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CNC Basics MTS TeachWare Students Book
MTS Mathematisch Technische Software-Entwicklung GmbH
Kaiserin-Augusta-Allee 101 D-10553 Berlin Phone: +49 / 30 / 349 960
- 0 Fax: +49 / 30 / 349 960 -25 World Wide Web:
http://www.mts-cnc.com email: [email protected]
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CNC-Basics
MTS TeachWare Students Book
MTS Mathematisch Technische Software-Entwicklung GmbH
Kaiserin-Augusta-Allee 101 D-10553 Berlin
Phone: +49 / 30 / 349 960 - 0
Fax: +49 / 30 / 349 960 - 25
eMail: [email protected]
World Wide Web: http://www.mts-cnc.com
Created by BK & BM, 2005.
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All rights reserved, including photomechanical reproduction and
storage on electric media
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Contents
Introduction into CNC Technology
..................................................................................
9
1.1 History and Development of CNC Technology
................................................................................9
From conventional machine tool to Computer Integrated Manufacturing
(CIM) ..............................9
1.2 Conventional vs. CNC Machine Tool
.............................................................................................11
Machine Structure
..........................................................................................................................11
Function..........................................................................................................................................11
Productivity
.....................................................................................................................................12
1.3 Characteristics of modern CNC machine tools
..............................................................................13
Controllable feed and rotation
axis.................................................................................................13
Path measuring systems
................................................................................................................15
Main drive and work
spindle...........................................................................................................17
Work part clamping devices
...........................................................................................................17
Tool change facilities
......................................................................................................................18
Security precautions on CNC machine
tools..................................................................................19
Control test CNC
Basics.........................................................................................................................21
Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
..............................................................................
23
2.1 Coordinate systems on CNC machine tools
..................................................................................23
Types of coordinate
systems..........................................................................................................23
Cartesian coordinate
system..........................................................................................................23
CNC-Exercise
...........................................................................................................................................28
Feed and Turning Axes on CNC
Machines....................................................................................31
CNC-Demo........................................................................................................................
34
CNC milling
...............................................................................................................................................34
CNC turning
..............................................................................................................................................35
2.2 NC Mathematics
.............................................................................................................................36
Basics of coordinate point calculations
..........................................................................................36
Calculation of NC
coordinates........................................................................................................39
2.3 Zero and reference points on CNC machine
tools.........................................................................41
Types of zero and reference
points................................................................................................41
Setting the work part zero point W on a CNC lathe
.......................................................................44
Setting the work part zero point W on a CNC milling machine
......................................................45
CNC
exercise............................................................................................................................................47
2.4 Numeric Controls on CNC Machine Tools
.....................................................................................53
Control chain and control
loop........................................................................................................53
CNC Control
...................................................................................................................................53
Types of CNC controls
...................................................................................................................56
DNC
operation................................................................................................................................60
2.5 Tool Compensations for CNC
Machining.......................................................................................62
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Inhalt
Using tool compensation
values....................................................................................................
62 Tool length compensation for milling and
turning..........................................................................
62 Tool radius
compensations............................................................................................................
63 Tool measuring and adjusting with an adjusting
device................................................................
69 Tool measuring and setup using the CNC
machine......................................................................
71
2.6 Path Measuring
Systems...............................................................................................................
75 Infeeds, position control and position adjustment of the NC
axis.................................................. 75 Path
measuring..............................................................................................................................
75
CNC exercise
...........................................................................................................................................
77
Control test Basic Geometry
.......................................................................................83
3 Technological Basics for CNC
Machining...............................................................85
3.1 CNC tool systems for turning and milling
......................................................................................
85 Tool carriers
...................................................................................................................................
85 Tool holder
.....................................................................................................................................
85 Tungsten carbide indexable
inserts...............................................................................................
86
3.2 Structure and use of lathe tools for CNC machining
.....................................................................
87 Types of lathe tools and the corresponding ISO
designation........................................................
87 Cutting materials
............................................................................................................................
88 Cutting edge geometry
..................................................................................................................
90 Abrasion and cutting
edge.............................................................................................................
91 Cutting value
..................................................................................................................................
92 Examples: Calculating technological values for CNC
machining.................................................. 94
3.3 Structure and application of milling tools for CNC machining
....................................................... 95 Milling
and milling
operations.........................................................................................................
95 Types of milling tools
.....................................................................................................................
97 Cutting edge
materials...................................................................................................................
99 Cutting geometry
.........................................................................................................................
100 Cutting values
..............................................................................................................................
102 Calculation examples of technological values for CNC machining
............................................. 104
3.4 Calculation of technological data for CNC machining
.................................................................
107 Calculation examples of technological data for CNC turning
...................................................... 107
Calculation examples of technological data for CNC
milling.......................................................
115
3.5 CNC clamping systems
...............................................................................................................
119 Types of clamping systems
.........................................................................................................
119 Types and characteristics of clamping devices for
turning..........................................................
123 Types and characteristics of clamping devices for milling
.......................................................... 132
Control test Technological
Basics............................................................................137
MTS TeachWare CNC-Grundlagen Students Book 6
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Contents
4 Introduction into NC
programming........................................................................
139
4.1 Work organization and flow of manual NC programming
............................................................139
Comparison of work preparation of conventional and CNC machining
.......................................139 Organizing the steps of
NC
programming....................................................................................140
Programming procedure for manual NC programming at programming
seat..............................143 Quality assurance during CNC
production...................................................................................145
4.2 NC programming
basics...............................................................................................................146
NC programming standards
(ISO)................................................................................................146
Structure of an NC program
.........................................................................................................146
Structure of a program block
........................................................................................................147
Structure of a program
word.........................................................................................................147
Comparison of programming codes/keys of various CNC controls
.............................................149
4.3 Introduction to manual NC programming
.....................................................................................156
Procedure for manual NC programming
......................................................................................156
Manual NC programming
Turning................................................................................................159
Manual NC programming Milling
..................................................................................................180
2. Control test Introduction into NC
programming............................................... 195
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Instroduction into CNC technology
2. Introduction into CNC Technology
1.1 History and Development of CNC Technology
From conventional machine tool to Computer Integrated
Manufacturing (CIM) The idea of numerical control (NC) of machine
tools emerged in 1949/50 at the MIT (Massachusetts Institute of
Technology, Cambridge, USA) as a result of a US Air Force order to
manufacture important airplane parts from full material rather than
by riveting and welding material together. The templates and
patterns needed for form cutting were however very complicated and
could only be manufactured with a considerable time and cost
increase when using conventional technology. Since how-ever the
contours of the large parts could easily be represented as
mathematical functions it was decided to develop a control to
control a milling machine on this basis.
NC
19601950 1970 1980 1990
CNCFFS
CADCAD / CAM
CIM
NC Numerical control
CNC Numerical control with inte-grated computer
FFS Flexible manufacturing sys-tem
CAD Computer aided draw-ing/design
CAM Computer aided manufactur-ing
CIM Computer integrated manu-facturing with planning, de-sign
and manufacturing
Figure 1 Development into CIM technology The technical
realization of this idea required a control which interprets binary
and digital entries for travel paths and switching operations in
such a way that they could be understood and processed by the
milling machine. Herewith the basic principle was formulated for
the application of numerical controls. The rapid development of
electronic data processing then enabled the practical realization.
First a corresponding NC control was developed for a vertical
milling machine. The machining path and switching information
necessary for manufacturing was given on punch card. The idea was
to control the infeed axis of the milling machine so that
separately working motors control the axis movements of the tool
carrier. The sequence of the travel path and switching information
in form of code letters and numbers was called a NC program. This
first NC machine tool already showed all the characteristics of the
NC machines to be developed later on:
Entry unit with numerical starting value for the travel path and
switch information on a punch card. Computer control to process the
travel path and switch information. Separate power supply for each
infeed axis and spindle to control the movements of the tool and
tool
carrier.
