CNC Programmer

Demonstrate ability to safely enter a work cell including performing proper Energy Control Power Lockout (ECPL) procedures.

Describe an ECPL Control Gravity procedure as it relates to a CNC machine prior to performing any tool change, inspection, or maintenance work.

Describe the proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) that should be worn while operating a CNC machine as well as other OSHA safety precautions and practices you should take in regards to material handling, lifting, chemicals, inhalation, etc.

Describe the proper personal grooming and work clothes worn while operating machinery and the safety requirements including lengths, jewelry, hair, shoes, gloves, protective sleeves, etc.

Describe the Emergency Stop Activation procedure and when it should be used. Then describe the Emergency Stop Reset procedure to recover.

Describe the possible hazardous areas inside and outside of a CNC machine area including pinch points, sharp edges, confined space, etc., as well as locating guarding and other safety features which must be in place and operational before starting the machine.

Describe the safety checks to perform before starting a CNC operation or maintenance.

Describe the functions of the Set-up /Run mode switch if so equipped, and the safety hazards involved.

Locate and describe the safety features of a CNC machine.

Locate the emergency stop pushbutton(s) and explain when and when not to activate its function.

Locate the teach pendant Hold-to-Run button(s), a.k.a.: live man switch, and explain its function.

Locate and identify the following safety components as applicable: ECPL signage, all Emergency Stop pushbuttons, gate interlocks, floor markings, area scanners, light curtains, vision sensors, pressure mats, warning/indicator lights.

Describe the basic types of CNC machines and the operations they perform.

Describe the basic axes of 2, 3, 4, 5,and 6 axis CNC machines and the direction of travel or rotation.

Describe the basic parts of CNC mill machines and the function they perform.

Describe the basic types of CNC turning machines and the operations they perform.

Identify the areas of operation for a given CNC machine Operator Control Panel.

Identify the areas of operation for a tool changer panel if equipped.

Describe the type of spindle the unit uses and the components which control it.

Describe the tool attachment setup for a given CNC machine.

Describe the work fixture setup for a given CNC machine.

Identify the following components of a CNC Lathe: Headstock, Chuck, Tailstock, Carriage, Turret and describe their function.

Identify the following components on a CNC Turning Center: Spindle, Collet, Work Platform or Fixture, Chip Removal system, Tool Changer and describe their function.

Identify the following components on a CNC Mill: Spindle, Collet, Work Platform or Fixture, Chip Removal system, Tool Changer and describe their function.

Locate and describe the following services: Electrical (main control panel), Pneumatic, Hydraulic, Coolant, Feedback Sensors.

Describe the type of drive system and controls used on a given machine (i.e., ballscrew, leadscrew, stepper motor, servo motor).

Describe the types of measuring systems used in CNC machines and the benefits of the type used (linear, rotary, encoder).

Identify the types of coolants used and explain their function for the types of cutting operation. Describe the delivery system typically used (manual, through tool, flush, etc.).

Identify the types of lubrication systems used and explain their function for the types of CNC machine. Describe the delivery system typically used such as MQL (Minimum Quantity Lubrication), centralized lubrication, pump, etc.

List the different ways workpieces may be loaded into CNC machines.

Describe chip removal systems both internal (machine integrated) and external (chip conveyor).

Locate and explain the function of the foot pedal(s) for a given CNC machine if so equipped.

Describe the basic tool types used on a lathe CNC machine and the functions they perform.

Describe the basic tool types used on a mill CNC machine and the functions they perform.

Describe the basic tool types used on a grinding/finishing CNC machine and the functions they perform.

Identify tool holder types, style, size, and rigidness for various tooling operations including turning, milling, lathe, drilling, etc.

Explain the purpose of the drawbar and what types of tooling requires it use.

Describe how broken tool detection positive contact (wand or probe), and non-contact (laser, camera, vibration, proximity sensors) works and the advantages/disadvantages of each. Discuss wired vs. non-wired systems.

Demonstrate converting fractions to decimal, and decimal to fractions.

Demonstrate converting U.S. standard (Imperial) to metric, and metric to U.S. standard (Imperial).

