1.

INTRODUCTION
1.1 Meaning of CNC machine

CNC machining is a term commonly used in manufacturing and industrial applications, but

exactly what does the acronym CNC stand for and what is a CNC machine?

The term CNC stands for 'computer numerical control', and the CNC machining definition is

that it is a subtractive manufacturing process which typically employs computerized controls

and machine tools to remove layers of material from a stock piece—known as the blank or

workpiece—and produces a custom-designed part. This process is suitable for a wide range of

materials, including metals, plastics, wood, glass, foam, and composites, and finds application

in a variety of industries, such as large CNC machining and CNC machining aerospace parts.

When speaking in terms of the machine itself, the CNC machine definition is that it represents

the actual programmable machine that is capable of autonomously performing the operations of

CNC machining. Note the contrast between the process (CNC machining definition) versus the

machine (CNC machine definition).

Subtractive manufacturing processes, such as CNC machining, are often presented in contrast

to additive manufacturing processes, such as 3D printing, or formative manufacturing

processes, such as liquid injection molding. While subtractive processes remove layers of

material from the workpiece to produce custom shapes and designs, additive processes

assemble layers of material to produce the desired form and formative processes deform and

displace stock material into the desired shape. The automated nature of CNC machining

enables the production of high precision and high accuracy, simple parts and the cost-

effectiveness when fulfilling one-off and medium-volume production runs. However, while

CNC machining demonstrates certain advantages over other manufacturing processes, the

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degree of complexity and intricacy attainable for part design and the cost-effectiveness of

producing complex parts is limited.

While each type of manufacturing process has its advantages and disadvantages, this article

focuses on the CNC machining process, outlining the basics of the process, and the various

components and tooling of the CNC machine (sometimes incorrectly known as a C and C

machine). Additionally, this article explores various mechanical CNC machining operations

and presents alternatives to the CNC machining process.

1.2 Overview of CNC Machining Process

Evolving from the numerical control (NC) machining process which utilized punched tape

cards, CNC machining is a manufacturing process which utilizes computerized controls to

operate and manipulate machine and cutting tools to shape stock material—e.g., metal, plastic,

wood, foam, composite, etc.—into custom parts and designs. While the CNC machining

process offers various capabilities and operations, the fundamental principles of the process

remain largely the same throughout all of them. The basic CNC machining process includes the

following stages:

Designing the CAD model

 Converting the CAD file to a CNC program

 Preparing the CNC machine

 Executing the machining operation

CAD Model Design

The CNC machining process begins with the creation of a 2D vector or 3D solid part CAD

design either in-house or by a CAD/CAM design service company. Computer-aided design

(CAD) software allows designers and manufacturers to produce a model rendering of their

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parts and products along with the necessary technical specifications, such as dimensions and

geometries, for producing the part or product.

Designs for CNC machined parts are restricted by the capabilities (or inabilities) of the CNC

machine and tooling. For example, most CNC machine tooling is cylindrical therefore the part

geometries possible via the CNC machining process are limited as the tooling creates curved

corner sections. Additionally, the properties of the material being machined, tooling design, and

workholding capabilities of the machine further restrict the design possibilities, such as the

minimum part thicknesses, maximum part size, and inclusion and complexity of internal

cavities and features.

Once the CAD design is completed, the designer exports it to a CNC-compatible file format,

such as STEP or IGES.

CAD File Conversion

The formatted CAD design file runs through a program, typically computer-aided

manufacturing (CAM) software, to extract the part geometry and generates the digital

programming code which will control the CNC machine and manipulate the tooling to produce

the custom-designed part.

CNC machines used several programming languages, including G-code and M-code. The most

well-known of the CNC programming languages, general or geometric code, referred to as G-

code, controls when, where, and how the machine tools move e.g., when to turn on or off, how

fast to travel to a particular what paths to take, etc. across the workpiece. Miscellaneous

function code, referred to as M-code, controls the auxiliary functions of the machine, such as

automating the and replacement of the machine cover at the start and end of production,

respectively.Once the CNC program is generated, the operator loads it to the CNC machine.

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Machine Setup

Before the operator runs the CNC program, they must prepare the CNC machine for operation.

These preparations include affixing the workpiece directly into the machine, onto machinery

spindles, or into machine vises or similar workholding devices, and attaching the required

tooling, such as drill bits and end mills, to the proper machine components.

Once the machine is fully set up, the operator can run the CNC program.

Machining Operation Execution

The CNC program acts as instructions for the CNC machine; it submits machine commands

dictating the tooling’s actions and movements to the machine’s integrated computer, which

operates and manipulates the machine tooling. Initiating the program prompts the CNC

machine to begin the CNC machining process, and the program guides the machine throughout

the process as it executes the necessary machine operations to produce a custom-designed part

or product.

CNC machining processes can be performed in-house—if the company invests in obtaining and

maintaining their own CNC equipment—or out-sourced to dedicated CNC machining service

provider.

