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G-Code Basics
G-Code Basics
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.
Common G/M-Code Commands
Common G/M-Code Commands
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:
FANUC Mill G-Code
FANUC Mill G-Code
HAAS Mill G-Code
HAAS Mill G-Code
G-Code Rules
G-Code Rules
Code Structure
Code Structure
The structure of G-Code Programs can be likened to the structure of a book:
Character = Individual Letters, Numbers, or Symbols
Examples: G, M, T, 1, 2, 3, percent (%), decimal (.), semi-colon (;), minus (-), etc.)
Word = Alphanumeric Letter+Number Combo
Examples: G54, M3, S50, F17.0, etc.
Block/Line = Single "line" or "sentence" of code, made up of one or more words
From a functional perspective, a block is a single instruction that the machine "reads" & executes, line by line
Operation = Group of lines of code, that together perform a series of toolpaths
Examples: Facing, profiling, boring, drilling, roughing, finishing, etc.
Program = Group of operations that together perform all toolpaths in a single setup for a part
Code Groups
Code Groups
G- and M-Codes that fall under the same "Code/Application" Groups cannot exist on the same executable line, due to Logical Errors:
Ex: G20 & G21 cannot be executed together (on the same line), because the machine cannot interpret the units as both inches and millimeters simultaneously – it must be one or the other
Ex: M03 & M04 cannot be executed together (on the same line), because it is impossible for the spindle to turn both clockwise and counterclockwise simultaneously
Additionally, M-Codes should never be put together on the same line of code - most machines prevent this by default
G-Code Groups
G-Code Groups
M-Code Application Groups
M-Code Application Groups
1.2✔ CHECKPOINT
1.2✔ CHECKPOINT
Read "CNC Custom Macros", Chapters 1 & 2
Read "CNC Custom Macros", Chapters 1 & 2
Read the following Chapters of the Peter Smid book, "FANUC CNC Custom Macros: Programming Resources for FANUC Custom Macro B users":
Chapter 1: FANUC Macros
Chapter 2: Basic Program Codes
After reading, do the following:
Analyze your understanding of the concepts discussed in the book's chapters and throughout this submodule
Identify your key takeaways from the chapters - what did you learn that you didn't know previously, how does what you learned affect your perspective going forward, etc.
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