CNC language
CNC language
(OP)
I would like to learn something about CNC programming. I am a design engineer and don't do any programming, but I know how to use Visual Basic and learned it on my own. We don't have any manufacturing engineers here anymore so it might be a good thing to learn (they will probably give me all the rope I want!).
Is there a typical language to start with, or is every machine different. If there is a common one I might be able to find something in the local or college library.
Thanks,
John Woodward
Is there a typical language to start with, or is every machine different. If there is a common one I might be able to find something in the local or college library.
Thanks,
John Woodward





RE: CNC language
We do manual G code programming for most simple parts almost as fast as CAM software, and in some cases faster. Turning is easier to program than milling, and they have some different codes for the respective machine.
Most machines have programming examples in their operators manuals and a list if the codes they use for programming.
Most machines use G01 for linear feed moves, G02 and G03 for arcs, G00 for rapid linear moves. There will be several canned cycles to reduce programming steps and time. M functions turn thing on and off, M3 is spindle CW, M4 is spindle CCW, M5 stops the spindle, M8 turns coolant on, M9 is coolant off.
RE: CNC language
If you know any programming at all, this will be easy to pick up once you learn you controls naming conventions.
These type programs in the CNC world are called macros (if you want to do any research). First make sure your machine/controller have macro capability and that that option is turned on. Then try to figure out the language.
The 2 websites I recommend for info are:
www.cncci.com
-->There's an excellent book available from Mike Lynch there too called something like Intro to Parametric Programming. It covers the main control languages out there.
and
www.programmingunlimited.com
I've been out of the CNC programming world for a couple years, but at that time these were the only worthwhile sites out there...and I doubt there's much more available now.
Good luck,
Ken
RE: CNC language
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RE: CNC language
RE: CNC language
1) The CNC programming is usually the easiest part of the job. Understanding tooling, machining, workholding, and troubleshooting are equally important and usually more demanding.
2) What machines/controls do you have and are they all pretty much the same age? Your task will be complicated if you have a variety of ages or of control manufacturers. There is an ANSI standard (or was at one time at least) for G/M codes, but it only covered the more basic points. Room was always left for the control/machine manufacturer to customize, and, as controls evolved, there was more custimization and therfore more variety.
3) There are at least 4 means of part programming in existance. Two were previously listed -- G/M coding (manual programming) and CAD system based programming. In addition, there are "language" programming systems (APT, Compact II, NiCAM, etc.) These have fallen out of favor with the advent and improvement of CAD systems, but do have some advantages if your environment is a production environment rather than prototype/job shop. Finally, some controls offer on-board programming that is similar to a CAD based system. You will want to determine what systems you have available and concentrate on that one. Even if you have a higher level system, you should at least understand the G/M code.
4) KenBolen commented about variable type programming previously. If you have a control with the type of variable programming he discusses, you are a lucky man indeed! Newer controls are more likely to have this type of system. However, there are as many different systems for parametric programming as there are control manufacturers. Additionally, each generation of control could have a different system! Some earlier controls actually put parametric programming features into the G/M codes and earlier ones did not have it at all! Again, it is important to know your equipment and to look at the manuals that came with it. Usually, there is a Programmer's manual in addition to the Operator's manual which will give you more specific programming info.
Good Luck!
RE: CNC language
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