Measuring and control systems returning feedback to the
controlling computer regarding the tool posi-tions.
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In the mid 50s almost all machine tool manufacturers began
developing and manufacturing numerically con-trolled milling
machines which were soon followed by NC lathes. The rapid
development of new microele-tronic components, such us micro
processors and micro computers, enhanced the development of NC
con-trols to CNC (computerized numerical control) controls in the
mid 70s. With the increased contribution of high-performance
microprocessors it was possible to extend the opera-tions of the
computer controlled machine tools. The current microcomputers and
CNC controls as well as the PLC (programmable logic controller) of
the machine tools have improved NC programming efficiency. Con-tour
precision and machining speed of the tools as well as cutting power
have continuously improved. Mod-ern CNC controls additionally offer
a multitude of further characteristics. This has made it possible,
for in-stance, to program complex tool geometries without using
mathematical calculations. The continuous further development of
CNC machine tools takes place in a reciprocal innovation exchange
between the manufacturers of microelectronic components, CNC
controls, tools and machine tools. Users also facilitate this
increasingly rapid development by continuously demanding new and
improved solutions. CNC machining centers, flexible production
systems (FFS) and fully automated manufacturing (CIM) mark
significant stages of this development which started in the 50s.
The following list shows some of the current user requirements:
interfaces with high performance for more rapid transfer of
constantly increasing data complete machining centers with high
precision, e.g. CNC lathes with 7-32 NC axis, several spindles
and
live milling tools for turning high speed machining for turning,
milling and boring with maximum dynamic travel path accuracy
development of servo motors whose scanning rate for defining the
manufacturing dimensions becomes
smaller and smaller (presently the scanning speed is already
less than 1ms) minimizing the programming effort for the individual
manufacturing tasks simple, high-performance NC programming systems
with dynamic-interactive simulation of the machining
processes graphic control error diagnosis of the CNC machine
tool or of the complete machining system
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Introduction into CNC Technology
1.2 Conventional vs. CNC Machine Tool
Machine Structure The CNC machine tools are basically built in
the same way as conventional machine tools. The difference lies in
the fact that the machine components relevant for turning and
milling processes are controlled by computers. The movement
directions of the components of a CNC controlled machine tool are
specified by a coordinate system, which refers to the work part to
be machined and shows axes located parallel to the main linear
movement. The movements necessary for machining the individual
machine tool assemblies (table, turret and others) are calculated,
controlled and tested by a computer. For this purpose each
machining direction has a separate measuring system to calculate
the corresponding positions of the machine tool assemblies and to
return this information to the control.
Function In the following overview conventional, NC and CNC
machine tools are compared in their basic functionality:
Conventional Machine Tools
NC Machine Tools CNC Machine Tools
Entry: The qualified worker manually adjusts the machine tool
according to the drawing, clamps the raw part as well as the tools
and aligns them.
Entry: The NC program is transmitted to the NC control using a
punch card.
Entry: NC programs can be entered into the CNC control either
using a keyboard, disks or data interface (serial, Bus). Several NC
programs are stored in an internal storage, whereby modern controls
also use hard disks.
Manual control: The qualified worker manually sets the machining
values (number of rotations, infeed) and controls the machining
using hand wheels.
NC control: The NC control processes the path and feed
information of the NC program and passes the corre-sponding control
signals to the components of the NC machine.
CNC control: The micro computer integrated in the CNC control
and the corre-sponding software take over all control functions of
the CNC ma-chine. Hereby internal storage are used for programs and
sub-programs, machine data, tool and compensation values and fixed
and free cycles. Frequently, error monitoring software is
integrated in the CNC control.
Dimension control: The qualified worker manually measures and
verifies the dimen-sions of the work part and, if nec-essary, must
repeat the machining process.
NC machine: The NC machine ensures the di-mensional stability of
the work part already during the machining process with the
continuous feed-back from the measuring system and the servo
motors.
CNC machine: The CNC machine ensures the dimensional stability
of the work part already during the machining process with the
continuous feed-back from the measuring system and the servo motor,
which is con-trolled by the number of rotations. Integrated
measuring sensors make it possible to control the dimensions during
the machining. In parallel to active machining it is possible to
continue work on the CNC control, e.g. to test and opti-mize new NC
programs.
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Instroduction into CNC technology
Productivity Advantages of the CNC machine tool 1. The higher
machining speed of the CNC machine tool as well as decreased basic,
auxiliary, preparation
and finishing times on the machine increases productivity. The
following factors are especially influential:
programming directly on the machine tool with manual entries
shared responsibility in a department responsible for work
preparation for programming, materials and
tools and due entry of the data at the CNC work seat storing
recurrent machining processes of a tool specific program in form of
subprograms optimizing NC programs on the control description of
the work part shapes to be machined with simple geometry entries
automatic infeed of the tool until the required dimension has been
reached automatic initiation of all functions of the machine and
direct intervention when identifying errors or
disturbances automatic monitoring of the production through the
CNC control (automatic measuring and testing) universal application
of tools in tool clamping systems possibility to preset the tools
outside of the machine tool without influencing machine
run-time
2. Constant quality of the work part and less scrap.
3. Increased dimension precision of the work part through high
basic precision of the machine tool (1/1000 mm)
4. Short run-through-times through product organization and
combination of split machining processes
5. Improved machine utilization and rentability
6. Improved production flexibility through machining systems and
correspondingly rational production of small lots or single work
parts with high complexity
Due to the advantages mentioned above the CNC machine tools are
prevalent in cutting production. The wide application field (see
figure 2) is a typical characteristic of the CNC machine tools.
1
2
3
4
larger lot sizes
increased complexity and production precision
CNC machine tools
conventional machine tools
Figure 2 Application field of CNC machine tools Requirements for
using CNC machine tools To operate and program CNC machine tools
the machine operator needs a higher qualification. Experience from
conventional machining can not necessarily be transferred.
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Introduction into CNC Technology
1.3 Characteristics of modern CNC machine tools
Controllable feed and rotation axis Work part machining on CNC
machine tools requires controllable and adjustable infeed axes
which are run by the servo motors independent of each other. The
hand wheels typical of conventional machine tools are consequently
redundant on a modern machine tool. CNC lathes (see figure 3) have
at least 2 controllable or adjustable feed axes marked as X and
Z.
X
Z
Figure 3 Controllable NC axes on an automatic lathe
CNC- milling machines (see figure 4) on the other hand have at
least 3 controllable or adjustable feed axes marked as X, Y, Z.
Z
Y
X
Figure 4 Controllable NC axes on a milling machine
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Instroduction into CNC technology
In addition to the linear movements along the X, Y and Z axes it
is possible to control rotation around each axis. These
controllable rotation axes are marked with A, B and C (see figure
5).
+Y
+B
+A
+X
+Z
+C
Figure 5 Feed and rotation axes in Cartesian coordinate
system
Often further controllable feed axes are needed. These are then
marked as U, V, W. Additionally there are the adjustable rotation
axes around which the machining table, head stock and tool holder
can rotate inde-pendent of the feed axes. They are marked as A, B
and C. The required tool and work part carriers are moved by feed
drives. The feed drives meet the highest re-quirements due to high
machining and iteration precision. The individual axis movements
must be carried out with maximum feed speed and minimum positioning
time. To meet these requirements a modern feed drive (see figure 6)
consists of the following components:
motor, mechanical gears against overload as well as electronic
control ball screw drive for power transfer free from play sensor
as path measuring system, mostly located at the free end of the
axis power amplifier with analog or digital interfaces for CNC
control For exact positioning the feed drives are connected with
the measuring facilities. Each controllable axis of a CNC machine
needs a path measuring system with automatic interpretation of the
measuring signal. The most frequently used resolution for length
measuring is 0.001 mm, however for the X axis of the lathe
(di-ameter dimension) 0.0005 and for the precision grinding machine
up to 0.0001 are customary.