1.3 Types of CNC Machining Operations

CNC machining is a manufacturing process suitable for a wide variety of industries, including

automotive, aerospace, construction, and agriculture, and able to produce a range of products,

such as automobile frames, surgical equipment, airplane engines, and hand and garden tools.

The process encompasses several different computer-controlled machining operations—

including mechanical, chemical, electrical, and thermal processes—which remove the

necessary material from the workpiece to produce a custom-designed part or product. While

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chemical, electrical, and thermal machining processes are covered in a later section, this section

explores some of the most common mechanical CNC machining operations including:

 Drilling

 Milling

 Turning

CNC Drilling

Drilling is a machining process which employs multi-point drill bits to produce cylindrical

holes in the workpiece. In CNC drilling, typically the CNC machine feeds the rotating drill bit

perpendicularly to the plane of the workpiece’s surface, which produces vertically-aligned

holes with diameters equal to the diameter of the drill bit employed for the drilling operation.

However, angular drilling operations can also be performed through the use of specialized

machine configurations and workholding devices. Operational capabilities of the drilling

process include counterboring, countersinking, reaming, and tapping.

CNC Milling

Milling is a machining process which employs rotating multi-point cutting tools to remove

material from the workpiece. In CNC milling, the CNC machine typically feeds the workpiece

to the cutting tool in the same direction as the cutting tool’s rotation, whereas in manual milling

the machine feeds the workpiece in the opposite direction to the cutting tool’s rotation.

Operational capabilities of the milling process include face milling—cutting shallow, flat

surfaces and flat-bottomed cavities into the workpiece—and peripheral milling—cutting deep

cavities, such as slots and threads, into the workpiece

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CNC Turning

Turning is a machining process which employs single-point cutting tools to remove material

from the rotating workpiece. In CNC turning, the CNC machine—typically a lathe or turning

machine—feeds the cutting tool in a linear motion along the surface of the rotating workpiece,

removing material around the circumference until the desired diameter is achieved, to produce

cylindrical parts with external and internal features, such as slots, tapers, and threads.

Operational capabilities of the turning process include boring, facing, grooving, and thread

cutting.

Table 1 – Characteristics of Common CNC Machining Operations

Machining Characteristics

Operation

Drilling  Employs rotating multi-point drill bits

 Drill bit fed perpendicular or angularly to workpiece

 Produces cylindrical holes in workpiece

Milling  Employs rotating multi-point cutting tools

 Workpiece fed in same direction as cutting tool rotation

 Removes material from workpiece

 Produces broader range of shapes

Turning  Employs single-point cutting tools

 Rotates workpiece

 Cutting tool fed along the surface of the workpiece

 Removes material from the workpiece

 Produces round or cylindrical parts

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Other CNC Machining Operations

Other mechanical CNC machining operations include:

 Broaching

 Sawing

 Grinding

 Honing

 Lapping

CNC Machining Equipment and Components

There is a wide range of machining operations available. Depending on the machining

operation being performed, the CNC machining process employs a variety of software

applications, machines, and machine tools to produce the desired shape or design.

1.4 Types of CNC Machining Support Software

The CNC machining process employs software applications to ensure the optimization,

precision, and accuracy of the custom-designed part or product. Software applications used

include:

 CAD

 CAM

 CAE

CAD: Computer-aided design (CAD) software are programs used to draft and produce 2D

vector or 3D solid part and surface renderings, as well as the necessary technical

documentation and specifications associated with the part. The designs and models generated in

a CAD program are typically used by a CAM program to create the necessary machine

program to produce the part via a CNC machining method. CAD software can also be used to
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determine and define optimal part properties, evaluate and verify part designs, simulate

products without a prototype, and provide design data to manufacturers and job shops.

CAM: Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software are programs used extract the technical

information from the CAD model and generate machine program necessary to run the CNC

machine and manipulate the tooling to produce the custom-designed part. CAM software

enables the CNC machine to run without operator assistance and can help automate finished

product evaluation.

CAE: Computer-aided engineering (CAE) software are programs used by engineers during the

pre-processing, analysis, and post-processing phases of the development process. CAE

software is used as assistive support tools in engineering analysis applications, such as design,

simulation, planning, manufacturing, diagnosis, and repair, to help with evaluating and

modifying product design. Types of CAE software available include finite element analysis

(FEA), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and multibody dynamics (MDB) software.

Some software applications have combined all of the aspects of CAD, CAM, and CAE

software.

2. CNC LATHE

2.1 What is CNC Lathe?

A lathe can make all of the parts needed for another lathe. A lathe spins the workpiece in a

spindle while a fixed cutting tool approaches the workpiece to slice chips off of it. Because of

this geometry, lathes are ideal for parts that have symmetry around some axis that could be

chucked up in the spindle. CNC Lathes have at the very least the ability to drive the cutting tool

under g-code control over 2 axes, referred to as X and Z. They may have a considerable amount

of other functionality as well, and there are many variations on lathes such as Swiss Lathes.

