CNC milling machines are incredible at producing intricate products with great accuracy using materials such as wood, metal, or plastic as rotating tools. They are widely used in a variety of industries, including defense, electronics, transportation, and aerospace. However, for proper functioning and precise manufacturing of different components, these machines require top-notch CNC milling machine programming. Want to know what CNC milling machine programming is and the different types of codes used? Let’s dig in!
What is CNC Milling Machine Programming?
CNC milling machine programming or computer numerical control programming in milling is a set of codes or instructions that are used to operate and manage CNC milling machines. It empowers manufacturers to make their daily operations more automated, precise, and efficient. This makes it possible for you to create complex products with excellent quality and consistency. There are different types of CNC programming, such as:
- Computer-Aided Manufacturing:CAM programming is the most commonly used type of programming for CNC machines. In this, CAM software is employed by taking CAD files as input and producing instructions known as G-codes that control the CNC machine tools.
- Manual CNC Programming: Manual Computer Numerical Control Programming, as the name suggests, manually provides commands to the CNC machines. In this, the manufacturers may input commands into a control console, which is part of the CNC equipment. However, this CNC milling machine programming is prone to errors and only works for manufacturing simple products.
What is G-Code in CNC Machining Programming?
G-code, or Geometric code, is a kind of programming language that manages the functions and movements of the cutting tool in order to deliver precision in CNC machining. These G-codes consist of a set of instructions that the microcontroller in the CNC machine interprets and conveys to the relevant machine part.
Almost all CNC machines come with built-in G-codes. Nonetheless, manufacturers often tweak their format to make the CNC machines work according to their unique requirements.
What are the Common G-Codes in CNC Milling Machine Programming?
There’s a huge list of G Code for CNC machines; however, we are only going to discuss a few ones that are suitable for CNC milling. These include:
- G17:XY Plane Selection – Commands the machine to operate in the XY plane, which is the default plane for most milling operations.
- G40:Cancel Cutter Radius Compensation – Turns off tool compensation initiated by G41 or G42 once the cut is completed.
- G81: Standard Drilling Canned Cycle – Used for basic and center drilling operations.
- G84: Right-Hand Tapping Cycle – Rotates the CNC milling machine spindle clockwise to tap a pre-drilled hole with a right-hand thread.
- G90: Absolute Positioning Mode – Instructs the machine to attain absolute positions based on the point of origin you entered at the start.
What is M Code?
M Code, also called miscellaneous code, is an essential element of CNC milling machine programming that works in tandem with G Code. Compared to G Code, which focuses on the geometry of the cut, M Code deals with the movement of physical parts of the CNC machine.
For instance, these codes manage operations like halting a program, activating machine coolant, controlling spindle movement, and much more. Here’s a list of a few M Codes with an overview of their functions:
- M00: Stops CNC program temporarily
- M02: Ends the CNC program once a function is complete
- M03: Rotates spindle in the clockwise direction
- M04: Rotates spindle in an anticlockwise direction
- M08: Activates coolant
KAIAO’s CNC Milling Services
When it comes to the best milling services or extensive CNC machining services, KAIAO is a prominent name. Our production specialists have adequate knowledge about G code and M code, ensuring your vision is turned into reality with precision.
We use advanced CNC software along with high precision and efficient 3-axis/4-axis/5-axis, so the final product meets your exact specifications. In addition, we are ISO 9001, AS9100, and ISO 13485 certified, reflecting our commitment to quality and top-notch manufacturing.
Conclusion
CNC milling machine programming is necessary to take the manufacturing industry to new heights of accuracy and excellence. You should stop relying on manual and error-prone processes and embrace the precision and efficiency that CNC technology offers. If you need a partner in this automation and advancement journey, there’s no option better than KAIAO. Contact us today with your requirements and get your equipment ready in as little as 5 days!
