What DesignEdge does
- It is a Windows CAD/CAM program written for plasma cutting that also runs the machine; PlasmaCAM says no other software is needed.
- It reads pictures, scanned artwork and CAD files and turns them into smooth, linked cut paths.
- Preparing a drawing offsets the cut paths for the torch's kerf, adds lead-in pierce points, and orders holes before the outline.
- It shows how long a design will take to cut, lets you change the cut order, and exports DXF and G-code.
- It can array parts, and true-shape nesting with holes filled is available; the FAQ lists automatic shape nesting among the optional software.
DesignEdge also runs on its own: PlasmaCAM sells it for other machines, which then still need their own G-code software.
Where Zorocut fits
Because DesignEdge does the paths and drives the table, Zorocut's part is the work before it: cleaning a customer's files, a price for the whole order before it is booked, and a mixed true-shape nest when the nesting option is not on the machine. The hand-over is one DXF per sheet.
| Step | Where it happens |
|---|---|
| Clean the drawings, nest, price the job | Zorocut |
| Kerf offset, lead-ins, cut order | DesignEdge |
| Drive the torch | DesignEdge and the PlasmaCAM table |
Settings to try
- In Zorocut, Machine tab: kind Plasma, Controller Other.
- Export DXF R2000 with part labels switched off, so no text reaches the cut paths; try R12 if DesignEdge refuses the file.
- Import the sheet in DesignEdge with the units set to metric, and check one known dimension before you prepare it for cutting.
- Leave room for the kerf in Zorocut's part spacing, because DesignEdge offsets the paths after the nest: see kerf width.
Not verified yet
PlasmaCAM's own pages say "CAD files", not DXF by name, and we found no public DesignEdge manual. We do not know which DXF versions it reads, whether it keeps layers apart (so the ZC_SHEET outline would be cut along with the parts unless you delete it), or whether it reads the DXF unit header. Try one scrap sheet and measure it before quoting from this route.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need G-code or SheetCAM for a PlasmaCAM?
No. DesignEdge prepares the paths and drives the machine directly. Set the controller to Other in Zorocut and import the DXF in DesignEdge.
DesignEdge nests already. Why Zorocut?
True-shape nesting is an option in DesignEdge, not on every machine, and it does not quote the order. Zorocut prices the customer's job from the drawings before it is booked; see how to price plasma cutting.
Is Zorocut affiliated with PlasmaCAM?
No. PlasmaCAM and DesignEdge belong to PlasmaCAM Inc.; the names are used here only to describe compatibility.
Sources
Product names are used only to describe compatibility. Zorocut is not affiliated with their makers.
