CNC Machines

Panasonic AC Servo Motor Model MKM602D8A1

2011-05-14T06:46:00.000-07:00

Panasonic AC servo motor model MKM602D8A1 (6KW) is suitable to use as spindle motor for medium size CNC machine or CNC milling machine. This servo motor is dual type motor and has two connector ports, there are encoder connector and power cable connector port

Detail about Panasonic AC Servo Motor
Model: MKM602D8A1
Input Power: 200VAC 3 phase
Rated Frequency: 200 Hz
Rated Revolution: 10000 RPM/min (max)
Current: 35 Amp
Rated Output: 6.0 KW or 6000 Watt
Continuous Torque: 9.55 NM

For more details refer to its vin plate image

Panasonic AC Servo Motor

Vin Plate

Male AC Servo Motor Encoder Connector (MS3102A20 - 29P)

Encoder Connector Pin Arrangement

Encoder pin connector (MS3102A20 - 29P) details
A = Channel Encoder Signal A+ or A
B = Channel Encoder Signal A- or A\
C = Channel Encoder Signal B+ or B
D = Channel Encoder Signal B- or B\
E = Channel Encoder Signal Z+ or Z
F = Channel Encoder Signal Z- or Z\
G = 0 V
H = +5 VDC
J = Shield (Frame Ground)
K = Commutation Signal U+ or U
L = Commutation Signal U- or U\
M = Commutation Signal V+ or V
N = Commutation Signal V- or V\
P = Commutation Signal W+ or W
R = Commutation Signal W- or W\
S = Thermal to protect the signals
T = Thermal to protect the signals

There is no pin I, O and Q

Male AC Servo Motor Power Cable Connector (MS3102A20 - 4P)

Power Cable Connector Pin Arrangement

Motor power cable connector (MS3102A20 - 4P) details
A = U phase
B = V phase
C = W phase
D = Ground or Earthing

How To Cut Uneven Outer Cylindrical Surface

2009-12-28T06:56:00.000-08:00

How to cut uneven outer cylindrical surface workpiece on CNC Turning Machine? In fact, machining uneven outer cylindrical surface workpiece or irregular outer cylindrical surface workpiece on CNC turning machine center or CNC lathe machine requires a fundamental understanding of the relationships between workpiece surface integrity, tool life, type of workpiece material, size of workpiece, type of tool tip and machining parameters setting such as depth of cut, spindle speed and cutting tool feed rate and how severe the workpiece outer surface condition. Of course, the tool tip material also need to be considered but I'm not going to emphasize it here because I'm using the standard tool tip, High Speed Steel (HSS) tool tip with nose radius range from 0.4 mm to 0.8 mm to perform the tuning and facing operations. In some cases, I will use the same tool tip for turning and facing operations.

If the machining operation involve time consuming especially when performing mass production then you need to have more powerful tool tip such as carbide tool tip. In CNC turning machine center, single point cutting tool or tool tip also known as an insert because we need to insert the tool tip onto the forged tool holder and attach the tool holder on the turret system or Auto Tool Changer (ATC) before we can use it in the machining operation.

Machining the uneven outer cylindrical surface workpiece on CNC lathe machine, a rough cut need to perform. When performing rough cut on the uneven outer cylindrical surface or irregular outer cylindrical surface workpiece, it is very crucial to have a correct machining parameters setting. Incorrect machining parameters setting especially the spindle speed, feed rate and depth of cut will led to tool tip blunt very fast, crack or breakdown.

Here are my machining parameters setting when performing a turning rough cut on irregular outer cylindrical surface or uneven outer cylindrical surface workpiece. I am using CNC turning machine center with Centroid CNC Controller.

Tool = High Speed Steel (HSS) tool tip
Workpiece Material = Mild Steel SS41
Workpiece Diameter = 143 mm
Workpiece Length = 160 mm
Feed Rate = 5 F/M (Feed per Minute)
Spindle Speed = 200 RPM (Rotation per Minute)
Depth of Cut = 1 mm (total unused material remove from workpiece is 2 mm out of total diameter in 1 cycle of turning operation)

Finish cut parameters setting for turning operation

Feed Rate = 70 F/M
Spindle Speed = 800 RPM
Depth of Cut = 0.2 mm (total unused material remove from workpiece is 0.4 mm out of total diameter in 1 cycle of turning operation)

Video clip showing the turning process to cut and machining the uneven or irregular outer cylindrical surface workpiece on CNC Turning Machine Center.

CNC Lathe Boring Bar

2009-12-04T11:57:00.000-08:00

CNC lathe boring bar is on of the CNC turning machine center tool used to enlarge the inner diameter of the pre-existing hole on the rotationally-symmetrical workpiece or cylindrical workpiece. CNC lathe boring bar consists of a long bar and an insert or a single-point cutting tool which will be positioned at the end of the long bar and use in the boring operations. Boring bar is needed especially to get an accuarate large diameter and high surface roughness in the inner surface of the cylindrical workpiece.

Boring bar

Insert or single-point cutting tool attached on the long bar and the combination of both known as boring bar

Boring operation using boring bar tool performed on the CNC turning machine center

Before the boring bar can be used in the boring operation on the cylindrical workpiece, a small hole need to drill on the center diameter of the workpice and the hole diameter must be sufficient enough to accommodate the boring bar or the boring tool. For high surface roughness, I myself use roughing cut, boring tool feed rate range from 2 to 4 feed per minute, spindle speed equal to 180 RPM and depth of cut equal to 2.5 mm. For finishing, the boring tool feed rate equal to 5 or 6 feed per minute, spindle speed is 400 RPM and depth of cut is 0.5 mm. The workpiece material is mild steel SS41

Summary for boring bar cutting operation:

Boring Bar Roughing Cut

Feed Rate = 2 ~ 4 F/M (Feed Per Minute)
Spindle Speed = 180 RPM ( Rotation Per Minute)
Depth of Cut = 2.5 mm (millimeter)

Boring Bar Finishing Cut

Feed Rate = 5 ~ 6 F/M
Spindle Speed = 400 RPM
Depth of Cut = 0.5 mm

Completed machining part. Other machining methods involved to complete this part are turning, facing and drilling

Cylindrical workpiece mild steel SS41 with high surface roughness

Video clip boring operation performed on cylindrical workpiece using CNC lathe machine center or CNC turning machine center

Automatic Lubrication Pump

2009-05-18T05:32:00.000-07:00

Automatic lubrication pump unit or motorized lubrication pump unit consists of an electrically driven pump unit, filter, level switch or float switch, oil filler, buzzer, pressure switch, acrylic or metal reservoir, lubricant oil indicator, lubrication timer and programmed controller unit.

CESH Electric Lubricator

Lubrication timer is required to turn ON and OFF the pump to lubricate the lubrication points intermittently at a specific interval. Level switch or float switch uses to detect the lubricant oil level and turn ON the buzzer when the lubricant oil level is lower than the required minimum level. The lubricant oil indicator is used to indicate and visualize the minimum lubricant oil level in the reservoir.

Automatic lubrication pump equipped with buzzer unit

All the important parts on the lubrication pump unit will be integrated and connected to the programmed controller on the pump unit itself or connected directly to the CNC machine controller to control and monitor the lubricant oil level in the oil reservoir and to control the lubrication cycle.

Nowadays, the automatic lubrication pump units are widely used in centralized lubrication system for CNC machines center (such as CNC milling center and CNC lathe center) to deliver the specific amount of lubricant oil to the lubrication points at a specific interval.

Automatic lubrication pump - centralized lubrication system

CNC Machine Lubrication Program

2009-05-11T03:44:00.000-07:00

A periodic CNC machine lubrication program has a significant impact on the CNC machine performance and reliability. It is essential that the CNC machine moving parts should be correctly and adequately lubricated. Failure to practice a proper CNC machine lubrication program at a correct intervals with a proper amount and viscosity of lubricant oil especially on the moving parts will drastically increase the machine maintenance and repairing cost, increase the unscheduled downtime, increase the production cost and reduce the CNC machine lifetime performance. The CNC machine lubricating program is the first defense against premature wear or damage to the machine.

