CAD/CAM Systems in Metalworking: What Solutions Companies Use in Latvia
CAD/CAM Systems in Metalworking: What Solutions Companies Use in Latvia
What is CAD/CAM and Why It Matters
CAD/CAM systems are software solutions that combine:
CAD (Computer-Aided Design) — design of parts and components
CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) — creation of control programs for CNC machines
In modern manufacturing in Latvia, these systems are used for the full production cycle — from a 3D model to a finished part. This allows companies to:
reduce production time
minimize errors
automate CNC programming
What CAD/CAM Systems Are Used in Latvia
Siemens NX / Solid Edge
Siemens solutions are widely used in Latvia, often implemented with the help of local partners.
full CAD/CAM/CAE and PLM cycle
suitable for complex engineering tasks
supports the entire product lifecycle
Best for: large manufacturing companies
SolidWorks + CAM (SolidCAM, CAMWorks)
One of the most popular solutions for small and medium-sized businesses.
3D modeling
CNC program preparation
prototyping
Best for: small and medium-sized enterprises
RADAN
Widely used in sheet metal processing.
automatic material nesting
integration with ERP and MES systems
suitable for laser and plasma cutting
Best for: sheet metal manufacturing
Lantek
A specialized CAD/CAM solution for metal processing.
supports laser, plasma, and waterjet cutting
solutions for bending and punching
widely used in serial production
Best for: metal structure manufacturing
AlphaCAM + ZWCAD / BricsCAD
A combined solution for various production needs.
CAM: AlphaCAM
CAD: ZWCAD or BricsCAD
supports 3-axis and 5-axis CNC machines
Best for: general-purpose manufacturing
CATIA, Tebis, Cimatron
High-end systems for complex projects.
CATIA — for aerospace and complex parts
Tebis — for molds and tooling
Cimatron — for tool manufacturing
Best for: high-precision production
How Companies in Latvia Choose CAD/CAM Systems
Type of Production
sheet metal → RADAN or Lantek
milling → SolidCAM or NX
molds → Tebis or Cimatron
Company Size
small businesses → SolidWorks with CAM
medium-sized → hybrid solutions
large enterprises → PLM systems
Integration
Modern companies implement:
ERP and MES systems
automatic nesting
digital twins
This improves efficiency and reduces material waste
CAD/CAM Trends in Latvia (2025–2026)
increasing automation of CNC programming
integration with Industry 4.0 solutions
shift to cloud-based CAD systems
growing importance of PLM systems
Companies are moving toward full digitalization of production — from design to finished product
Conclusion
CAD/CAM systems in Latvia have become a standard for competitive manufacturing
The most widely used solutions include:
Siemens NX and Solid Edge
SolidWorks with SolidCAM
RADAN and Lantek
CATIA and Tebis for complex projects