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| {{short description| |
{{short description|Primary programming language used in CNC}} | ||
| {{other uses|G-code (disambiguation)|G programming language (disambiguation)}} | {{other uses|G-code (disambiguation)|G programming language (disambiguation)}} | ||
| {{redirect|RS-274|the photoplotter format|Gerber format}} | {{redirect|RS-274|the photoplotter format|Gerber format}} | ||
| {{Infobox programming language | {{Infobox programming language | ||
| | name |
| name = G-code | ||
| | file ext = .gcode, .mpt, .mpf, .nc and several others | |||
| | logo = | |||
| | paradigm = ], ] | |||
| | caption = | |||
| | released = {{Start date|1963}} (RS-274) | |||
| | file ext = .gcode, .mpt, .mpf, .nc and several others | |||
| | designer = ] | |||
| | paradigm = ], ] | |||
| | developer = ] (RS-274), ] (ISO-6983) | |||
| | released = 1950s (first edition)<!-- {{Start date|YYYY}} --> | |||
| | implementations = Numerous; mainly ] Sinumerik, ], ], ], ], ] | |||
| | designer = ] | |||
| | dialects = | |||
| | developer = | |||
| | influenced by = | |||
| | latest release version = | |||
| | influenced = | |||
| | latest release date = <!-- {{start date and age|YYYY|MM|DD}} --> | |||
| | programming language = | |||
| | latest preview version = | |||
| | platform = | |||
| | latest preview date = <!-- {{start date and age|YYYY|MM|DD}} --> | |||
| | operating system = | |||
| | typing = | |||
| | license = | |||
| | implementations = many, mainly ] Sinumerik, ], ], ], ]. Generally there is one international standard—] 6983. | |||
| | website = | |||
| | dialects = | |||
| | wikibooks = | |||
| | influenced by = | |||
| | influenced = | |||
| | programming language = | |||
| | platform = | |||
| | operating system = | |||
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| | website = | |||
| | wikibooks = | |||
| }} | }} | ||
| '''G-code''' (also '''RS-274''') is the most widely used ] (CNC) ]. It is used mainly in ] to control automated machine tools, and has many variants. | |||
| '''G-code''' (also '''RS-274''') is the most widely used ] (CNC) and ] ]. It is used mainly in ] to control automated ]s, as well as for ]. The ''G'' stands for geometry. G-code has many variants. | |||
| G-code instructions are provided to a machine controller (industrial computer) that tells the motors where to move, how fast to move, and what path to follow. The two most common situations are that, within a ] such as a ] or ], a ] is moved according to these instructions through a toolpath cutting away material to leave only the finished workpiece and/or an unfinished workpiece is precisely positioned in any of up to nine axes<ref>Karlo Apro (2008). ''''. Industrial Press Inc. {{ISBN|0-8311-3375-9}}.</ref> around the three dimensions relative to a toolpath and, either or both can move relative to each other. The same concept also extends to noncutting tools such as forming or burnishing tools, ], additive methods such as ], and measuring instruments. | |||
| G-code instructions are provided to a ] (industrial computer) that tells the motors where to move, how fast to move, and what path to follow. The two most common situations are that, within a machine tool such as a ] or ], a ] is moved according to these instructions through a toolpath cutting away material to leave only the finished workpiece and/or an unfinished workpiece is precisely positioned in any of up to nine axes<ref>Karlo Apro (2008). ''''. Industrial Press Inc. {{ISBN|0-8311-3375-9}}.</ref> around the three dimensions relative to a toolpath and, either or both can move relative to each other. The same concept also extends to noncutting tools such as ] or ] tools, ], additive methods such as 3D printing, and measuring instruments. | |||
| ==Implementations== | |||
| The first implementation of a numerical control programming language was developed at the ] Servomechanisms Laboratory in the late 1950s. In the decades since, many implementations have been developed by many (commercial and noncommercial) organizations. G-code has often been used in these implementations. The main standardized version used in the United States was settled by the ] in the early 1960s.{{Citation needed|date=March 2010}} A final revision was approved in February 1980 as ''RS-274-D''.<ref>{{citation| title = EIA Standard RS-274-D Interchangeable Variable Block Data Format for Positioning, Contouring, and Contouring/Positioning Numerically Controlled Machines |publisher = Electronic Industries Association |location= Washington D.C. |date=February 1979}}</ref> In other countries, the standard ''] 6983'' is often used, but many European countries use other standards. For example, ''] 66025'' is used in Germany, and PN-73M-55256 and PN-93/M-55251 were formerly used in Poland. | |||
| == History == | |||
| Extensions and variations have been added independently by control manufacturers and machine tool manufacturers, and operators of a specific controller must be aware of differences of each manufacturer's product. | |||
