Autodesk Fabrication CAMduct
Fabrication CAMduct is a powerful software solution for manufacturing ductwork systems used in HVAC construction. It enables sheet metal fabricators to efficiently prepare, nest, and send fabrication-ready geometry to CNC machinery using accurate and data-rich models.
Automate Sheet Metal Fabrication
CAMduct streamlines the ductwork manufacturing process with intelligent nesting algorithms, support for various materials and gauges, and direct output to cutting machines. It reduces waste, minimizes labor, and improves shop floor productivity.
Use Real-World Fabrication Content
The software features an extensive database of real-world fittings, connectors, seams, and materials based on global standards. You can create accurate patterns and geometry tailored to your shop’s specific fabrication methods.
Seamless Workflow with CAD and EST
CAMduct integrates directly with Fabrication CADmep and Fabrication ESTmep, enabling a smooth end-to-end workflow from design to cost estimation to fabrication. Maintain consistent data and reduce manual re-entry across the project lifecycle.
Key Features
- Automatic nesting and part layout optimization
- Comprehensive libraries of duct fittings and materials
- Output for plasma, laser, waterjet, and other CNC machines
- Support for insulation, seams, notching, and labeling
- Integration with CADmep and ESTmep for streamlined workflows
- Built-in reporting and shop ticket generation
Who Uses Fabrication CAMduct?
CAMduct is ideal for sheet metal fabrication shops, HVAC contractors, and MEP manufacturers who require high-precision, automated workflows for ductwork production. It helps reduce material waste, save time, and improve production accuracy.
⚠️ IMPORTANT:
Windows Only: Fabrication CAMduct is Windows Only. It does not support macOS.
Standalone: Unlike CADmep (which needs AutoCAD), CAMduct is a standalone application used for manufacturing and controlling CNC machines.
Physical Connection: If you are connecting directly to a cutting machine (Plasma, Laser, Waterjet), ensure your PC has the necessary I/O ports (Ethernet, Serial/RS232, or USB) compatible with your CNC controller.
✂️ System Requirements: Fabrication CAMduct (2023–2026)
| Operating System (OS) |
64-bit Windows 10 (v1809+)<br>64-bit Windows 11
|
Windows 11<br>(Preferred for security and driver support)
|
| Processor (CPU) |
2.5–2.9 GHz (Basic Processor) |
3.0 GHz+ (Base), 4.0 GHz+ (Turbo)<br>(High clock speed drastically reduces the time taken for "Automatic Nesting" calculations)
|
| Memory (RAM) |
8 GB |
16 GB (Standard)<br>32 GB (If running alongside CADmep/Revit or handling massive databases)
|
| Graphics (GPU) |
2 GB VRAM<br>DirectX 11 compliant
|
4 GB – 8 GB VRAM<br>DirectX 12 compliant<br>(CAMduct is not graphically intense; a mid-range card is sufficient for 3D previews)
|
| Disk Space |
2 GB (Installation)<br>+ Database storage
|
SSD (Solid State Drive)<br>Critical: The ITM Library/Database must be on fast storage to prevent UI lag.
|
| Display |
1920 x 1080 True Color |
1920 x 1080 or higher<br>Wide screen recommended for Nesting sheets
|
| Connectivity |
Network Adapter (NIC) |
Dedicated Ethernet / Serial Port<br>(Required if DNC linking directly to older CNC controllers)
|
| Framework |
.NET Framework 4.8 |
.NET 8 (For 2025/2026) |
💡 Performance Advice for CAMduct Users
Nesting Calculation Speed:
The "Automatic Nesting" engine relies on mathematical algorithms to fit parts onto a metal sheet.
CPU: A processor with High Clock Speed (GHz) is more important than core count here. An Intel Core i5 or i7 with high turbo boost is perfect.
Database Management:
CAMduct shares the same database as CADmep and ESTmep.
If you share this database over a network (LAN), ensure you have a Gigabit (or 10Gb) network connection. A slow Wi-Fi connection will make opening job files extremely slow.
Printer/Labeling:
CAMduct is often used to print part labels. Ensure your workstation has the correct drivers for your specialized thermal label printers (Zebra, Dymo, etc.).
Mac Users:
Not Supported.
Virtualization: Parallels Desktop can work for CAMduct since it isn't graphically heavy.
Hardware Warning: However, if you need to connect to a CNC machine via a Serial Port (RS232) or a proprietary dongle, virtualization on a Mac can be problematic with driver mapping. A dedicated Windows PC next to the machine is the industry standard.
