Part of the FastCAM NC System Training guides
Overview: This guide provides step-by-step instructions for setting up and running a basic nest in FastNEST.
1. Configure File Types
In the FastNEST. Go to the File Types settings.
Select the input and output file formats:
- Input File Types: CAM, DXF
- NC Output File Types: NC, DXF, CAM, Pathed DXF
2. Set Up Pierces and Entries
- Pierces:
- Choose how pierces are applied.
- Before Nesting: Adds pierces, lead-ins, and lead-outs when the parts are added.
- FastPATH: Adds pierces, lead-ins, and lead-outs when generating output.
- Entries/Exits:
- Decide whether to Preserve or Strip any existing entries/exits when parts are added.
3. Configure Output Options
- Sort by NC: Organizes processes in the generated output (NC output only).
- Include Plate: Adds the plate boundary to the output (non-NC output only).
- Polyline: Outputs geometry entities in cutting sequence (DXF output only).
Once these settings are satisfactory, click Accept.
4. Confirm FastPATH Settings
- Open FastPATH Settings.
- Verify that the correct path is set for FastPATH.
- Confirm that:
- External pathing includes proper lead-ins and lead-outs.
- Internal pathing is also set correctly.
- Review the Cut Sequence submenu and make any necessary changes.
- Save the settings
- If prompted to overwrite previous pathing, select Yes.
Tip: The green box indicates the nest starting point. Change from Top Left to Bottom Left if required, then save again.
5. Set Kerf Compensation
Recommended by FastCAM:
- Kerf Side: Left
- Kerf Compensation: Off
6. Enter Plate Data
In the Plate Settings, enter the following:
- Material: Determined by post-processor
- Grade: Determined by post-processor
- Thickness: User entry
- Length: User entry
- Width: User entry
7. Add Parts
- Click Add Part.
- Browse and select the desired input file.
- Preview the part, then click Open.
- A submenu will appear showing the part with lead-ins and lead-outs.
8. Fill in the Part Data:
- Required quantity
- Nesting priority (0–9)
- Rotation options
- Allow part to flip (optional)
- Search Step (optional)
- Entity Reduction (simplifies geometry)
- Nest Parts Immediately (test parts if checked)
9. Auto and Standard Nesting (FastCAM Pro Only)
- Auto Nesting:
- Uses a timer (count up or down) to find the best part layout on the plate.
- Optimization results update continuously until the best result is found.
9.1. Standard Nesting:
- Found next to the Auto Nesting icon.
- Runs a standard nest without auto optimization.
9.2. Manual Nesting (All FastCAM NC Users)
- Create a new nest.
- Drag and drop parts onto the plate.
- Duplicate parts along the X or Y axis as needed.
- Until the quantity is complete.
10. Plate Cutoff Options
- Add a trim to the plate:
- Go to Plates Tab > Add Automatic Plate Cutoff.
- Trim Line Type:
- None
- Contoured → enter Minimum Remnant Width, Clearance, and Trim Extension
- Straight → enter Clearance and Trim Extension
For this guide, select Straight Line.
11. Generate Output
Go to the Main Menu and click the Output Icon.
Fill in the nest data:
- Nest Name
- Job
- Material
- Thickness
- Programmer
- Customer
- Notes
- (Note: If there is a cutoff, a submenu will appear to ask if the cutoff will be added to the NC code)
12. Select a resequence option:
- Columns
- Column Snake
- Rows
- Row Snake
- Next Closest
- Minimum Rapid
- User Defined
- Save the file in the desired location with the NC extension.
- Enter the feedrate for your post-processor.
- Click Save.
13. Review in FastPLOT
- Once output is saved, FastPLOT will automatically open.
- Review the NC code and cutting sequence of the nest.
