Creating an EIA/ISO Program for the Mazak Lathe 287

absolute coordinates

A series of numerical positions that are calculated from a fixed point of origin.

canned cycle

A sequence of machine operations initiated by a single G code. Canned cycles act as shortcuts that simplify the program. Rough turning, finish turning, and peck drilling sequences are common canned cycles.

circular interpolation

A translation of linear axis positions into curved tool motions. Circular interpolation requires an endpoint, a feed rate, a center, a radius, and a direction of movement.

computer-aided design

The use of computer software to aid in the design of a part and the generation of the part program.

computer-aided manufacturing

The use of computer software to aid in the design of manufacturing processes.

constant surface speed

A speed mode used on the turning center that adjusts the spindle speed to maintain a constant cutting speed at the tool tip. CSS mode increases spindle speed as the tool approaches the spindle centerline, and decreases spindle speed as it travels away from the centerline.

F code

A code that determines the specific feed during a cutting operation.

G code

A code that determines the type of operation performed on the machine. G codes select the type of motion, speed or feed mode, etc.

geometry offset

An offset used on a turning center to account for the setup and geometry of a specific tool held in the turret. Each tool requires its own geometry offset.

incremental coordinate

A series of numerical positions that use the previous position as the point of origin for the next position.

ipm

Inches per minute. Feed rates measured in ipm describe how far the tool advances in one minute. It is most commonly used on machining centers.

ipr

Inches per revolution. Feed rates measured in ipr describe how far the tool advances in one rotation. It is most commonly used on turning centers.

linear interpolation

A translation of linear axis positions into straight vertical, horizontal, or diagonal tool movements. Linear interpolation requires an endpoint and a feed rate.

M code

A code used to signal an action from a miscellaneous group of commands. M codes change cutting tools, turn on or turn off the coolant, spindle, or workpiece clamps, etc.

mode

A programmed function that stays in effect until it is either cancelled or substituted with another function.

optional stop

A code that pauses the program if the appropriate switch is selected on the machine. Optional stops allow the operator to inspect the machine between operations. M01 typically indicates an optional stop.

part program

A series of instructions used by a CNC machine to perform the necessary sequence of operations to machine a specific workpiece.

prove out

Perform a series of steps to manually verify the accuracy of a part program. Operators use dry runs and single blocking to thoroughly check a program.

rapid positioning

The movement of machine components at the fastest possible rate of travel. Rapid positioning merely requires an endpoint for the movement.

rpm

Revolutions per minute. Speed is measured in rpm on the turning center for operations requiring a constant spindle speed.

S code

A code that determines the speed during a cutting operation.

surface feet per minute

A measurement of speed describing the distance that the tool tip travels in one minute. It is used for operations requiring an adjustment of spindle speed as the tool moves toward or away from the centerline. Surface feet per minute is abbreviated as sfm or fpm.

T code

A code used to indicate the specific tool for a tool change. Depending on the control, the T code initiates the tool change and/or references the matching geometry offset.

tool path

The series of movements made by the tip of a cutting tool. X and Z codes indicate a toolpath within a part program.

U code

A code that indicates an incremental position along the X-axis. U codes are also used in roughing canned cycles to leave a small amount of stock for finishing.

W code

A code that indicates an incremental position along the Z-axis. W codes are also used in roughing canned cycles to leave a small amount of stock for finishing.

X code

A code that describes a specific position along the X-axis.

Z code

A code that describes a specific position along the Z-axis.