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The act of cutting a workpiece on a lathe is called "Turning".

Due to technological advancements, CNC lathes are quickly replacing some of the older and

more traditionally used production lathes, such as the multispindle. CNC lathes come with a

number of benefits. They can be easily set up and operated. They offer tremendous

repeatability, along with top-notch accuracy in production.

A CNC lathe is typically designed to utilize modern versions of carbide tooling and processes.

A part can be designed for customization, and the machine’s tool paths are often programmed

using the CAD or CAM processes. However, a programmer can manually design a part or tool

path as well. The resulting coded computer file is then uploaded to the CNC machine, and the

machine will then automatically produce the desired parts for which it was programmed to

design.

Fig1- CNC Turning machine

2.2 Uses of CNC Lathe Machines

With CNC lathe machines, the material being worked is slowly sheared away. The result is a

beautifully finished product or intricate part. Because these machines are so versatile, they are

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used by many industries to include automotive, electronics, aerospace, firearm manufacturing,

sporting, and much more.

A CNC lathe can be used to produce plane surfaces and screw threads or in the case of

ornamental lathes, three-dimensional products that are quite complex. In any case, the work

piece is held firmly in place by one or two centers, with at minimum one being moved

horizontally. However, material can also be secured with clamps or collets.

Some prime examples of finished items as a result of using CNC lathe machines include:

 Baseball Bats

 Bowls

 Camshafts

 Crankshafts

 Cue sticks

 Dining Room Table and Chair Legs

 Gun Barrels

 Musical Instruments

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 Fig 2- Block diagram of CNC lathe machine

2.3 Parts of CNC Lathe

Physically CNC lathe machine is a simple lathe machine with CNC controls panel equipped

with it. Internally all the functionality of cnc lathe machine it controlled through cnc control.

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 fig.3- Labelled diagram of CNC Lathe

2.3.1 – Headstock

Headstock of a cnc lathe machine have the main motor of cnc lathe machine which drives the

main spindle. Chuck is mounted on this main spindle.

Fig.4-cnc lathe headstock

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Here is another cnc lathe machine, the headstock covers are removed, so you can see the Main

drive (Main Motor), Gears. Gears can be selected with the cnc programming instructions

(M41,M42,M43)

2.3.2 – CNC Lathe Bed

The tool turret travel over the cnc lathe bed, which is specially hardened so any kind of

machining can’t affect them.

2.3.3 – Chuck

CNC lathe machine chuck grips the component which are to be machined. Chuck itself has

many parts. Jaws are mounted on the chuck to grip the part.

Fig.5-cnc lathe chuck with jaws

2.3.4 – Tailstock

Tailstock are mostly used to give an extra gripping force for component machining. For long

components machining they provide extra force on the other end so machining process can

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complete smoothly. We can see in the above picture at the one end chuck is gripping the

component and on the other end tailstock is providing the extra force.

2.3.5 – Tailstock Quill

Actually we move the whole tailstock forward or reverse, but in that way it is not used to grip

the part, but tailstock is travelled to a point near the component and then it is set there, after that

we actuate the tailstock quill which travel either with hydraulic pressure or pneumatic pressure

to grip the component.

2.3.6 – Foot Switch or Foot Pedals

Foot switches are used to actual the chuck and tailstock quill. Through these pedals cnc

machinist’s open and close the chuck to grip the component, the same way tailstock quill is

taken to forward position or reversed through theses pedals.

Fig.6- foot switches or Pedals

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2.3.7-Tool Turret

The tool are mounted on the tool turret which are used for component machining. Tool turrets

vary in shapes and number of tools that can be mounted on them.

Fig.8- Tool Turret

2.4 CNC Control Panel

The brain of the cnc machine, all the cnc program are stored inside this panel, cnc machinists

control the whole machine through the keys on this panel. CNC machinists stat/stop the

machine move axis by pressing different keys on this panel.

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 Fig.7- Control panel

They can enter new program by using this panel, programs can be transferred by using usb port

on this panel as well. So this is the main part which controls the whole cnc machine.

2.5 Working

As discussed in the last part, a typical lathe comprises of a bed, headstock, tailstock, chuck, tool

turret, carriage and a spindle for feeding purposes. The following steps define how this

particular machine works:

1. First Step: After checking the machine for the working faults, a cylindrical workpiece is

attached to the chuck. Its position can differ as per requirement.

2. Second Step: Now set the spindle on the desired speed, thus rotating the chuck and the

workpiece. Major attention needs to be paid on the spindle speed as any discrepancy can cause

cutting errors. Check if the workpiece is turning properly.

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3. Third Step: Now locate the cutting tool at the desired feed by moving the tool turret and

carriage. Pay special attention to feeding speed.

4. Fourth Step: Remove all the excess metal by moving the carriage to get the finished

product.