5
12
3
4
Figure 6 Feed drive for carrier with ball screw drive
feed drive
work table
measuring system
ball screw
ball screw nut
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Introduction into CNC Technology
The embodiment of the measure is usually a ball circulating
screw. If the spindle is set in motion by the mo-tor, then the
spherical thread nut, which works almost free of play, moves in
longitudinal direction and pushes the corresponding tool or work
part carrier along the carrier track (see figure 7). The almost
friction-free transfer of power from the spindle to the carrier is
achieved through a system of balls. To guarantee the minimum of
thread play the two halves of the ball thread nut are clamped
against each other to achieve high and reproducible accuracy of
production. Eventual pitch errors of the spherical contour spindle
can be auto-matically rectified by the CNC control through the
spindle pitch error compensation. Further mechanical pos-sibilities
are for instance the rack/pinion and spindle/nut. If less accuracy
is sufficient hydraulic drives are used as well.
31
4
2
3
Figure 7 ball screw drive with play-free double nut
ball screw nut
Clamping ring
balls
Drive spindle
The manufacturing tolerances resulting from the manufacturing
process of the ball screw drive can be recti-fied by modern CNC
controls using the spindle pitch error adjustment. For this purpose
the tolerances are measured by laser measuring systems and stored
in the CNC control.
Path measuring systems Depending on the applied measuring device
or scale direct and indirect position measuring are differentiated
as well as absolute and incremental position measuring. The most
accurate measuring values are achieved with direct measuring
scales. In direct position measuring (see figure 8) the measuring
scale is given in the carrier or on the machine table so that
inaccuracies on spindle and drive connection have no influence on
the value measured. The measuring values are specified by an
optical pick-up on a scanning pattern of the measuring scale. The
pick-up converts these values into electrical signals and transfers
them to the control.
Y
X
12
Figure 8 Direct position measuring
pick-up
glass ruler with scale
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Instroduction into CNC technology
In indirect position measuring (see figure 9) the travel path is
specified using the rotation of the ball circu-lating screw, which
is equipped with a pulse disk as a measuring scale. A signal
generator registers the rota-tions of the pulse disk and transfers
them to the control. The control then calculates the exact carrier
move-ments or its present positions based on the rotation
pulses.
X
4
3
2
1
Figure 9 Indirect position measuring
carrier
pulse disk as a measuring scale
spindle
signal generator
In absolute position measuring (see figure 10) a coded measuring
scale immediately shows the position of the carrier with reference
to one fixed orientation point on the machine. This point is the
machine zero point, which is specified by the machine manufacturer.
This method presupposes that the reading-in area of the measuring
scale is as large as the machining area and that the coding of the
measuring scale is binary. This is to enable the control to
allocate a numerical value to each read-in position.
M
1 20 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Figure 10 Absolute position measuring
binary-coded measuring scale
current tool carrier position
In incremental position measuring (see figure 11) a measuring
scale with a simple grating consisting of light and dark fields is
used. For a feed movement passing the sensor the sensor counts the
number of light and dark fields and calculates the current carrier
position based on the difference from the last carrier
posi-tion.
1 2 3 4
Figure 11 Incremental position measuring
ruled grating
previous carrier position
current carrier position
carrier on reference point
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Introduction into CNC Technology
The control has once to be given one absolute position, which it
then uses as a reference point when calcu-lating the current
carrier position using incremental position measuring. Therefore,
it is necessary to go to this absolute point once the control is
started. This absolute point is called the reference point on the
ma-chine. Each axes movement, even when traveled manually using the
hand wheel or buttons, needs to be registered by the control. Since
the control loses the control/information on mechanical movements
when switched off the reference point has to be returned to each
time the control is switched on.
Main drive and work spindle The main drive of a CNC machine
needs to transmit the necessary power output for machining the
current work part. This power output is transmitted from the main
drive to the drive of the corresponding work spin-dle. The friction
loads of the mechanical parts of the machine are also to be
considered. They ultimately determine the efficiency of the CNC
machine. It is necessary to have a drive with high stability, i.e.
the mo-ment of rotation has to be so that the current machining
position remains unchanged even if the machining loads are high. In
addition to this, the drive has to possess sufficient dynamics to
master speed changes rapidly and without overshooting. The work
spindle and the eventually available counter spindle were
previously driven by a direct-current motor. To keep the cutting
speed constant a stepless regulation of the rotation speed of these
motors within a wide range, for instance to turn various diameters,
is required. A disadvantage of the direct-current motor is the
abrasion of the carbon brushes, which need to be regularly checked
and changed if necessary. Thanks to the progressive development of
microelectronic components three-phase motors are now mostly used.
Their disadvantage, the complicated control of the number of
rotations, has become irrelevant due to the price development in
electronic controls. There are two types of three-phase motors:
asynchronous and synchronous motors. They have consider-able
advantages compared with direct-current motors. With identical
dimensions higher rotation moments are achieved. Furthermore, up to
three times higher number of rotation and much better power output
is possible. These motors work without carbon brushes, without
collectors or collecting rings and are corre-spondingly maintenance
free. The spindle head of the work spindle is standardized to
guarantee the maximum possible exchange of clamping devices. In CNC
machines, the work spindle as well as many other parts are more
solidly built than in conventional machine tools because of the
considerably higher acceleration rate (10 to 40m/s) and higher
machining performance.
Work part clamping devices Work part clamping devices hold the
work part in the correct and exact position on the work spindle for
turn-ing or on the work table for milling. The work part must be
clamped so that it is absolutely free from play, positioned
correctly and exactly, and fully resistant to dynamic stresses. A
multitude of work part clamping devices are available. In milling,
loading and withdrawal of work parts will automatically be done by
charging robots in the future (see MTS robot simulator ROBIN). For
turning, mostly controllable jaw chucks of different types are
used. These chucks are designed to allow pneumatically or
hydraulically controlled automatic charging and ap-proach of the
chucks. The clamping powers are adjustable. Depending on weight,
material, length/diameter relation, clamping depth and other
machining conditions the clamping powers have to be adjusted higher
or lower. Chuck jaws for high number of rotations have a
centrifugal force compensation so that the clamping power is not
reduced by the contrary centrifugal force. This centrifugal force
is realized for instance by compensation weights, which are
connected with the clamping jaws by a lever. The centrifugal force
of the compensation weight exerts then an opposite force to the
centrifugal force of the chuck jaws. The clamping power is kept
constant with this compensation. For machining between centers
mostly drivers, face drivers and controlla-ble live turrets are
used. For clamping small parts controllable collet systems are
commonly used.
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Instroduction into CNC technology
In CNC milling the main function of the work part clamping
devices is the correct positioning of the work parts. The work part
clamping should allow a work part change which is as quick, easy to
approach, cor-rectly and exactly positioned, reproducible as
possible. For simple machining controllable, hydraulic chuck jaws
are sufficient. For milling on all sides the complete machining
should be possible with as few re-clamping as possible. For
complicated milling parts milling fixtures, also with integrated
automatic rotation, are being manufactured or built out of
available modular systems to allow, as far as possible, complete
ma-chining without re-clamping. Work part pallets, which are loaded
with the next work part by the operator out-side the work room and
then automatically taken into the right machining position, are
increasingly being used.
Tool change facilities
Figure 12 Example of a turret
CNC tool machines are equipped with controllable automatic tool
change facilities. Depending on the type and application area these
tool change facilities can simultaneously take various quantities
of tools and set the tool called by the NC program into work-ing
position. The most common types are: the tool turret the tool
magazine. The tool turret (see figure 12) is mostly used for lathes
and the tool magazine for milling machines. If a new tool is called
by the NC program the turret rotates as long as the required tool
achieves working position. Presently such a tool change only takes
fractions of seconds.