| The first implementation of a numerical control programming language was developed at the ] in the 1950s. In the decades that followed, many implementations were developed by numerous organizations, both commercial and noncommercial. Elements of G-code had often been used in these implementations.<ref>{{cite book | last=Xu | first=Xun | date=2009 | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=habcATPQWJ4C | title=Integrating Advanced Computer-aided Design, Manufacturing, and Numerical Control: Principles and Implementations | publisher=Information Science Reference | page=166 | isbn=978-1-59904-716-4 | via=Google Books}}</ref><ref>{{cite book | last=Harik | first=Ramy | author2=Thorsten Wuest | date=2019 | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=O3h0EAAAQBAJ | title=Introduction to Advanced Manufacturing | publisher=SAE International | page=116 | isbn=978-0-7680-9096-3 | via=Google Books}}</ref> The first ] version of G-code used in the United States, ''RS-274'', was published in 1963 by the ] (EIA; then known as Electronic Industries Association).<ref>{{cite book | last=Evans | first=John M. Jr. | date=1976 | url=https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/GOVPUB-C13-2ef4aaa5a150eedcb85a1e6985e90bfa/pdf/GOVPUB-C13-2ef4aaa5a150eedcb85a1e6985e90bfa.pdf | title=National Bureau of Standards Information Report (NBSIR) 76-1094 (R): Standards for Computer Aided Manufacturing | publisher=National Bureau of Standards | page=43}}</ref> In 1974, EIA approved ''RS-274-C'', which merged ''RS-273'' (variable block for positioning and straight cut) and ''RS-274-B'' (variable block for contouring and contouring/positioning). A final revision of ''RS-274'' was approved in 1979, as ''RS-274-D''.<ref>{{cite journal | last=Schenck | first=John P. | date=January 1, 1998 | url=https://link.gale.com/apps/doc/A20429590/GPS?sid=wikipedia | title=Understanding common CNC protocols | journal=Wood & Wood Products | publisher=Vance Publishing | volume=103 | issue=1 | page=43 | via=Gale}}</ref><ref>{{citation| title = EIA Standard RS-274-D Interchangeable Variable Block Data Format for Positioning, Contouring, and Contouring/Positioning Numerically Controlled Machines |publisher = Electronic Industries Association |location= Washington D.C. |date=February 1979}}</ref> In other countries, the standard ''] 6983'' (finalized in 1982) is often used, but many European countries use other standards.<ref>{{cite book | last=Stark | first=J. | author2=V. K. Nguyen | date=2009 | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=RIgLRe12RD4C | chapter=STEP-compliant CNC Systems, Present and Future Directions | title=Advanced Design and Manufacturing Based on STEP | editor-last=Xu | editor-first=Xun | editor2=Andrew Yeh Ching Nee | publisher=Springer London | page=216 | isbn=978-1-84882-739-4 | via=Google Books}}</ref> For example, ''] 66025'' is used in Germany, and PN-73M-55256 and PN-93/M-55251 were formerly used in Poland. | |||
| One standardized version of G-code, known as ''BCL'' (Binary Cutter Language), is used only on very few machines. Developed at MIT, BCL was developed to control CNC machines in terms of straight lines and arcs.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=GE8vBQAAQBAJ&q=binary+cutter+language+gcode&pg=PA321|title=Information Technology Standards : Quest for the Common Byte.|last=Martin.|first=Libicki|date=1995|publisher=Elsevier Science|isbn=9781483292489|location=Burlington|pages=321|oclc=895436474}}</ref> | |||
| During the 1970s through 1990s, many CNC machine tool builders attempted to overcome compatibility difficulties by standardizing on machine tool controllers built by ]. ] was another market dominator in CNC controls, especially in Europe. In the 2010s, controller differences and incompatibility |
During the 1970s through 1990s, many CNC machine tool builders attempted to overcome compatibility difficulties by standardizing on machine tool controllers built by ]. ] was another market dominator in CNC controls, especially in Europe. In the 2010s, controller differences and incompatibility were mitigated with the widespread adoption of CAD/CAM applications that were capable of outputting machine operations in the appropriate G-code for a specific machine through a software tool called a post-processor (sometimes shortened to just a "post"). | ||
| == Syntax == | |||
| Some CNC machines use "conversational" programming, which is a ]-like programming mode that either hides G-code or completely bypasses the use of G-code. Some popular examples are Okuma's Advanced One Touch (AOT), Southwestern Industries' ProtoTRAK, Mazak's Mazatrol, Hurco's Ultimax and Winmax, Haas' Intuitive Programming System (IPS), and Mori Seiki's CAPS conversational software. | |||
| G-code began as a limited language that lacked constructs such as loops, conditional operators, and programmer-declared variables with ]-word-including names (or the expressions in which to use them). It was unable to encode logic |
G-code began as a limited language that lacked constructs such as loops, conditional operators, and programmer-declared variables with ]-word-including names (or the expressions in which to use them). It was unable to encode logic but was just a way to "connect the dots" where the programmer figured out many of the dots' locations longhand. The latest implementations of G-code include macro language capabilities somewhat closer to a ]. Additionally, all primary manufacturers (e.g., Fanuc, Siemens, ]) provide access to ] (PLC) data, such as axis positioning data and tool data,<ref>{{cite web |archive-date=2014-05-03 |url=http://www.machinetoolhelp.com/Applications/macro/system_variables.html |title=Fanuc macro system variables |access-date=2014-06-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140503030834/http://www.machinetoolhelp.com/Applications/macro/system_variables.html }}</ref> via variables used by NC programs. These constructs make it easier to develop automation applications. | ||
| == |
== Extensions and variations == | ||
| G-codes, also called preparatory codes, are any word in a CNC program that begins with the letter ]. Generally it is a code telling the machine tool what type of action to perform, such as: | |||
| * Rapid movement (transport the tool as quickly as possible in between cuts) | |||
| * Controlled feed in a straight line or arc | |||
| * Series of controlled feed movements that would result in a hole being bored, a workpiece cut (routed) to a specific dimension, or a profile (contour) shape added to the edge of a workpiece | |||
| * Set tool information such as offset | |||
| * Switch coordinate systems | |||
