Machine Tool Controls
NC controls for machine tools are an important part of operating machine tools, enabling high precision and efficiency in the manufacture of workpieces. These controls are used for a variety of applications, depending on the type and capabilities of the machine.
ISO Codes (ISO 6983)
The ISO 6983 standard defines the commonly used G and M codes. Many CNC control systems support ISO code, making it a common and versatile solution for various manufacturing processes. Examples of controls that support ISO codes include Fanuc, Mitsubishi, Haas, and Mazak. Support for ISO codes enables compatibility with CAM software, which in turn facilitates the programming of complex toolpaths and multi-axis machining.
Fanuc
Fanuc is a very widely used CNC control system, and its controls can be found on many different machine tools.
- Control systems: Series 0i, Series 30i/31i/32i.
- Manual Guide i: Newer Fanuc controls, such as the Series 30i, often include Manual Guide i, a conversational control and simulation system that simplifies programming and commissioning.
- Applications: Common applications include various lathes, machining centers, and multi-spindle machining centers. Fanuc is particularly well known for its reliability and extensive support, making it a popular choice for industrial applications worldwide.
Heidenhain
Heidenhain is a German company known for the precision and high quality of its CNC control systems.
- Control systems: TNC 7, TNC 640, TNC 620, TNC 530, TNC 320.
- Applications: Commonly used to control large machine tools, such as boring mills, long-bed milling machines, and gantry milling machines. It is particularly useful on large machining centers with angular heads, where extremely high precision and the handling of complex geometries are required.
- Advantages: An intuitive Heidenhain programming language, dynamic simulation, and strong integration with various machining processes.
Siemens Sinumerik
Siemens’ Sinumerik product family covers a wide range of CNC control systems that provide solutions for many different industrial applications.
- Control systems: Sinumerik 808D, Sinumerik 828D, Sinumerik 840D sl.
- Applications: Particularly common in multi-axis machining and on multi-spindle lathes. Siemens controls are well suited to manufacturing complex parts and managing high production volumes.
- Advantages: An extensive programming language set (G codes and Siemens’ proprietary programming language), versatile programming capabilities, and excellent compatibility.
Okuma OSP
Okuma is known for its advanced and reliable CNC control systems, especially for turning and milling machines.
- Control systems: OSP-P300, OSP-P300A.
- Applications: Okuma controls are widely used on various lathes, milling machines, and versatile machining centers. Okuma control systems are known for their precision and broad range of applications.
- Advantages: Special programming commands and parametric programming capabilities, strong performance, and compatibility with different machine tools.
Mazak Mazatrol
Machine tools and controls developed under the Mazak brand are well known for their user-friendliness and highly integrated process control.
- Mazatrol Matrix: A control offering advanced conversational programming and a graphical user interface.
- Mazatrol SmoothX: An advanced version of the Matrix control, with even more features and an improved user interface.
- Applications: Well suited to processing complex parts and performing multi-axis machining. Mazak controls can run advanced toolpaths generated by CAM software in ISO code and are suitable for use on lathes and machining centers, among other machines.
DMG Mori Celos
DMG Mori’s Celos control offers advanced features and makes programming and production management easy and efficient.
- Control system: Celos combines conversational control with a graphical user interface.
- Applications: Suitable for various machine tools, such as multi-spindle lathes and milling machines, where high precision and efficient production management are required.
- Advantages: The visual interface and interactive control simplify programming and production management while enabling the manufacture of complex and demanding parts.
Mach3
Mach3 is a popular CNC control software that provides an affordable and accessible solution, particularly among hobbyists and small businesses.
- Software: Runs on standard computers and controls machine movements via USB or a parallel port.
- Applications: Used primarily in lighter-duty applications, such as prototype manufacturing and small-batch production.
- Advantages: Easy to set up and flexibly configurable, affordable, and widely available.
Summary - Different NC controls provide solutions for managing a wide range of machine tools and manufacturing processes. ISO codes offer a standardized way to control CNC machines, thanks to their versatility and compatibility.
Fanuc is known for its reliability and is widely used in various industrial applications. Heidenhain is particularly well suited to large and complex machining applications, such as boring mills and gantry milling machines. Siemens is a common choice for multi-spindle lathes and multi-axis machining, while Okuma OSP offers precision and performance for a variety of machine-tool applications. Mach3 is an affordable and flexible solution for smaller and lighter-duty applications. Mazak offers advanced programming and visual interfaces that support the production of complex and multi-axis parts, while DMG Mori Celos provides an intuitive, visual control environment with comprehensive functionality.