Depending on the type and size, the turrets of the CNC machines
have 8 to 16 tool places. In large milling centers up to 3 turrets
can be used simultaneously. If more than 48 tools are used tool
magazines of differ-ent types are used in such machining centers
allowing a charge of up to 100 and even more tools. There are
longitudinal magazines, ring magazines, plate magazines and chain
magazines (see figure 13) as well as cassette magazines.
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Introduction into CNC Technology
Figure 13 Example of a chain magazine
1 2
3
4
Figure 14 Automatic tool change facility
milling tools
tool gripper (tool changer)
work spindle
tool magazine
In the tool magazine the tool change takes place using a
gripping system also called tool changer (see figure 14). The
change takes place with a double arm gripping device after a new
tool has been called in the NC program as follows: Positioning the
desired tool in magazine into tool changing position Taking the
work spindle into changing position Revolving the tool gripping
device to the old tool in the spindle and to the new tool in the
magazine Taking the tools into the spindle and magazine and
revolving the tool gripping device Placing the tools into the
spindle sleeve or magazine Returning the tool gripping device into
home position The tool change procedure takes between 6 to 15
seconds, whereby the quickest tool changers are able to make the
tool change in merely one second.
Security precautions on CNC machine tools The target of work
security is to eliminate accidents and damages to persons, machines
and facilities at work site. Basically the same work security
precautions apply to working on CNC machines as to conventional
ma-chine tools. They can be classified in three categories:
Danger elimination Defects on machines and on all devices
necessary for work need to be registered at once. Emergency exits
have to be kept free. No sharp objects should be carried in
clothing. Watches and rings are to be taken off.
Screening and marking risky areas: The security precautions and
corresponding notifications are not allowed to be removed or
inacti-vated. Moving and intersecting parts must be screened.
Eliminating danger exposure Protective clothing must be worn to
protect from possible sparks and flashes.
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Instroduction into CNC technology
Protective glasses or protective shields must be worn to protect
the eyes. Damaged electrical cables are not allowed to be used.
When setting up and operating CNC machines the following is to
be taken into consideration:
In general, setting-up is allowed only on a machine which has
been switched off. The only exceptions being the operations which
required the machine power to be switched on, such as re-setting
the work part with tools.
The operator should not go to the rotation or work area of the
machine since within this area the ma-chine can automatically
rotate the turrethead or feed the tool carrier.
The specific security precautions of the machine manufacturer
have to be followed. The following security precautions are to be
followed as well:
Blocking system against loose parts or parts which have not been
allocated correctly, against auto-generated movement of not fixed
elements and against starting an automatic machining procedure
before setting-up work has been completed.
Blocking system of the work part clamping device when charging
the CNC machine manually. Keeping the security distance between the
parts of the neighbouring CNC machines coming closest to
the machine in a system where CNC machines are connected with
each other and
protection against chips and coolant splashes. Sucking off the
machine room air.
Workshop Clarification of machine parts of CNC machines in the
workshop. The parts of machine tools should be shown and explained
on the available machine tools. Similarities and differences
between conventional machine tools and CNC machine tools are to be
emphasized.
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Instroduction into CNC technology
Control test CNC Basics
1. Discuss relevant differences between CNC machine tools and
conventional machine tools.
1. Name characteristic features of numerically controlled
machine tools!
1. What are the advantages of CNC machine tools compared with
conventional machine tools?
1. Why is it necessary to have adjustable feed axes on CNC
machines?
1. Which components make up a modern feed drive?
1. How many feed axes at minimum should be available on a CNC
lathe?
1. What are the feed axes called?
1. How many feed axes at minimum should be available on a CNC
milling machine?
1. What are the feed axes called?
1. Give some examples of controllable rotation axes on CNC
machines!
1. Which operations can be achieved by controllable rotation
axes on CNC lathes?
1. Which operations can be achieved by controllable rotation
axes on CNC milling machines?
1. Discuss the significance and function of a ball screw!
1. Discuss the difference between direct and indirect position
measuring?
1. Discuss the difference between absolute and incremental
position measuring?
1. What are the advantages of main drive motors with
controllable number of rotations?
1. Which automatic tool installations are available on CNC
machine tools?
1. Which types of tool magazines are available on CNC milling
machines?
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
3. Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
2.1 Coordinate systems on CNC machine tools
Types of coordinate systems Coordinate systems enable the exact
description of all points on a work plane or room. Basically there
are two types of coordinate systems:
Cartesian coordinate system and polar coordinate system.
Cartesian coordinate system A Cartesian coordinate system, also
called rectangular coordinate system includes for the exact
description of the points
two coordinate axes (two-dimensional Cartesian coordinate
system) or also three coordinate axes (three-dimensional Cartesian
coordinate system),
located vertically to each other. In the two-dimensional
Cartesian coordinate system, e.g. in the X, Y coordinate system,
each point on the plane is explicitly defined (see figure 15). The
distance from the Y axis is called the X coordinate and the
distance from the X axis is called Y axis. These coordinates can
either have a positive or a negative sign.
Y
X
P1P2
P3P4
Figure 15 Cartesian coordinate system with 2 axis (X;Y)
Example:
P1 X= 80 Y= 40
P2 X= -80 Y= 70
P3 X= -50 Y= -40
P4 X= 40 Y= -70
If a work part drawing is placed in this coordinate system all
important work points can be determined. De-pending on where the
zero point of the work part is placed, it is possible to exactly
define the points either with positive or also with negative
coordinates.
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
The three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system is necessary
for the description and location specifica-tion of
three-dimensional work parts, e.g. milling parts. To describe a
point in space three coordinates are required. These are called X,
Y or Z according to the corresponding axis (see figure 16). Such
three-dimensional coordinate systems with positive and negative
areas of the coordinate axis enable the exact description of all
points, for instance in the operating space of a milling machine,
regardless of where the zero point of the work part is
positioned.
X
YZ
P1
P2
Figure 16 Cartesian coordinate system with 3 axes (X,Y,Z)
Example:
P1 X= 30 Y= 20 Z= 0
P2 X= 30 Y= 0 Z= -10
The specifications of the three axes as well as the three
coordinates is done as a so-called clockwise-rotating system and
follows the right-hand-rule (see figure 17). The fingers of the
right hand always show to the positive direction of each axis. This
system is also called the clockwise-rotating coordinate system.
+X
+Y
+Z
Figure 17 Right-hand-rule
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
Polar coordinate system
In the Cartesian coordinate system a point is described, for
instance, by its X and Y coordinates. For rotation symmetrical
contours, such as circular boring patterns, calculating the needed
coordinates requires exten-sive computing. In the polar coordinate
system a point is specified by its distance (radius r) to the point
of origin and its angle () to a specified axis. The angle () refers
to the X axis in the X,Y coordinate system. The angle is positive,
if it is measured counterclockwise starting from the positive X
axis (see figure 18). In the opposite direction it is negative (see
figure 19).
P
Y
X
r
P
Y
X
r
Figure 18 Polar coordinate system (positive angle )
Figure 19 Polar coordinate system (negative angle )
Rotation angle of axis Each of the 3 main axes X, Y and Z also
have a rotation axis revolving around the corresponding angle.
These rotation angles of the axes are indicated with A, B, C,
whereby A rotates on the X, B on Y and C on Z axis (see figure 20).
The rotation direction is positive if the rotation is clockwise
when seen from the coordinate zero point in the positive coordinate
direction (corresponds to the rotation of a screw with a right-hand
thread or the rotation direction of a corkscrew). The specification
of the angles A, B and C of the polar coordinates can be derived
from figure 20. If the point which is to be approached is located
on the X/Y plane of the coordinate system, then the polar
coordinate angle corresponds to the rotation angle on the Z axis,
i.e. C. On the Y/Z plane the polar coordinate angle corresponds to
the rotation angle on X axis, i.e. A. In the X/Z plane it
corresponds to the rotation angle Y, i.e. B.