| Extensions and variations have been added independently by control manufacturers and machine tool manufacturers, and operators of a specific controller must be aware of the differences between each manufacturer's product. | |||
| There are other codes; the type codes can be thought of like ] in a computer. | |||
| One standardized version of G-code, known as ''BCL'' (Binary Cutter Language), is used only on very few machines. Developed at MIT, BCL was developed to control CNC machines in terms of straight lines and arcs.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=GE8vBQAAQBAJ&q=binary+cutter+language+gcode&pg=PA321|title=Information Technology Standards: Quest for the Common Byte.|last=Martin.|first=Libicki|date=1995|publisher=Elsevier Science|isbn=978-1-4832-9248-9|location=Burlington|page=321|oclc=895436474}}</ref> | |||
| It has been pointed out over the years that the term "G-code" is imprecise because "G" is only one of many letter addresses in the complete language. It comes from the literal sense of the term, referring to one letter address and to the specific codes that can be formed with it (for example, G00, G01, G28), but every letter of the English alphabet is ]. Nevertheless, "G-code" is ] established as the common name of the language. | |||
| Some CNC machines use "conversational" programming, which is a ]-like programming mode that either hides G-code or completely bypasses the use of G-code. Some popular examples are Okuma's Advanced One Touch (AOT), Southwestern Industries' ProtoTRAK, Mazak's Mazatrol, Hurco's Ultimax and Winmax, Haas' Intuitive Programming System (IPS), and Mori Seiki's CAPS conversational software. | |||
| ==Example program== | |||
| {{original research|section}} | |||
| This is a generic program that demonstrates the use of G-Code to turn a part that is 1" diameter by 1" long. Assume that a bar of material is in the machine and that the bar is slightly oversized in length and diameter and that the bar protrudes by more than 1" from the face of the chuck. | |||
| == See also == | |||
| {| class="messagebox" {{ts|wa}} | |||
| !Block / Code | |||
| !Description | |||
| |- {{ts|vtp}} | |||
| | {{codett|%|gcode}} || Signals start of data during file transfer. Originally used to stop tape rewind, not necessarily start of the program. For some controls (FANUC) the first LF (EOB) is the start of the program. ISO uses %, EIA uses ER (0x0B). | |||
| |- {{ts|vtp}} | |||
| | {{nowrap|{{mono| }}{{codett|O4968 (OPTIONAL PROGRAM DESCRIPTION OR COMMENT)|gcode}}}} || Sample face and turn program. Comments are enclosed in parentheses. | |||
| |- {{ts|vtp}} | |||
| | {{codett|N01 M216 |gcode}} || Turn on load monitor | |||
| |- {{ts|vtp}} | |||
| | {{codett|N02 G20 G90 G54 D200 G40|gcode}} || Inch units. Absolute mode. Activate work offset. Activate tool offset. Deactivate tool nose radius compensation. <br/> ''Significance:'' This block is often called the '''safe block''' or safety block. Its commands can vary but are usually similar to the ones shown here. The idea is that a safety block should always be given near the top of any program, as a general default, unless some very specific/concrete reason exists to omit it. The safety block is like a ] or a ]: it explicitly ensures conditions that otherwise would be implicit, left merely to assumption. The safety block reduces risk of crashes, and it can also helpfully refocus the thinking of the humans who write or read the program under hurried conditions. | |||
| |- {{ts|vtp}} | |||
| | {{codett|N03 G50 S2000 |gcode}} || Set maximum spindle speed in rev/min — This setting affects Constant Surface Speed mode | |||
| |- {{ts|vtp}} | |||
| | {{codett|N04 T0300 |gcode}} || Index turret to tool 3. Clear wear offset (00). | |||
| |- {{ts|vtp}} | |||
| | {{codett|N05 G96 S854 M03 |gcode}} || Constant surface speed , 854 ], start spindle CW rotation | |||
| |- {{ts|vtp}} | |||
| | {{codett|N06 G41 G00 X1.1 Z1.1 T0303 M08 |gcode}} || Enable cutter radius compensation mode, rapid position to 0.55" above axial centerline (1.1" in diameter) and 1.1 inches positive from the work offset in Z, activate flood coolant | |||
| |- {{ts|vtp}} | |||
| | {{codett|N07 G01 Z1.0 F.05 |gcode}} || Feed in horizontally at rate of 0.050" per revolution of the spindle until the tool is positioned 1" positive from the work offset | |||
| |- {{ts|vtp}} | |||
| | {{codett|N08 X-0.016 |gcode}} || Feed the tool slightly past center—the tool must travel by at least its nose radius past the center of the part to prevent a leftover scallop of material. | |||
| |- {{ts|vtp}} | |||
| | {{codett|N09 G00 Z1.1|gcode}} || Rapid positioning; retract to start position | |||
| |- {{ts|vtp}} | |||
| | {{codett|N10 X1.0 |gcode}} || Rapid positioning; next pass | |||
| |- {{ts|vtp}} | |||
| | {{codett|N11 G01 Z0.0 F.05 |gcode}} || Feed-in horizontally cutting the bar to 1" diameter all the way to the datum, 0.05in/rev | |||
| |- {{ts|vtp}} | |||
| | {{codett|N12 G00 X1.1 M05 M09 |gcode}} || Clear the part, stop the spindle, turn off the coolant | |||
| |- {{ts|vtp}} | |||
| | {{codett|N13 G91 G28 X0 |gcode}} || Home X axis — return the machine's home position for the X axis | |||
| |- {{ts|vtp}} | |||
| | {{codett|N14 G91 G28 Z0 |gcode}} || Home Z axis — return to machine's home position for the Z axis | |||
| |- {{ts|vtp}} | |||
| | {{codett|N15 G90 |gcode}} || Return to absolute mode. Turn off load monitor | |||
| |- {{ts|vtp}} | |||
| | {{codett|N16 M30 |gcode}} || Program stop, rewind to the top of the program, wait for cycle start | |||
| |- {{ts|vtp}} | |||
| | {{codett|%|gcode}} || Signal end of data during file transfer. Originally used to mark the end of the tape, not necessarily the end of the program. ISO uses %, EIA uses ER (0x0B). | |||
| |} | |||
| ] | |||
