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Lesson 8 - CNC Programming Basics

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Lesson 8 - CNC Programming Basics

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Lesson 8– CNC

Programming Basics

Prepared by:
Ricardo S. Balog, RME, MEng’g

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.1 Introduction
• The term numerical control is a widely accepted and commonly used term in the machine
tool industry. Numerical control (NC) enables an operator to communicate with machine
tools through a series of numbers and symbols.
• CNC which quickly became Computer Numerical Control has brought tremendous changes
to the metalworking industry. New machine tools in CNC have enabled industry to
consistently produce parts to accuracies undreamed of only a few years ago. The same part
can be reproduced to the same degree of accuracy any number of times if the CNC program
has been properly prepared and the computer properly programmed. The operating
commands which control the machine tool are executed automatically with amazing speed,
accuracy, efficiency, and repeatability.
• The ever-increasing use of CNC in industry has created a need for personnel who are
knowledgeable about and capable of preparing the programs which guide the machine tools
to produce parts to the required shape and accuracy.

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.2 Cartesian Coordinate System
• Almost everything that can be produced on a conventional machine tool can be
produced on a computer numerical control machine tool, with its many
advantages. The machine tool movements used in producing a product are of
two basic types: point to- point (straight-line movements) and continuous path
(contouring movements).
• With this system, any specific point can be described in mathematical terms
from any other point along three perpendicular axes. This concept fits machine
tools perfectly since their construction is generally based on three axes of
motion (X, Y, Z) plus an axis of rotation. CNC systems rely heavily on the use
of rectangular coordinates because the programmer can locate every point on a
job precisely
• When points are located on a workpiece, two straight intersecting lines, one
vertical and one horizontal, are used. These lines must be at right angles to each
other, and the point where they cross is called the origin, or zero point

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.2 Cartesian Coordinate System
• Shown in the figure are three-dimensional coordinate (primary) planes.
The X and Y planes (axes) are horizontal and represent horizontal
machine table motions. The Z plane or axis represents the vertical tool
motion. The plus (+) and minus (-) signs indicate the direction from the
zero point (origin) along the axis of movement. The four quadrants
formed when the XY axes cross are numbered in a counterclockwise
direction (Fig. 3). All positions located in quadrant 1 would be positive
(X+) and positive (Y+). In the second quadrant, all positions would be
negative X (X-) and positive (Y+). In the third quadrant, all locations
would be negative X (X-) and negative (Y-). In the fourth quadrant, all
locations would be positive X (X+) and negative Y (Y-).

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.3 World Axis Standards
• There are nine standard axes universally used in CNC machining.
• Three are the familiar primary linear (straight-line) movements X, Y, and Z.
• Three primary rotary axes (A, B, and C) are used to identify arc or circular
movements such as a programmable turntable, lathe spindle, or an
articulating, wrist action milling head (rotary motion).
• Finally, we have three secondary, straight-line motions called the auxiliary
linear axes (U, V, and W).
Note: EIA-RS267-B Axial motion and position are standardized by
the Electronic Industries Association (EIA) here in North America
in its Recommended Standard EIA267-B. There is also a parallel
standard through the ISO (International Standards Organization).
These standards actually include 14 defined axes for motion and
Position.

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CNC Programming Basics
8.3 World Axis Standards
• The basic axes used to define a three-space (three-
dimensional) envelope lie at 90 degrees to each other, and as
such are called an orthogonal axis set. Using the same root
word as orthographic projection, the set is comprised of axis
lines at mutual 900 angles, intersecting at a common reference
point. The limit of machine’s axis travel is defined as the Work
Envelope.
• Combining any two primary axis lines defines a flat plane.
There are three planes: X-Y, X-Z, and Y-Z. For example, when
viewing a part placed on a vertical milling machine, the table
represents the X-Y plane, while a lathe object is viewed in the
X-Z plane—usually from overhead.