The CNC machine lubrication program is the responsible of preventive maintenance staffs. They have to design a solid preventive maintenance program especially the machine lubricating program on the moving parts such as spindle, linear guides and ballscrews. Base on my experienced, the machinists or the machine operators are part of the first defense system against chronic CNC machine failure because they have the capabilities to monitor the lubricant oil level especially during ordinary machine operation then, they should be part of the CNC machine preventive maintenance team.

Centralized manual lubrication pump

Nowadays, most of the CNC machines in the market are equipped with the centralized lubrication system to deliver the lubricant oil to the lubrication points on the CNC machine whether using hand operated oil pump (manual lubrication pump) or motorized oil pump (automatic lubrication pump). Basically, most of the centralized manual lubrication pumps are used on the small CNC machines and most of the centralized automatic lubrication pump are used by bigger CNC machine or multiple axises CNC machine. Centralized automatic lubrication pump uses programmable timer to deliver precise amount of lubricant oil to the lubrication points. The centralized lubricating system drastically reduce the preventive maintenance cost. However, centralized manual lubrication pump still need comprehensive machine lubricating schedule. An efficient CNC machine lubricating program is the essential tool to keep the CNC machine running smoothly.

Centralized automatic lubrication pump

415VAC 3 Phase to 240Vac Single Phase

2008-12-19T03:23:00.000-08:00

This is the CNC machine basic wiring diagram to step down the 415 VAC 3 phase power line to 240VAC single phase. To step down the 415 VAC 3 phase to 240 VAC 1 phase, I will take the L1 and N and connect them to 2 poles Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB). The combination of L1 and N will generate 240 VAC single phase power line.

415 VAC to 240 VAC Step Down Circuit Diagram

L1 = R = Life 1
L2 = S = Life 2
L3 = T = Life 3
N = Neutral
E = earth or grounding

In the CNC machine, the 415 VAC 3 phase normally use by the CNC machine spindle motor. In fact, most CNC machine spindle motor can use whether 415 VAC 3 phase or 220 VAC 3 phase. The use of 240 VAC single phase is very seldom in CNC machine however some CNC machine retrofitter will use this power line to retrofit the CNC machine especially to power up the lamp and lubrication system but mostly depends on the industrial electrical components standard input power of each country or state.

When building a CNC machine, Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker (ELCB) and MCB must be used to ensure all the CNC electrical and electronic components are well protected. For extra protection, fuses are also will be used. I myself use ELCB range from 40 Amp to 80 Amp, MCB range from 20 Amp to 32 Amp and fuses range from 10 Amp to 20 Amp.

220VAC 3 Phase to 110VAC Single Phase

2008-12-16T09:13:00.000-08:00

Nowadays, most CNC machines are using 220VAC 3 phase power supply to power up the spindle motor and other electrical components such as coolant motor and inverter. Other electrical components like lamp and servo drive are using 110VAC power supply, then in this case you need to step down the 220VAC 3 phase to 110VAC single phase.

Diagram below is showing you the simple technique to convert or step down the power line 220VAC 3 phase to 110VAC single phase. In order to convert the 220VAC 3 phase power supply into 110VAC 1 phase, you need to use proper electrical components such as Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker (ELCB) and 2 poles Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB). You are strongly recommended to use some fuses to protect any electrical components on your CNC machine.

Centroid AC Servo Motor Wiring Diagram

2008-12-12T03:23:00.000-08:00

High inertia Centroid AC Servo Motor type HJ130C8-64S with maximum 4000 RPM, 5.7NM torque, 34A and 260V input power make it suitable to retrofit medium size CNC machines especially CNC milling machines and CNC lathe machines. This servo motor is typically use to retrofit the milling machine x-axis and y-axis. Scroll down to get details info about the servo motor wiring diagram especially the encoder pins and the power supply pins

Centroid servo motor female encoder pin connector. The female connector has 17 pins

Male servo motor encoder pin connector

Servo motor 4 pins female power connector

Servo motor male power connector; U, V, W and grounding or shield

The Centroid AC servo motor wiring diagram for encoder pin connector and power supply connector

Encoder pin connector symbol

CNC Inverter Wiring Diagram

2008-10-31T10:34:00.001-07:00

The image above showing you the basic cnc wiring diagram for inverter that connected to spindle motor and servo drive. The connection here frequently use for low torque DC spindle motor.

More advance cnc wiring diagram for inverter where the servo drive can detect directly whether the inverter is fully functional. In term of safety, this type of inverter circuit diagram is more level protection of safety compare to the CNC inverter basic wiring diagram and normally use for high torque spindle motor or AC spindle motor type

The circuit diagram image above is more clear then the circuit CNC wiring diagram image in the previous blog post

CNC Wiring Diagram

2008-10-30T07:34:00.000-07:00

The CNC wiring diagram shown in this page is created using Mechanical Desktop Version 6 and the wiring digram is showing you the very basic CNC wiring circuit diagram. Basically this CNC machine controlled by the CNC machine controller which consists of a CNC servo drive to control all the electrical parts such as axes servo motors, coolant motor, hydraulic motor, spindle motor, lubrication motor, inverter, working light, DC contactors and DC reversing contactor. The CNC controller panel is located in front of the CNC machine and not shown on this CNC circuit diagram.

The type of CNC servo drive shown on the diagram is 2 in 1 CNC servo drive which consists of servo drive and programming logic control section (PLC). The PLC section has some input and output (I/O). The electrical parts which will generate the signal such as limit switches, sensors, button, emergency switch and etc will be connected to the PLC input to be processed and the PLC will turn on some of the related PLC output. Those electrical parts that will receive the instruction from PLC such as motor, light, solenoid valve, contactors and etc will be connected to the PLC output. The output itself can be act as an input or signal to the PLC but the input never be act as an output.

Each axis servo motor and its encoder are connected directly to the CNC servo drive to ensure the CNC servo drive gain fully control on each servo motor in order to synchronize the movement of the mechanical parts especially the movement of machine tool on the raw material when machining the part. The coolant motor, hydraulic motor, lubrication motor and working light will be connected to DC contactors and each contactor will be connected to the servo drive PLC output.

The rotation of the spindle motor whether clock-wise (CW) or counter-clock-wise (CCW) is controlled by the DC reverse contactor when instructed by the servo drive. The encoder of the spindle motor is connected to inverter and servo drive to ensure to machine tool can do rigid tapping. In fact, you can connect the output spindle CW and the output spindle CCW on the servo drive directly to the inverter CW and CCW respectively to control the spindle rotation direction without using DC reversing contactor. I will show you the circuit diagram on my next blog post. I also will try to get more vivid CNC circuit diagram image for the next blog post.

The limit switches are used to determine the homing position and the maximum travel distance of each axis. All the limit switches must be always in close position or normally close (N/C) as shown on the circuit diagram.

EDM Wire Cut Machine

2008-10-05T03:12:00.000-07:00

EDM Wire Cut Machine also known as Wire Cut Machine or Wire EDM Machine. EDM wire cut uses a spool of a thin metallic wire as an electrode such as brass wire, zinc coated wire and zinc enriched wire to cut a programmed contour in a electrically conductive material or a metal workpiece. The diameter of EDM wire is between 0.05mm (0.002") to 0.33mm (0.13") and the wire tensile strength is more or less than 900N/mm² (130,000psi) depends on the type of wire.

EDM brass wire

Photo by Landmark Technology Co., Ltd

The wire EDM machine is generally used when the cut goes all the way through the workpiece and the electrode will be electrically energized to slice through the metal workpiece. The wire is pulled through the workpiece being cut and cooled by a dielectric fluid or deionized water which acts as a coolant. During machining process, the wire itself will be traveling from wire spool into the wire bin reel and the traveling distance will be controlled by the machine program.