| # Many codes are ''modal'', meaning they remain in effect until cancelled or replaced by a contradictory code. For example, once variable speed cutting (CSS) had been selected (G96), it stays in effect until the end of the program. In operation, the spindle speed increases as the tool near the center of the work to maintain constant surface speed. Similarly, once rapid feed is selected (G00), all tool movements are rapid until a feed rate code (G01, G02, G03) is selected. | |||
| # It is common practice to use a load monitor with CNC machinery. The load monitor stops the machine if the spindle or feed loads exceed a preset value that is set during the set-up operation. The jobs of the load monitor are various: | |||
| ## Prevent machine damage in the event of tool breakage or a programming mistake. | |||
| ##* This is especially important because it allows safe "lights-out machining", in which the operators set up the job and start it during the day, then go home for the night, leaving the machines running and cutting parts during the night. Because no human is around to hear, see, or smell a problem such as a broken tool, the load monitor serves an important sentry duty. When it senses overload condition, which semantically suggests a dull or broken tool, it commands a stop to the machining. Technology is available nowadays to send an alert to someone remotely (e.g., the sleeping owner, operator, or owner-operator) if desired, which can allow them to come to intercede and get production going again, then leave once more. This can be the difference between profitability or loss on some jobs because lights-out machining reduces labor hours per part. | |||
| ## Warn of a tool that is becoming dull and must be replaced or sharpened. | |||
| # It is common practice to bring the tool in rapidly to a "safe" point that is close to the part—in this case, 0.1" away—and then start feeding the tool. How close that "safe" distance is, depends on the preference of the programmer or operator and the maximum material condition for the raw stock. | |||
| # If the program is wrong, there is a high probability that the machine will ''crash'', or ram the tool into the part, vice, or machine under high power. This can be costly, especially in newer machining centers. It is possible to intersperse the program with optional stops (M01 code) that let the program run piecemeal for testing purposes. The optional stops remain in the program but are skipped during normal running. Most CAD/CAM software ships with CNC simulators that display the movement of the tool as the program executes. Nowadays the surrounding objects (chuck, clamps, fixture, tailstock, and more) are included in the ]s, and the simulation is much like an entire video game or virtual reality environment, making unexpected crashes much less likely. | |||
| ##Many modern CNC machines also allow programmers to execute the program in a simulation mode and observe the operating parameters of the machine at a particular execution point. This enables programmers to discover semantic errors (as opposed to syntax errors) before losing material or tools to an incorrect program. Depending on the size of the part, wax blocks may be used for testing purposes as well. Additionally, many machines support operator overrides for both rapid and feed rate that can be used to reduce the speed of the machine, allowing operators to stop program execution before a crash occurs. | |||
| # The line numbers that have been included in the program above (i.e. {{Code|N0 ... N16|gcode}}) are usually not necessary for the operation of a machine and increase file sizes, so they are seldom used in the industry. However, if branching or looping statements are used in the code, then line numbers may well be included as the target of those statements (e.g. {{codett|GOTO N99}}). | |||
| # Some machines do not allow multiple M codes in the same line. | |||
| ==Programming environments== | |||
| {{Original research section|date=January 2016}} | |||
| G-code's programming environments have evolved in parallel with those of general programming—from the earliest environments (e.g., writing a program with a pencil, typing it into a tape puncher) to the latest environments that combine CAD (]), CAM (]), and richly featured G-code editors. (G-code editors are analogous to ]s, using colors and indents semantically to aid the user in ways that basic ]s can't. CAM packages are analogous to ] in general programming.) | |||
| Two high-level paradigm shifts have been toward: | |||
| # abandoning "manual programming" (with nothing but a pencil or text editor and a human mind) for ] systems that generate G-code automatically via postprocessors (analogous to the development of ] techniques in general programming) | |||
| # abandoning hardcoded constructs for parametric ones (analogous to the difference in general programming between hardcoding a constant into an equation versus declaring it a variable and assigning new values to it at will; and to the ] approach in general). | |||
| Macro (parametric) CNC programming uses human-friendly variable names, ]s, and loop structures, much as general programming does, to capture information and logic with machine-readable semantics. Whereas older manual CNC programming could only describe particular instances of parts in numeric form, macro programming describes abstractions that can easily apply in a wide variety of instances. | |||
| The tendency is comparable to a computer programming evolution from ]<nowiki/>s to ]<nowiki/>s.{{Citation needed|date=January 2022}} | |||
| ] reflects the same theme, which can be viewed as yet another step along a path that started with the development of machine tools, jigs and fixtures, and numerical control, which all sought to "build the skill into the tool." Recent developments of G-code and STEP-NC aim to build the information and semantics into the tool. This idea is not new; from the beginning of numerical control, the concept of an end-to-end CAD/CAM environment was the goal of such early technologies as ] and ]. Those efforts were fine for huge corporations like GM and Boeing. However, ] went through an era of simpler implementations of NC, with relatively primitive "connect-the-dots" G-code and manual programming until CAD/CAM improved and disseminated throughout the industry. | |||
