CNC programming can be intimidating to machine shop employees who are unfamiliar with the process. The truth is that, like most unknowns, it looks more complicated than it really is. If you’re just getting started programming your CNC machine, here are a few things to think about:
- Programming is simply a logical process using numbers and letters that represent what you want your machine to do.
- When you look at a program as a whole it may seem very complex. However if you break it down by reading each line of the program you can see, step-by-step, what it’s telling the machine to do.
- When you’re ready to start your first program, find an existing, proven program you can use as a template. Using this program as a guide will help you avoid skipping a step or overlooking an important part of the process.
- It also helps to establish a format you can follow every time you write a program. For example, always list X, Y and Z axes in alphabetical order and G and M codes in numerically ascending order.
- Don’t get discouraged. Like any new endeavor, it takes time to become a proficient programmer. Plus, there is always something new to learn. Machine controls are constantly evolving, often making programming quicker and easier, so it pays to keep your Haas CNC controls up to date with the latest software upgrades.
The Haas Resource Center has a wealth of tips and tricks to expand your programming knowledge and allow you to take advantage of the many time-saving features built into the proprietary Haas control. In the Haas Video Gallery, you’ll find programs that show how easy it is to use the Graphical User Interface, import 2-D DXF files to generate tool paths and G codes, and more.
Need to upgrade your Haas CNC control software or have programming questions? Your Milwaukee Haas Factory Outlet is there to help. Call (262) 373-5050, email: bill.dymond@haasfactoryoutlet.com, or visit www.hfomilwaukee.com.