EDM Wire

Photo by XACT Wire EDM Corp

The electrode and the workpiece are either fully submerged, or flushed with a deionized water. To start machining it is first necessary to drill a hole in the workpiece or start from the edge. When the electrically energized wire approaching the workpiece the electrical discharge or spark will be created. The spark will jump to the workpiece which will erode some small amount of workpiece and flush away by the deionized water to form the spark gap between the wire and the workpiece. The spark gap size can be controlled as small as 0.0127mm (0.0005").

EDM wire cut possible machining shapes

Photo by Hong Kong Polytechnic University

The Wire EDM machine uses rapid and repetitive electrical discharges to create more and more spark gap. The spark gap will allow the wire to advance further until the workpiece is cut through. The EDM is a non-contact cutting process, the wire itself does not touch the workpiece and the actual cut is done by the spark. This eliminates machining forces that can cause distortion. The quality of the product depends on the spark gap size, the smaller the spark gap size, the smoother the surface, but the machining time is much more longer.

EDM wire cut produces excellent dimensional accuracy with a high quality surface finish, suitable for cutting intricate shapes or irregular shapes and tight radius contours to create complex dies and other tools from extremely hard materials. It is ideal for cutting hardened materials above HRC 38.

CNC EDM Wire Cut Machine

Photo by CNC Machinery, Inc.

Most EDM machines are controlled by computer numeric control (CNC). The CNC wire cut machine is an equipment to produce very fine cuts in the metal workpiece. The cut can be as thin as 0.0127mm (0.0005"). The accuracy of the machine could be as precise that it can produce a tolerance of less than 10 micron. This kind of machine is an essential requirement for making precision dies or moulds. Wire EDM requires no special special fixtures and in most cases the machine can run unattended. This makes the EDM wire cut is one of the most cost-effective process, allowing you to reduce inventory and fast delivery dates. This will contribute to improve cash flow and reduce operating expenses.

CNC Lathe / CNC Automatic Lathe LNT36/52/65 S-Series

2008-10-04T23:54:00.000-07:00

LICO Machinery Co., Ltd., the professional manufacturer of Cnc lathe,CNC turning centers, CNC AUTO LATHE,AUTO LATHE,CNC Machine Center

Issued By: Lico Machinery Co.,Ltd

PRLog (Press Release) – Aug 29, 2008 – The machine CNC LATHE / CNC Automatic Lathe - LICO, a leading manufacturer of automatic lathes in Taiwan,recently announced a newly developed automatic bar machine,LICO CNC Multi-Slide Automatic lathe,model LNT36/52/65 S-SERIES. Combining the advantages of cam operated automatics and modern CNC multi-axis control technology result in fast set up and easy operation for both experienced and non-experienced operators.

CNC lathes spin a block of material for cutting, sanding or drilling a work piece to create a three-dimensional object. Woodworkers, metal smiths, potters and glass workers use lathes to make products like table legs, bowls, candle holders, baseball bats, cue sticks and crankshafts.

LNT-S Series - Automatics Multi-Slide CNC Lathe

Photo by Lico Machinery Co.,Ltd

CNC lathe machines have begun to replace older manual models, and many shop owners have decided to upgrade. CNC industrial lathes use modern carbide tooling and a computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) process that requires skilled supervision. Before buying the perfect CNC lathe for your business, check out CNC lathe information from several suppliers and manufacturers at Lico Machinery Products

Lico Machinery Co.,Ltd - Professional manufacturer of CNC LATHE, CNC turning centers, CNC Machine Center, Machine Center, Automatics Upgrade CNC Lathe, Automatic Lathe, CNC Automatic Lathe, CNC Multi-Slide Automatics Machine, CNC Lathes.

Press releases distributed by PRLog.Org are available under the terms of Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License

Tags: Cnc Lathe, Auto Lathe, Mechine Center, Cnc Machine, Cnc Machine Center

CNC Mini Machines

2008-10-03T23:14:00.000-07:00

CNC Mini Machine Information is now available along with CNC Mini Mill and CNC Mini Lathe Information. CNC Mini Mill Machine General Info is now Released on CNC Information Website

Issued By CNC Information Website

PRLog (Press Release) – Feb 15, 2008 – CNC Mini Mill Basics have now been made available on CNC Information’s Website Category page. There you can find information on CNC Mini Machines of all types including CNC Mini Mill information and CNC Mini Lathe information. Since Computer Numerically Controlled machines have made their way into the home shops of Do-it-Yourself Hobbyist, a new market has come into play and they are called CNC Mini Machines. Just like their name says, these CNC Mini Machines are miniature versions of their older siblings. Since these Mini Machines are gaining popularity, Ivan has decided to make a complete page on this CNC Information website that is dedicated to Computer Numerically Controlled Mini Machines.

What is interesting about these CNC Mini Machines is that they make it possible for more and more people to get involved in Computer Numerical Control. Before, in order to get into the CNC Machine marketing, you had to have a signification time and financial investment, not to mention a separate garage or space that can be dedicated just to your CNC Lathe or CNC Mill.

Now, with the new market for CNC Mini Machines, there is a lot less time, money, and space invested. Not to mention, the makers of these mini machines have made the learning curve a lot less steep than a curve for a large sized CNC Mill or CNC Lathe. This is such a unique market and Ivan has plenty of additional information on his website page that is dedicated to the CNC Mini Machines.

About CNC Information: CNC Information is a community CNC website that brings user into a deeper understanding of CNC. For more information on CNC Mini Machines visit CNC Mini Machines Website.

Press releases distributed by PRLog.Org are available under the terms of Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License

Tags: Cnc Mini Machine, Cnc Mini Mill, Cnc Mini Lathe, Cnc Mini Machines, Cnc Machines

Latest Trend in End Mills and Cutting Tools

2008-10-02T10:09:00.000-07:00

by: Dave Butry

A new line of aluminum cutting end mills have recently been introduced to the mix. These tools are made from sub-micro grain carbide and are available in regular and long lengths. Additionally, they can be ordered uncoated or with a high performance zirconium coating. We have been marketing American made tooling on the internet and have been serving customers for over 2 years. We offer a full line of metal cutting tools such as…end mills, drill bits, threadmills, micro end mills, hand taps, NPT Pipe taps, S&D drill bits, and center drills.

End mills are fluted tools designed specifically for periphery and slot cutting applications. They can be used to machine steel, plastic, wood, stainless steel, aluminum and many other materials. They are sought after because of their precise ability to cut to exacting tolerances when utilizing a manual or CNC milling machine. A flute is simply a cutting edge, sometimes with a helix, sometimes straight, your application will determine which style you choose. Helical flutes pull the chips up, and out of the way, the cutter can then cut more freely reducing heat buildup and decreasing machine cycle times.

End mills can have a vast number of flutes. Most common in machine shops are 2, 3 and 4 flute tools. Four flute cutters give you four cuts per rotation and are preferred in profile milling applications. Four flutes are not as useful in softer materials because they do not provide enough space between the flutes to evacuate chips sufficiently, whereas the two flute cutters are not as durable in very abrasive materials. Therefore, two flute end mills are superior in softer more flexible materials and four or more flute cutters are generally preferred in very hard or abrasive materials.

When using an end mill to cut a slot in a work piece, it’s best to have a hole already in the part. That way the end mill will not have to cut to center. Kodiak cutting tools offers a wide variety of hss, cobalt and carbide drill bits for your slot starting needs. Also, a two flute end mill is the best tool for a slotting cut. When a 2 flute end mill is used, the chips are lifted out of the slot. If the chips don’t get up and out of the cutters way, the end mill will re-cut the chips causing premature failure. Additionally, if a four flute end mill is used, the chips may become lodged in the flutes causing the tool to break. Kodiak Cutting Tools offers a wide variety of 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 flute end mills.

About The Author

Written By Dave Butry, An associate of www.kodiakcuttingtools.com

Guide To CNC Machines

2008-10-01T09:51:00.000-07:00

by: Charles Mohaney

CNC machines are used in a variety of industrial settings and in woodworking shops. Most are out of the price range for the individual user, but can be purchased used for about half the price. These machines increase speed and accuracy when doing large jobs or repetitive tasks.