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CNC Programming Basics
8.3 World Axis Standards
• When the machine control is capable of
cutting curves in more than one of these
three discrete (unique) planes, the
programmer must add a code word to
define in which plane the motion is to
occur, such codes are:
G17 (X-Y plane),
G18 (X-Z plane) and
G19 (Y-Z plane)

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.3 World Axis Standards
• Some CNC machines feature programmable axes that rotate
or articulate. According to the EIA267-B standard, there
are three primary rotary axes: A, B, and C
• Each is identified by the central primary linear axis around
which it pivots:
A axis rotates around a line parallel to X
B axis rotates around a line parallel to Y
C axis rotates around a line parallel to Z
• To identify a rotary axis, first find its central axis. For example, a
lathe equipped with a positioning spindle that can stop at any given
rotation angle facilitates drilling holes spaced around the perimeter
of a turned part

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CNC Programming Basics
8.3 World Axis Standards
• The lathe drilling attachment illustrates another axis set,
secondary linear axes: U, V, and W .
• CNC machines occasionally receive secondary, straight-
line axes to add auxiliary tool slides or boring quills and
other machining functions to their capability.
Secondary Linear Rule:
• To identify the secondary linear axes, determine the
primary linear parallels (X, Y, or Z). If the secondary axis
is parallel to:
X, it is the U axis
Y, it is the V axis
Z, it is the W axis

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.4 Programming Systems
8.4.1 Positioning Reference Point Systems
• Two types of programming
modes, the incremental system
and the absolute system, are
used for CNC. Both systems have
applications in CNC
programming, and no system is
either right or wrong all the time.
Most controls on machine tools
today are capable of handling
either incremental or absolute
programming.

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CNC Programming Basics
8.4 Programming Systems
8.4.1 Positioning Reference Point Systems

• Incremental program locations

are always given as the distance
and direction from the
immediately preceding point.
• In incremental programming, the
G91 command indicates to the
computer and MCU (Machine
Control Unit) that programming
is in the incremental mode.

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CNC Programming Basics
8.4 Programming Systems
8.4.1 Positioning Reference Point Systems

• Absolute program locations are always given from a

single fixed zero or origin point. The zero or origin
point may be a position on the machine table, such as
the corner of the worktable or at any specific point
on the workpiece. In absolute dimensioning and
programming, each point or location on the
workpiece is given as a certain distance from the zero
or reference point and the G90 command indicates to
the computer and MCU that the programming is in
the absolute mode.

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CNC Programming Basics
8.4 Programming Systems
8.4.2 CNC Positioning Systems
• CNC programming falls into
two distinct categories. The
difference between the two
categories was once very
distinct. Now, however, most
control units are able to
handle both point-to point and
continuous path machining. A
knowledge of both
programming methods is
necessary to understand
what applications each has in
CNC.
Engineering and Architecture
CNC Programming Basics
8.4 Programming Systems
8.4.2 CNC Positioning Systems
• Point-to-point positioning is used when it is necessary
to accurately locate the spindle, or the workpiece
mounted on the machine table, at one or more specific
Iocations to perform such operations as drilling,
reaming, boring, tapping, and punching.
• Point-to-point positioning is the process of positioning
from one coordinate (XY) position or location to
another, performing the machining operation, and
continuing this pattern until all the operations have
been completed at all programmed locations.

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CNC Programming Basics
8.4 Programming Systems
8.4.2 CNC Positioning Systems
Example:
• As shown in the figure, point 1 to point 2 is a
straight line, and the machine moves only along
the X axis; but points 2 and 3 require that motion
along both the X and Y axes takes place. As the
distance in the X direction is greater than in the Y
direction, Y will reach its position first, leaving X
to travel in a straight line for the remaining
distance. A similar motion takes place between
points 3 and 4.

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.4 Programming Systems
8.4.2 CNC Positioning Systems
• Contouring, or continuous path machining, involves
work such as that produced on a lathe or milling machine,
where the cutting tool is in contact with the workpiece as it
travels from one programmed point to the next. Continuous
path positioning is the ability to control motions on two or
more machine axes simultaneously to keep a constant
cutter-workpiece relationship. The programmed
information in the CNC program must accurately position
the cutting tool from one point to the next and follow a
predefined accurate path at a programmed feed rate in order
to produce the form or contour required.