| Any machine tool with a great number of axes, spindles, and tool stations is difficult to program well manually. It has been done over the years, but not easily. This challenge has existed for decades in CNC screw machine and rotary transfer programming, and it now also arises with today's newer machining centers called "turn-mills", "mill-turns", "multitasking machines", and "multifunction machines". Now that ] systems are widely used, CNC programming (such as with G-code) requires CAD/CAM (as opposed to manual programming) to be practical and competitive in the market segments these classes of machines serve.<ref name="MMS_2010-12-20_CAM_Sys">{{Citation |last=MMS editorial staff |date=2010-12-20 |title=CAM system simplifies Swiss-type lathe programming |journal=Modern Machine Shop |volume=83 |issue=8 |pages=100–105 |url=http://www.mmsonline.com/articles/cam-system-simplifies-swiss-type-lathe-programming |postscript=. ''Online ahead of print.'' }}</ref> As Smid says, "Combine all these axes with some additional features, and the amount of knowledge required to succeed is quite overwhelming, to say the least."<ref name="Smid2008p457">{{Harvnb|Smid|2008|p=457}}.</ref> At the same time, however, programmers still must thoroughly understand the principles of manual programming and must think critically and second-guess some aspects of the software's decisions. | |||
| Since about the mid-2000s, it seems "the death of manual programming" (that is, of writing lines of G-code without CAD/CAM assistance) may be approaching. However, it is currently only in ''some'' contexts that manual programming is obsolete. Plenty of CAM programming takes place nowadays among people who are rusty on, or incapable of, manual programming—but it is not true that ''all'' CNC programming can be done, or done ''as well'' or ''as efficiently'', without knowing G-code.<ref name="Lynch_MMS_2010-01-18">{{Citation |last=Lynch |first=Mike |date=2010-01-18 |title=When programmers should know G code |journal=Modern Machine Shop |edition=online |url=http://www.mmsonline.com/columns/when-programmers-should-know-g-code |postscript=.}}</ref><ref name="Lynch_MMS_2011-10-19">{{Citation |last=Lynch |first=Mike |date=2011-10-19 |title=Five CNC myths and misconceptions |journal=Modern Machine Shop |edition=online |url=http://www.mmsonline.com/columns/five-cnc-myths-and-misconceptions |postscript=. |access-date=2011-11-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170527082655/http://www.mmsonline.com/columns/five-cnc-myths-and-misconceptions |archive-date=2017-05-27 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Tailoring and refining the CNC program at the machine is an area of practice where it can be easier or more efficient to edit the G-code directly rather than editing the CAM toolpaths and re-post-processing the program. | |||
| Making a living cutting parts on computer-controlled machines has been made both easier and harder by CAD/CAM software. Efficiently written G-code can be a challenge for CAM software. Ideally, a CNC machinist should know both manual and CAM programming well so that the benefits of both brute-force CAM and elegant hand programming can be used where needed. <!-- True, and the references from Mike Lynch above touch on the same concept. --> Many older machines were built with limited ] at a time when memory was very expensive; 32K was considered plenty of room for manual programs whereas modern CAM software can post gigabytes of code. CAM excels at getting a program out quickly that may take up more machine memory and take longer to run. This often makes it quite valuable to machining a low quantity of parts. But a balance must be struck between the time it takes to create a program and the time the program takes to machine apart. It has become easier and faster to make just a few parts on the newer machines with much memory. This has taken its toll on both hand programmers and manual machinists. Given natural ] into retirement, it is not realistic to expect to maintain a large pool of operators who are highly skilled in manual programming when their commercial environment ''mostly'' can no longer provide the countless hours of deep experience it took to build that skill; and yet the loss of this experience base can be appreciated, and there are times when such a pool is sorely missed because some CNC runs still cannot be optimized without such skill. | |||
| ==Abbreviations used by programmers and operators== | |||
| This list is only a selection and, except for a few key terms, mostly avoids duplicating the many abbreviations listed at ]. | |||
| <!-- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|}} || expansion || | |||
| |- | |||
| --> | |||
| {| class="wikitable" border="1" | |||
| |- | |||
| ! Abbreviation !! Expansion !! Corollary info | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|APC}} || automatic pallet changer || See ]. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|ATC}} || automatic tool changer || See ]. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|CAD/CAM}} || ] and ] || | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|CCW}} || ] || See ]. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|CNC}} || ] || | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|CRC}} || ] || See also ], ], and ]. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|CS}} || cutting speed || Referring to ] in ] (sfm, sfpm) or meters per minute (m/min). | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|CSS}} || constant surface speed || See ] for explanation. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|CW}} || ] || See ]. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|DNC}} || ] || Sometimes referred to as "Drip Feeding" or "Drip Numerical Control" due to the fact that a file can be "drip" fed to a machine, line by line, over a serial protocol such as RS232. DNC allows machines with limited amounts of memory to run larger files. | |||