How CNC Machines Work

CNC machines are used in a variety of industry, manufacturing processes and woodworking shops. CNC routers are used for drilling holes. Some machines have the capability of holding several tools. This allows them to perform more than one operation at a time. They save time and improve accuracy.

CNC stands for Computer Numerated Control. This technology was first seen in the 1970s. The machines need to be programmed and set up properly before operation. Once the initial set up is completed, they are fairly easy to operate and keep running.

In CNC routers, they can be programmed to drill holes in an automatic fashion. This is faster and more accurate over several pieces than in manual drilling. The results are more uniform. This method is very beneficial for larger jobs that require a lot of drilling. Manual drilling can become tiring and when the operator becomes tired, the results can become inconsistent.

Types of CNC Machines

A CNC lathe is a good piece of equipment for cutting wood. These come in models ranging from fifteen to forty horsepower. The amount of power you need depends on the amount of wood you will use with the lathe. The best models operate in several different modes, from completely manual to all CNC. This allows you to tailor the machine’s operation for each project.

A Bridgeport mill is the best in milling technology. Mills are used in many industries, both large and small shops. They are efficient and reliable. Bridgeport mills are built to last a lifetime. However, they are very expensive. The price is out of the range that most people can afford.

The CNC mill is a specialty piece of equipment. It uses computer programming and robotics for accurate operation. The results are more accurate than any person could ever achieve. For this reason, Bridgeport mills are often used in the airline industry. Once the specs are entered, the CNC decides which tools need to be used and automatically changes the tools as needed.

Engraving equipment is made to engrave a variety of materials including glass, stone, metal, wood, composites and many others. The machines mark and engrave with more accuracy than could ever be achieved by hand. Everything from large signs to small lettering can be done, depending on your needs.

Buying Used units

CNC equipment is very expensive and out of the price range of most people. Buying used CNC electronics is an affordable option for some people. You can save nearly 50% or more on some equipment. Be careful when buying used, you want to be sure the equipment is in good condition.

A better option is to look for refurbished equipment. These machines have been inspected at the factory. Any broken or damaged components are replaced. In many cases, the machine is painted and new decals are applied. It’s like getting a new machine for a significantly reduced price. Often, you will get a one year warranty with reconditioned equipment. This gives you time to be sure it is working properly and if not, you can get it fixed for free.

About The Author

Charles Mahoney publishes many articles for the website http://www.inside-woodworking.com. The author is writing on topics from CNC ( http://www.inside-woodworking.com/cnc/index.html ) to automated production technologies and other areas in this field.

Watch Turning Center Video

2008-09-29T11:30:00.000-07:00

EMCO offers you top European technology at the best possible price. C-axis, a bar loader package, your choice of SIEMENS or FANUC control unit and much, much more. And all that in the highest quality. For precision parts and a long machine life.

CNC Turning Center Machine Videos

Matsuura 5 Axis Machining Center

2008-09-28T12:45:00.000-07:00

Watch V8 engine block being machined from solid workpiece using high speed and high accuracy Matsuura 5-axis machine center

V8 Engine Block Machined From Solid

Presented by Matsuura

Laser Cutter

2008-09-27T01:45:00.000-07:00

A Laser cutter is a machine tool that uses a laser to cut a workpiece such as ferrous metals, non-ferrous metals, stone, plastics, rubber, ceramics, and many other soft materials. A laser cutter works by focusing a high power laser beam at a specific location on the surface of the workpiece. The energy in the laser beam is absorbed into the surface of the workpiece, and converted into heat. The energy density in the laser beam is extremely high, it is enough to melt or vaporize the surface of the workpiece. The melting surface will be propagated until the workpiece is cut through.

Articulated laser cutter arm - 6 axes of motion
Photo by Mundt Inc

CNC Laser Cutting Machine
Photo by Madewell Products Limited

Laser Cutter Machine
Photo by Vance Metal Fabricators, Inc

CNC Surface Grinding Machine

2008-09-26T05:17:00.000-07:00

What is CNC surface grinding machine? A CNC surface grinding machine is a machine tool uses for producing micron-precise or ultra-fine finishes on tough workpiece and extremely accurate surface finishing with maximum precision and short cutting times. The surface finishing process will be performed by a rotated abrasive wheel which will remove the access metal from the surface of the workpiece. The abrasive wheels can be made up of various sizes and types of stones, diamonds or inorganic materials.

CNC surface grinding machine excels with repetitive, tedious and complicated parts, combines with extremely effective operation of conventional surface grinding machine with the user-friendliness and precision of modern CNC controller, servo drive and measuring systems. Normally the surface grinding machine is used for final machining process to the workpiece which has been machined by other method to get high accuracy in dimension of the workpiece.

Internal cylindrical grinding

External cylindrical grinding

Surface grinding final result

Photos by Leech Industries, Inc.

Surface grinding machine is also used to grind very hard workpiece especially the harden workpiece such as tools, dies and punches. CNC Surface Grinding Machine has the capability to grind flat surfaces, angular surfaces, concave & convex surfaces or centreless surfaces, external & internal cylindrical surfaces, round surfaces and cone surfaces.

CNC Surface Grinding Machine

NC Surface Grinding Machine

Photos by Ching Hwee International Trading Co., Ltd.

Indian Waterjet Cutting Machine

2008-09-25T12:32:00.000-07:00

Watch the Indian Waterjet Cutting Machine video

Presented by Ainnovative Technologies

CNC Waterjet Cutting Machine

2008-09-24T03:34:00.000-07:00

What is Waterjet Cutting Machine? A Waterjet Cutting Machine is a machine tool uses a specific and a consistent high pressure pressurized water called waterjet which supplied by high pressure pump to cut or pierce variety of metal or non-metal materials.

CNC Waterjet Cutting Machine is consistently deliver an extremely high level of cutting precision, accuracy and performance that fully utilize the waterjet cutting technology which uses CNC G codes and CNC M codes to control the overall machie cutting process.

There are two type of waterjets used by Waterjet Cutting Machines to cut materials. There are Pure Waterjet and Abrasive Waterjet. A Waterjet Cutting Machine might used pure waterjet or abrasive waterjet or both method to cut almost any materials. Pure waterjet uses to cut a variety of soft materials such as paper, rubber, foam and baby diapers. The abrasive waterjet uses to cut almost any hard materials such as titanium, stainless steel, stone and glass.

How a Waterjet Cutting Machine Works?

How Waterjet Cutter works? Basically, the Waterjet Cutter or Waterjet Cutting Machine uses the technology of high pressurized water supplied by high pressure pump and delivers it consistently and continuously up to 90,000 psi or 6200 Bar (620 MPa) and forced it through a pre-mounted orifice or small hole as small as 0.005 inches (0.127 mm), it will create a jet stream called pure waterjet.

Pure Waterjet

If a small amount of abrasive material such as granet is mixed into the jet stream, it will create a jet stream called abrasivejet or abrasive waterjet. The jet stream flow exits the nozzle will make contact with the surface of workpiece. The workpiece will develop small cracks due to jet stream impact and propagate until the material is cut through.

Abrasive Waterjet

CNC Waterjet Cutting Machine - JETMax HS 4020
Photo by Maximator JET GmbH

How to Retrofit A Machine?

2008-09-23T05:12:00.000-07:00

How to retrofit a machine? Basically, to retrofit or to upgrade a machine you need to remove the old control components especially the machine controller, motor driver, motor of each axis, the lead screws for manual machine, lubrication system if necessary, and the electrical cabinet if necessary. In fact, to retrofit a machine can be divided into two main categories, to retrofit the manual machine and to retrofit the old CNC machine.