2.6 Types of Lathe Machines:

Just like every other machine, a lathe machine also has different varieties that are used to fulfill

different work requirements. Let's have a look at the major types of the CNC lathe machine:

 Engine Lathes

Pretty popular amongst manufacturers, an engine lathe perfectly suitable for low-power

operations. But that doesn't mean that it cannot be used for high-power operations. This

device is very reliable and versatile, operating on a wide range of speed & feed ratios.

This type is perfect for manufacturers looking for a machine that works with different

metals.

 Centre Lathe

Centre lathe is a lathe type where the spindle speed is managed via a set of gears that

are operated by using a lever.

 Gap Bed Lathe

This type of lathe machine contains a removable bed section to accommodate the larger

diameter of a workpiece, hence the name gap bed lathe. Generally, the part next to the

headstock is removable.

 Speed Lathes

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 A simpler version of a lathe machine, the speed lathe only has a headstock, tailstock,

and tool turret. This type is generally used for light machine work as it can only operate

in three or four speeds.

 Bench Lathe

Smaller in size, a bench lathe can be mounted on a workbench for conducted lighter

jobs.

 Tool Room Lathes

This type is known for providing the best finishing. Tool-room lathe is highly versatile,

working in a number of speeds and feeds.

 Turret Lathes

A turret lathe is ideal for quick and sequential workings. With the tool holder in the

vicinity, performing multiple operations on a single workpiece becomes several folds

easier.

 Special Purpose Lathes

These special purpose lathes are used to perform a heavy-duty production of identical

parts. Some of the popular special purpose lathes include automatic lathes, crankshaft

lathes, bench-type jewelers' lathes, duplicating lathes, and multi-spindle lathes.

3. CNC PROGRAMMING

Computer numerically controlled (CNC) programming is used by manufacturers to instruct

machines in producing parts.

CNC programming software creates program codes and instructions used to run

machine tool controlled by a computer. Each unique part requires its own CNC program.

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In general terms, CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control and has been around since the

early 1970's (often referred to as NC programming). CNC has touched almost every form of

manufacturing process. CNC machines typically replace (or work in conjunction with) some

existing manufacturing process. CNC benefits include improved automation, consistent and

accurate work pieces, and flexibility.

3.1 TYPES OF CNC PROGRAMMING

Fig.9- Types of CNC programming

4. OPERATION OF CNC LATHE MACHINE

4.1 Operating Modes

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 Jog Mode

CNC machine Jog mode is one of the most used CNC mode. Jog mode is mostly used to

travel the CNC machine carriage ( or CNC machine Slide) such as cnc machine’s axis

movement e.g. x-axis z-axis. These axis movement can be via axis specific keys or

through the cnc machine hand wheel.

 MDI Mode or MDA Mode

The cnc machine MDI (Manual Data Input) mode or MDA (Manual Data Automatic)

mode can be called a semi automatic mode. The cnc MDI or MDA mode is mostly used

to index tools, or to execute one block of cnc code (on some models of cnc such as

sinumerik 840D you can execute multi block cnc program in MDA mode ). The cnc M-

Codes can be executed in MDI or MDA mode. You can even rotate the cnc machine

spindle to a specific RPM in MDI or MDA mode.

 Single Block Mode

The cnc program consists of cnc program blocks. The cnc program blocks are

numbered such as N10, N20, N30 and so on. In cnc machine single block mode when

we press the cycle start button on the cnc machine control panel only one block of the

cnc program will be executed and the machine slide or cnc machine carriage will stop

or you might say that the cnc machine cutting tool feed will be at hold but remember

that this does not mean that cnc machine fully stops, only cnc machine axis movement

will be at hold and all the othe functions like coolent will continue to flow and

the spindle will continue to rotate. In short the cnc machine single block mode will not

affect the machine spindle rotation but it will only hold the tool feed after the cnc

program block is executed. And if we press the cycle start button again the next

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 program block of the cnc program will be executed and the machine will again be at

hold after that block completion.

 Auto Mode or Automatic Mode

We will rarely see a production shop cnc machine out of cnc machine auto mode. The

most used mode on a cnc machine (on some controls like Sinumerik 840D the machine

control panel has a setting key which when switched off the machine will only be in

auto mode and we can’t change the modes). In cnc machine auto mode when you press

the cycle start button on the machine control panel the whole cnc program will be

executed. To run the cnc machine in auto mode there are some conditions on some cnc

machine such as the cnc machine safety guard door must be closed.

4.2 CONTROL PANEL AND THEIR FUNCTION

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 Fig.10- CNC machine controller

 ALARM keys

Keys located on the machine panel that display alarm information for the machine

panel. These keys are different from the alarm keys associated with the control panel

 AUTO key

The key on the CNC machine that changes the operation mode to auto. Auto mode

allows an operator to call up and execute a part program stored in memory. Auto mode

is sometimes called memory mode on some CNC controls.

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 AUX/GRAPH

A function key located on the MDI keypad that displays the graphics screen.

 Axis/direction keys

The area of the machine control that allows an operator to select a specific axis.

