Delcam

Delcam. It was a British software company specializing in advanced computer-aided manufacturing and computer-aided design solutions, particularly for the milling and turning of complex shapes. Founded from research at the University of Cambridge, the company became a global leader in CAD/CAM for moldmaking, toolmaking, and artistic machining. Its technology was widely adopted across industries such as aerospace, automotive, and jewellery manufacturing before its acquisition.

History

The origins of the company trace back to research conducted in the 1970s at the University of Cambridge's CADCentre, led by Donald Welbourn. This work focused on developing software for the computer numerical control of machine tools to produce complex surfaces. In 1977, this research was commercialized with the formation of Delta Computer Aided Manufacturing Ltd., which later became known simply as Delcam. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the company expanded significantly, establishing a strong international presence with offices across Europe, North America, and Asia. A key milestone was its initial public offering on the London Stock Exchange in 1997, which provided capital for further growth and the acquisition of complementary technologies like PathTrace and PartMaker.

Products

The company's portfolio was centered on a suite of specialized, best-in-class CAD/CAM software applications. Its flagship product was PowerMill, a high-performance CAM software for 2.5 to 5-axis milling, renowned for its ability to generate safe, efficient toolpaths for complex mold and die work and aerospace components. FeatureCAM provided feature-based, automated programming for milling, turning, and mill-turn machines. For artistic and decorative machining, ArtCAM was the leading solution, used extensively in signmaking, woodworking, jewellery, and coin production. The acquisition of PartMaker added specialized software for programming Swiss-type lathes and turn-mill centers, solidifying its offerings for the precision engineering sector.

Technology

The core technological strength lay in its sophisticated algorithms for generating and optimizing computer numerical control toolpaths. This included advanced strategies for high-speed machining, rest machining, and collision detection to ensure both safety and machining efficiency. The software was particularly adept at handling complex freeform surface geometries common in automotive design and aerospace engineering. A significant development was its early adoption and development of reverse engineering capabilities, allowing the digitization of physical models using coordinate-measuring machines or laser scanning to create editable CAD models. The technology also integrated with a wide range of computer-aided design systems, including Autodesk AutoCAD, SOLIDWORKS, and Siemens NX.

Applications

The software found critical applications in industries requiring the manufacture of complex, high-precision parts. In the aerospace sector, it was used to machine intricate components for airframe structures, landing gear, and jet engine blisks. Automotive manufacturers and their suppliers relied on it for producing stamping dies, injection molding molds, and prototype parts. The moldmaking and toolmaking industries were a primary market, using it to create molds for consumer goods, electronic packaging, and medical devices. Furthermore, ArtCAM enabled creative applications in signmaking, personalized engraving, architectural millwork, and the production of jewellery and medals.

Acquisition by Autodesk

In February 2014, Autodesk, a global leader in design software, announced its intention to acquire the company for approximately £172.5 million. The acquisition was completed in April 2014, following regulatory approval. This strategic move by Autodesk was aimed at significantly strengthening its manufacturing portfolio, particularly in the high-end computer-aided manufacturing segment where it had less presence. Post-acquisition, Delcam's products, including PowerMill and FeatureCAM, were integrated into the Autodesk Product Lifecycle Management suite, while continuing development and sales under the Autodesk banner. The former headquarters in Birmingham became a major research and development center for Autodesk's manufacturing solutions.

Category:Companies established in 1977 Category:Companies based in Birmingham, West Midlands Category:Computer-aided manufacturing software Category:Autodesk acquisitions