Describe various geometric principles/formulas relating to triangles, quadrilaterals, and circles that are applied to obtain needed data for setting up projects and calculating tool locations.

Demonstrate ability to calculate feeds and speeds using SFPM (Surface Feet per Minute), RPM (Rotations Per Minute), Chip Loads Per Tooth or Inches Per Tooth (IPT), Chip Load Per Tool in Inches Per Revolution (IPR), and the feed rate in IPM (inches per minute).

Demonstrate ability to interpret tool manufacturer provided information, chip load, feeds and speeds charts to setup tooling parameters.

Demonstrate the proper selection and use of fractional and decimal scales as it applies to measuring parts to the accuracy of a part print.

Demonstrate the ability to properly use the following precision measuring instruments: I.D. and O.D. Micrometers (Vernier, Dial, and Digital), Height Gage, Vernier and Digital Calipers, Dial, and Digital Indicators with Magnetic Stand, Bore Gauges, Depth Gauges, Digital Protractors.

Demonstrate the proper use of Gauge Blocks, Gauge Pins, 1-2-3 & 2-4-6 Blocks, Angle Blocks, Go/No Go Gauges, Feeler Gauges, Precision Levels, Sine Bar & Plate, Thread Gauges, and Surface Plates.

Explain the care, inspection, and calibration techniques for Micrometers, Height Gages, Calipers, Indicators, Depth Gages, Bore Gauges, and Surface Plates.

Describe the uses of a CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine) and Optical Comparator in a CNC machining environment.

Demonstrate the ability to read and interpret a blueprint including the title block, revision block, line types, symbols, dimensions, scale, tolerances, orthographic and isometric views.

Discuss Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) in terms of symbols used, tolerancing, modifiers, datums. Feature Control Frames, Datum Features, Maximum Material Condition (MMC) and Least Material Condition (LMC), etc.

Explain how to read and interpret ISO and ANSI surface finish symbols (a.k.a. surface texture or surface roughness symbols).

Demonstrate basic knowledge of material types used in metal forming operations and the characteristics they process for determining tool selection, feeds and speeds, tool wear, etc.

Describe the various material hardness scales (Rockwell, Brinell, Vickers) and how they influence tool selection to achieve best results.

Describe surface finish characteristics, ways to measure, (Ra vs. RMS) and machine process choices to achieve the specified finish.

Demonstrate proper use of machine cutting tools for preforming material stock for a semi-finish work.

Demonstrate the proper handling of hand tools and how to use them safely to perform manual operations such as honing, tapping, shaping, deburring, etc., including but not limited to; electrical, pneumatic, and standard tools such as drills, grinders, saws, presses, hammers, chisels, files, punches, pliers, screwdrivers.

Demonstrate ability to fill out and/or read setup sheets. Include information such as the part number, fixture location, tooling list, the X, Y and Z zero points, etc.

Demonstrate job planning and sequencing to effectively and safely produce qualified parts to specifications in a timely manner.

Demonstrate accurately transferring part detail information to part such as hole centers, surface features, etc., using appropriate tools.

Demonstrate setup and installation of workholding fixtures, setting datum points, work offset values (a.k.a. Work Zero Offset), and verify clamping pressures. Include process planning for workpiece turning for multiple operations on different faces and how to maintain squareness, perpendicularity, or parallelism within acceptable TIR (Total Indicator Reading) measurements.

Demonstrate setup and installation of tools including parameters and tool offset values (a.k.a. Touching Off Tools) for a Mill, Turning, and Lathe operation. Discuss the different methods commonly used to set tool offset values (jogging, precision block, probes, etc.)

Demonstrate Homing a machine to set reference points.

Demonstrate setting part zero reference points.

Demonstrate setting up a tool changer such as a turret, magazine, or carousel, and inputting tool information to tool management program.

Calculate Feeds and Speeds values for a given CNC operation.

Demonstrate loading programs into CNC memory.

Demonstrate running a warm-up program prior to production.

Demonstrate running a test (air) program without parts prior to production.

Demonstrate running a first run part and checking dimensions to specifications on part print.