| |- | |||
| |DOC | |||
| |depth of cut | |||
| |Refers to how deep (in the Z direction) a given cut will be | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|EOB}} || end of block || The G-code synonym of ''end of line (EOL)''. A ] equating to ]. In many implementations of G-code (as also, more generally, in many ]s), a ] (;) is synonymous with EOB. In some controls (especially older ones) it must be explicitly typed and displayed. Other software treats it as a nonprinting/nondisplaying character, much like ] treat the ] (¶). | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|E-stop}} || ] || | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|EXT}} || external || On the operation panel, one of the positions of the mode switch is "external", sometimes abbreviated as "EXT", referring to any external source of data, such as tape or DNC, in contrast to the ] that is built into the CNC itself. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|FIM}} || ] || | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|FPM}} || feet per minute || See ]. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|HBM}} || horizontal boring mill || A type of machine tool that specializes in boring, typically large holes in large workpieces. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|HMC}} || ] || | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|HSM}} || high speed machining || Refers to machining at ] considered high by traditional standards. Usually achieved with special geared-up spindle attachments or with the latest high-rev spindles. On modern machines HSM refers to a cutting strategy with a light, constant chip load and high feed rate, usually at or near the full depth of cut.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.mmsonline.com/articles/tool-path-strategies-for-high-speed-machining|title=Tool Path Strategies For High-Speed Machining|last=Marinac|first=Dan|website=www.mmsonline.com|access-date=2018-03-06}}</ref> | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|HSS}} || ] || A type of ] used to make cutters. Still widely used today (versatile, affordable, capable) although carbide and others continue to erode its share of commercial applications due to their higher rate of material removal. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|in}} || ](es) || | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|IPF}} || inches per flute || Also known as ''chip load'' or ]. See ] and ]. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|IPM}} || inches per minute || See ] and ]. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|IPR}} || inches per revolution || See ] and ]. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|IPT}} || inches per tooth || Also known as ''chip load'' or ]. See ] and ]. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|MDI}} || manual data input || A mode of operation in which the operator can type in lines of program (blocks of code) and then execute them by pushing cycle start. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|MEM}} || memory || On the operation panel, one of the positions of the mode switch is "memory", sometimes abbreviated as "MEM", referring to the ] that is built into the CNC itself, in contrast to any external source of data, such as tape or DNC. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|MFO}} || manual feed rate override || The MFO dial or buttons allow the CNC operator or machinist to multiply the programmed feed value by any percentage typically between 10% and 200%. This is to allow fine-tuning of ] to minimize ], improve ], lengthen tool life, and so on. The ] and MFO features can be locked out for various reasons, such as for synchronization of speed and feed in threading, or even to prevent "soldiering"/"dogging" by operators. {{Anchor|Arbitrary-speed_threading}} On some newer controls, the synchronization of speed and feed in threading is sophisticated enough that SSO and MFO can be available during threading, which helps with fine-tuning speeds and feeds to reduce chatter on the threads or in repair work involving the picking up of existing threads.<ref name="Korn_2014-05-06">{{Citation |last=Korn |first=Derek |date=2014-05-06 |title=What is arbitrary speed threading? |journal=] |url=http://www.mmsonline.com/blog/post/what-is-arbitrary-speed-threading |postscript=.}}</ref> | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|mm}} || ](s) || | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|MPG}} || ] || Referring to the handle (handwheel) (each click of the handle generates one pulse of servo input) | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|NC}} || ] || | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|OSS}} || oriented spindle stop || See comments at ]. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|SFM}} || ] || See also ] and ]. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|SFPM}} || ] || See also ] and ]. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|SPT}} || ] || | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|SSO}} || spindle speed override || The SSO dial or buttons allow the CNC operator or machinist to multiply the programmed speed value by any percentage typically between 10% and 200%. This is to allow fine-tuning of ] to minimize ], improve ], lengthen tool life, and so on. The SSO and ] features can be locked out for various reasons, such as for synchronization of speed and feed in threading, or even to prevent "] by operators. On some newer controls, the synchronization of speed and feed in threading is sophisticated enough that SSO and MFO can be available during threading, which helps with fine-tuning speeds and feeds to reduce chatter on the threads or in repair work involving the picking up of existing threads.<ref name="Korn_2014-05-06"/> | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|TC}} or T/C || tool change, tool changer || See ]. | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|TIR}} || ] || | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|TPI}} || ] || | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|USB}} || ] || One type of connection for data transfer | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|VMC}} || ] || | |||
