

SolidWorks CAM Implementation at PT Merpati Wahana Raya
Client Profile — PT Merpati Wahana Raya
PT Merpati Wahana Raya is a manufacturing and precision machining company operating its own CNC Machining Manufacturing facility. Committed to maintaining high production standards, the company continuously seeks ways to improve machining accuracy, operational efficiency, and workforce expertise to meet growing market demands.
Business Needs
Growing Demands in Machining Operations
As production volumes increased and part designs became more complex, PT Merpati Wahana Raya recognized the need to modernize its CNC programming workflow. The company required a unified system that bridges design and machining seamlessly.
Key Operational Requirements
-
Standardized CNC programming procedures across the engineering team
-
Faster and more accurate toolpath generation
-
Reliable toolpath verification before actual machining
-
Consistent workflow from machine setup to finished production data
-
Enhanced team proficiency in integrated CAM technology
Challenges Faced
Limitations in Existing Workflow
Prior to the implementation, CNC programming processes were not fully standardized, and the engineering team had limited proficiency in using integrated CAM software. This resulted in slower programming times, inconsistent methods among engineers, and delays in preparing parts for CNC production.
Critical Areas for Improvement
-
No unified method for defining machine parameters, stock materials, and coordinate systems
-
Toolpaths were not systematically verified before machining, raising risks of collision and material waste
-
No structured workflow from process planning to exporting machining data
-
Team needed structured training to adopt modern CAM technology confidently
The Solution — SolidWorks CAM
Why SolidWorks CAM?
PT Grand Asia Technology recommended SolidWorks CAM for its seamless integration with SolidWorks design environment, comprehensive machining capabilities, and user-friendly interface. It enables a complete, traceable workflow from setup to verified toolpath output.
Comprehensive Training Curriculum
The training covered the full standard workflow in 8 core modules:
-
Define Machine — Configuring CNC machine specifications
-
Stock Manager — Setting raw material dimensions and properties
-
Coordinate System — Establishing work zero and reference points
-
Mill Setup — Configuring milling operations and parameters
-
Generate Operation Plan — Defining logical machining sequences
-
Generate Toolpath — Creating optimized cutting paths automatically
-
Re-simulate Toolpath — Verifying and inspecting toolpaths visually
-
Save CL File — Exporting verified machining data ready for CNC
Implementation Process
Training Schedule & Location
-
Dates: February 22–23, 2024
-
Time: 09:00 until completion
-
Venue: Training Room & CNC Machining Area, PT Merpati Wahana Raya
-
Participants: Technical Team from PT Grand Asia Technology + 4 Engineers from PT Merpati Wahana Raya
Day 1 — Fundamentals & Guided Practice
On the first day, the PT Grand Asia Technology team introduced SolidWorks CAM interface and walked through each step of the workflow. All 4 engineers received step-by-step instruction followed by hands-on exercises to reinforce understanding and demonstrate independent ability to operate the software.
Day 2 — Advanced Training & Workshop Implementation
The second day covered advanced topics followed by direct implementation in the actual CNC manufacturing area. The team applied the complete workflow in a live workshop environment — bridging classroom learning with real-world machining conditions and ensuring full readiness for daily use.
Results & Benefits
Skills & Proficiency Gained
All 4 engineers mastered the complete SolidWorks CAM workflow independently
Team capable of setting up machines, stock, coordinates, and toolpaths confidently
Toolpath simulation adopted as a standard verification step
Operational Improvements Achieved
Standardized, repeatable CNC programming procedures established
Reduced risk of machining errors, collisions, and material waste
Faster programming cycles with greater consistency
In-house capability established for continuous improvement and future adoption
Conclusion & Value Delivered
"This implementation went beyond software training — it established a standardized, safe, and efficient foundation for CNC operations at PT Merpati Wahana Raya. By combining structured learning with hands-on workshop practice, we ensured the team is fully equipped to apply SolidWorks CAM in daily production, driving better quality, efficiency, and confidence in every project."
Project Outcome: Successful technology transfer, standardized workflow, and empowered engineering team — positioning PT Merpati Wahana Raya for improved productivity and quality in precision machining.