 BLOCK DELET key

A machine control that provides the option of skipping a predetermined series of

program blocks. A block delete allows the operator to run two versions of the same

program.

 Brackets

[ ]. Punctuation marks used to separate CNC program commands from macro

statements.

 CAN key

A key located on the MDI keypad that backspaces the cursor to delete the last character

entered, and cancels any program block that is highlighted during a block edit.

 Control panel

The group of controls on a CNC machine that run, store, and edit the commands of a

part program and other coordinate information.

 Coolant keys

The area of the CNC machine control that allows an operator to turn the coolant on and

off, manually or automatically, during a program cycle.

 Cursor keys
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 The up and down arrow keys located on the MDI keypad that enable an operator to

move through various screens and fields in the control, edit and search for CNC

programs, and move the cursor through the program or screen options.

 Cycle start

The control button used to begin a program or continue a program that has been

previously stopped.

 Cycle stop

The control button used to pause a program. Also known as feed hold, cycle stop

pauses tool feed but does not stop spindle movement.

 Display screen

The main screen of the machine that displays important information for the operator.

 DRY RUN key

A key that activates the dry run feature on a CNC machine. The dry run function checks

a program quickly without cutting parts.

 EDIT key

The key on the CNC machine that changes the operation mode to edit. Edit mode allows

an operator to make changes to a part program and store those changes.

 Emergency stop

Used for emergencies only, the control button that automatically shuts down all

machine functions.

 End-of-block key
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 EOB. A signal that marks the end of a part program block. An end-of-block signal is

represented by a semicolon (;) in a part program.

 Execution keys

The area of the CNC machine control that allows an operator to begin or end a part

program. The execution keys include CYCLE START and CYCLE STOP.

 Function keys

Keys located on the MDI keypad that enable the operator to choose between different

tasks.

 HOME key

A key that automatically moves the spindle to the machine zero position. The HOME

key is sometimes called the zero return key on some machines.

 Input key

A key located on the MDI keypad that allows an operator to enter data into the input

buffer. This key is also used to input data from an input/output unit.

 Machine panel

The group of controls on a CNC machine that allow an operator to control machine

components manually. Sometimes called the operator panel.

 Manual data input keypad

The MDI keypad is located on the control panel and houses the address, numeric, and

navigation keys.

 Manual pulse generator

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 A circular handwheel on a CNC machine that can move a tool incrementally along an

axis. On some machines the MPG is known as the "handle."

 Manual pulse generator keys

Keys located on the machine panel that allow the operator to move

the tool incrementally along an axis.

 MDI key

The key on the CNC machine that changes the operation mode to manual data input

mode. Manual data input mode lets an operator enter and execute program data without

disturbing stored data.

 MPG keys

The keys on the operator panel that control the size of incremental movement of the

manual pulse generator.

 No. key

A key that allows an operator to enter a numerical value into the input buffer. The

SHIFT key must be used with the No. key.

 Numeric keys

Keys located on the MDI keypad that allow an operator to enter numbers, a minus sign,

and a decimal point into the control. These keys also contain the CAN key, manual JOG

arrow keys, the EOB key, the BLOCK DELET, and the right and left cursor move keys.

 OFSET

A function key located on the MDI keypad that displays tool offsets and settings.

 OFSET MESUR key

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 A key on the CNC machine control panel that allows the operator to determine and set

a tool offset. It measures the current coordinate value and the coordinate value of a

command, and uses the difference as the offset value. If the offset value is already

known, pressing the OFSET MESUR key moves the tool to the specified offset

position.

 Operation keys

The keys located on the operator panel that allow an operator to move tools and set

offsets.

 Operation mode keys

The AUTO, EDIT, and MDI keys that change the operation mode of the CNC machine.

 Operator panel

The group of controls on a CNC machine that allow an operator to control machine

components manually. Sometimes called the machine panel.

 OPR/ALARM

A function key located on the MDI keypad that displays the alarm screen.

 Output/start key

A key located on the MDI keypad that allows an operator to start an automatic

operation and output data into an input/output unit.

 Override

A machine control component that adjusts programmed values such as speed and feed

rate by a certain percentage during operation.

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 Over travel check

A safety function that determines if the tool has moved beyond its set boundaries.

Forbidden zones can be programmed to specify areas where the tool can and cannot

enter.

 Page keys

The up and down arrow keys located on the MDI keypad that allow an operator to move

through various screens and fields one page at a time.

 POS

A function key located on the MDI keypad that displays the position screen that shows

axis locations.

 Power off

The red button on a CNC control panel that shuts off power to the control.

 Power on

The green button on a CNC control panel that provides power to the control.

 PRGRM

A function key located on the MDI keypad that displays the program screen and blocks

of the current part program.

 Program edit keys

Keys located on the MDI keypad that allow an operator to alter, insert, or delete data

from stored memory.

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  Reference position

A fixed position on a machine tool to which the tool can easily be moved by the

reference position return function.