Figure 20
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
Axis angle of rotation with rotation direction
Coordinate system definition with reference to machine or work
part
Machine coordinate system The machine coordinate system of the
CNC machine tool is defined by the manufacturer and cannot be
changed. The point of origin for this machine coordinate system,
also called machine zero point M, cannot be shifted in its location
(see figure 21). Work part coordinate system The work part
coordinate system is defined by the programmer and can be changed.
The location of the point of origin for the work part coordinate
system, also called work part zero point W, can be specified as
desired (see figure 22).
M XY
Z
M Machine zero point
X
YZ
W
W Work part zero point
Figure 21 Machine coordinate system
Figure 22 Work part coordinate system
CNC milling machine The design of the CNC machine specifies the
definition of the respective coordinate system. Correspond-ingly,
the Z axis is specified as the working spindle (tool carrier) in
CNC milling machines (see figure 23), whereby the positive Z
direction runs from the work part upwards to the tool.
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
For an easier calculation of the points needed for programming
it is advisable to use the outer edges of the upper (see figure 24)
or the lower area (see figure 25).
Figure 23 Milling part in three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate
system
The X axis and the Y axis are usually parallel to the clamping
plane of the work part. When standing in front of the machine the
positive X direction runs to the right and the Y axis away from the
viewer. The zero point of the coordinate system is rec-ommended to
be placed on the outer edge of the work part.
X
YZ
Figure 24 Work part zero point in the upper left outer edge
Figure 25 Work part zero point in the lower left outer edge
CNC lathes In the CNC lathes the working spindle (tool carrier)
is specified as Z axis. This means the Z axis is identical to the
rotation axis (see figure 26 and 27). The direction of the Z axis
is specified so that the tool withdraws from the work part when
moving to the positive axis direction. The X axis is located in a
right angle to the Z axis. However, the direction of the X axis
always depends on if the tool is located in front of (see figure
26) or behind (see figure 27) the rotation center.
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
W
+X
+Z
W
+X
+Z
Figure 26 Milling work part in Cartesian coordinate system with
2-axis tool in front of the rotation center
Figure 27 Milling work part in Cartesian coordinate system with
2-axis tool behind the rotation center
CNC-Exercise Working with different coordinate systems
Y
X
a
b
c
d
Enter the coordinates of the points in the table.
X Y
a
b
c
d
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MTS TeachWare CNC-Grundlagen Students Book 29
Y
X
Enter the following points in the diagram.
X Y
a 10 20
b -80 -30
c 40 -70
d -30 50
X
YZ
b
ac
d
Enter the Cartesian coordinates of the points a to d in the
table.
X Y Z
a
b
c
d
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
Enter the Cartesian coordinates of the points a to h in the
table.
ab c
d
efg
h
X Y
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
In a drawing milling work parts are specified by their diameter.
Therefore, the diameter is also included for programming. Enter the
Cartesian coordinates of the points a to g in the table. Determine
the corresponding diameter val-ues of the X coordinates!
a
bc
de
fg
X Z
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
Feed and Turning Axes on CNC Machines
Location and Designation of the NC axes
CNC milling machines differ in their design with respect to the
layout of the working spindles and the location of the NC axes (see
figure 28 and 29). The Z axis is identical with the rotation axis
of the working spindle. The positive Z direction is specified to
run from the work part to the tool. Since a three-dimensional
Cartesian coordinate system is used, the other two coordinate axes
can be determined by the right-hand-rule.
+Y
-Y
-X
+X
+Z
-Z
-Y
+Y
+Z
-Z
-X
+X
Figure 28 Axis on the vertical milling machine
Figure 29 Axis on the horizontal milling machine
In a CNC lathe the working spindle is defined as the Z axis (see
figure 30). The positive Z direction runs from the work part to the
tool. The X axis is vertical to the Z axis. The positive direction
of the X axis runs here to the rear (tool behind the rotation
center). One rotation axis - the C axis - is available when the
working spin-dle is approached..
+XC
+Z
Figure 30 Axes on the lathe
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
Directions of motion on CNC machine tools
During machining relative motions between the work part and tool
have to take place on the available axes. The axes of CNC machine
tools are specified by their design (see chapter Location and
marking of the NC axis). They refer to the work part, whereby a
three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system is used. It is always
assumed that only the tool moves, even though tool carrier of the
vertical milling machine shown below moves along the X and Z axes
(see figure 31).
+Y
+X
+Z
Figure 31 Directions of motion on a milling machine
To be able to program regardless of machine, the following
definition is introduced.
During programming it is always assumed that the tool moves. The
coordinate system always refers to the work part.
Using this definition the work part coordinates can always be
applied to generate the NC program.
NC compatible dimensioning
Two different types of dimensioning are used in NC
programming:
absolute dimensioning and incremental dimensioning (incremental
values).
Absolute dimensioning always refers to the work part zero point,
i.e. reference dimensions are used (see figure 32). In contrast,
incremental dimensioning uses incremental values which are always
measured from the current point to the next point (see figure 33).
When turning, the X values for absolute dimensioning are diameter
values, whereas for incremental dimen-sioning they refer to radius
values.
-Z
+X
-Z
+X
Figure 32 Example for absolute dimensioning
Figure 33 Example for incremental dimensioning
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MTS TeachWare CNC-Grundlagen Students Book 33
Absolute dimensioning is recommended for programming, because of
the following advantages compared with incremental
dimensioning:
measuring tolerances do not cumulate, changes of individual
values do not necessarily influence the subsequent dimensions, one
incorrect value does not lead to subsequent errors, absolute
coordinates indicate the current traverse path distance from the
tool, so that single program
steps can be traced back more easily. NC compatible drawings
should therefore avoid incremental values and use coordinate values
referring to one reference point. Despite these advantages it is
not always possible to avoid incremental dimensioning in
programming. It is, for example, an advantage when several
identical contour parts, such as recesses, are consecutively
ma-chined.
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
4. CNC-Demo Controllable NC axes on the CNC simulator
Similar to a real CNC machine tool, the CNC simulator also
permits manual travel along the NC axes. Sub-sequently, the
necessary steps on a CNC simulator are described.
When entering data, only the indicated keys are to be pressed
(for example, F5 corresponds to the function key F5)
CNC milling
Description Entry
1. Call CNC milling in the main menu. F2 (Milling)
2. Select setup mode. F3 (Setup mode) (NUM keyboard ON)
3. Go to X, Y or Z axis and check the travel path. Press the
corresponding key on the numerical keyboard.
5 +X-X
0Einfg
+Z
-Z
+Y
-Y
64
,Entf
3Bild
9Bild
7Pos 1
1Ende
8
2
6 4 9Bild
1Ende
8 2
Travel directions available:
( + X - direction )
( - X - direction )
( + Y - direction )
( - Y - direction )
( + Z - direction )
( - Z - direction )
The travel path can be checked using the displayed axis
coordinates.
4. Quit the setup menu F8 (Quit)
CNC-Exercise: With the CNC simulator each student practices
moving along the NC axes.
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
CNC turning
Description Entry
1. Call CNC turning in the main menu. F1 (Turning)
2. Select setup mode. F3 (setup mode) (NUM keyboard ON)
3. Go to the X or Z axis and check the travel path.
Press the corresponding key on the numerical keyboard.
5 +Z-Z
0Einfg
+X
-X
64
,Entf
3Bild
7Pos 1
8
2
6 4 8 2
Travel directions available:
( + Z - direction )
( - Z - direction )
( + X - direction )
( - X - direction )
The travel path can be checked using the displayed axis
coordinates.
4. Quit the setup menu. F8 (Quit)
CNC-Exercise: With the CNC simulator each student practices
moving along the NC axes. Workshop Using the CNC machines available
the students move along the controllable NC axes. Hereby the
corre-sponding operation instructions of the machine have to be
followed. Exercise: With the CNC simulator each student practices
moving along the NC machine tool.
