In today’s fast-paced manufacturing environment, precision, efficiency, and automation are essential for staying competitive. If you’re using Autodesk PowerMill for CAM programming, you already know the power of high-performance toolpath creation. But what if you could go even further?

Meet OptiNC—a cutting-edge PowerMill CAM plugin for CNC programming automation. It brings intelligent automation, real-time validation, and advanced machining support into your CNC workflow. Whether you’re managing complex tool holders, simulating multi-axis motion, or streamlining EDM programming, OptiNC helps manufacturers cut programming time, reduce errors, and maximize machine uptime.

What Is OptiNC?

OptiNC is an advanced PowerMill CAM automation tool designed to eliminate manual bottlenecks in CNC programming. It offers a full suite of productivity features for:

• Tool and holder creation

• Collision and gouge checking

• EDM programming automation

• Multi-part and electrode machining

• Gun drilling and multi-axis machining simulation

• FCS-based automatic fixturing

• Complex assembly and block machining

Whether you're in moldmaking, aerospace, or precision manufacturing, OptiNC delivers automation, accuracy, and consistency—without adding complexity to your CAM process.

Top Features of OptiNC for PowerMill

1. 3D Tool Holder Creation – Instant & Accurate

Manual tool holder setup in PowerMill can be slow and error-prone. OptiNC automates this with 3D holder generation:

• Import your 3D model to generate holders in seconds

• Eliminate click-heavy setup steps

• Boost programming speed and reduce downstream errors

💡 Save up to 20 minutes per tool setup—hours saved per project.
👉 Watch the demo

2. Collision and Gouge Detection – Built-In Safety

Avoid costly downtime with real-time collision detection:

• Analyze entire setups in one operation

• Detect overhang issues and optimize rigidity

• Run batch checks with smart recommendations

⏱ Cut cycle testing time and minimize rework.
👉 Watch the demo

3. Delete Forced – Intelligent Cleanup of Complex Projects

Tidy up large CAM projects with one click:

• Remove entities regardless of linkage

• Invalidate dependent paths intelligently

• Speed up cleanup while maintaining project integrity

Perfect for reworking inherited projects or optimizing legacy files.
👉 Watch the demo

4. EDM Automation & Multi-Part Machining

Users report:

• Up to 70% faster electrode programming

• Auto feature detection, naming, and alignment

• Seamless EDM burn system integration

Plus, automate toolpath duplication across multiple parts for error-free mass production.
👉 Watch the demo

5. Multiple Block Stock Modeling – One Unified Project

Simplify assembly machining with:

• Multiple stock blocks in one entity

• Collision verification across all parts

• Reduced air cutting and programming complexity

👉 Watch the demo

6. FCS-Based Fixturing Automation – Smarter Setup

Streamline fixture setup with built-in FCS automation:

• Auto-identify clamping strategies from your library

• Reduce manual setup time

• Ensure repeatable, precise fixturing

👉 Watch the demo

7. Gun Drilling + 6/7 Axis Simulation – Program with Confidence

Handle deep-hole and angled drilling safely:

• Customizable drilling cycles

• Real-time multi-axis machining simulation for 6- and 7-axis machines

• Collision-free validation and setup refinement

👉 Watch the demo

OptiNC ROI: Is It Worth It?

Yes. Many shops see payback in as little as 2 months.

Benefits include:

• 30–50% reduction in CAM programming time

• Fewer errors and rework cycles

• Faster onboarding for new programmers

• Increased machine uptime and reliability

See Your ROI in Action

Curious how much time and cost savings OptiNC could bring to your shop?

👉 Try our OptiNC ROI Calculator and discover your potential payback in minutes.

Why Choose OptiNC for Your PowerMill Workflow?

OptiNC unlocks the full potential of your PowerMill investment by helping manufacturers:

• Eliminate manual bottlenecks

• Improve CAM team productivity

• Scale operations without scaling programming time

FAQ: OptiNC for PowerMill

Q: What is OptiNC for PowerMill?
A: OptiNC is a PowerMill plugin that automates CNC programming tasks like tool creation, collision detection, and EDM programming to save time and reduce errors.

Q: How does OptiNC improve CNC programming efficiency?
A: By automating repetitive tasks, validating toolpaths in real time, and supporting multi-axis machining simulation, OptiNC helps manufacturers reduce programming time by 30–50%.

Q: Who should use OptiNC?
A: OptiNC is ideal for moldmaking, aerospace, and precision manufacturing shops that rely on PowerMill and want to scale productivity without increasing programming complexity.

Why OptiNC + SolidCAD?

Boost PowerMill with OptiNC’s intelligent automation and SolidCAD’s proven expertise. Together, we help you:

• Cut programming time by 30–50%

• Eliminate manual bottlenecks

• Maximize ROI with local support and training

Ready to Upgrade?

📘 Explore the full feature set:
👉 OptiNC on SolidCAD.ca

📞 Talk to our experts about implementing OptiNC in your shop:
👉 Contact SolidCAD