A. Retrofit The Manual Machine

These are the components need to replace or need to add in order to retrofit the manual machine:

1. The old controller need to be replaced with CNC controller
2. Motor driver need to replace with servo drive
3. Motor of each axis (X, Y & Z) need to be changed with servo motors
4. Lead screws will be replaced with precision ballscrews
5. Manual lubrication system need to change with auto lubrication system
6. If the machine not equipped with coolant system then coolant system need to add
7. The electrical cabinet might need to be changed if necessary
8. Change the power supply with transformer for bigger KVA or with other power supply
9. Retain the original ELCB, MCB, contactors, terminal block and fuses if possible
10. Inverter need to be added to control the spindle motor if necessary
11. Retain the light system if necessary
12. The machine and electrical cabinet need to re-wiring
13. Repaint the machine if necessary (optional)

Precision Ballscrew

B. Retrofit The CNC Old Machine

These are the components need to replace or need to add in order to retrofit the old CNC machine:

1. Old CNC controller need to change with new CNC controller
2. Servo drive need to change with the new servo drive
3. Servo motor for X, Y and Z axis need to change with new servo motors
4. The PLC need to add if the servo drive doest not have enough I/O
5. Retain the Inverter for spindle motor if possible
6. Retain the electrical cabinet if possible
7. Retain the transformer or power supply if possible
8. Retain the original ELCB, MCB, contactors, terminal block and fuses if possible
9. Retain the precision ball screw if possible
10. Retain the lubrication system, coolant system and hydraulic system if possible
11. Retain the light system if possible
12. Re-wiring the machine and electrical cabinet
13. The spindle motor can be change if need more RPM (optional) - costly
14. Repaint the machine (optional)

Emerson Inverter for Machine Retrofit

What is CNC Retrofit?

2008-09-22T03:20:00.000-07:00

What is CNC retrofit? The CNC retrofit is machine rebuilding, upgrade or giving new life to the old machines whether the old cnc machines, the old manual machines or the unused machines. Machine retrofit is important especially to those machines facing high downtime due to a poor machine performance and the machine are getting too old and breakdown become more frequently. In fact, certain cases the CNC retrofitting will also take place due to limited capability of the machines especially the manual machines.

Downtime will cause a lot of delay in the work flow and it will cause a lot of headaches for a lot of people. Any downtime will cause serious losses and will cause huge loss of revenues as well. Certain machines could have excessive downtime due to a high frequency of maintenance, which may support the decisions to upgrade or retrofit ineffective machine that continues to adversely affect the bottom line and make the production more costly. Sometimes downtime occurred due to improper maintenance, low lubricant levels, high operating temperatures and other factors.

CNC retrofitting will be done by converting the manual machine into CNC machine or by replacing existing CNC controller with a new more flexible, and powerful latest generation CNC controller to increase the machines machining capabilities with the most cost effective way to suit your needs. Cost effective retrofit that help you to maximize your productivity. The retrofit provides superior machining capability for much less than the purchase price of a brand new machine.

The retrofit possible benefits include:

* Improve the machine flexibility up to 5 axis or more
* Improve machine accuracy and grad of machining
* Easy and flexibly parts programming and machining
* Equipped with USB port, RS323 port and Local Area Networking (LAN)
* Easy to edit, modify, download and upload programming file
* Reduce machine downtime and maintenance cost
* Easy machine trouble shooting
* Reduce parts damage and scrap
* Link the CNC controller with the computer network
* Increase the workers confident level and moral
* Easy to automate the retrofitted machine with the production line

Machines are suitable to retrofit included:

1. Milling machines
* Knee mill, bed mill or ram mill type
* Vertical machining center or horizontal machining center
2. Lathe machines
* Manual lathe machine
* Horizontal tuning center or vertical tuning center
3. Router machines and
4. Water jet cutting machines
5. Other machines

What is EDM?

2008-09-21T05:27:00.000-07:00

What is EDM? The EDM is stands for Electrical Discharge Machining or Electrical Discharge Machine. Other popular name for EDM is Electro Discharge Machine. There are two most popular EDM machine, Ram EDM Machine and EDM Wire Cut. Ram EDM also known as, Sinker EDM, Die Sinker, Vertical EDM or Plunge EDM. Ram EDM divided into two main categories, Conventional EDM and CNC EDM. EDM is a non conventional machining method to remove unwanted material from electrically conductive workpiece or metal. EDM is a machining method primarily used for hard metals, super-tough alloy, hardened materials or cutting delicate cavities that would be impossible to machine with conventional machining method such as milling, drilling, grinding or with other type of conventional machine tools. Some of the EDM applications are machining aerospace alloys such as titanium, inconel, & hastalloy, removing broken taps, drills, & bolts and machining of carbide dies and tools.

Conventional EDM or EDM Ram Type

How EDM works? Basically, the EDM process is simple the unwanted material removes by use of recurrent sparks applied to a hard metal. An electrical discharge is created between an electrode and the workpiece known as spark to create spark gap or spark erosion between the electrode and workpiece. For Ram EDM, a special brass will be fabricated into a desire shape and use it as an electrode. The brass will be attached to the EDM machine and use it to machine the workpiece under carefully controlled conditions. Read this blog post about Wire Cut EDM for more details information.

CNC Electrical Discharge Machine / CNC EDM

Photos by Creator Precision co., Ltd

During EDM process, the current will be switched on and off by moving the electrode up (current off) and down (current on) to control the spark gap. When the current is switched on the spark jumps across the gap and the small amount of unwanted material is removed from the workpiece to allow the electrode to be moved through the workpiece. The electrical spark are very short in duration, approximately 1 microsecond to 1 millisecond each. This process repeats its self over and over again until the electrode is slowly advanced deeper and deeper into the cut. The path of the electrode is typically controlled by a numerical controller (NC) for NC EDM machine or computer numerical controller (CNC) for CNC EDM machine, which allows a desire shapes to be produced.

The spark always takes place in the dielectric of deionized fluid which acts as a coolant and when the current is switch off the deionized fluid will flushes away the eroded particles from the workpiece. In fact, the electrode itself does not touch the workpiece being cut because the actual cutting is being done by the electrical discharge or spark created between the electrode and the workpiece.

What is CNC Router Machine?

2008-09-20T04:45:00.000-07:00

What is CNC Router? The CNC Router is a multipurpose machine. This machine is used to cut wood, plastic or metal, as well as engrave or route out letters on signs. The CNC router is an amazing machine that can do seemingly almost anything, so you can get a lot of usage from this machine. Many small fabrication shops, and even individuals are finding the accuracy and versatility of a CNC Router is very useful. The CNC Router is great for hobbies, engineering prototyping, product development, art, robotic education, production work, furniture, advertisement and other fields.

The 6000 series CNC Router Machine
Photo by AXYZ Automation Inc

The 6000 series CNC Router Machine applications including
* Plastic fabrication
* Education
* Aircraft manufacture
* Mould making
* Wood working
* Sign making
* Solid surface
* Boat building
* RV manufacturing
* Metal working
* Engineered composite panels

A CNC Router machine has a similar operation with a plotter and controls by a computer. The CNC Router works on the 3D motion control to make high quality parts for you. Basically, the CNC Router has three axes X, Y and Z. Each axis will be motorized with stepper motor or servo motor that drives the router via a gantry system to form a 3 axis CNC Router machine.

Normally, the CNC Router machine will be supplied with a powerful software to do your design or drawing. You draw your work on the computer and convert it to G codes then send your drawing to the CNC controller for final result in 3D. The CNC controller will command the CNC Router machine to make the desired parts for you, quickly and accurately. Most CNC router software will convert your drawing into G codes automatically before send to CNC router machine via router CNC controller. This makes CNC Routers ideal for woodworking, plastic molding, advertisement fields and aerospace industry.

What is CNC Controller?

2008-09-19T04:47:00.000-07:00

What is CNC Controller? The CNC controller is an important part of CNC machine tools. It is the heart of any CNC machines system. A CNC controller connects all the important link between a computer system and the electrical components on the CNC machine such as the servo motors, spindle motor, coolant motor, lubrication motor and other electrical components. The main function of the CNC controller is to run the electrical components on the CNC machine tools to drive the mechanical parts on the CNC machine or to control the multiple axes on the machine.

