Introduction
Numerically Controlled (NC) machining is an automated process used to cut complex shapes into pieces of material. NC machining requires an operator to be trained on the use of a programmable interface to control the machinery. This requires the operator to first understand the various parameters associated with the process such as the speed at which to cut, the depth of the cut, and the type of material being cut. It is also important for the operator to be familiar with the various symbols used to represent the commands being sent to the machine. This article will discuss the various symbols utilized in numerical control (NC) machining in order to operate the machine correctly and efficiently.
Symbols
The symbols used to represent the numerical commands sent to the machine include arrows, circles, rectangles, and other geometric shapes. The arrows are used to denote the direction the machine should move, while circles or rectangles indicate whether the machine should move in a clockwise or a counterclockwise direction. The most commonly used symbols to represent commands are the triangle, the square and the pentagon.
INPUT SYMBOLS:
• Triangle - indicates an input such as the start or stop of a cutting cycle
• Square - allows for the selection of a specific tool
• Pentagon - setting of a specific parameter such as feed rate
OUTPUT SYMBOLS:
• Triangle - indicates the completion of a cutting cycle
• Square - indicates the completion of a tool change
• Pentagon - indicates output from a specific parameter such as the speed at which the material is cut
• Hexagon – indicates motion of machine
In addition, there is a set of standard commands that are used to start, stop and control the machine. These standard commands are typically represented by numbers or letters.
Examples
• X or Y - This is used to signify the direction the machine should move.
• F - Indicates the feed rate, referring to the rate at which the material is being moved through the cutting tool.
• S - This is used to set the speed at which the cutting tool is spinning.
• G - This is used to indicate the type of cut being made.
• M - This is used to indicate the type of motion used when cutting a certain material.
Conclusion
The symbols used in numerical control (NC) machining are critical to the success of the process. A trained professional must understand what each symbol stands for in order to operate the machine correctly and safely. By familiarizing themselves with the various symbols used to represent the commands sent to the machine, operators can ensure they are working as efficiently as possible and that the materials being cut are consistently accurate in size and shape.