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.4 Programming Systems
8.4.3 Interpolation
• The method by which contouring machine tools move from one
programmed point to the next is called interpolation. This ability to merge
individual axis points into a predefined tool path is built into most of
today’s MCUs. There are five methods of interpolation: linear, circular,
helical, parabolic, and cubic.
• All contouring controls provide linear interpolation, and most controls are
capable of both linear and circular interpolation. Helical, parabolic, and
cubic interpolation are used by industries that manufacture parts which
have complex shapes, such as aerospace parts and dies for car bodies.

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.4 Programming Systems
8.4.3.1 Linear Interpolation
• Linear Interpolation consists of any programmed points linked
together by straight lines, whether the points are close together or
far apart (Fig. 11). Curves can be produced with linear
interpolation by breaking them into short, straight-line segments.
This method has limitations, because a very large number of
points would have to be programmed to describe the curve in
order to produce a contour shape.
• A contour programmed in linear interpolation requires the
coordinate positions (XY positions in two-axis work) for the start
and finish of each line segment. Therefore, the end point of one
line or segment becomes the start point for the next segment, and
so on, throughout the entire program.

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.4 Programming Systems
8.4.3.2 Circular Interpolation
• The development of MCUs capable
of circular interpolation has greatly
simplified the process of
programming arcs and circles.
• To program an arc the MCU requires
only the coordinate positions (the
XY axes) of the circle center, the
radius of the circle, the start point
and end point of the arc being cut,
and the direction in which the arc is
to be cut (clockwise or
counterclockwise). The information
required may vary with different
MCUs.
Engineering and Architecture
CNC Programming Basics
8.5 Programming Format
8.5.1 Word Address Format
• Word address is the most common programming format used for CNC
programming systems. This format contains a large number of different codes
(preparatory and miscellaneous) that transfers program information from the part
print to machine servos, relays, micro-switches, etc., to manufacture a part.
These codes, which conform to EIA (Electronic Industries Association)
standards, are in a logical sequence called a block of information. Each block
should contain enough information to perform one machining operation.
• Every program for any part to be machined, must be put in a format that the
machine control unit can understand. The format used on any CNC machine is
built in by the machine tool builder and is based on the type of control unit on the
machine

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.5 Programming Format
8.5.1 Word Address Format
• A variable-block format which uses
words (letters) is most commonly
used. Each instruction word consists
of an address character, such as X,
Y, Z, G, M, or S. Numerical data
follows this address character to
identify a specific function such as
the distance, feed rate, or speed
value.
• The address code G90 in a program,
tells the control that all
measurements are in the absolute
mode. The code G91, tells the
control that measurements are in
the incremental mode. Engineering and Architecture
CNC Programming Basics
8.5 Programming Format
8.5. 2 Codes
• The most common codes used when
programming CNC machines tools are:
G-codes (preparatory
functions), and
M codes (miscellaneous
functions).
• Other codes such as F, S, D, and T are
used for machine
• functions such as feed, speed, cutter
diameter offset, tool number, etc.

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.5 Programming Format
8.5. 2.1 G-Codes
• G-codes are sometimes called cycle codes because they refer to some action
occurring on the X, Y, and/or Z axis of a machine tool. The G-codes are grouped
into categories such as Group 01, containing codes G00, G01, G02, G03. which
cause some movement of the machine table or head. Group 03 includes either
absolute or incremental programming, while Group 09 deals with canned cycles.
• A G00 code rapidly positions the cutting tool while it is above the workpiece
from one point to another point on a job. During the rapid traverse movement,
either the X or Y axis can be moved individually or both axes can be moved at
the same time. Although the rate of rapid travel varies from machine to machine,
it ranges between 200 and 800 in./min (5 and 20 m/min).

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.5 Programming Format
8.5. 2.1 G-Codes
• The G01, G02, and G03 codes
move the axes at a controlled
feed rate.
• G01 is used for straight-line
movement (linear
interpolation).
• G02 (clockwise) and
G03m(counterclockwise) are
used for arcs and circles
(circular interpolation).