Centroid CNC Controller
Basically, to drive the mechanical components on the CNC machine, the CNC controller will work side by side with CPU unit, computer systems, servo motor drive, motion controller, PLC unit and inverter to form a sub-field of automation to determine the tool position on each axis, moving velocity of each axis, spindle speed and to run other electrical components such coolant pump, hydraulic pump, lubrication pump and light.

In fact, the powerful CNC controller does far more than drives the motors which some of the controllers have the capabilities to detect and control the limit switches, the coolant flow amount, air pressure, hydraulic pressure, detect temperature, detect and run up to 200 tool positions and more. CNC Controls enhance the machine's productivity capabilities with a new level of easy-to-access information and programming tools. Some of the CNC controller systems are available for a wide-range of applications such as grinding, drilling, digitizing, engraving, probing, cutting, milling, punching, turning and many more.

Nowadays, the modern CNC controllers range from professional stand alone system built-in with keyboard and user interface to hobby use CNC controllers that require a personal computer. The modern controllers come with CNC software packages such as Computer Aided Design (CAD) software, Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software and the Computer Numerical Control software. The CAD is used for displaying and editing designs on the computer. The CAM is used to convert the geometry into tool paths or computer numerical codes called G codes that can be understood by the machine tools. The Computer Numerical Control software will control the machine tools to physically cut your 2D or 3D workpiece in real time.

Most of the CNC controllers in the market are provided with the user interface such as RS232 port, USB flash memory port and LAN port. It is easier to transfer the cnc programs and any files from computers or USB flash memory to CNC controller. LAN port can be connected to router or Hub to establish the connection between the controller and other computers. Using RS232 you can transfer or modify any files on controller from other PC or laptop.

Most of CNC Controllers are equipped with

* USB port to download and upload the files between controller and USB flash memory
* RS232 port to connect the controller with a personal computer (PC) or laptop
* LAN port to connect the controller with other computers
* Probe port to auto set the tool height offset and set tool reference point
* Axis buttons to control the movement of each axis on the machine
* MPG port
* Feedrate button to control the velocity of machine tools
* Speed control (FAST/SLOW) button when moving the axis
* Spindle adjustable speed button
* Spindle CW and CCW buttons
* Spindle ON/OFF button
* Auto and manual function buttons for spindle and coolant
* Coolant ON/OFF button
* Tool Check button
* Tool path viewer and cut-time estimation
* Single mode button to run the machine tool block by block program number
* Light ON/OFF button
* Incremental button 0.1, 0.01 and 0.001
* Start, stop, repeat on any line of G-code
* Emergency stop button
* and much more

List of CNC Machines

2008-09-18T23:36:00.000-07:00

These are the List of CNC Machines or the Type of CNC Machines that are commonly available in the market. Anyway, sometime it is too hard and bit confusing to categorize some type of CNC machines due to too many capabilities built-in one machine such as combination of milling, turning, and grinding capabilities.

In fact, some of the CNC machines deliver an awe-inspiring combination of features that yield speeds, feeds and surface finishes that have never been seen before. But I believe, the way to categorize the type of CNC machines equipment and tools will be drastically changed by reading this article.

Here are the List of CNC Machines by the type of CNC Machines
(This machines list is not a comprehensive CNC Machines list)

CNC Milling Machine Center
• CNC Vertical Milling Machine or Vertical Machining Center (VMS)
• CNC Horizontal Miling Machine or CNC Horizontal Machining Center (HMC)

CNC Lathe Machine Center or CNC Turning Machine Center
• CNC Vertical Turning Machine Center
• CNC Horizontal Turning Machine Center

CNC Cylindrical Grinding Machine
CNC Router Machine
CNC Plasma Cutting Machine

CNC Water Jet Cutting Machine
• CNC Pure Waterjet Cutting Machines
• CNC Abrasive Waterjet Cutting Machines

CNC Electro Discharge Machine (EDM)
• CNC EDM Wire Cut Machines
• CNC Ram Type EDM

CNC Foam Cutter Machine
CNC Surface Grinding Machine
CNC Welding Machine
CNC Turret Punch Machines
CNC Press Brake Machines
CNC Tube Bender Machines
CNC Forming Machines
CNC Bending Machines
CNC V Cut Machines
CNC Hydraulic Guillotine Shear Machines
CNC Lifting Table Panel Sizing Machines
CNC Laser Cutting Machine
CNC Woodworking Machine
Mini CNC Machines or Small CNC Machines
Hobby CNC Machine
Gear CNC Machine
Wheel Rim CNC Machine

CNC Machine Codes, Terms and Definitions

2008-09-17T05:54:00.000-07:00

List of CNC Machine Codes, Terms and Definitions. Some of the codes, terms and definitions might be difference between manufactures for difference type of machine and machine controller.

A-axis = Capability of machining tools moving in circular motion around x-axis

B-axis = Capability of machining tools moving in circular motion around y-axis

C-axis = Capability of machining tools moving in circular motion around z-axis

X-axis = Capability of machine tools moving in the x-axis direction
Y-axis = Capability of machine tools moving in the y-axis direction
Z-axis = Capability of machine tools moving in the z-axis direction

D code = Tool diameter offset number
E code = Selection of work coordinate system. Equivalent to G54 to G59
F code = Feedrate
G code = A CNC program code that determines the type of operation to perform

H code = Tool length offset number
I code = Absolute center of arc in x-axis
J code = Absolute center of arc in y-axis
K code = Absolute center of arc in z-axis
L code = The number of repetition of a cycle
M code = The program code that control overall machine function
N code = Block number
O code = The program number allows you to identify your program with a certain number

P code = Parameter
Q code = Depth of cut parameter in canned drilling cycles
R code = Represent the radius, a return point or a general parameter
S code = Spindle speed
T code = Tool number
U code = Relative axis parallel to x-axis
V code = Relative axis parallel to y-axis
W code = Relative axis parallel to z-axis
X code = Absolute machine tool position on x-axis
Y code = Absolute machine tool position on y-axis
Z code = Absolute machine tool position on z-axis

CNC MPG Pendant

2008-09-16T00:08:00.000-07:00

The MPG is stands for Manual Pulse Generator and also known as Jog Wheel Control or Remote MPG Handwheel. MPG is the CNC Machine tool remote control to jog any axis on the CNC machine. The MPG is designed for use in industrial CNC environments to make the man-machine interface safer, easier and faster. The MPG will hopefully makes manual jogging easy, smooth, precise and eliminates the need of axis buttons on the CNC controller.

CNC MPG Pendent

The Axis Selector (top) and Micrometer Wheel (bottom)

The micrometer wheel which is located at the bottom of the MPG allows you to position any axis in a minimum increments of approximately 1 micron (0.001 mm or 0.0002"). The Axis Selector allows you to select any axis and manually jog the axis using the MPG. It is great to use it during tools height offset setting and setting up the part zero positions on the large CNC machine fast and easy.

The MPG itself was ergonomically designed that is easy to hold. Come with convenient hanger which can be mounted on the CNC controller or anywhere it is convenient and it also contains strong magnets in the base for mounting to steel surfaces.

