Machine & Coordinates
Machine axes, homing, coordinate systems, work offsets, transforms, and position references.
A Axis
Rotary axis that rotates around the X-axis.
Absolute Programming
Coordinate values are entered relative to the zero point.
Automatic Pallet Changer (APC)
Device that automatically changes workpiece pallets.
Automatic Tool Changer (ATC)
Device that automatically changes tools.
B Axis
Rotary axis that rotates around the Y-axis.
Backlash Compensation
Compensation for error caused by transmission backlash.
Ball Screw
Transmission component converting rotary motion to linear motion.
C Axis
Rotary axis that rotates around the Z-axis.
Chip Conveyor
Device that automatically transports chips.
CNC Controller
Core of the CNC system that interprets and executes programs.
Column
Vertical structural member supporting spindle or slide assemblies.
Composite Coordinate System
Coordinate system composed of multiple transformations.
Cooling System
System that supplies coolant to reduce cutting temperature.
Coordinate Mirroring
Applies mirror transformation to the coordinate system.
Coordinate Rotation (G68)
Applies rotational transformation to the coordinate system.
Coordinate Scaling (G51)
Applies proportional scaling to the coordinate system.
Coordinate System Setup
Process of defining work coordinate system position.
Cutter Compensation Direction
Selection of left or right compensation direction.
Datum Axis
Axis used as a datum.
Datum Hole
Hole feature used as a datum.
Datum Plane
Plane used as a datum.
Drawing Datum
Datum specified on the part drawing.
Encoder
Sensor used for position and speed feedback.
Extended Coordinate System (G54.1)
Additional work coordinate offset groups.
FANUC 0i
A common FANUC CNC control series.
FANUC 30i
A high-end FANUC CNC control series.
Fixture Offset
Offset of fixture position relative to the machine tool.
Guard Cover
Protective structure that prevents chip and coolant splash.
HMI
Human-machine interface for operating and monitoring machine tools.
Incremental Programming
Coordinate values are entered relative to the current position.
Linear Guideway
High-precision guide rail for linear motion.
Local Coordinate Offset (G52)
Temporary coordinate system offset setting.
Machine Bed
Base structural component supporting machine assemblies.
Machine Coordinate Measurement
Measuring positions in the machine coordinate system.
Machine Coordinate System
Coordinate system referenced to machine zero.
Machine Datum
Design or measurement datum of the machine.
Machine Zero Point
Inherent reference origin of the machine.
Machine-Workpiece Coordinate Alignment
Aligns machine and workpiece coordinate systems.
MDI
Manual Data Input mode for temporary commands.
Program Zero Point
Origin position used in the program.
Rapid Traverse Rate
Axis movement speed during rapid traverse.
Reference Point
Fixed position used when homing to establish coordinates.
Saddle
Component that supports the table and moves along guideways.
Servo Drive
Drive unit that controls servo motor motion.
Servo Motor
Motor used for precise axis motion control.
SINUMERIK 828D
Siemens mid-range CNC control series.
SINUMERIK 840D sl
Siemens high-end CNC control series.
Spindle
Shaft system that drives tool or workpiece rotation.
Sub-Spindle
Spindle used for secondary or opposed-side machining.
Table
Support platform that carries the workpiece and moves with machine axes.
Tool Length Compensation (H)
Corrects differences in tool length.
Tool Radius Compensation (D)
Corrects differences in tool radius.
Turret
Indexing mechanism on lathes that holds multiple tools.
Work Coordinate Measurement
Measuring positions in the work coordinate system.
Work Coordinate Number
Index number of a work coordinate system.
Work Coordinate Offset (G54)
Commonly used work coordinate offset.
Work Coordinate System
Coordinate system referenced to workpiece zero.
Workpiece Zero Point
Machining origin defined in the program.
X Axis
Linear motion axis of a machine tool, typically in the left-right direction.
Y Axis
Linear motion axis of a machine tool, typically in the front-back direction.
Z Axis
Linear motion axis of a machine tool, typically in the up-down direction.
Zero Offset
Offset adjustment of the zero position.