 Reset key

A key located on the MDI keypad that stops all machine motion and places the program

cursor at the top of the current program.

 Shift key

A key located on the MDI keypad that allows an operator to access letters and special

characters found on the address keys.

 SINGL BLOCK key

A key that activates the single block feature on the GE Fanuc 0-C control. The single

block function runs the program one block at a time to prove out the program.

 Spindle keys

The area of the CNC machine control that allows the operator to manually control the

rotation of the spindle in a clockwise or counter clockwise direction. The spindle keys

include CW (clockwise) and CCW (counter clockwise), STOP, and JOG.

 Zero return key

Also known as the home key, zero return automatically moves the spindle to the

machine zero position.

4.3 DIFFERENT CODES USED IN CNC MACHINING

G-Code: The CNC Programming Language

G-Code at a Glance

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Manufacturers all around the world use CNC programming to control a machine’s tools to

produce parts. At the heart of this automated manufacturing process is a set of instructions that

tells a CNC machine where – and how – to move. These instructions are called G-Code.

G-Code Blocks

The G-code standard was published back in the days when machines had small amounts of

memory. Because of this memory limitation, G-code is an extremely compact and concise

language that might almost seem archaic at first glance. Take for example this line of code:

G01 X1 Y1 F20 T01 M03 S500

In this single line we’re giving the machine a series of instructions:

 G01 – Perform a linear feed move

 X1/Y1 – Move to these X and Y coordinates

 F20 – Move at a feed rate of 20

 T01 – Use Tool 1 to get the job done

 M03 – Turn the spindle on

 S500 – Set a spindle speed of 500

Multiple lines of G-code like these combine to form a complete CNC program. our CNC

machine will then read the code one line at a time from left to right and top to bottom, like

reading a book. Each set of instructions is on a separate line, or a block.

4.3.1G-Code Programs

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The goal of every G-code program is to produce parts in the safest and most efficient way

possible. To achieve this you’ll typically find G-code blocks arranged in a very specific order

like this:

1. Start the CNC program

2. Load the required tool

3. Turn the spindle on

4. Turn the coolant on

5. Move to position above a part

6. Start the machining process

7. Turn the coolant off

8. Turn the spindle off

9. Move away from the part to a safe location

10.End the CNC program

4.3.2 M-CODES

M-code (for 'miscellaneous function') is an auxiliary command; descriptions vary. Many M-

codes call for machine functions like 'open workstation door,' which is why some say "M"

stands for "machine", though it was not intended to.

4.3.3 COMMON G&M CODES

G00 - Positioning at rapid speed; Mill and Lathe

G01 - Linear interpolation (machining a straight line); Mill and Lathe

G02 - Circular interpolation clockwise (machining arcs); Mill and Lathe

G03 - Circular interpolation, counter clockwise; Mill and Lathe

G04 - Mill and Lathe, Dwell G09 - Mill and Lathe, Exact stop

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G10 - Setting offsets in the program; Mill and Lathe

G12 - Circular pocket milling, clockwise; Mill

G13 - Circular pocket milling, counterclockwise; Mill

G17 - X-Y plane for arc machining; Mill and Lathe with live tooling

G18 - Z-X plane for arc machining; Mill and Lathe with live tooling

G19 - Z-Y plane for arc machining; Mill and Lathe with live tooling

G20 - Inch units; Mill and Lathe

G21 - Metric units; Mill and Lathe

G27 - Reference return check; Mill and Lathe

G28 - Automatic return through reference point; Mill and Lathe

G29 - Move to location through reference point; Mill and Lathe (slightly different for each

machine)

G31 - Skip function; Mill and Lathe

G32 - Thread cutting; Lathe

G33 - Thread cutting; Mill

G40 - Cancel diameter offset; Mill. Cancel tool nose offset; Lathe

G41 - Cutter compensation left; Mill. Tool nose radius compensation left; Lathe

G42 - Cutter compensation right; Mill. Tool nose radius compensation right; Lathe

G43 - Tool length compensation; Mill

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G44 - Tool length compensation cancel; Mill (sometimes G49)

G50 - Set coordinate system and maximum RPM; Lathe

G52 - Local coordinate system setting; Mill and Lathe

G53 - Machine coordinate system setting; Mill and Lathe

G54~G59 - Workpiece coordinate system settings #1 t0 #6; Mill and Lathe

G61 - Exact stop check; Mill and Lathe

G65 - Custom macro call; Mill and Lathe

G70 - Finish cycle; Lathe

G71 - Rough turning cycle; Lathe

G72 - Rough facing cycle; Lathe

G73 - Irregular rough turning cycle; Lathe

G73 - Chip break drilling cycle; Mill

G74 - Left hand tapping; Mill

G74 - Face grooving or chip break drilling; Lathe

G75 - OD groove pecking; Lathe

G76 - Fine boring cycle; Mill

G76 - Threading cycle; Lathe

G80 - Cancel cycles; Mill and Lathe

G81 - Drill cycle; Mill and Lathe

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G82 - Drill cycle with dwell; Mill

