131.3.4 - CAD/CAM/CNC Mills
Feeds, Speeds, and G-Codes!
Oh My!!
Oh My!!
Spindle Speed (RPM):
SFM x 3.82
Diameter of Part/Stock
RPM: Revolutions per Minute
SFM: Surface Feet per Minute (varies depending on machinability of material)
Feed Rate (IPM):
Spindle Speed (RPM) x # of Teeth (Cutting Edges) x Chip Load (IPT or CPT)
IPM: Inches per Minute
IPT: Inches per Tooth (Flute or Cutting Edges)
CPT: Chip per Tooth (Thick ness of Chip)
.002": Generally good for finishing
.004-.005": Generally good for Roughing
Theoretical finished surface roughness (µinch, √ ):
IPR: Inches Per Revolution
ICR: Insert Corner Radius
G-Code is a programming language used to control CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines, which are used to manufacture a wide range of products in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and medical devices. G-code uses a series of commands, or codes, to tell the machine what to do, including controlling the movements of the cutting tool, spindle speed, feed rate, and coolant flow. By using G-code, manufacturers can automate the production process and create complex shapes and features that would be difficult or impossible to produce manually.
Regardless of programming method (manual vs. conversational vs. CAM), g-code is ultimately what is created, and then interpreted by the CNC machine and controls the movements of the cutting tool, spindle speed, feed rate, and any other functions to create the desired part.
Just like other languages, there are "dialects" of G-Code, depending on:
Different machine manufacturers, including: FANUC, Haas, Mazak, Siemens, & other, non-industrial manufacturers
Different machine types, including: CNC Mills, CNC Lathes, Multi-Axis CNC machines, 3D-Printers, & other, non-standard CNC machines
Also just like any other language, you become more "fluent" with practice/exposure & learn to translate it into layman's terms
A person who is non-fluent vs. fluent in G-Code would read the code, "M03 S500", differently:
Non-fluent: "Em Zero Three, Ess Five-Hundred"
Fluent: "Spindle Clockwise at Five Hundred RPM"
The most common G/M-Codes are generally worth learning/memorizing due to their frequency within programs, and include the following: