TABLE OF CONTENTS The address M in a CNC program identifies a miscellaneous function, sometimes called a machine function. Not all miscellaneous functions are related to the operation of a CNC machine - quite a few are related to the processing of part program. The more suitable term miscellaneous functions is used throughout this handbook.
Within the structure of a CNC program, programmers often need some means of activating certain aspects of machine operation or controlling the program flow. Without availability of such means, any part program would be incomplete and impossible to run. First, let's look at those miscellaneous functions that relate to the operation of a CNC machine - the true machine functions.
Various physical operations of a CNC machine must be controlled by the program, to ensure fully automated machining. These functions generally use the M-address and include the following operations:
| CW or CCW |
| Low / Medium / High |
| ATC |
| APC |
| ON or OFF |
| IN or OUT |
These operations vary between machines, due to the different designs by various machine manufacturers. A machine design, from the engineering point of view, is based on a certain primary machining application. A CNC milling machine will require different functions related to this type of machine than a CNC machining center or a CNC lathe. A numerically controlled EDM wire cutting machine will have many special...