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
2.2 NC Mathematics
Basics of coordinate point calculations When programming a CNC
program the corresponding points of the contour to be machined have
to be entered. In most cases it is possible to directly take these
point from the drawing, providing the drawing di-mensions are NC
compatible. In some cases it is however necessary to calculate
coordinate points.
Characteristic values of a triangle
To calculate the missing coordinates the relations within a
triangle are very helpful. There are various possi-bilities to
describe a triangle. Some of the following characteristic values,
such as corner points, angles or sides are used (see figure
34).
A B
C
ab
c
Figure 34 Characteristic values of a triangle
Corner points A, B and C mark the three corner points of a
triangle. Angles , and are the corresponding angles in the corners
of the triangle. Sides a, b and c mark the sides of the triangle
op-posite to the corners A, B and C. The component parts of the
triangle are al-ways marked counterclockwise.
Angles of the triangle
The angles of the triangle specify the type of the triangle.
Depending on the sizes of the triangle angles the triangle is
either an acute-angled, obtuse or right-angled triangle (see figure
35 - 37)
A B
C
ab
c
A B
C
ab
c
A B
C
ab
c
Figure 35 Acute-angled triangle All angles are smaller than
90.
Figure 36 Obtuse triangle One angle is larger than 90.
Figure 37 right-angled triangle One angle is 90.
For a triangle the relation applies: the sum of the triangle
angles , and is always 180.
+ + = 180o With this formula it is possible to calculate one
unknown angle if the other two angles are known.
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
Right-angled triangle
The right-angled triangle (see figure 38) has a special
significance in analytical geometry, since the sides of such a
triangle stand in a certain mathematical relation to each other.
The sides of a right-angled triangle have specific names:
The longest side is located opposite the right angle and is
called hypotenuse. The two sides of the triangle forming the right
angle are each called cathetus
or together the legs of the right-angled triangle. The side
which is located opposite the angle is called counter cathetus. The
side located adjacent to the angle is called adjacent cathetus.
In a right-angled triangle the right angle (see figure 38) is
described by a quarter circle and a point within the angle.
2
3
1
counter cathetus
adjacent cathetus
hypotenuse
right angle
Figure 38 Right-angled triangle
The following applies for a right-angled triangle: In a
right-angled triangle it is possible to calculate the length of an
unknown side if the other two side lengths are known. For this, the
Pythagorean theorem (see figure 39) is used.
c
a
b
bc
a
Figure 39 The Pythagorean theorem
The Greek Pythagoras (approx. 580 - 496 BC) was the first to
verify the following mathematical relation which was called after
him
the Pythagorean theorem
The sum of the squares of the legs of a right triangle is equal
to the
square of the length of the hypote-nuse.
or expressed as an equation:
a b c2 2 2+ = With the corresponding transformation the sides of
the triangle can be calculated as follows:
a c b= 2 2
b c a= 2 2
c a b= +2 2
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
Trigonometric functions
The trigonometric functions describe the relation between the
angle and the sides of the right angle. With these trigonometric
functions it is possible to calculate unknown side lengths if one
angle and the length of one side is known. The choice of the
trigonometric function between sine function (see figure 40),
cosine function (see figure 41) or the tangent function (see figure
42) depends on which side and angle are known.
1
2
counter cathetus
hypotenuse
sin counter cathetushypotenuse =
Figure 40 Sine function
1
2
adjacent cathetus
hypotenuse
cos adjacent cathetushypotenuse =
Figure 41 Cosine function
1
2
counter cathetus
adjacent cathetus
tan counter cathetusadjacent cathetus =
Figure 42 Tangent function
When calculating the unknown side the corresponding equations
need to be transformed according to the following example:
known values: the angle and the length of the adjacent
cathetus
unknown value: the length of the counter cathetus
equation: tan counter cathetusadjacent cathetus = (see figure
42), resulting in:
counter cathetus adjacent cathetus tan=
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
MTS TeachWare CNC-Grundlagen Students Book 39
Calculation of NC coordinates Work part drawings are not always
dimensioned NC-compatible. In addition to incremental values, angle
values are also frequently given in drawings. Consequently, when
programming manually the programmer has to calculate unknown
Cartesian coordinates using the points to be programmed. In the
following drawing the coordinates of the points b, c and f need to
be calculated. The other points are known.
25
a b
c d
ef
g
X
Y
25
X Y
a 15 15
b ? 15
c ? 35
d 85 35
e 85 85
f ? 85
g 15 65
Calculation of the point b:
b 25
?
dx
known : x from center point = 65 mm
unknown : x from point b = ?
solution : x = 65 mm - dx
dx = radius of the arc
dx = 25 mm
x = 65 mm - 25 mm
x = 40 mm
Calculation of the point c:
c
25
?
dx
dy
known : x from center point = 65 mm
radius of the arc r = 25 mm
dy = 35 mm - 15 mm = 20 mm
unknown : x from point c = ?
solution : x = 65 mm + dx equation: dx r dy= 2 2
( )
( )dx mm mm= 25 202 2 dx mm= 225 2 dx mm= 15 x = 65 mm + 15
mm
x = 80 mm
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
25
fdx
?dy
known : x from the beginning of the incline = 15 mm
angle of the incline = 25 dy = 85 mm - 65 mm = 20 mm
unknown : x from point f = ?
solution : x = 15 mm + dx equation: counter cathetus = adjacent
cathesis * tan
dx = 20 mm * tan 25 dx = 20 mm * 0.4663 dx = 9.326 mm x = 15 mm
+ 9.326 mm
x = 24.326 mm
CNC exercise Enter the Cartesian coordinates from the center
points of the drillings a to h in the table. Give all values
rounded to three decimal points.
abc
d
ef g
h60
X
Y
100
100
50
50
X Y
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
Calculate the unknown coordinates in the following examples.
30
80
80?
90
35
?
5070
85
85
unknown : Y coordinate unknown: Y coordinate
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Control test Basic Geometry
2.3 Zero and reference points on CNC machine tools
Types of zero and reference points
M machine zero point
W work part zero point
R reference point
E tool reference point
B tool setup point
A tool shank point
N tool change point
ER
N
WM
Figure 43 Location of the zero and reference points for
turning
Machine zero point M Each numerically controlled machine tool
works with a machine coordinate system. The machine zero point is
the origin of the machine-referenced coordi-nate system. It is
specified by the machine manufac-turer and its position cannot be
changed. In general, the machine zero point M is located in the
center of the work spindle nose for CNC lathes and above the left
corner edge of the work part carrier for CNC ver-tical milling
machines.
R
N
W
AM
Figure 44 Location of the zero and reference point for
milling
Reference point R A machine tool with an incremental travel path
meas-uring system needs a calibration point which also serves for
controlling the tool and work part movements. This calibration
point is called the refer-ence point R. Its location is set exactly
by a limit switch on each travel axis. The coordinates of the
reference point, with reference to the machine zero point, always
have the same value. This value has a set adjustment in the CNC
control. After switching the machine on the reference point has to
be ap-proached from all axes to calibrate the incremental travel
path measuring system.
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
W
M
+X
+Z
WM
+X
+Z
Figure 45 Work part zero point of the turned part
Work part zero point W The work part zero point W is the origin
of the work part-based coordinate system. Its location is
speci-fied by the programmer according to practical criteria. The
ideal location of the work part zero point allows the dimensions to
be directly taken from the drawing. In case of turning the work
part zero point is gener-ally in the center of the left or right
side of the com-pleted part, depending on which side the
dimension-ing was started from. The work part zero point can be
shifted in the NC program, e.g. when a turned part is to be
completely machined between centers on two sides. In this case it
is advisable to alternately shift the work part zero point to the
right or left side of the machined part.