G83 - Peck drilling cycle; Mill

G84 - Tapping cycle; Mill and Lathe

G85 - Bore in, bore out; Mill and Lathe

G86 - Bore in, rapid out; Mill and Lathe

G87 - Back boring cycle; Mill

G90 - Absolute programming

G91 - Incremental programming

G92 - Reposition origin point; Mill

G92 - Thread cutting cycle; Lathe

G94 - Per minute feed; Mill

G95 - Per revolution feed; Mill

G96 - Constant surface speed control; Lathe

G97 - Constant surface speed cancel

G98 - Per minute feed; Lathe

G99 - Per revolution feed; Lathe

CNC M Codes

M00 - Program stop; Mill and Lathe

M01 - Optional program stop; Lathe and Mill

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M02 - Program end; Lathe and Mill

M03 - Spindle on clockwise; Lathe and Mill

M04 - Spindle on counterclockwise; Lathe and Mill

M05 - Spindle off; Lathe and Mill M06 - Toolchange; Mill

M08 - Coolant on; Lathe and Mill

M09 - Coolant off; Lathe and Mill

M10 - Chuck or rotary table clamp; Lathe and Mill

M11 - Chuck or rotary table clamp off; Lathe and Mill

M19 - Orient spindle; Lathe and Mill

M30 - Program end, return to start; Lathe and Mill

M97 - Local sub-routine call; Lathe and Mill

M98 - Sub-program call; Lathe and Mill

M99 - End of sub program; Lathe and Mill

5. CNC Machine start procedure

5.1 Manual Sequences

 To start machine

 To do a manual reference return

 To manually start spindle

 To manually jog axes

 To use the handwheel to cause axis motion

 To manually load tools into spindle

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  To manually load tools into magazine

 To manually turn on coolant

 To make axis displays read zero or any number

 To enter tool offsets (length and radius)

 To manually turn on mirror image

 To manually select inch or metric mode.

5.2 Manual Data Input Sequences

 To use MDI to change tools

 To use MDI to turn on spindle

 To use MDI to do a reference return

 To use MDI to move axes.

5.3 Program Loading And Saving Sequences

 To load programs into memory by tape

 To load programs into memory by RS-232 port

 To load programs into memory through keyboard

 To punch programs from memory to tape punch or computer.

5.4 Program Display And Editing Sequences

 To display a directory of the programs in memory

 To delete a whole program from memory

 To search other programs in memory

 To search to words inside a program

 To alter words in memory

 To delete words and commands in memory

 To insert words and commands in memory.

5.5 Setup Sequences

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  To measure program zero positions

 To measure tool length information.

5.6 Program Running Sequences

 To verify programs

 To run verified programs in production

 To run from the beginning

6. Advantages and disadvantages of CNC Machine

6.1 Advantages

1. When CNC machine is programmed correctly, it is usually 100% accurate with what they

produce. They produce parts to maximise accuracy. Provide good positional accuracy and

repeatability. Provide a high degree of quality because of their accuracy and their ability to

reuse programs.

2. CNC machines are programmed with a design which can then be manufactured hundreds or

even thousands of times. Each manufactured product will be exactly the same.

3. CNC machines are not all that difficult to use once you learn how. For example: Complex

jigs and fixtures are not required in all areas since fewer jigs are used, the actual storage

requirements are reduced. Lower tooling costs since there is less need for complex jigs and

fixtures. Once the first piece has passed inspection, minimal inspection is required on

subsequent parts. Advanced machine control and programming capabilities allow for

complex machining operations to be more easily.

4. Modern design software allows the designer to simulate the manufacture of his/her idea.

There is no need to make a prototype or a model. This saves time and money.

5. Using CNC machines effectively reduces the amount of time take to produce furniture

items. CNC machines enable the operator to make changes or improvements with a

minimum of delay or expense. Reduce waste as errors due to operator fatigue, interruptions

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 and other factors are less likely to occur. Improve production planning as they can often

perform work at one setting that would normally require several conventional machines.

Reduce lead time as a result of lower tooling costs.

6. CNC machines can be used continuously 24 hours a day, 365 days a except for occasional

maintenance time.

7. Less skilled/trained people can operate CNC machines unlike manual lathes/milling

machines etc. which need skilled people to operate.

8. CNC machines can be updated by improving the software used to run the machine.

9. Training in the use of CNCs is available through the use of ‘virtual software’. This is

software that allows the operator to practice using the CNC machine on the screen of a

computer. The software is similar to a computer game which can be fun learning process

and makes it easy to learn.

10. CNC machines can be programmed by advanced design software such as Pro/DESKTOP®,

enabling the manufacture of products that cannot be made by manual machines, even those

used by skilled designers / engineers.

11. One person can supervise many CNC machines at once they are programmed, they can

usually be left to work by themselves. Sometimes only the cutting tools need replacing

occasionally.

