CNC turning is a machining process used to create cylindrical shapes, such as shafts and components for various industries. One of the key features of CNC turning is the ability to control the cutting speed with the help of G-codes. In this article, we’ll explore the G96 code, which is used to set a constant surface speed during the machining process.
What is G96?
G96 is a G-code that sets a constant surface speed (CSS) mode during CNC turning. It’s used to maintain a consistent cutting speed of the tool as it moves along the workpiece, regardless of its diameter. This means that the cutting speed will automatically adjust according to the diameter of the workpiece, resulting in precise and efficient machining.
The G96 code is typically used for turning operations with carbide inserts, as they can withstand high cutting speeds. In contrast, softer materials like aluminum require lower cutting speeds to prevent overheating and tool wear.
How does G96 work?
When G96 is activated, the CNC machine controller will measure the diameter of the workpiece and calculate the optimal rotational speed for the spindle to achieve the desired cutting speed. The spindle speed will then be adjusted continuously throughout the machining process to maintain a constant cutting speed.
For example, if the cutting speed is set to 200 surface feet per minute (SFPM) and the diameter of the workpiece is 2 inches, the spindle speed should be 634 rpm. If the diameter increases to 4 inches, the spindle speed should decrease to 317 rpm to maintain the same cutting speed.
The advantage of using G96 is that it eliminates the need for manual adjustments to the spindle speed based on the changing diameter of the workpiece. This saves time and improves accuracy, as it ensures that the cutting speed remains constant throughout the entire machining process.
How to program G96 in CNC turning?
To program G96 in CNC turning, you need to specify the cutting speed and surface speed mode in your G-code program. Here’s an example:
G96 S200 M3 ; Set cutting speed to 200 SFPM in CSS modeG1 X1 Z1 ; Move to starting positionG0 X2 ; Rapid move to cutting positionG1 Z-1 ; Begin cuttingG0 X1 ; Rapid move to retract positionM30 ; End of program
In this example, G96 sets the cutting speed to 200 SFPM in CSS mode. The spindle speed will be adjusted automatically based on the diameter of the workpiece. The G1, G0, and M30 codes are used to move the tool and end the program.
Conclusion
G96 is a powerful G-code that simplifies the CNC turning process by automatically adjusting the spindle speed to maintain a constant cutting speed. By using G96, you can improve the precision and efficiency of your machining operations, while reducing the risk of tool wear and damage.
If you’re interested in learning more about CNC turning and G-codes, check out our other articles on the subject. With the right knowledge and tools, you can take your machining skills to the next level.
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