6.

0 - CNC Operation
2011 Autodesk

Lesson overview
6.1- CNC Process
6.2 Machine & Tool Offsets

If running a Haas mill print the Lesson 6 PDF file and use
it as a reference at the machine. For other machine
makes, refer to the machine owners manual or
instructor-provided operating procedures.
2011 Autodesk

objectives

List the steps to set up and operate CNC Mill.

Identify location and purpose of operating controls on CNC mill
controller.
Start and Home CNC mill.
Load tools into CNC mill.
Set Tool Length Offset registers.
Set Fixture Offset registers.

2011 Autodesk

objectives

Load CNC program from PC to CNC control.

Safely run new CNC program.
Adjust offsets to account for tool wear and deflection.
Shut down CNC machine correctly.
Properly clean CNC machine.

2011 Autodesk

Overview
In this lesson you will work at the machine to set up and
operate a CNC mill to make your first part.
Your instructor will provide you with the specific operating
instructions for your machine.

2011 Autodesk

Overview

Work safely.
Obey all shop rules in Safety Contract.
Wear safety glasses at all times.
Kindly point out any safety issues to others.
Watch carefully the instructor demonstrates and as other
participants work before you.
Work methodically.
Think about everything you do and why.
Precision is more important than speed.

2011 Autodesk

Safe practices
Only one person operates the machine at a time. A CLEAR
procedure to hand control to the next person is to be used: Your
Machine/My Machine.
NEVER have one person working control while other is working in
the machine envelope.
Operator to remained focused. Do NOT look away from work or
allow yourself to be distracted.

2011 Autodesk

Safe practices
Observe what the person operating the machine is doing. Learn
as you observe as you will be next.
Kindly point out any safety issues.
Others should remain quiet and talk ONLY when necessary.
Do NOT engage in non-work related talk, horseplay, or anything
else that will distract the machine operator.

2011 Autodesk

6.1 - CNC Process

1. Pre-Start.
2. Start/Home.
3. Load Tools.
4. Set Tool Length Offsets.
5. Set Fixture Offset XY.
6. Set Fixture Offset Z.
7. Load CNC Program.
8. Run Program.
9. Adjust offsets as required.
10. Shut down.

2011 Autodesk

Step 1: Pre-start
Ensure oil and coolant levels are full.
Ensure work area is clear of loose tools or equipment.
Ensure air supply is on and adequate pressure (if required).
Ensure main power disconnect is on.

2011 Autodesk

Step 2: Start/home
Turn on CNC machine.
Close protective doors.
Execute machine Start/Home sequence.
Wait until machine completes cycle before proceeding to next
step.

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Step 3: Load tools

Load tool(s) into machine carousel for machines with tool
changer.
Load first tool into spindle for machine without tool changer.

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Step 4: Set tool length offsets

For each tool used, set Tool Length offset.

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Step 5: Set fixture offset xy

Use Edge Finder or Part Probe to find and set Fixture Offset XY.

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Step 6: Set fixture offset z

Use Dial Indicator and 1-2-3 block or Tool Probe and 1-2-3 block to
find and set Fixture Offset Z.

This is just one way to set TLO.

Other methods may be easier or more appropriate to your
situation.
Appendix E describes other methods.

2011 Autodesk

Step 7: Load cnc program

Use RS-232 communications (DNC software and cable from PC

to CNC), USB flash drive, Ethernet, or other communications
method to transmit your G-code program into the CNC control
memory.

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Step 8: Run program

Run your program.
Use extra caution when running an unproven CNC program.

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Step 9: adjust offsets as required

Adjust Tool Length and Diameter offset registers as required to

achieve part tolerances.

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Step 10: shut down

Move spindle near home position.

Remove tools from spindle.
Place a clean rag in the spindle hole to prevent chips from being
ingested.
Clean the CNC machine.
Sweep and mop as needed.
Put away tools and equipment.
Turn off machine power.

2011 Autodesk

6.2 - Machine & Tool offsets

Tool Offsets (H1, H2, H3, etc).

Fixture Offsets (G54, G55, G56, etc).

Compensate for varying tool lengths.

Compensate for distance from machine home to CNC program
datum.

Diameter Offsets (D1, D2, D3, etc).

Account for tool diameter wear.

Covered in Lesson 3.

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Fixture Offset XY
Delta-X | Delta-Y
Machine Home to CNC Program
Datum.

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Fixture offset xy (plan view)

G54 XY Shown.
G54-G59 Available.
Shift values stored in memory
registers on CNC control.

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Fixture offset z
Used to set Delta-Z from tool
set position to Part Z-datum.*
Use Dial Indicator (See Lesson
6: Set Fixture Offset Z).

*There are many ways to

use Fixture Offset Z and
TLO. This works well and is
consistent with machines
with Tool Probes.
Please see Appendix EAlternate Tool Setting
Strategies for other
methods.
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Set tool length offset (TLO)

Set all tools from G54 Z
Position.
TLO and Fixture Offset Z
work together.*
See Lesson 5 Set Tool
Length Offset (TLO).

*For Haas controls, control parameter 64 (T OFS USES WORK) must be set OFF to use this method.
2011 Autodesk

warnings
Never operate a CNC machine or any shop equipment that you
have not been properly trained to use.
Observe extreme caution at all times.
Follow all safety rules.

2011 Autodesk

summary

Follow the general steps listed in this presentation, using

instructions for you particular make and model of machine.
Work safely.
Work methodically.
Learn from others.
Point out any safety issues.
Clean up after yourself.

2011 Autodesk