Articles for CNC Machinists

I examine the most common G Codes and how they are used to control the machines.

An explanation of the most common M Codes with example programs.

I explain the many different G Code cycles used when programming a CNC Lathe.

I explain the six main G Code cycles used when programming a CNC milling machine.

How to easily find the right size tapping drill for your internal screw thread.

Thread information charts for screw cutting

Cutting speed charts for speeds and feeds calculation

Avoiding clamps when programming a canned cycle on a milling machine.

An explanation of how to write a G-Code program with G41, G42 and G40.

An explanation of setting and working with datums using G10, G53 and G54.

The two different ways of using a G76 cycle to machine a thread on a CNC lathe

The G84 tapping cycle broken down and explained. Includes an example progam.

Drilling with varable pecks using G73 and G83 milling cycles with I, J and K

Machining grooves on a CNC Lathe with G75 G-Code

An explanation of the absolute and incremental positioning system. G90 and G91

A look at a G71 roughing cycle on a CNC Lathe while using a subroutine to define the profile of the part

A look at a G72 facing cycle on a CNC Lathe including both the two line version and the single line.

Answering the question, How does a G73 Pattern cycle work on a CNC Lathe?

An explanation of how we use the G96 and G97 G-Codes to control the spindle speed

5 Best G-Code Simulators for Machining and 3D Printing

Learn how to use variables when programming G-Code

Learn how to use constraints in Fusion 360

How to run nested programs to speed up production

How to safely use the G28 zero return Gcode

How to cut a tapered thread using G32

Using canned cycles to reduce the amount of code

A look at our options when programming a part

How to calculating spindle speeds

how our favourite language started

How CAD/CAM and G-Code work together

how we use punch tapes to store our CNC programs

How to program a bush on a CNC Lathe

Know how long a cut will take before it goes on the machine.

Learn how to do linear equations the easy way.

Learn how to visualise metric or imperial measurements.

How to stay safe on a manual lathe