Do I Need to Be a G-Code Expert With CNC?

Do I need to be a G Code Expert? In a word, no. You will probably need to know how to quickly scan your G-Code if you are having problems during your machining simulation. Other then that G-Code and a CNC program are throwaway programs for the most part. What do I mean by that? Let me explain.

Let's look at a specific design. Let's say a 12" by 12" square. You build your model, run it through your CAM Software and create a CNC Program made up of G-Code instructions to your machine. Say tomorrow the job requirements change to a 24" by 24" square. Do you go into your G-Code line by line and change the code? Most people wouldn't. They would go back into their CAD or CAM program and scale the square up to 24" by 24". Then post-process the job again to get their new G-Code program.

There are some people that would do this editing line by line because the design is simple. Now think of a complex shape and what scaling it up or down would entail. This would include massive changes to it and reviewing it line by line. We are talking thousands of lines here vs. going back and quickly scaling the model and spitting out some new G-Code.

And that is why this is throwaway. Use it over and over when you can, but don't fret over archiving it if something changes. It is much better to make a copy of the design (CAD File) in its original state and save that somewhere. That is much more useful. Post Processing? - Now you have me worried. With all the variations in G-Codes and M-Codes, how will I ever keep it straight? Don't worry about that. The CAM program you choose will have many Post Processors. Post Processors are like translators. They help the CAM Program spit out the right G-Codes for your specific machine. All you have to do is select the right Post Processor before you spit out the code. That is simple.

Most CAM programs have many machine specific post processors already loaded. All you do is go to the list of them and click on your machine to select it. If you build your own CNC Machine, there are generic post processors loaded for different types of machines. Usually you pick a generic one and modify it a bit with a little testing. You are making sure a move in the X-Axis positive direction really means what you want it to mean.

Don is active in CNC Programming and G Code.

G-Code is part of his expertise.

Computer Aided Manufacturing Software

Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) is one of the software automation processes that directly convert the product drawing or the object into the code design, enabling the machine to manufacture the product. The CAM system is used in various machines like lathes or milling machines for product manufacturing purposes. It allows the computer work instructions to communicate directly to the manufacturing machines. This saves on time and money, in that the controls can all be routed directly to a computer or laptop system, where changes can be made with the click of a button.

It provides compatibility with any CAD file format including DXF, DWG and DGN Professional 2D Mechanical drafting and design. It allows easy 3D modeling and rendering options. The CAM software provides complete support for milling, drilling and lathing operations. It includes the setup wizard, the tool database and a dialog-free CAM palette.

CAM software has developed in such a way that it has become quick, flexible machining with effective simulation. The 2D and 3D simulation is developed in the real time environment - a major advantage of the software. Load factor compensation for machine and tool, tool paths, automatic optimal tool paths and cumulative time are also major benefits in this CAM software.

Several software vendors like AutoDesk, EDC, PTC, GibbsCAM and CamSoft offer you the software with factors involving high quality, ease of use, and a reasonable price. EDS e-factory, EDS e-Vis, EDC FactoryCAD, PTC Pro/ENGINEER Advanced Assembly, and the API Toolkit are a few of the major software applications that are used in the CAM system.

Computer Aided Manufacturing provides detailed information on Applications of Computer Aided Manufacturing, Cam And Computer Aided Design, Computer Aided Design, Computer Aided Design Scanners and more. Computer Aided Manufacturing is affiliated with Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing.

CAD Online Schools (Computer Aided Design)

An online degree in CAD (Computer Aided Design or Computer Aided Drafting) can prepare the graduate for a career in architecture, engineering, aerospace, manufacturing, and other design and drafting fields. Distance learning courses offer instruction in various CAD applications to aid in product design and development, and proper methods and techniques used in the field.

Graduates of online CAD courses are qualified to prepare plans and technical drawings for buildings and other large structures. CAD students learn to take a rough sketch and turn it into a detailed technical plan that is required before production can begin.

Online CAD schools allow future professionals to obtain certification and/or college degrees without stepping foot in a classroom. Students can study CAD at their own pace, in their own environment, while maintaining current employment.

There are multiple Distance Learning colleges that offer courses in CAD. Students may seek an online certification course, or college degrees including Associate, Bachelor, Master and even Doctorate. Positions for graduates of online CAD Schools can include drafter, architect, and engineer, among others.

If you are interested in learning more about Online CAD Schools and other programs of study, please search our site for more information and resources.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised on SchoolsGalore.com.

Michael Bustamante is a staff writer for Media Positive Communications, Inc., in association with SchoolsGalore.com. Visit our Distance Learning Directory and find Online Schools and other Schools, Colleges, Universities, and Trade Schools at SchoolsGalore.com; your educational resource to locate schools.

Computer Aided Manufacturing Applications

Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) refers to an automation process, which accurately converts product design and drawing or the object into a code format, readable by the machine to manufacture the product. Computer aided manufacturing complements the computer aided design (CAD) systems to offer a wide range of applications in different manufacturing fields. CAM evolved from the technology utilized in the Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines that were used in the early 1950s. CNC involved the use of coded instructions on a punched paper tape and could control single manufacturing functions. CAM controlled computer systems, however, can control a whole set of manufacturing functions simultaneously.

CAM allows work instructions and procedures to be communicated directly to the manufacturing machines. A CAM system controls manufacturing operations performed by robotic milling machines, lathes, welding machines and other industrial tools. It moves the raw material to different machines within the system by allowing systematic completion of each step. Finished products can also be moved within the system to complete other manufacturing operations such as packaging, synthesizing and making final checks and changes.

Some of the major applications of the CAM system are glass working, woodturning, metalworking and spinning, and graphical optimization of the entire manufacturing procedure. Production of the solids of rotation, plane surfaces, and screw threads is done by applying CAM systems. A CAM system allows the manufacturing of three-dimensional solids, using ornamental lathes with greater intricacy and detail. Products such as candlestick holders, table legs, bowls, baseball bats, crankshafts, and camshafts can be manufactured using the CAM system. CAM system can also be applied to the process of diamond turning to manufacture diamond tipped cutting materials. Aspheric optical elements made from glass, crystals, and other metals can also be produced using CAM systems. Computer aided manufacturing can be applied to the fields of mechanical, electrical, industrial and aerospace engineering. Applications such as thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, solid mechanics, and kinematics can be controlled using CAM systems. Other applications such as electromagnetism, ergonomics, aerodynamics, and propulsion and material science may also use computer aided manufacturing.

Computer Aided Manufacturing provides detailed information on Applications of Computer Aided Manufacturing, Cam And Computer Aided Design, Computer Aided Design , Computer Aided Design Scanners and more. Computer Aided Manufacturing is affiliated with Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing.

Guide To CNC Machines

 

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
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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.
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Types of CNC Machines
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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.
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Buying Used units
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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. Charles Mahoney publishes many articles for the website http://www.inside-woodworking.com . He writes on topics from CNC technologies and other areas in this field.