CNC Machining Guide: 10 common CNC hole machining instructions

10 common CNC hole machining instruction

1. What is CNC hole machining?

CNC hole machining

CNC hole machining refers to various hole-making operations carried out by CNC machines, including drilling, tapping, boring, and more. Unlike traditional manual machining, CNC machining uses pre-programmed instructions and control systems to ensure precise hole positioning and accurate machining paths, fulfilling design specifications for hole size and shape.

2. 10 common CNC hole machining commands

Several instructions are used in CNC machining to perform various hole-making tasks. Below are 10 common instructions and their applications in the process:

1. G81: Simple Drilling Instruction

For standard hole drilling, widely used in general operations.

2. G82: Drilling with Pause Instruction

Adds a pause to the drilling process for precise depth control.

3. G83: Deep Hole Drilling Command

Ideal for deep hole machining, reducing tool load through cyclic feeding.

4. G84: Tapping Instruction

Used for threading operations, controlling spindle rotation and feed speed.

5. G85: Boring Instruction

Suitable for medium-depth boring, improving hole accuracy and finish.

6. G86: Boring with Spindle Stop Instruction

Similar to G85 but with a spindle stop after boring, useful for specialized operations.

7. G87: Offset Boring Instruction

Used for eccentric or irregular hole processing, allowing offset boring.

8. G88: Boring with Manual Return Instruction

After boring, this instruction requires manual return to the starting position.

9. G89: Bore and Return with Pause Instruction

Suitable for tasks needing precise control over hole depth and stop points.

10. G98/G99: Return Method Selection

G98 returns to the initial face, while G99 returns to the R point, depending on the required precision.

These instructions are flexible and can be combined to optimize efficiency and precision in CNC hole machining.

3. What is tapping in CNC machining?

Tapping is the process of creating internal threads inside a hole. In CNC machining, it usually involves a specific command, like G84, which controls the spindle’s rotation and feed to produce accurate threads.
Thread accuracy is crucial because it directly affects the quality of components like bolts and nuts. Adjusting the tapping speed, feed rate, and coolant flow properly helps ensure high-quality threads and extends the life of the tool.

4. Differences between CNC drilling and thread tapping

CNC drilling and tapping are two distinct operations, each serving a different purpose:

  • Machining Purpose: Drilling creates simple holes, while tapping forms threaded holes for fasteners.
  • Machining Tools: Drilling uses a drill bit, whereas tapping uses a threading tool.
  • Machining Process: Drilling is primarily a rotary motion, while tapping requires both rotary and feed motions to achieve the correct thread depth and form.
CNC Tapping

Tapping can only be performed if there is a hole. This means that a drilling operation is required before tapping. Although both operations are part of CNC machining, they typically require separate programs and settings.

5. CNC hole machining applications

CNC hole machining plays a crucial role across various industries, especially in the production of precision parts. It’s commonly used in areas such as:

Hole machining for auto parts
  • Automotive: Creating holes in engine components, body structures, steering systems, and more.
  • Aerospace: Ensuring precision in critical parts like aircraft fuselages and engine components.
  • Mold Manufacturing: Making sure mold cavities are precisely crafted for accuracy and stability.
  • Electronics: Used to make holes in devices like smartphones and computers, ensuring everything fits together perfectly.

This technology is also widely applied in medical devices, precision instruments, and machinery, making it an essential part of modern manufacturing.

6. Conclusion(CNC hole machining)

As a high-precision and efficient manufacturing technology, CNC hole machining is widely used across various industries. Mastering key commands allows operators to perform hole machining tasks more efficiently. By properly combining processes like tapping and drilling, both part quality and machining speed can be improved. For businesses, optimizing this process can enhance production capacity and strengthen competitiveness.

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