When CNC G-Code Programming Is a Must

Mazak’s Mazatrol Smooth CNC technology is available with nearly all of the company’s machine tools, including its Syncrex Swiss-type lathe. (Photo Credits: PM)

For CNC machine shops, there are instances in which the simplicity of conversational-type part programming applies. Conversely, there are also applications in which EIA/ISO G-code programming is a must.

Aerospace and medical machining programs, for instance, often require incremental control and documentation of tool movement. In addition, automotive production programs must be free of all time-consuming machine motion where fractions of seconds become critical when producing hundreds of thousands of parts.

In terms of machine tools, G-code programming is essential when simultaneous, multi-axis machine movement is involved. Emerging technologies such as friction stir welding and some gear machining methods also require G-code programming.

In these and similar situations, G-code programming puts the programmer in full control of every step of metal cutting operations and outcomes. Programming in G-code minimizes the number of non-cutting preparatory and safety machine movements that are often characteristic of conversational-type programs.

Mazak’s Mazatrol Smooth CNC technology provides flexibility in offering G-code as well as conversational programming capabilities. Contrary to a popular belief, programming in G-code on a Mazak machine does not require knowledge of Mazatrol conversational programming. In fact, the foundation of Mazatrol conversational programming is G-code; simply a graphical user interface (GUI) for the G-code.

Smooth CNC technology provides flexibility in offering G-code as well as conversational programming capabilities.

Mazak’s expertise in providing both G-code and conversational programming extends nearly 40 years. In 1985, Mazak offered the combination of G-code and conversational programming optionally on its T-2 and M-2 controls. By 1994, fourth-generation Mazatrol CNCs came standard with both G-code and conversational programming in a single control. Four years later, the 64-bit CPU in the Mazatrol Fusion 640-T marked the further integration of program and production information into a PC.

Today, Mazatrol intuitive conversational software complements G-code programming and is included with nearly all Mazak machine tools. G-code users can use conversational methods to quickly and easily program prismatic parts or routine operations such as part probing, tool measuring and part engraving. Mazatrol’s integrated system leads users through the programming process for those types of operations and creates programs that can be stored in the machine’s program directory. A G-code program can call up a Mazatrol conversational program as a subroutine enabling interchangeability and efficiency.

Additionally, Mazatrol Smooth controls can run G-code programs not created on a Mazak machine. Existing G-code programs can sometimes run faster due to functions such as Mazak’s Smooth Machining Configurator (SMC) and Smooth Corner Control. With built-in support for EIA/ISO G-code, Mazatrol runs code posted for other brands of controls and edits usually may only involve changing a few preparatory codes.

G-code programming puts the programmer in full control of every step of metal cutting operations

Because the entire family of Mazak Mazatrol Smooth controls is G-code based, all Smooth controls ship with Mazak’s high-speed machining software with look-ahead features that functions within both G-code and conversational programs. Smooth controls also offer a “Quick EIA” feature that enables programmers or operators to correct programming issues by opening a graphic of the tool path and touching the segment that is in question. The control jumps to that line, making it faster to edit the code.

Smooth controls use multicore processors for both the NC and HMI that together have the processing power to provide unlimited look-ahead and handle up to 67 million pulse servo encoders. Users can also manipulate Mazak’s Smooth Corner Control via the controller’s SMC page for real-time process optimization.

When it comes to part programming, there’s a time for conversational and a time for G-code. To ensure today’s machine shops are ready for both, Mazak’s Mazatrol controls provide both G-code and conversational programming to enable them to boost productivity and efficiency across a wide range of applications.

— Article written by Kenzie Roaden, Mazak applications engineer, and Mike Finn, Mazak senior applications engineer.