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Discussion:

In this experiment, we are learnt how does a CNC machine works and to interpret the Gcodes. G-code is the command system for the CNC (Computer Numerical Code) Machine. Gcodes are any word in a CNC program that begins with the letter G. Generally it is a code that
tells the machine tool to perform specific actions. For example: G commands often tell the
control what kind of motion is wanted (e.g., rapid positioning, linear feed, circular feed, fixed
cycle) or what offset value to use. However there are other codes that start with letters other than
G like M (miscellaneous), T (Tool selection), S (spindle speed) and many more. These
codes will be programmed into software and sent to the CNC machine. The software will
translate the G-codes into signals for different operations in the machine. The machine then
operates according to the codes systematically to cut and remove parts of the metal.
Basically, CNC machines are subdivided into Lathe Machine and Milling machine.
The main parts of a CNC Lathe Machines are:
- Headstock (where the motors that drive main spindle),
-Chuck (Where the work piece is gripped firmly),
-Tailstock Quill (grip the work piece at the other end to prevent vibration during machine
operation)
-Tool Turret (where tools are mounted)
In a CNC Lathe Machine, the work piece mounted to the Chuck is rotated in rpm. The tools
then approach the material and cut it according to the coordinate and codes programmed. Lathes
create the surface cylindrical parts using outside and inside diameter cutting tools of different
sizes and shapes. However, during cutting, the tool itself is never flexible. Instead, the arms that
connects the tool turret moves to cut the material. The 2 axes involve in a CNC Lathe Machine
are only x (horizontal) axis and y (vertical) axis.
In a CNC milling machine, the machine chooses the tools according to the codes and spins the
tool to cut material that is held stationary in a fixture. Milling machines use cylindrical cutting
tools, such as end mills and drills, to remove material to make a finished part. The axes involved
are x (horizontal) axis, y (vertical) axis and z axis (forward and backward). A CNC milling
machine is great for engraving a material.
Problem faced during the experiment and preparation of report is that instructions regarding
report were not given clearly. We were stranded in the results and discussion section as we do not
know what to discuss. Therefore, we emailed and looked for tutors in the office to seek more
information and writing advises. Secondly, manual were not read and printed before attending
the lab session due to delay of wble update caused us to be blur and confused during the
experiment. However, due to the present of advance technology of an iPad, we are able to read
the instructions in the manual. Thirdly, some were absent during discussion of report preparation.
Therefore, there are some effective communication failures that caused delay of report
preparation. This had also been overcome by using Facebook.

Conclusion:
CNC machining is a process used in the manufacturing sector that involves the use of
computers to control machine tools. Tools that can be controlled in this manner include lathes,
mills, routers and grinders. With CNC machining, machine tools function through numerical
control. There are G-code and M-code for CNC machine controls and help to keep safe and more
productive.

Title: Lab 2 CNC Machining

Aim:
To understand and interpret the machine codes for the machining operations demonstrated by the
technician.

Introduction:
CNC means Computer Numerical Control. A CNC machine uses a stream of digital information
which is code from a computer to automatically execute a series of machining operations that
CNC machine offer to increase productivity and flexibility. CNC machine also uses mathematics
and coordinate systems to process information of what to move, to where and how fast. This
machine are able to move in three controlled directions at once which are X,Y and Z axis. A
CNC machine also must be able to communicate with itself and the machinist to operate.
Computer numeric control unit sends position commands to motors. This machine can move
very fast in three controlled directions at once to allow them to create almost any desired pattern
or shape. G-code most widely used numerical control programming language. It used mainly to
control CNC machines and also called G programming language. G-code is a language in which
people tell computerized machine tools how to make something. M-code is a set of instructions
executed directly by a computer's central processing unit. Each of the instruction performs a very
specific task, such as a load, a jump, or an arithmetic logic unit(ALU) operation on a unit of data
in a CPU register or memory. Every program directly executed by a CPU is made uo of a series
of such instructions.

Apparatus:
CNC Machine, Work piece, Code programmer

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