StarCAM Software

StarCAM is the CAM layer that turns a CAD drawing into code a cutting machine can execute. Built for plasma, flame and laser thermal cutting, its core jobs are nesting, automatic common-line cutting, kerf compensation, lead-in/lead-out optimisation and post-processing. It does not make money directly — but for a machine consuming tens or hundreds of tonnes of plate a year, the difference between 65% and 85% material yield is almost entirely decided here.

What nesting software actually saves

Take a shop consuming 500 t of plate a year at RMB 4 500/t. Manual nesting typically lands at 62–68% yield; automatic nesting holds 82–88% consistently. That 20-point gap is roughly 100 t of plate and RMB 450 000 a year in material alone, before counting the pierce count and nozzle wear saved by common-line cutting.

Core modules

• Drawing import and repair — DWG / DXF support with automatic healing of broken lines, overlaps and micro-gaps;
• Automatic nesting — rectangular, true-shape, array and priority strategies, multi-sheet batch runs;
• Common-line and chain cutting — one pierce, many parts;
• Process library — preset cut speed, arc voltage, kerf compensation, pierce height and dwell by material, thickness and gas;
• Bridging and micro-tabs — keeps small parts from dropping or lifting into the torch;
• Post-processing — G-code for different controllers, including Icyrobot systems;
• Cost estimation — per-part arc time and consumable cost from path length and process data, ready for quoting.

How it links to the CNC controller

The CAM layer decides what to cut, how to nest and which path to take; the controller decides speed, arc voltage and height control. They meet at the G-code. Because Icyrobot CNC controllers and StarCAM are developed together, process parameters align in both directions — no more of the usual third-party post-processor mismatches. Both the StarCAM V4.7 and V5 lines are available from the Download Centre.

Three lessons from real implementations

1. Calibrate the process library before chasing yield. A 10% cut-speed error hurts edge quality and yield at the same time. Run test coupons for every material/thickness combination and freeze the measured speeds.
2. Make remnant usage a rule, not a feature. The software logs remnants, but if operators habitually open a fresh sheet the remnant library is dead data. Set "remnant first" as the default nesting policy.
3. Re-check kerf compensation regularly. As nozzles wear the kerf widens; without updating compensation, parts drift systematically undersize.

Frequently asked questions

Which CNC controllers does StarCAM support?

Post-processor files cover mainstream cutting controllers, with native support for Icyrobot systems. Confirm the post version for your specific machine.

Can it read SolidWorks or AutoCAD files directly?

Via DWG / DXF exchange. 3D models must first be flattened or exported as 2D profiles.

Can I edit the nesting result by hand?

Yes. After automatic nesting you can drag, rotate, mirror and swap parts, with live before/after yield statistics.

Does it program bevel cuts?

Yes, for angle-head bevel paths, once the bevel angle and matching compensation are configured in the process library.

Get installers and activation notes from the Download Centre, or request a remote demo.