Explain the Operator panel screen elements: Menu, status bar, buttons, task bar, message bar, quick select, etc. (varies per screen, manufacturer, mode) of a program and how to navigate between various operating and monitoring screens.

Identify the basic areas of the teach pendant and their functions.

Explain the color coded functions of a stacklight for a given system if so equipped.

Demonstrate the pre-checks required before starting a CNC machine.

Demonstrate the CNC machine Start-up sequences in Manual and Automatic modes.

Demonstrate the Shut-down sequence for a short term shut-down (i.e., shift change, tool change).

Demonstrate the Shut-down sequence for a long term shut-down (i.e., maintenance, weekend).

Demonstrate changing from Automatic mode to Manual mode and vice-versa.

Demonstrate operating in Automatic Step (block or single mode) and Continuous modes.

Demonstrate stopping machine in cycle and recovering.

Demonstrate the Access Door opening procedure.

Demonstrate a Tool Change procedure for a manual and automatic (tool changer) operation.

Explain a fault recovery and restart procedure.

Demonstrate ability to perform mill, lathe, and turning machining operations using various tooling setups including between centers, chucks, work support, material feeder, etc.

Demonstrate ability to machine on multiple work planes during an operation including changing part orientation, fixtures, tool setups, while maintaining final specification.

Demonstrate manually jogging the machine in all available axis transitionals (linear and rotary if applicable) using the control panel and teach pendant including changing the direction, and jog rate.

Demonstrate the procedure for jogging with the work door in the open position.

Demonstrate varying jog speed (override) while manually jogging an axis.

Explain the concept of the Cartesian Coordinate System, Work (Workpiece) Coordinate System, Polar Coordinates, Coordinate Planes, and Quadrant Coordinates.

Demonstrate the "Right Hand Rule" in relationship to the available axes.

Explain the concepts of Relative (Incremental) vs. Absolute Coordinates.

Explain how warning and error messages are displayed at the CNC Operator panel and how to access the History screen.

Locate where error messages and warnings are located on the teach pendant and how to view alarm history.

Demonstrate the procedure for fault reset, clearing the alarms, and reset teach pendant if necessary.

Explain accessing the programming environment and simulation software.

Demonstrate loading production programs from teach pendant if applicable.

Demonstrate the procedure for backing up the CNC program.

Demonstrate the process for switching between programs and changing the program uploaded to the machine.

Explain the differences (advantages and disadvantages) between manual coding and CAM coding.

Explain the concept of "Conversational" coding and how it is used.

Demonstrate using a CAD software to model a simple part for conversion to CAM.

Demonstrate how to write a basic G-Code programs for a given part print for Lathe, Turning, and Milling operations.

Explain the three basic operations/essential functions of a CNC machine regarding tool paths.

Explain what the G Code is and it's basic functions. List examples of G Code functions (G codes vary by machine).

Explain the purpose of M Codes and how they correlate to the machine. List examples of M Codes functions (M codes vary by machine).

Explain the functions of the remaining letters of the G Code/CNC program (N, X/Y/Z, F, S, T, I/J, R, A, B, C, D, L, P).

Explain modal G Codes and how they function within groups.

Demonstrate editing a CNC program G Codes to adjust tool offsets.

Demonstrate editing a CNC program G Codes to adjust work offsets.

Demonstrate the ability to create a basic CNC program using G Code (as appropriate for available machine), incorporating both linear and circular interpolation. Show how to adjust speed, force, and to run in step, cycle, and continuous modes.

Demonstrate creating a peck drilling tool path program including dwell time.

Explain the uses of "canned" cycles in CNC G Code programming.

Demonstrate adjusting programs based on inspection of parts to shop prints to maintain specifications (such as work piece holding fluctuation, tool wear, etc.).

Demonstrate adjusting programs based on chip formation, cut conditions, tool wear, and cutter rake angle.

Explain the types of programming environments (G-Code Editors, Text Editors, G-Code Simulators, CAD/CAM, Conversational, CNC Controller provided software) and how they handle programming differently.

List common CAD (Computer Aided Design) programs and explain the difference between 2D and 3D modeling, parametric modeling vs. direct modeling, as well as the advantages/disadvantages of each.