| |- | |||
| | valign="top" | {{Visible anchor|VTL}} || ] || A type of machine tool that is essentially a lathe with its Z-axis turned vertical, allowing the faceplate to sit like a large turntable. The VTL concept overlaps with the vertical boring mill concept. | |||
| |- | |||
| |} | |||
| ==See also== | |||
| * ] | |||
| * ] | * ] | ||
| * ] | |||
| * ] - a free CNC software with many resources for G-code documentation | |||
| * ] | |||
| * ] | |||
| * ] | |||
| * ] | |||
| ===Extended developments=== | |||
| *] (DNC) | |||
| *] | |||
| *] | |||
| ===Similar concepts=== | |||
| *] | |||
| ===Concerns during application=== | |||
| *], cutter compensation, offset parameters | |||
| *]s | |||
| ==References== | == References == | ||
| {{Reflist |
{{Reflist}} | ||
| ==Bibliography== | == Bibliography == | ||
| * {{MachinerysHandbook25e |
* {{MachinerysHandbook25e}} | ||
| * {{Smid2008}} | * {{Smid2008}} | ||
| * {{Smid2010}} | * {{Smid2010}} | ||
| * {{Citation |last=Smid |first=Peter |year=2004 |title=Fanuc CNC Custom Macros |publisher=Industrial Press |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=YKvH-zYd3VwC&pg=PR11 |isbn=978- |
* {{Citation |last=Smid |first=Peter |year=2004 |title=Fanuc CNC Custom Macros |publisher=Industrial Press |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=YKvH-zYd3VwC&pg=PR11 |isbn=978-0-8311-3157-9 |postscript=.}} | ||
| ==External links== | == External links == | ||
| * | * | ||
| * | |||
| * {{Citation |last1=Kramer |first1=T. R. |last2=Proctor |first2=F. M. |last3=Messina |first3=E. R. |title=The NIST RS274NGC Interpreter – Version 3 |date=1 Aug 2000 |id=NISTIR 6556 |journal=] |url=https://www.nist.gov/manuscript-publication-search.cfm?pub_id=823374 |ref=none}} | * {{Citation |last1=Kramer |first1=T. R. |last2=Proctor |first2=F. M. |last3=Messina |first3=E. R. |title=The NIST RS274NGC Interpreter – Version 3 |date=1 Aug 2000 |id=NISTIR 6556 |journal=] |url=https://www.nist.gov/manuscript-publication-search.cfm?pub_id=823374 |ref=none}} | ||
| * http://museum.mit.edu/150/86 Has several links (including history of MIT Servo Lab) | * http://museum.mit.edu/150/86 {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160319102859/http://museum.mit.edu/150/86 |date=2016-03-19 }} Has several links (including history of MIT Servo Lab) | ||
| * | * at reprap.org | ||
| * | * | ||
| * | * | ||
| Line 278: | Line 71: | ||
| {{Metalworking navbox|machopen}} | {{Metalworking navbox|machopen}} | ||
| {{DEFAULTSORT:G-Code}} | |||
| ] | ] | ||
| ] | ] | ||
Latest revision as of 00:15, 17 December 2024
Primary programming language used in CNC For other uses, see G-code (disambiguation) and G programming language (disambiguation). "RS-274" redirects here. For the photoplotter format, see Gerber format.| Paradigm | Procedural, imperative |
|---|---|
| Designed by | Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
| Developer | Electronic Industries Association (RS-274), International Organization for Standardization (ISO-6983) |
| First appeared | 1963 (1963) (RS-274) |
| Filename extensions | .gcode, .mpt, .mpf, .nc and several others |
| Major implementations | |
| Numerous; mainly Siemens Sinumerik, FANUC, Haas, Heidenhain, Mazak, Okuma | |
G-code (also RS-274) is the most widely used computer numerical control (CNC) and 3D printing programming language. It is used mainly in computer-aided manufacturing to control automated machine tools, as well as for 3D-printer slicer applications. The G stands for geometry. G-code has many variants.
G-code instructions are provided to a machine controller (industrial computer) that tells the motors where to move, how fast to move, and what path to follow. The two most common situations are that, within a machine tool such as a lathe or mill, a cutting tool is moved according to these instructions through a toolpath cutting away material to leave only the finished workpiece and/or an unfinished workpiece is precisely positioned in any of up to nine axes around the three dimensions relative to a toolpath and, either or both can move relative to each other. The same concept also extends to noncutting tools such as forming or burnishing tools, photoplotting, additive methods such as 3D printing, and measuring instruments.
History
The first implementation of a numerical control programming language was developed at the MIT Servomechanisms Laboratory in the 1950s. In the decades that followed, many implementations were developed by numerous organizations, both commercial and noncommercial. Elements of G-code had often been used in these implementations. The first standardized version of G-code used in the United States, RS-274, was published in 1963 by the Electronic Industries Alliance (EIA; then known as Electronic Industries Association). In 1974, EIA approved RS-274-C, which merged RS-273 (variable block for positioning and straight cut) and RS-274-B (variable block for contouring and contouring/positioning). A final revision of RS-274 was approved in 1979, as RS-274-D. In other countries, the standard ISO 6983 (finalized in 1982) is often used, but many European countries use other standards. For example, DIN 66025 is used in Germany, and PN-73M-55256 and PN-93/M-55251 were formerly used in Poland.