X
YZ
Figure 46 Work part zero point of a milled part.
For milling, the outer corner point is usually chosen as the
work part zero point, depending on which cor-ner point is selected
as the reference point when dimensioning the work part.
Tool reference point E A further important point in the machine
work space is the tool reference point E. The tool reference point
E of a CNC lathe is a fixed point on its tool carrier. On a CNC
milling machine the tool reference point E is lo-cated on the tool
spindle. The CNC control refers first to the tool reference point
for all target point coordinates. When programming the target
coordinates either the tool tip of the turning tool or the center
of the milling tool is referred to. To be able to control exactly
the tool tip in turning or the tools in milling along the desired
machining travel path they have to be measured precisely. It is
possible to measure the tools either outside the machine with a
preset device or directly on the machine using special optics. When
using an optic, the measured values are
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Control test Basic Geometry
directly entered into the machine storage. If however the preset
device is used the measured values need to be entered manually for
each tool into the corresponding compensation value storage of the
control. Two additional points are needed to preset the tool
outside the CNC machine. These are the tool setup point B and the
tool shank point A.
B
R
Q
L
Figure 47 Tool setup point of a turning tool
Location of the tool setup point B on a turning tool B tool
setup point L length = distance of the cutter tip to the tool
setup
point in X Q overhang = distance of the cutter tip to the
tool
setup point in Z R cutter radius
B
R
L
Figure 48 Tool setup point of a milling tool
Location of the tool setup point at B of a milling tool B tool
setup point L length = distance of the cutter tip to the tool
setup
point in Z R radius of the milling tool
A
Figure 49 Toolholding point of a turret
Location of the toolholding point A on a turret A toolholding
point
If the tool system (tool post with tool) is placed into the tool
carrier (i.e. a turret), then the tool setup point B and the
toolholding point A fall together and make up the tool reference
point E. Tool change point N The tool change point N is the point
in the CNC machine work space on which the tools can be changed
without collision. In most CNC controls the tool change point can
be configured.
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
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Setting the work part zero point W on a CNC lathe Setting the
work part zero point W coordinates the work part zero point with
the drawing zero point. The drawing dimensions can then be used
directly for programming.
M W
zw
Figure 50 Setting the work part zero point on a CNC lathe
Setting the work part zero point is done with refer-ence to the
machine zero point M of the CNC ma-chine. The machine zero point of
a lathe is generally located on the rotation axis of the main
spindle on the plane surface of the spindle flange on which the jaw
chuck is flanged (see figure 50). Using the operation functions
described below the distance between the machine zero point M and
the work part zero point W is specified. This value zw, also called
the zero point shift, is then entered into the CNC control.
Procedure
Starting situation: All machining tools have been measured and
are available on the turret head. The clamping device is prepared
and the work part has been correctly clamped.
1. Switch on the spindle (counterclockwise rotation).
1. Change the tool to set the work part zero point, i.e. rotate
the turret head to the corresponding position, for instance
T02.
Note: The rotation area of the turret has to be checked first to
avoid collision during rotation.
3. Touch the front plane area of the work part: carefully move
with the tool using the hand wheel or using the corresponding arrow
keys of the keyboard of the CNC control until the cutting edge
reaches a marking on the work part.
3. Enter the desired plane area allowance (e.g. 0.5 mm) on the
CNC control. Actuate with the zero key. (The dimensions are used to
face the front surface in z=0)
3. The CNC control then stores the value of the zero point shift
zw. The work part zero point W is clearly specified since the X
coordinate zero is located on the rotation axis.
3. Because of eventual allowance the front side needs to be
faced. This needs to be considered when pro-gramming the NC
program.
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Control test Basic Geometry
Setting the work part zero point W on a CNC milling machine
Similar to a lathe the work part zero point corresponds with the
drawing zero point when the work part zero point W is set on a CNC
milling machine. This allows the drawing data to be directly used
for programming.
R
N
W
AM
Figure 51 Setting the work part zero point on a CNC milling
machine
The work part zero point is set with reference to the machine
zero point M. In most cases the machine zero point of a CNC
vertical milling machine is lo-cated above the left corner edge of
the machine table (see figure 51). With the operations described
below the distance is specified between the machine zero point M
and the work part zero point W in the three coordinates X, Y and Z.
These values are then entered into the CNC control. Procedure
Starting situation:
The work part is adjusted and firmly clamped in the machine
table. All tools are gauged to each other. The corresponding
compensation values were en-tered into the CNC control. The zero
setting tool is clamped and the spindle rotation is switched on. 1.
Resetting Z direction
W
Z Y
X
Figure 52 Resetting in Z
The machine table with the clamped work part is moved below the
work spindle (in X and Y) in which the reset tool is clamped. Now
the tool is recessed in Z direction to the work part surface (X, Y
plane), with the spindle switched on (see figure 52), until a small
marking is made on the work part (touching the work part) surface.
After this the Z axis is reset and the Z value of the work part
zero point W is transferred and stored into the CNC control using
the IST key. 2. Resetting in X direction
W
Z Y
X
Figure 53 Resetting in X
The tool is raised again and taken into the new reset-ting
position for the X axis. With the spindle switched on it is moved
along the side surface of the work part (Y, Z plane) in the X
direction (see figure 53) until a small marking is made on the work
part surface (touching the work part). When touching the work part
in X axis the radius of the applied tool has to be considered when
confirm-ing the value with the IST key, since the center point
coordinates of the tool are always used in NC pro-gramming. If the
milling tool of the adjacent figure has, for in-stance, a radius of
15 mm, then the value X=-15 is entered into the NC control and
confirmed with IST. .
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
W
Z Y
X
Figure 54 Resetting in Y
3. Resetting in Y direction The last step is to take the tool to
resetting position for the Y axis. With the spindle switched on,
the tool is taken into Y direction (see figure 54), to the side
surface of the work part (X, E Plane) until a small marking is done
on the work part surface (touching the work part). When touching
the work part in X axis the radius of the applied tool has to be
considered when confirm-ing the value with the IST key, since the
center point coordinates of the tool are always used in NC
pro-gramming. If the tool of the adjacent figure has, for instance,
a radius of 15 mm then the value Y=-15 is entered into the CNC
control and confirmed with IST.
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Control test Basic Geometry
CNC exercise Setting the work part zero point W in the CNC
simulator Turning
By setting the work part zero point W the relation between the
machine based and work part based coordi-nate system is created.
The work part zero point corresponds to the drawing zero point.
Consequently, the drawing dimensions can be used in programming.
Using the operation steps described below the distance between the
machine zero point M and the work part zero point W can be
specified. This Z value is also called the zero shift zw.
M W
zw
Starting situation:
All machining tools are dimensioned and available on the turret
head.
The work part is clamped in chuck jaws. The work part zero point
is located on the front
plane surface, whereby an allowance of 1mm has to be
considered.
Description Entry
1. Call CNC turning in the main menu. F1 (Turning)
2. Select setup mode. F3 (Setup mode)
3. Switch on the spindle in counterclockwise rotation.
Type M04 using the keyboard and
confirm.
4. Change the tool for the definition of the work part zero
point.
Type T0404 using the keyboard and confirm.
5. Move the lathe tool in rapid speed so that it is located in
front of the front plane surface with a distance of approx. 5mm to
the front plane surface.
+Z
+X
Using the numeric keyboard press the corre-sponding arrow key
simultaneously with the shift key:
+ 4 for rapid speed in -Z direction
+ 2 for rapid speed in -X direction
5 +Z-Z
0Einfg
+X
-X
64
,Entf
3Bild
7Pos 1
8
2
6 4 8 2
Travel direction options:
( + Z - direction )
( - Z - direction )
( + X - direction )
( - X - direction )
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
6. Switch the increment from 1mm to 0,1mm or
0,01 mm for further machining. . F3
F5
F2
(Technology)
(Increment)
(Increment 0.1)
7 Move the lathe tool in negative Z-direction until it touches
the plane surface of the work part .
