To move the axis of a CNC Mill machines, we need a command code known as G CODE.
There are three basic movements of the G Code
1. G00 = Rapid positioning
Tool move linear into programmed position of the work piece with rapid transverse rate (maximal speed).
Movement positioning has 2 methods depend on machine maker.
- use linier interpolation, many axis move together.
- non linier interpolation, axis moving one by one.
2. G01 = Linear move
Tool move linear into programmed point position with selected feed rate in Fxxx
3. G02 /G03 = Circular Interpolation
Tool move along a circular arc to the programmed position with feed rate specified in Fxxx.
G02 = making arc with clock wise direction (CW)
G03 = making arc with counter clock wise direction (CCW)
Combination of the three basic movement shape all the contours on CNC Mill machines.
For a simple contour we can write the G CODE manually.
But for a complex contour, we need software that can produce the G Code. They are called CAM software.
This simulation shows the G CODE and movements that occur.
There are lot of CAM Software for example MasterCAM, UniGraphic, Catia, CAM Tool, Cimatron, HyperMill, Delcam PowerMill etc.