FreeCAD CAM — Free CNC Machining in the Path Workbench

FreeCAD CAM is the built-in toolset that turns a finished 3D model into machine-ready toolpaths and G-code for CNC mills, routers and lathes. Known for years as the Path workbench and renamed CAM in FreeCAD 1.0, it sits alongside Part Design, Sketcher and Assembly as part of the same free, open-source program — no separate purchase and no add-on license.

FreeCAD CAM toolpath generation for CNC

From 3D model to G-code

The CAM workbench reads the solid geometry you have modelled and calculates the cutting moves a machine needs to reproduce it. You define a stock blank, pick tools with real diameters and feed rates, and add machining operations that reference faces and edges of the model. FreeCAD computes the toolpaths, then a post-processor writes out G-code in the dialect your controller reads. Because the operations reference the model, editing a dimension and recomputing updates the toolpaths too.

FreeCAD CAM profiling and pocketing operations

Machining operations

The workbench covers the operations most subtractive jobs need: profiling around a contour, pocket clearing, facing, drilling patterns, engraving and V-carving, and adaptive clearing that keeps a constant tool load through high-speed roughing passes. Both 2.5D and full 3D surfacing operations are available. Each operation exposes step-down, step-over, tool, and feed and speed settings, so you keep direct control over how material is removed.

FreeCAD CAM post-processors and simulation

Post-processors and simulation

Post-processors ship for GRBL, LinuxCNC, Marlin, Mach3 and Mach4, Smoothieware and more, so the exported program matches your specific controller. Each post-processor is a Python script you can edit for custom machines. Before you cut metal or wood, the built-in path simulation animates the tool through every move and shows material being removed, which helps catch gouges, rapid moves through stock, or a forgotten clearance height.

How CAM works in FreeCAD

  1. Model or import the part you want to machine, then switch to the CAM workbench.
  2. Create a Job — this defines the stock blank, the machine and the output post-processor.
  3. Add tools to the tool table with real diameters, feed rates and spindle speeds.
  4. Add operations — profile, pocket, drill, engrave or surface — referencing faces and edges of the model.
  5. Run the path simulation to check the toolpaths against the stock.
  6. Post-process the Job to export a G-code file ready for your CNC controller.

Part of the free FreeCAD download

The CAM workbench is not a paid add-on. It is included when you download FreeCAD for Windows, macOS or Linux, next to the modeling, drafting and assembly tools. If you are already modelling parts in FreeCAD, machining them is a workbench switch away rather than a separate program and a separate file exchange. For a broader tour of what else is in the box, see the full feature overview, or read the common questions about the software.

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FreeCAD CAM — FAQ

Is FreeCAD good for CAM and CNC machining?

FreeCAD includes a dedicated CAM workbench (formerly called Path) that turns a 3D model into machine toolpaths and exports G-code. It handles profiling, pocketing, drilling, engraving and 3D surfacing for CNC mills, routers and lathes. It is a practical choice for hobby and small-shop CNC work, though large production shops may still prefer dedicated commercial CAM packages.

What post-processors does FreeCAD CAM support?

FreeCAD ships post-processors for common controllers including GRBL, LinuxCNC, Marlin, Mach3 and Mach4, and Smoothieware, among others. The post-processor converts the internal toolpath into the specific G-code dialect your controller expects, and because they are Python scripts they can be edited or written from scratch for custom hardware.

Does FreeCAD CAM support lathes as well as mills?

Yes. Alongside milling and routing operations, the workbench includes turning operations for lathe work. Most users run it for 3-axis mills and CNC routers, which is where the operation set is most complete.

Is the FreeCAD CAM workbench free?

Yes. The CAM workbench is part of the standard FreeCAD download at no cost. FreeCAD is open-source under the LGPL2+ license, which permits personal and commercial use with no subscription or license key.

Ready to try it? Start with FreeCAD and switch to the CAM workbench once your part is modelled.