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A Spiral Milling Custom Macro Using Constant Contouring Feedrate

Helical milling or “spiral” milling are helpful when machining a circular pocket that is much larger than the milling cutter diameter.

Improve CNC Productivity by Addressing Three Production Issues

To boost a CNC machine’s productivity, prioritize improvements to machine setup time and production runtime.

CNC & Machine Controls

7 CNC Parameters You Should Know

Parameters tell the CNC every little detail about the specific machine tool being used, and how all CNC features and functions are to be utilized.

Measurement

5 Things CNC Operators Must Know About Sizing Adjustments

For CNC operators, sizing adjustment is an essential skill. Keep these points in mind when training new CNC users.

A Unique Additive/Subtractive Process for Injection Mold Components

This hybrid machining approach takes advantage of the benefits of deposition 3D printing while using CNC machining to overcome its limitations.

CNC & Machine Controls

3 Examples of Machines that Combine Manufacturing Methods

Certain “hybrid” machines combine some form of additive manufacturing with CNC subtractive manufacturing. Columnist Mike Lynch, President of CNC Concepts Inc., explores three types of these machines here.

Five Areas of CNC Machining to Simplify With G Code

Optimizing G code to make CNC setup and operation simpler is a great way to improve CNC productivity and sometimes prevent errors.

CNC & Machine Controls

Five Safety Considerations for CNC Machinists

Safety in CNC environments is essential for users – and for productivity. Consider these 5 points to avoid injury, part failure and downtime.

How to Drill Holes With a Right-Angle Head

Drilling with a right-angle head in a machining center spindle can be tricky – doubly so if the hole must be peck-drilled. A custom macro and careful attention to positioning help ensure smooth production.

CNC & Machine Controls

5 G-Code Tips for Increasing CNC Efficiency

Optimizing G code is a low-cost way to improve CNC efficiency without sacrificing usability and safety.

Machining Centers

How to Determine the Currently Active Work Offset Number

Determining the currently active work offset number is practical when the program zero point is changing between workpieces in a production run.

CNC & Machine Controls

Understanding G27, G28, G29 and G30

Take a closer look at these reference position commands.

CNC & Machine Controls

Understanding CNC Machine Accuracy and Repeatability

Properly evaluating machine tool capability requires understanding how the both user and the builder can influence precision.

CNC & Machine Controls

When to Use Custom Macros With a CAM System

Custom macros can offer benefits even when using a CAM system to prepare programs – but must be implemented with the right considerations.

CNC & Machine Controls

6 Steps to Take Before Creating a CNC Program

Any time saved by skipping preparation for programming can be easily lost when the program makes it to the machine. Follow these steps to ensure success.

Improve CNC Programs With User-Defined G, M Codes

CNC operators can program user-defined G and M codes to call custom macros and improve upon or replace existing codes, which can in turn improve production.

CNC & Machine Controls

Consistency and Compatibility Improve CNC Productivity

Consistency and compatibility among CNC machines can decrease setup time and confusion among operators. 

Beyond Toolpaths: Four Additional Priorities for CNC Programs

An effective CNC program respects considerations such as ease of use and program-to-program consistency that go beyond just driving the machine in a particular application.

Additive Manufacturing

NC Lessons Learned Apply to Additive Manufacturing

Just as numerical control of the 1960s had much room for growth, so do the additive manufacturing machines of today.

5 Ways to Simplify Tasks for CNC Newcomers

Manufacturers can easily train new CNC users by simplifying tasks. Learn how to simplify CNC tasks for new hires in this CNC Tech Talk.

CNC & Machine Controls

Calling Custom Macros Through Modal Commands

While G65 does not enable users to simply and easily carry out Custom Macros in multiple locations, G66 and G66.1 provide modal solutions for doing so.

CNC & Machine Controls

Juggling Mismatches in Resolution and Least Input Increment

While CNC machining and turning systems of the past only had resolutions and least input increments equal to the displayed decimal places, new systems support more precise inputs.

CNC & Machine Controls

Custom Macros Can Skip Holes After Replacing Broken Tools

Using “vacant” local variables enables CNC machinists to create custom macros that can target multiple types of machining work.

CNC & Machine Controls

Adjusting Feed Rate in Circular Motion Commands with G-Codes

While it is possible to calculate by hand adjustments to feed rate for circular milling operations, cutter radius compensation CNC programs streamline this process.      

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