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.5 Programming Format
8.5. 2.1 G-Codes
• Some of the moat commonly used G-
code in CNC Programming

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.5 Programming Format
8.5. 2.2 M-Codes
• M or miscellaneous codes are used
to either turn ON or OFF different
functions which control certain
machine tool operations,
• M-codes are not grouped into
categories, although several codes
may control the same type of
operations such as M03, M04, and
M05 which control the machine
tool spindle.
• M03 turns the spindle on clockwise
• M04 turns the spindle on
counterclockwise
• M05 turns the spindle off
Engineering and Architecture
CNC Programming Basics
8.5 Programming Format
8.5. 2.2 .M-Codes
• Some of the most commonly used M-
code in CNC Programming

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CNC Programming Basics
8.5 Programming Format
8.5. 3. Block Information
• CNC information is generally programmed in blocks of five words.
Each word conforms to the EIA standards and they are written on
a horizontal line. If five complete words are not included in each
block, the machine control unit (MCU) will not recognize the
information, therefore the control unit will not be activated.
• Example:

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.5 Programming Format
8.5. 3. Block Information
• Example:

• Using the example shown, the five words are as follows:

N001 represents the sequence number of the operation.
G01 represents linear interpolation
X12345 will move the table 1.2345 in. in a positive direction along the X axis.
Y06789 will move the table 0.6789 in. along the Y axis.
M03 Spindle on CW.

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.6. Programming for Positioning
• Before starting to program a job, it is important to become
familiar with the part to be produced. From the engineering
drawings, the programmer should be capable of planning the
machining sequences required to produce the part. Visual
concepts must be put into a written manuscript as the first step
in developing a part program. It is the part program that will be
sent to the machine control unit by the computer, tape,
diskette, or other input media.
• The programmer must first establish a reference point for
aligning the workpiece and the machine tool for programming
purposes. The manuscript must include this along with the
types of cutting tools and work-holding devices required, and
where they are to be located.

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.6. Programming for Positioning
8.6.1. Dimensioning Guidelines
• The system of rectangular coordinates is very important to the
successful operation of CNC machines. Certain guidelines should be
observed when dimensioning parts for CNC machining. The following
guidelines will insure that the dimensioning language means exactly the
same thing to the design engineer, the technician, the programmer, and
the machine operator.
1. Define part surfaces from three perpendicular reference planes.
2. Establish reference planes along part surfaces which are parallel to
the machine axes.
3. Dimension from a specific point on the part surface.
4. Dimension the part clearly so that its shape can be understood
without making mathematical calculations or guesses.
5. Define the part so that a computer numerical control cutter path can
be easily programmed.

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.6. Programming for Positioning
8.6.2. Machine Zero Point
• The machine zero point can be set by three
methods—by the operator, manually by a
programmed absolute zero shift, or by work
coordinates, to suit the holding fixture or the
part to be machined.
• MANUAL SETTING - The operator can use
the MCU controls to locate the spindle over the
desired part zero and then set the X and Y
coordinate registers on the console to zero.

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CNC Programming Basics
8.6. Programming for Positioning
8.6.2. Machine Zero Point
• ABSOLUTE ZERO SHIFT - The absolute zero shift can
change the position of the coordinate system by a command in
the CNC program. The programmer first sends the machine
spindle to home zero position by a G28 command in the
program. Then another command (G92 for absolute zero shift)
tells the MCU how far from the home zero location, the
coordinate system origin is to be positioned.
• The sample commands may be as follows:
N1 G28 X0 Y0 Z0 (sends spindle to home zero position)
N2 G92 X4.000 Y5.000 Z6.000 (the position the machine
will reference as part zero)

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CNC Programming Basics
8.7. Work Settings and Offset
8.7.1. Work Coordinates
• All CNC machine tools require some form of
work setting, tool setting, and offsets
(compensation) to place the cutter and work in
the proper relationship. Compensation allows
the programmer to make adjustments for
unexpected tooling and setup conditions.
• In absolute positioning, work coordinates are
generally set on one edge or corner of a part and
all programming is generally taken from this
position. In the figure, the part zero is used for
all positioning for hole locations 1, 2, and 3.