Some of the MPGs might equipped with these

* Emergency Stop Switch
* LED Status Indicator
* Cycle Start push Button
* Cycle Hold Push Button
* Feed rate override control
* Axis Reference Push Button
* Spindle On/Off Push Button
* Enable Push Buttons

Lathe Machine G Codes

2008-09-15T00:06:00.000-07:00

The CNC Lathe Machine G Codes

G00 Rapid position
G01 Linear interpolation
G02 Circular or helix interpolation CW
G03 Circular or helix interpolation CCW
G04 Dwell
G10 Parameter setting
G20 Select Inch units
G21 Select Metric units
G28 Return to reference point
G29 Return from reference point
G30 Return to secondary reference point
G32 Constant lead thread cutting
G40 Cutter compensation cancel
G41 Cutter diameter compensation left
G42 Cutter diameter compensation right
G50 Coordinate system setting, Max spindle speed setting
G52 Offset local coordinate system
G53 Rapid position in machine coordinates
G54 Select working coordinate system #1
G55 Select working coordinate system #2
G56 Select working coordinate system #3
G57 Select working coordinate system #4
G58 Select working coordinate system #5
G59 Select working coordinate system #6
G54 P1 Select working coordinate system #7
G54 P2 Select working coordinate system #8
G54 P3 Select working coordinate system #9
G54 P4 Select working coordinate system #10
G54 P5 Select working coordinate system #11
G54 P6 Select working coordinate system #12
G54 P7 Select working coordinate system #13
G54 P8 Select working coordinate system #14
G54 P9 Select working coordinate system #15
G54 P10 Select working coordinate system #16
G54 P11 Select working coordinate system #17
G54 P12 Select working coordinate system #18
G65 Call macro
G70 Finishing cycle
G72 Stock removal in facing
G74 End face peck cutting
G75 Outer/inner diameter peck cutting cycle
G76 Multi-pass threading cycle
G80 Canned cycle cancel
G83 Deep hole drilling
G84 Tapping
G85 Boring cycle
G90 Outer/inner diameter cutting cycle
G92 One-pass threading cycle
G94 End face cutting cycle
G96 Constant surface speed
G97 Constant surface speed cancel
G98 Per minute feed
G99 Per revolution feed

Lathe Machine M Codes

2008-09-14T00:03:00.000-07:00

The CNC Lathe Machine M codes

M00 Stop for operator
M01 Optional stop for operator
M02 Restart program
M03 Spindle ON CW
M04 Spindle ON CCW
M05 Spindle OFF
M07 Mist coolant ON
M08 Flood coolant ON
M09 Coolant OFF
M10 Clamp ON
M11 Clamp OFF
M13 Cutoff
M16 Chuck ID selection
M18 Chuck OD selection
M22 Extend part chute
M23 Retract part chute
M29 Set trap for G84
M32 Tailstock quill forward (out)
M33 Tailstock quill retract (in)
M34 Part catch forward
M35 Part catch retract
M41 Select spindle #1
M42 Select spindle #2
M46 Door open
M47 Door close
M50 C axis disable
M51 C axis enable
M91 Move to minus home
M92 Move to plus home
M93 Release motor power
M94 Turn ON input X
M95 Turn OFF input X
M98 Call subprogram
M99 Return from subprogram
M100 Wait for input to open
M101 Wait for input to close
M102 Restart program
M103 Programmed action timer
M104 Cancel programmed action timer
M105 Move minus to switch
M106 Move plus to switch
M107 Output BCD tool number
M108 Enable override control
M109 Disable override control
M115 Protected probing move
M116 Protected probing move
M120 Open data file (overwrite existing file)
M121 Open data file (append to existing file)
M122 Record position(s) and/or comment in the data field
M123 Record value and/or comment in data field
M125 Protected probing move
M126 Protected probing move

Lathe Machine

2008-09-13T22:41:00.001-07:00

What is lathe machine? A Lathe Machine also known as Turning Machine which operates by rotating a workpiece about its axis to perform various machining operations such as cutting, drilling, reaming, tapping, parting, facing, threading, knurling and perform other operations. A single point cutting tool is fed against the rotated workpiece to remove the excess material or unwanted material to form a cylindrical shaped product. With a proper attachments and adjustments, a lathe can also bore, polish and grind. The variety of operations that lathe can perform make it one of the most useful and necessary machines in the market

Lathe Single Point Cutting Tool

Lathe Cutting Tool Carriage

The lathe operates on the principle of the work being rotated against the edge of a cutting tool. The major function of the lathe machine is to change the size and shape of a rotated workpiece by one cuts or a series of cuts with cutting tools that can be adjusted to the workpiece. The cutting tool is controllable and can be moved lengthwise on the lathe bed and into any desired angle across the rotated workpiece.

Manual turning machine also known as a conventional lathe machine or turning machine and the cutting operation is partially control mechanically or can be fully controlled manually which is designed to produce parts within an accuracy range of 0.01 mm. The ultra-precision turning machine is known as CNC Turning Machine. It has high levels of accuracy and repeatability which operates in micron ranges and this machine has a dimensional accuracy ten times better than a conventional lathe.

Manual Turning Machine

Precision CNC Turning Machine

Photos by Republic Lagun Machine Tool

CNC Plasma Cutter Machine

2008-09-12T07:55:00.000-07:00

What is CNC Plasma Cutter? A CNC Plasma Cutter is a machine or a device uses to cut metal such as mild steel, aluminum, stainless steel or any other electrically-conductive metals by using a powerful electric arc and a gas such as a compressed air. The compressed air blows the arc through the metal at 20,000 feet per second and at the temperatures as high as 30,000 degrees Fahrenheit creating a fairly clean cut or with little slag.

If you boost a gas normally a compressed air to extremely high temperatures, you will get plasma. In this process the compressed air is blown at high speed out of a nozzle. An electrical arc generated by the torch electrode will be forced through that gas and turning some of that gas to plasma. The force of the plasma flow then literally blows out the molten area on the workpiece, leaving only a smooth clean edge behind or with a little slag. Plasma can also be used for plasma arc welding and other applications.

A CNC Plasma Cutter has a similar operation with a plotter and controls by a computer. It has three axes X, Y and Z. Stepper motor or servo motor will drive each axis and work together, going forward & backward, left & right and up & down in perfect synchronization to produce shapes of virtually any design.

AKS Tru-Kut CNC Plasma Cutter

AKS Tru-Kut is one of the Advanced Kiffer Systems, Inc product. It's extremely heavy-duty, rigid, high quality construction with versatile features and affordable price make AKS Tru-Kut CNC Plasma Cutter a superior value.

AKS Tru-Kut CNC Plasma Cutter Torch
Photos by AKS Cutting Systems

Milling Machine G Codes

2008-09-11T07:32:00.000-07:00

The G Codes that use on most CNC Milling Machines Center.

G00 = Rapid position
G01 = Linear interpolation
G02 = Circular or helix interpolation CW
G03 = Circular or helix interpolation CCW
G04 = Dwell
G09 = Exact stop
G10 = Parameter setting
G17 = Circular interpolation plane selection XY
G18 = Circular interpolation plane selection ZX
G19 = Circular interpolation plane selection YZ
G20 = Select Inch units
G21 = Select Metric units
G28 = Return to reference point
G29 = Return from reference point
G30 = Return to secondary reference point
G40 = Cutter compensation cancel
G41 = Cutter compensation left
G42 = Cutter compensation right
G43 = Tool length compensation (+)
G44 = Tool length compensation (-)
G49 = Tool length compensation cancel
G50 = Scaling/mirroring OFF
G51 = Scaling/mirroring ON
G52 = Offset local coordinate system origin
G53 = Rapid position in machine coordinates
G54 = Select working coordinate system #1 (WCS #1)
G55 = Select working coordinate system #2 (WCS #2)
G56 = Select working coordinate system #3 (WCS #3)
G57 = Select working coordinate system #4 (WCS #4)
G58 = Select working coordinate system #5 (WCS #5)
G59 = Select working coordinate system #6 (WCS #6)
G61 = Exact stop mode
G64 = Cutting mode
G65 = Call macro
G68 = Rotate
G69 = Cancel rotate
G73 = High speed peck drilling
G74 = Counter tapping
G80 = Canned cycle cancel
G81 = Drilling and spot drilling
G82 = Drill with dwell
G83 = Deep hole drilling
G84 = Tapping
G85 = Boring
G89 = Boring with dwell
G90 = Absolute positioning mode
G91 = Incremental positioning mode
G92 = Set absolute positioning
G98 = Initial point return
G99 = R point return
G117 = Rotation of plane selection XY
G118 = Rotation of plane selection ZX
G119 = Rotation of plane selection YZ

Milling M Codes Definitions

2008-09-10T07:13:00.000-07:00

M codes use to control the overall machine and use to perform specific action in CNC programs such as to start & stop the machine, turn ON the spindle, turn coolant ON/OFF and etc. Most of the M codes have default function but can be customized with the use of macro files including the predefined M codes except M02, M06 & M25.

