For Mastercam users, the SINUMERIK 828D post processor is a certified, universal solution developed in direct collaboration between CNC Software, Inc. (producers of Mastercam) and Siemens engineers. This post is specifically designed to leverage the advanced features of the SINUMERIK 828D and 840D sl controllers, ensuring the NC code runs efficiently without manual editing on the shop floor. Key Features & Supported Functions
The official certified post includes high-level support for specialized Siemens cycles:
High-Speed Machining: Full support for CYCLE 832 to optimize surface finish and speed.
Standard Drilling Cycles: Support for common Siemens cycles including CYCLE 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, and 840.
Graphical Simulation: Features WORKPIECE output, allowing the controller to display accurate graphical simulations of the part being machined.
Tool Management: Supports tool calls by either name or number, and includes the TOFFR option for fine-tuning tool offsets.
Unit Independence: The post is designed to handle both inch and metric measurements within the same file. How to Obtain the Post Processor
Mastercam does not typically distribute these posts as open public downloads; they are provided through official support channels:
Tech Exchange: Licensed users can often find and download these posts via the Mastercam Tech Exchange after logging into their account.
Local Reseller: The most direct way to get a post tailored to your specific machine (e.g., vertical vs. horizontal, 3-axis vs. 4-axis) is through your local Mastercam Reseller. siemens 828d post processor for mastercam
Maintenance Plan: Customers on an active Mastercam Maintenance plan generally receive access to these certified posts at no additional cost as part of their subscription. Included Documentation
When you receive the official post package, it typically contains:
The Post File (.PST): The primary instruction file for code conversion.
Machine & Control Definitions (.MMD / .CD): Files that define your specific machine's physical and logic limits.
Siemens Application Guide: A detailed manual explaining how to apply the post's features and use the supported cycles correctly.
Installation Tip: Once you have the .mcam-content file, you can simply drag and drop it directly into the Mastercam graphics window to automatically install all necessary components.
New Post Processor for Sinumerik Controllers - mastercam.com
The Siemens 828D post processor for Mastercam is highly regarded because it is developed through a direct technical partnership between CNC Software, Inc. (Mastercam) and Siemens CNC engineers. This collaboration ensures that the generated NC code is not just a "best guess" but is engineered to utilize the full feature set of the SINUMERIK control. Key Features and Performance
The post processor is designed to be a universal starting point that supports both SINUMERIK 828D and 840D sl controls. For Mastercam users, the SINUMERIK 828D post processor
High-Speed Machining: Includes built-in support for CYCLE 832, which is critical for high-speed precision settings.
Comprehensive Drill Cycles: Fully supports Siemens-specific cycles like CYCLES 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, and 840.
Graphical Simulation: Features WORKPIECE output, allowing for detailed graphical simulation directly on the control unit.
Flexibility: The post is unit-independent, meaning you can switch between inch and metric measurements without needing a different file.
4-Axis Capabilities: Newer releases support full 4-axis simultaneous rotary and linear motion, as well as 3+1 positional machining for both vertical and horizontal machines. User Consensus and Reviews
Out-of-the-Box Reliability: Users report that the certified post typically provides 90-95% of the necessary functionality immediately.
Ease of Customization: While powerful, users often note that "tweaking" may be required for specific machine builder implementations. However, the post structure is described as extremely customizable, making edits relatively painless.
Common Challenges: Some users have reported minor "bugs" in custom-edited versions, such as incorrect safety plane heights or issues with raw material graphical definitions. It is recommended to use the official Mastercam Tech Exchange to download the latest certified versions rather than relying on unverified community files. Recommended Source
For the best results, licensed Mastercam users should download the certified post directly from the Mastercam Solutions page or contact their local reseller to ensure compatibility with their specific machine kinematics. Cost: $1,500 – $4,000 USD depending on axes
Are you looking to implement this for a 3-axis mill or a more complex 4-axis/5-axis machine setup? Post Processors | Mastercam
The 828D's high-speed cycles (CYCLE832) for rigid tapping and deep-hole pecking are vastly superior to standard G-codes. A good post will map Mastercam’s drilling parameters (peck depth, dwell, retract) directly to Siemens cycles like CYCLE83 (deep hole drilling) and CYCLE84 (rigid tapping), including the safety clamp logic.
For 828D swivel heads or rotary tables, the post must output TRAORI (activate TCPM) and TRAFOOF. Additionally, mill-turn posts require TRANSMIT for cylindrical mapping. Mastercam’s Generic Fanuc 5X Mill.pst cannot handle this—you need a Siemens-specific 5-axis post that processes M128 (Siemens’ TCPM code).
Companies like In-House Solutions, Postability, or ModuleWorks provide certified 828D posts.
For advanced 5-axis machining, Siemens uses the TRAORI command to activate transformation. The post processor must calculate the tool vector (A, B, C or I, J, K) and output it correctly.
Unlike Fanuc’s more basic macro structure, the Siemens 828D operates on a Sinumerik Operate interface, which supports advanced cycles (CYCLE83, CYCLE800), high-level language features, and axis substitution. A generic Fanuc-style post will fail on an 828D for several key reasons:
R100=5+3 instead of #100=5+3.CYCLE83(...) with variable parameters, not G83 X... Z... Q....T="MILL_D16" M6 or tool naming conventions.A properly built Mastercam post processes these nuances automatically, saving operators from manual editing.
Mastercam installs a generic "Siemens 828D" post in its Posts folder. Warning: This is a starting template. It lacks cycle support and proper HSC activation. Use only for basic 2.5-axis parts after careful editing.
Siemens releases firmware updates for the 828D (e.g., version 4.8 to 4.9) that may change supported cycles. Your Mastercam post should include a header variable sVersion$ to output the required firmware compatibility level.
Pro tip: Join the Mastercam Siemens Users Group on LinkedIn and keep a changelog inside your PST file. Every time you modify the post, increment
rev$and add a date.