6.2 Disadvantages

1. As with any business, costs are always a factor. CNC machinery costs quite a lot more than

conventional machinery. It does not eliminate the need for expensive tools. Parts (machines

and tooling) are costly and their purchase requires extensive justification. It is expensive to

repair.

2. CNC machines do not totally eliminate errors. Operators can still push the wrong buttons,

make incorrect alignments and fail to locate parts properly on a jig.

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3. The CNC machine operator only needs basic training and skills, enough to supervise

several machines. In this bargain, people lost interest in traditional lathes which leads to

wastage of many skilled workers who have been trained in other lathe machines.

7. CNC Lathe in manufacturing industry

CNC lathe machine has replaced all the old versions of lathe. Its advanced has influenced

all the manufacturing or production industries. It has not only lessened the stress but also

increased productivity without compromise of quality. It also saves time and labor work.

Lathe machine was developed by John T. Parsons at the end of the 1940s. Computer

Numerical Control lathe machines are designed in a way that it can create intricate cuts on

materials like plastic, metal and wood etc.

 CNC lathe machines are very versatile and consist of an extremely fast spinning

spindle.

 CNC Lathe machine has flourished its use in manufacturing industries for the

production of different parts.

 This advanced technology has become part of industries which involves work on parts

reclamation, glass working, metal spinning, woodturning, thermal spraying etc.

8. Future of CNC Technology: A next Manufacturing revolution

Based on the need for more complex and sophisticated aircraft parts, the Computer Numerical

Control (CNC) concept was first introduced to advance the machineries in the aircraft

industries shortly after World War II. The CNC process is used by the manufacturing sector to

control a machine or a tool using a programmable computer. Today, CNC machining is

widespread; it dominates the manufacturing sector, allowing for a considerable jump in

productivity around the world. With the advancement of CNC technology, we’ve seen many

advancements applied beyond the CNC industry, such as simplified programming language,

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improved engine communications, and customization. As CNC technology continues to evolve,

we can say without a doubt, that the most exciting progression of CNC is yet to come.

 The Integration of the Best of Two Worlds

Due to the nature of the concept, CNC programs used to be limited to only control the CNC

machines that aid manufacturing processes throughout history. As time has passed,

manufacturers have moved towards having a centralized system such as Enterprise Resources

Planning software to manage resources and to track the productivity of machines. The next step

that manufacturers are looking to embrace is to adopt an increasingly interconnected system

that will streamline CNC machines with other machines and procedures. Commonly, CNC

machines and manufacturing robots are closely paired in the manufacturing line due CNC’s

strength in processing raw materials and robots’ capability in moving and packing produced

goods. Thus, there are numerous attempts and collaborations between CNC developers,

machine buildings, and robot manufacturers to create a simpler programming languages and

better interaction between CNC machines and robots. For example, collaboration with CNC

developers Siemens and robotic supplier KUKA has produced an interface that allows CNC

operator to control both CNC machines and robots from a single control panel. With many

more collaborations to come, it is exciting to see the progress that will elevate efficiency in

utilizing the CNC.

 Parts and Tools for All

Another notable advancement is the personalization of CNC Machining. Over the years, CNC

3D printers have made prominent progress, allowing individuals to tailor make any simple part

like a square board to a complex tool such as a circuit board. This astonishing development is

accompanied by a drastic cost decrease that enables the general population to acquire new

technology or machines at low prices. Furthermore, as the technology advances, the size of a

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CNC 3D printer has also shrunk to the extent that it could now be placed inside a working

space comfortably. With this technological breakthrough, individuals can now product

customized tools with cost effectiveness at the comfort of their office or home; the progress in

CNC 3D printing will forever alter industries around the world.

CNC has revolutionized the manufacturing process worldwide, allowing for mass productions

of goods and trades. We, at the Institute of Technical Trades, believe that there are still many

undiscovered and vital CNC advancements that will once again alter the way industries

progress in the future. With unlimited possibilities, accompanied by high and steady demand

for CNC professionals, we believe that we’re experiencing one of the best times for the CNC

industry as a career.

References

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1. Todd, Robert H.; Allen, Dell K.; Al ting, Leo (1994), Manufacturing Processes Reference

Guide, Industrial Press Inc., p. 153, ISBN 0-8311-3049-0.

2. ^ Jump up to:a Workshop Technology by W.A.J. Chapman Ph.D. M.Sc.(Eng.),

M.I.Mech.E., M.I.Prod.E. Principal Hatfield College of Technology, Hertfordshire first

published 1951 part one, two and three published by Edward Arnold (publishers Limited

3. ^ Jump up to:a b Koepfer, Chris (2010-01-22). "Hard Turning as an Alternative to

Grinding". Production Machining. Retrieved 2010-03-04.

4. ^ "Threading On A Lathe : Modern Machine Shop". Mmsonline.com. 2003-01-15.

Retrieved 2012-03-13.

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