These are some of default M codes used on most CNC Milling Machines types. The M codes are user customizable, the user can edit, change, modify, add, delete or customize base on the application and definition.

M00 = Stop for operator
M01 = Optional stop for operator
M02 = Restart program
M03 = Spindle ON CW
M04 = Spindle ON CCW
M05 = Spindle OFF
M06 = Start tool change
M07 = Mist coolant ON
M08 = Flood coolant ON
M09 = Coolant OFF
M10 = Clamp ON
M11 = Clamp OFF
M14 = Swing arm pot up
M15 = Unclamp tool (air ON)
M16 = Unclamp tool (air OFF)
M18 = Home tool changer
M19 = Orient spindle
M20 = Pickup tool
M21 = Move head up
M22 = Move head to ATC level
M23 = Rotate carousel
M24 = Start too put back
M25 = Move to Z home
M26 = Set axis home
M39 = Air drill
M50 = Index tool plus
M51 = Index tool minus
M60 = Probing macro
M80 = Carousel in
M81 = Carousel out
M91 = Move to minus home
M92 = Move to plus home
M93 = Release motor power
M94 = Turn ON input X
M95 = Turn OFF input X
M98 = Call subprogram
M99 = Return from subprogram
M100 = Wait for input to open
M101 = Wait for input to close
M102 = Restart program
M103 = Programmed action timer
M104 = Cancel programmed action timer
M105 = Move minus to switch
M106 = Move plus to switch
M107 = Output BCD tool number
M108 = Enable override control
M109 = Disable override control
M115 = Protected probing move
M116 = Protected probing move
M120 = Open data file (overwrite existing file)
M121 = Open data file (append to existing file)
M122 = Record position(s) and/or comment in the data field
M123 = Record value and/or comment in data field
M125 = Protected probing move
M126 = Protected probing move

What is Milling Machine ?

2008-09-09T04:03:00.000-07:00

What is a milling machine? A milling machine is a machine tool that removes material with a multiple-tooth cutting tool from a workpiece by rotating a cutter called a milling cutter and moving it into the material. The cutting action of the many teeth around the milling cutter provides a fast method of machining. The workpiece must somehow be securely fastened to the milling machine table and it is fed against the revolving milling cutter. The milling cutters can have cutting teeth on the periphery or sides or both. The cutting teeth can be straight or spiral.

Milling machines are among the most versatile and useful machine tools due to their capabilities to perform a variety of operations. Milling machines are basically classified as vertical or horizontal. These machines are also classified as knee-type, ram-type, and bed type. Most milling machines have self-contained electric drive motors, coolant systems, lubrication system, variable spindle speeds, and power-operated table feeds. milling machines delivering accuracy, productivity and rugged dependability for your milling, drilling, and boring needs

Knee Type 3 Axis Supra CNC Milling Machine
Photo by CNC Masters

Bed Type 3 Axis CNC Milling Machine
Photo by Hasil Karya

Ram Type 3 Axis CNC Milling Machine
Photo by Made In China

What is milling? Milling is the process of machining flat, angular, curved, or irregular surfaces by feeding the workpiece against a rotating cutter containing a number of cutting edges. The surface may also be milled to any combination of shapes. The milling machine consists basically of a motor driven spindle, which mounts and revolves the milling cutter, and a reciprocating adjustable worktable, which mounts and feeds the workpiece.

What is CNC ?

2008-09-08T05:40:00.000-07:00

What is CNC? Basically, the CNC stands for Computer Numerical Control which refers to a computer controller that controls the movement of every axis of the machine using G codes instructions and drives the spindle or machine tool into a raw material to fabricate or to remove the unwanted material from workpiece more accurately without human intervention.

High performance and user-friendly CNC controller for milling applications
Photo by Centroid CNC

Fully integrated CNC machines will use G codes, M codes and others CNC programming languages codes such as F, S, N, X, Y, Z, A, B and C codes to control the overall machine.

G codes is a common name in the CNC programming language that begins with the letter G. Basically, the G codes tell the machine tool what type of action need to perform and trigger the CNC machine tools axis movement.

Typically, the CAM software such as Edgecam, Bob-CADCAM, Alphacam, MasterCAM, ProCAM 2, SurfCAM, Artcam and DelCAM may be used to generate the G codes files. The translators called post-processors will optimize the G codes output and it's user editable for further customization if needed.

The CNC milling machine simple programming language that use G codes and other CNC codes to perform drilling some holes and milling a circle pocket clean out.

; ICN_PATH = c:\intercon\test-run1.icn
; --- Header ---
N0001 ; CNC code generated by Intercon v2.61 Dev Test, Rev 8
; Description: test
; Programmer: vast
; Date: 11-Sep-2008
M25 G49 ; Goto Z home, cancel tool length offset
G17 G40 ; Setup for XY plane, no cutter comp
G21 ; millimeter measurements
G80 ; Cancel canned cycles
G90 ; absolute positioning
G98 ; canned cycle initial point return
; --- Tool #5 ---
;Tool Diameter = 6.0000 Spindle Speed = 1000
;d5
G49 H0 M25
G0 X0.0 Y0.0
N0002 T5 M6
S1000 M4
M8
G4 P1.00 ; pause for dwell
G43 D5
; --- Drill BHC ---
N0003 X20.0 Y0.0 Z2.54 H5
G81 X20.0 Y0.0 Z-1.0 R2.5 F100.0
X12.47 Y15.637
X-4.45 Y19.499
X-18.019 Y8.678
X-18.019 Y-8.678
X-4.45 Y-19.499
X12.47 Y-15.637
G80
; --- Circ Poc ---
N0004 X200.0 Y-1.0 Z2.54
G1 G91 X0.0 Y0.0 Z-2.54
X0.0 Y0.0 Z0.0 F300.0
X0.0 Y1.0 Z-1.0 F100.0
G2 X0.0 Y3.5 Z0.0 J1.75 F300.0
X-3.5 Y-3.5 Z0.0 J-3.5
X3.5 Y7.0 Z0.0 I8.75
X0.0 Y0.0 Z0.0 J-7.0 F400.0
X0.0 Y-7.0 Z0.0 J-3.5
G0 G90 X200.0 Y0.0 Z2.54
; --- End Prog ---
N0005 G49 H0 M25
X200.0 Y0.0
G40 ; Cutter Comp Off
M5 ; Spindle Off
M9 ; Coolant Off
G80 ; Cancel canned cycles
M30 ; End of program

The G codes generated by CENTROID's Intercon Conversational software used in Centroid CNC Milling Machine controller

CNC Machining Center

2008-09-07T23:54:00.000-07:00

What is CNC machining center? The CNC machining center is a sophisticated CNC machine that can perform multiple machining operations with a verity of tools and operation methods by making used of several axes under fully integrated computer numerical control.

CNC Turning Machining Center
Photo by USOCA

The CNC Machining Center also known as CNC Machine Center. Most of machining centers are proven mechanical stability and high production efficiency. The machine centers are casted from high rigid cast iron through a series of procedures from back fire of blast furnace, normalizing, high frequency heat treatment to precision grinding process for outstanding material stability and assures long-term deformation-free performance, to increase cutting rigidity, machining accuracy, and to increase the overall stability of the machine.

The CNC machining center can be categorized into several categories base on type of machining center and machines function to cater your needs such as Vertical Machining Center, Horizontal Machining center, CNC Turning Center, CNC Router Center, column traverse type Vertical Machining Center, double column type Vertical Machining Center, high speed Vertical Machining Center, multi-function CNC Turning-Milling Machining Center etc.

CNC Horizontal Machining Center
Photo by HI-TECH Machine Tools

CNC Vertical Machining Center
Photo by TOS KUŘIM