Demonstrate using CAD software to create shop drawings including part features: Holes, Pockets, Profiles, Facings, and import to CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) software programs.

Explain using vector programs (CorelDraw, Adobe Illustrator, etc.) to create toolpaths and export to CNC CAD/CAM native formats such as DXF.

List common CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) programs and explain the difference between dedicated CAM software vs. CAD/CAM combined software packages, as well as the advantages/disadvantages of each.

Demonstrate using CAD/CAM software to create a part drawing including part features: Holes, Pockets, Profiles, Facings, and import to CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) software programs using import wizards.

Demonstrate using Conversational CAM software to create a G Code program including part features: Holes, Pockets, Profiles, Facings, using set up screens and wizards.

Explain using MDI (Manual Data Input) and MDA (Manual Data Automatic) modes for entering and running code blocks.

List programming considerations when creating a MOP (Machining OPeration) sequence. Include machining on different planes, angles, tool paths, etc.

Explain the following terms, Cut Depth, Cut Width (Stepover), Material Removal Rates (MRR), Plunge, Ramp, Lead In, Lead Out, Profiling.

Explain how Tool Engagement Angles (TEA) affect programming toolpaths.

Explain pocketing toolpath strategies: traditional lace or zig-zag (back and forth), concentric or offset In/Out, contour offset, and high speed cutting paths, Trochoidal milling, Peel milling Adaptive Clearing, Dynamic Milling, or Volumill.

Demonstrate setting up Rapid Planes, Initial Planes, Feed Planes, and the top of part in programming.

Explain the considerations and what coding elements should be included in setting up the initial startup program block (code, safety, services, tool paths, positioning).

Explain the considerations and what coding elements should be included for setting up the end program block (code, safety, services, tool paths, positioning).

Explain cutter compensation (TNR - Tool Nose Radius) schemes and setup in G Code.

Describe how to balance tolerance values while keeping to job specifications to avoid Data Starving due to exceeding machine Block Execution Time capabilities causing momentary stopping and starting vibration.

Demonstrate setting up and programming a Tool Breakage Detection system on a CNC Machine.

Explain the relationship of MRR (Material Removal Rate) vs. Tool Life vs. Surface Finish and how it applies to determining cut program parameters.

Explain calculating the HP (Horse Power) requirements at the spindle and its effect on machining utilizing the HPC = MRR/K (K Factor) formula.

Explain how Spindle speed vs. Workholding (chuck) force (centrifugal variations) affect decision making when setting Feed and Speeds and workholding pressure settings.

Explain the interaction of Radial Depth of Cut (RDOC) and Axial Depth of Cut (ADOC) in slotting or peripheral milling (profiling, roughing, and finishing), or High Efficiency Milling (HEM) strategies.

Explain the benefits of programming Entry (Lead-In) and Exit (Lead-Out) strategies utilizing the following types: plunging - ramping - spiraling (Helical Interpolation or Circular Ramping).

Demonstrate ability to work with a given program's navigation, icons, symbols, and functions (editing: insert, copy, paste, delete, undo, etc.).

Demonstrate populating typical parameters (Cutting Speed, Feed Rates, Tool dimensions, Tool offsets, Tool stickout, Tool material, raw material, machine parameters, etc.) used in setting up a CNC G Code program, and where to find the information.

Demonstrate writing the initial startup program block G Codes (safe start, services, tool paths, positioning).

Demonstrate writing the end program block G Code (safety, services, tool paths, positioning).

Demonstrate writing and utilizing Sub-routines to make code more efficient and reduce redundancy.

Describe declaring system variables, global variables, and local variables for use in G Code Macro programs.

Demonstrate writing and calling Macros and Sub-programs in G Code, how they are used and why they differ from Sub-routines.

Demonstrate using expressions in G Code (arithmetic and conditional) and the use of Logical and Boolean operators.

Demonstrate using unconditional branching GO TO, and conditional branching: IF/GO TO, IF/THEN, iteration looping: DO/WHILE, and end addresses: DO 1. DO2, DO3, END1, END2, END3.