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.7. Work Settings and Offset
8.7.1. Work Coordinates
• In incremental positioning, the work coordinates
change because each location is the zero point
for the move to the next location, as in the
figure.
• On some parts, it may be desirable to change
from absolute to incremental, or vice versa, at
certain points in the job. Inserting the G90
(absolute) or the G91 (incremental) command
into the program at the point where the change is
to be made can do this.

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CNC Programming Basics
8.7. Work Settings and Offset
8.7.2. R-plane or Gage Height
• The word-address letter R refers to a partial retraction point in
the Z axis to which the end of the cutter retracts above the
work surface to allow safe table movement in the X Y axes. It
is often called the rapid-traverse distance, gage height, retract
or work plane. The R distance is a specific height or distance
above the work surface and is generally 0.100 in. above the
highest surface of the workpiece, (see figure) which is also
known as gage height. Some manufacturers build a gage
height distance of 0.100 in. into the MCU (machine control
unit) and whenever the feed motion in the Z axis is called for,
0.100 in. will automatically be added to the depth
programmed.

Engineering and Architecture

CNC Programming Basics
8.7. Work Settings and Offset
8.7.3. Cutter Diameter Compensation
• Cutter diameter compensation (CDC) changes a milling cutter’s programmed centerline path to
compensate for small differences in cutter diameter. On most MCUs, it is effective for most cuts
made using either linear or circular interpolation in the X-Y axis, but does not affect the programmed
Z-axis moves. Usually compensation is in increments of .0001 in. up to +1.0000 in., and usually most
controls have as many CDCs available as there are tool pockets in the tool storage matrix.
• The advantage of the CDC feature is that it:
1. allows the use of cutters that have been sharpened to a smaller diameter.
2. permits the use of a larger or smaller tool already in the machine’s storage matrix.
3. allows backing the tool away when roughing cuts are required due to excessive material
present.
4. permits compensation for unexpected tool or part deflection, if the deflection is constant
throughout the programmed path.

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CNC Programming Basics
8.7. Work Settings and Offset
8.7.3. Cutter Diameter Compensation
• The basic reference point of the machine tool is never at
the cutting edge of a milling cutter, but at some point on
its periphery. If a 1.000 in. diameter end mill is used to
machine the edges of a workpiece, the programmer
would have to keep a 0.500 in. offset from the work
surface in order to cut the edges accurately, (see Fig.).
The 0.500 offset represents the distance from the
centerline of the cutter or machine spindle to the edge of
the part. Whenever a part is being machined, the
programmer must calculate an offset path, which is
usually half the cutter diameter

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CNC Programming Basics
8.7. Work Settings and Offset
8.7.3. Cutter Diameter Compensation
• Modern MCUs, which have part surface
programming, automatically calculate centerline
offsets once the diameter of the cutter for each
operation is programmed. Many MCUs have
operator-entry capabilities which can compensate
for differences in cutter diameters; therefore an
oversize cutter, or one that has been sharpened,
can be used as long as the compensation value for
oversize or undersize cutters is entered.

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8.8. CNC Milling Programming Hints

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CNC Programming Basics
8.8. CNC Milling Programming Hints

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CNC Programming Basics
8.8. CNC Milling Programming Hints

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8.9. CNC Milling Programming
(Illustrative Example)

Generate the CNC Program for

milling job shown:

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CNC Programming Basics
8.9. CNC Milling Programming
(Illustrative Example)
Program Notes:
• Program in the absolute mode starting at the tool
change position at the top left corner of the print.
• The material is aluminum (300 CS), feed rate 10
in/min.
• The cutting tool is a .250 in. diameter high speed steel
2-flute end mill.
• Mill the 1 in. square slot.
• Drill the two .250 in. diameter holes, .250 in. deep.
• Mill the .250 in. wide angular slot, .125 in. deep.
• Mill the .250 in. wide circular groove, .125 in. deep.
• After the job is completed, return to the tool change
position.