Cylindrical interpolation allows a cylindrical part to be programmed in a flat plane. The planar tool path created will then be transposed onto the cylindrical part by PostWorks. On Mill-Turn machines which do not have a Y-axis and use the spindle as a rotary axis, polar interpolation will use the rotary axis in conjunction with the other linear axes to fulfill the Y-axis. Polar interpolation can also be used on a standard milling machine with a rotary table.

PostWorks is a 2 through 10-axis postprocessor and postprocessor generator. It converts output from most major CAM systems (including CATIA CL files) into NC data files which can be used to run virtually any NC device including mills, lathes, EDMs, lasers, CMMs, Mill-Turns, ultrasonic cutters, and routers. A simple Motif-style interface enables the user to easily establish machine configurations, control unit features, and output file formats. PostWorks automatically creates a solid model of the machine and dynamically simulates the machine's movement. It also provides a comprehensive macro language for easy customization. PostWorks is a proven technology used across the manufacturing spectrum and is a cost-effective replacement to existing mainframe-based postprocessors. PostWorks runs on most Unix workstations (SGI, Sparc, IBM, HP), DEC OpenVMS systems, and PC's running MS-DOS.

PostWorks was developed by NCCS, the software developer of NCL and North American distributor of VARIMETRIX (VX). NCL is the leading multi-axis CAD/CAM system used in the aerospace, automotive, and turbo machinery industries. VX is a 3D solid modeling product which includes parametric/variational solid and surface modeling, assembly modeling, associative drafting, and multiple solid/surface machining.