4
ESC
F8
Press the arrow key on the numeric keyboard.
Then press
and
(Quit).
8. Set the work part zero point in Z. F4 F4 F1
F8
(Tool datum)
(Set datum)
(Set Z coord.)
Type z+1using the keyboard and confirm
with (allowance of 1mm).
The Z value can be checked for the current zero point using the
displayed coordinates.
9. Take the tool off in +Z direction and in +X direction .
Using the numeric keyboard press the arrow key together with the
shift key:
+ 6 for rapid speed in +Z direction
+ 8 for rapid speed in +X direction
10. Quit the setup mode F8 F8 F8
(Quit)
(Quit)
(Quit)
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Control test Basic Geometry
Setting the work part zero point W in the CNC simulator
milling
In milling, setting the work part zero point W coordinates the
work part zero point with the drawing zero point. Please note that
only the tool moves in the MTS simulator! Using the operation steps
described below the distance between the machine zero point M and
the work part zero point W in the three coordinates X, Y and Z is
defined.
W
Z Y
X
Starting situation:
All machining tools are dimensioned and avail-able in the
magazine.
The work part is adjusted and clamped on the machine table in
the simulator.
The location of the work part zero point should be the left top
corner of the work part.
Description Entry
1. Call CNC milling in the main menu. F2 (Milling)
2. Select the setup mode. F3 (Setup mode)
3. Switch on the spindle in clockwise rotation.
Type M03 using the keyboard and
confirm.
4. Change the tool to define the work part zero point.
Type T0202 using the keyboard and
confirm.
5. Setting the zero point in Z direction Move the tool in rapid
speed to a position approx. 5mm above the work part surface.
W
ZY
X
Using the numeric keyboard press the corre-sponding arrow key
together with the shift key:
Ex.: + 2 for rapid speed in -Z direction.
5 +X-X
0Einfg
+Z
-Z
+Y
-Y
64
,Entf
3Bild
9Bild
7Pos 1
1Ende
8
2
6
4 9Bild
1Ende
8 2
Further travel direction options:
( + X direction )
( - X direction )
( + Y direction )
( - Y direction )
( + Z direction )
( - Z direction )
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
6. Switch the increment from 1mm to 0,1mm or
0,01mm for further machining. F3
F5
F2
(Technology)
(Increment)
(Increment 0.1)
7 Move the tool in negative Z direction until it touches the
surface of the work part.
2
ESC
F8
Press the arrow key on the numeric keyboard
Then press
and
(Quit).
8. Set the work part zero point in Z. F4 F4 F3
F8
(Tool/ Datum)
(Set Datum)
(set Z coord.)
Type in the data on the keyboard 0 and
confirm it.
Check Z by setting the zero point and using the dis-played
coordinate values.
9. Setting the zero point in X direction Withdraw the tool in +Z
direction.
Using the numeric keyboard press the arrow
key together with the shift key:
+ 8 for rapid speed in +Z direction
10. Move the tool in rapid speed to the new zero setting
position approx. 5mm off the side sur-face.
W
ZY
2
1
X
Press the corresponding arrow key on the numeric keyboard
together with the shift key:
1) in -X direction
+ 4 for rapid speed in -X direction 2) in -Z direction
+ 2 for rapid speed in -Z direction
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Control test Basic Geometry
11. Move the tool in positive X direction until it
touches the left side of the work part.
6 ESC
F8
Press the arrow key on the numeric keyboard.
Then press
and
(return).
12. Set the work part zero point in X.
Please note the tool radius!
So, enter for the X coordinate the negative value of the radius
of the applied tool, for in-stance -10.
F4 F4 F1
F8
(tool, zero point)
(set datum)
(set X coordinate)
Type -10 using the keyboard and confirm.
Check the X by setting the zero point using the dis-played
coordinate values.
13. Setting the zero point in Y direction Take off the tool in
-X direction and then in +Z direction.
Using the numeric keyboard press the arrow key together with the
shift key:
+ 4 for rapid speed in -X direction then
+ 8 for rapid speed in +Z direction.
14. Take the tool in rapid speed to the new reset-ting position
approx. 5mm off the front side.
W
ZY
2
1
3X
Using the numeric keyboard press the corre-sponding arrow key
together with the shift key:
1) in +X direction
+ 6 for rapid speed in +X direction 2) in -Y direction
+ 1Ende for rapid speed in -Y direction 3) in -Z direction
+ 2 for rapid speed in -Z
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
15. Take the tool in positive Y direction until it
touches the front of the work part.
9Bild ESC
F8
Press the arrow key on the numeric keyboard.
Then press
and
(Quit).
16. Set the work part zero point in Y.
Please, note the tool radius!
So, enter for the Y coordinate the negative value of the radius,
for instance -10.
F4 F4 F2
F8
(Tool/Datum)
(set Datum)
(set Y coord.)
Type -10 using the keyboard and confirm
key.
Check the Y by setting the zero point using the dis-played
coordinate values.
17. Withdraw the tool in -Y and then in +Z direc-tion.
use the numeric keyboard and press the ar-row key together with
the shift key:
+ 1deEn for rapid speed in -Y direction, then
+ 8 for rapid speed in +Z
18. F8 (Quit)
19. Quit the setup mode menu. F8 (Quit)
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Control test Basic Geometry
2.4 Numeric Controls on CNC Machine Tools
Control chain and control loop The current controls of the
numeric-controlled machine tools are CNC controls. For the control
it is characteristic to have an open movement path (see figure 55).
The control gives the set value to the machine tool without
controlling it directly. This is called a control chain.
2
3
4
1
Figure 55 Function principle of a control chain
input value (set value)
output value (actual value)
disturbance value
control path
Since such a control chain generates an incorrect output value
it is connected with the control. The control is a sequence of
operations which constantly recalculates and adjusts the actual
value to reach the required value.This closed sequence of
operations is called a control loop (see figure 56)..
3
4
1
5
6
2
Figure 56 Function principle of a control loop
entry value (set value)
output value (actual value)
disturbance value
control path
measuring equipment
output value (actual value)
In a CNC machine tool the principle of a control loop is applied
as a position control for the axis.
CNC Control
Structure and function
The CNC control is designed to decode a NC program and to
process it as geometrical and technological information. Using CNC
control it is possible to control or check the corresponding
components of the CNC machine tool so that the desired work part is
formed. The functions of the CNC control can be classified as data
entry, data processing or data output (see figure 57).
Data entry and data processing
The data entry is done using the control panel consisting of a
keyboard and monitor. Here the NC programs can be generated and
managed, data can be entered or program simulations can be called .
The NC pro-grams can also be read in or stored using external data
carriers, such as data cassettes. It is also possible
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Basic Geometry for CNC Machining
to have an external data transmission to a computer (DNC
operation) via serial interfaces or network input ports. It is then
possible to generate (MTS system) and manage NC programs on this
computer.
1
2
X,Y,Z
Y
X
3
4
5
6 Z
CNC control
technological processing
geometrical processing
adjustment con-trol
axis control
actual position value
data entry data processing data output
Figure 57 Structure of a CNC control The data needed by the CNC
machine tool to operate and machine the work part is generated out
of the NC data by the data processing of the CNC control. The
technological data is used e.g. for tool selection, for adjusting
the spindle rotation speed, for selecting the spindle direction of
rotation or for switching the coolant on and off. They are
transmitted through the ad-justment control to the corresponding
component of the CNC machine tool. The geometrical information of a
NC program is translated from the CNC control into set values for
the dif-ferent axial drives under consideration of the infeed
values. The travel movements which are so created are continuously
controlled by the position control loop of the feed axis. Travel
movement using interpolation In technical applications by far all
contour lines can be classified in straight lines and circular
elements. This is the reason why the