing. The software supports milling, turning, and mill-turn operations, making it a versatile choice for a variety of manufacturing scenarios — from simple parts to complex multi-axis machining.
Key Features
- Full integration with SOLIDWORKS — no need to switch between separate CAM and CAD applications.
- Support for 2.5-axis, 3-axis, 3+2 indexing, and simultaneous 5-axis milling for complex geometries.
- Turning and mill-turn capabilities, enabling lathe and combined lathe/mill operations.
- Adaptive Clearing (high-speed machining) strategies to reduce machining time and extend tool life.
- Powerful toolpath generation and post-processor support for a wide range of CNC machines/E controllers.
- Integrated simulation and verification tools to detect collisions and verify machining sequences before production.
- Automatic update of toolpaths when CAD model changes — keeping CAM data synchronized with design edits.
- Support for both standard part machining and advanced, multi-axis, high-precision components for mold, automotive, aerospace, etc.
- Compatibility with commonly used operating systems (Windows 7/8/8.1/10 64-bit) and multiple versions of SOLIDWORKS (2016–2019 supported by this release).
Conclusion
Autodesk HSMWorks 2019 delivers a robust and efficient CAM solution tightly integrated with SOLIDWORKS, ideal for manufacturers needing precise, high-quality CNC programming without leaving the CAD environment. Its support for milling, turning, and multi-axis machining plus advanced toolpath strategies like Adaptive Clearing make it suitable for both everyday mechanical parts and complex components. For companies or workshops focused on accuracy, speed, and workflow efficiency, HSMWorks 2019 remains a highly effective choice.
System Requirements
- Operating System: Windows 7 (64-bit), Windows 8 / 8.1 (64-bit), or Windows 10 (64-bit)
- Host CAD Software: SOLIDWORKS 2016, 2017, 2018 or 2019
- CPU: 64-bit Intel or AMD multi-core processor
- RAM: 8 GB minimum (more recommended for complex multi-axis machining)
- Disk Space: Approx. 2 GB free for installation
- CNC Machine & Post-Processor: Compatible post-processor for target CNC machine required for code generation