During the 1970s through 1990s, many CNC machine tool builders attempted to overcome compatibility difficulties by standardizing on machine tool controllers built by Fanuc. Siemens was another market dominator in CNC controls, especially in Europe. In the 2010s, controller differences and incompatibility were mitigated with the widespread adoption of CAD/CAM applications that were capable of outputting machine operations in the appropriate G-code for a specific machine through a software tool called a post-processor (sometimes shortened to just a "post").
Syntax
G-code began as a limited language that lacked constructs such as loops, conditional operators, and programmer-declared variables with natural-word-including names (or the expressions in which to use them). It was unable to encode logic but was just a way to "connect the dots" where the programmer figured out many of the dots' locations longhand. The latest implementations of G-code include macro language capabilities somewhat closer to a high-level programming language. Additionally, all primary manufacturers (e.g., Fanuc, Siemens, Heidenhain) provide access to programmable logic controller (PLC) data, such as axis positioning data and tool data, via variables used by NC programs. These constructs make it easier to develop automation applications.
Extensions and variations
Extensions and variations have been added independently by control manufacturers and machine tool manufacturers, and operators of a specific controller must be aware of the differences between each manufacturer's product.
One standardized version of G-code, known as BCL (Binary Cutter Language), is used only on very few machines. Developed at MIT, BCL was developed to control CNC machines in terms of straight lines and arcs.
Some CNC machines use "conversational" programming, which is a wizard-like programming mode that either hides G-code or completely bypasses the use of G-code. Some popular examples are Okuma's Advanced One Touch (AOT), Southwestern Industries' ProtoTRAK, Mazak's Mazatrol, Hurco's Ultimax and Winmax, Haas' Intuitive Programming System (IPS), and Mori Seiki's CAPS conversational software.
See also
References
- Karlo Apro (2008). Secrets of 5-Axis Machining. Industrial Press Inc. ISBN 0-8311-3375-9.
- Xu, Xun (2009). Integrating Advanced Computer-aided Design, Manufacturing, and Numerical Control: Principles and Implementations. Information Science Reference. p. 166. ISBN 978-1-59904-716-4 – via Google Books.
- Harik, Ramy; Thorsten Wuest (2019). Introduction to Advanced Manufacturing. SAE International. p. 116. ISBN 978-0-7680-9096-3 – via Google Books.
- Evans, John M. Jr. (1976). National Bureau of Standards Information Report (NBSIR) 76-1094 (R): Standards for Computer Aided Manufacturing (PDF). National Bureau of Standards. p. 43.
- Schenck, John P. (January 1, 1998). "Understanding common CNC protocols". Wood & Wood Products. 103 (1). Vance Publishing: 43 – via Gale.
- EIA Standard RS-274-D Interchangeable Variable Block Data Format for Positioning, Contouring, and Contouring/Positioning Numerically Controlled Machines, Washington D.C.: Electronic Industries Association, February 1979
- Stark, J.; V. K. Nguyen (2009). "STEP-compliant CNC Systems, Present and Future Directions". In Xu, Xun; Andrew Yeh Ching Nee (eds.). Advanced Design and Manufacturing Based on STEP. Springer London. p. 216. ISBN 978-1-84882-739-4 – via Google Books.
- "Fanuc macro system variables". Archived from the original on 2014-05-03. Retrieved 2014-06-30.
- Martin., Libicki (1995). Information Technology Standards: Quest for the Common Byte. Burlington: Elsevier Science. p. 321. ISBN 978-1-4832-9248-9. OCLC 895436474.
Bibliography
- Oberg, Erik; Jones, Franklin D.; Horton, Holbrook L.; Ryffel, Henry H. (1996), Green, Robert E.; McCauley, Christopher J. (eds.), Machinery's Handbook (25th ed.), New York: Industrial Press, ISBN 978-0-8311-2575-2, OCLC 473691581.
- Smid, Peter (2008), CNC Programming Handbook (3rd ed.), New York: Industrial Press, ISBN 9780831133474, LCCN 2007045901.
- Smid, Peter (2010), CNC Control Setup for Milling and Turning, New York: Industrial Press, ISBN 978-0831133504, LCCN 2010007023.
- Smid, Peter (2004), Fanuc CNC Custom Macros, Industrial Press, ISBN 978-0-8311-3157-9.
External links
- CNC G-Code and M-Code Programming
- Kramer, T. R.; Proctor, F. M.; Messina, E. R. (1 Aug 2000), "The NIST RS274NGC Interpreter – Version 3", NIST, NISTIR 6556
- http://museum.mit.edu/150/86 Archived 2016-03-19 at the Wayback Machine Has several links (including history of MIT Servo Lab)
- Complete list of G-code used by most 3D printers at reprap.org
- Fanuc and Haas G-code Reference
- Fanuc and Haas G-code Tutorial
- Haas Milling Manual
- G Code For Lathe & Milling
- M Code for Lathe & Milling