Demonstrate how to properly add comments to G Code for clarification.

Demonstrate how coordinate systems can be utilized by translating/rotating or mirroring axes in G Code.

Demonstrate writing a CNC machine warm-up program.

Demonstrate writing a G Code program to incorporate multiple workholding fixture offsets.

Demonstrate writing a CNC machine program incorporating an ATC (Automatic Tool Change) system to minimize tool change times.

Explain setting up machine utilizing monitoring DNC (Distributive Numerical Control) with MTConnect/Program monitoring (DPRNT).

Explain Collision Detection (a.k.a. Collision Avoidance System - CAS) and how software can prevent operator injury or costly damage to machine, tools, workholding due to programming or human error.

Demonstrate the steps needed to send the CAM generated model toolpath information (CL Data - Cutter Location Data) to the post processor for conversion to the G Code dialect of a particular CNC machine.

Demonstrate modifying the post processor "Post" to optimize machining operations (MOPs).

Demonstrate running CAM generated G Code through a simulator, ability to read the backplot, and modify the code to error correct and/or optimize the operation.

Demonstrate transferring program to CNC via RS 232 (TIA-232-F), RS-485 (TIA-485(-A)), Ethernet, or DNC (Distributed Numerical Control).

Describe quality control management systems and practices such as ISO 9001, Six Sigma, and how to utilize statistical information gathering techniques and develop capability studies.

Describe setting up and utilizing a part inspection plan including sampling rates, data collection, charting or graphing test results, mean deviation, and actionable steps.

Demonstrate measuring workpieces (first run, production) to ensure compliance to shop print specifications.

Demonstrate utilizing work sheets, program notes, etc., to convey production changes for continual improvement.

Describe typical benchwork required for finishing parts including cleaning, deburring, honing, tapping, lapping, polishing, coating, engraving, stamping, etc.

Demonstrate proper finished part handling and storage.

Demonstrate how to place the machine into safe maintenance position and locking it out.

Explain SDS (Safety Data Sheet) information, where to locate and how to read them.

Demonstrate knowledge of OSHA safety standards as well as plant or shop specific safety protocols.

Explain choosing proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) for the specific maintenance task to be performed.

Explain the proper use of air gun and handling of chips when cleaning the machine.

Demonstrate the necessary procedures for cleaning and maintaining the CNC machine, work area, fixturing, and tools. Include the proper use of approved cleaning solvents, their handling, and storage.

Explain what it means to use the five senses to inspect the CNC machine and related equipment.

List examples of potential mechanical problems to look for during an inspection of the CNC machine and related equipment.

List examples of potential electrical problems to look for during an inspection of the CNC machine and related equipment.

List examples of potential pneumatic problems to look for during an inspection of the CNC machine and related equipment.

List examples of potential hydraulic problems to look for during an inspection of the CNC machine and related equipment.

List examples of potential lubrication problems to look for during an inspection of the CNC machine and related equipment.

Demonstrate how to identify tool wear (inserts, drills, etc.), and tool holder issues.

Demonstrate how to determine the proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required for troubleshooting live equipment.

Explain the considerations to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment when performing troubleshooting on live robotic systems.

Explain the troubleshooting process when diagnosing systems including the specific steps to be taken to ensure the problem is verified, identified, and corrected. Include the follow-up process to ensure the equipment problem has been properly corrected, verified, and documented.

List the various ways systems may be monitored (electronically and physically) and how feedback systems can be utilized to identify, diagnose, and correct the root cause(es) of the problem.

Demonstrate where and how to view event messages, error codes, fault messages, alarm messages, warning messages, etc.

Demonstrate troubleshooting and repairing a system based on error code analysis, probable causes, and recommended actions from program diagnostics and manufacturer documentation.

Demonstrate troubleshooting an electronic fault and electrical system.

Demonstrate troubleshooting a PLC generated fault or message.

Demonstrate troubleshooting a pneumatic system fault.

Demonstrate troubleshooting a hydraulic system fault.

Demonstrate troubleshooting a coolant system fault.

Competency-Based Skills

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CNC Programmer

Competency-Based Skills

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