Columns

Basics 7 Aug 2020

How To Reference Custom Macro Variables by Name

FANUC now enables CNC users to reference custom macro system variables by names in addition to hard-to-remember numbers. Here’s how.

Basics 3 Aug 2020

Machine Monitoring Circles Back to Basics

Deeper insights from more varied data are no replacement for manufacturing fundamentals.

1 Aug 2020

Hope Is an Asset: Here Are Machine Shops Following Clear Visions for the Future

A simple strategy offering a clear aim to hope for is particularly valuable during a disruptive time. Recently posted articles offer examples of shops following clear ideas for the way ahead.

Inspection and Measurement 25 Jun 2022

How To Calibrate Your Calipers

If you’re interested in calibrating your own digital, dial or Vernier calipers, here are some steps to take to make sure it goes off without a hitch.

Additive Manufacturing 17 Jul 2020

Additive Manufacturing in the Age of COVID-19: Ramping Up for a Fight

Reporting from the front lines of the fight against the coronavirus, this time confronting the costs to ramp up production of needed medical products.

CNC & Machine Controls 15 Jul 2020

G Code To Include in Your CNC Program After It Ends

There are some G-code commands you might want your operators to occasionally execute but not for every cycle. Consider these examples.

Die/Mold 8 Jul 2020

Die Makers Adapt to Challenges All Machine Shops Face

Die shops offer examples of adapting to the skills shortage and excelling at difficult machining. Plus, why reshoring should begin with die tooling.

Basics 9 Oct 2021

4 CNC Data Transfer Methods You Should Know

Modern CNCs enable transfer and backup of more than just machining programs.

Basics 26 Jun 2020

How To Measure Surface Roughness on Large Parts

Performing surface finish measurements on large or complex parts can be made much easier with properly designed fixturing.

Inspection and Measurement 23 Jun 2020

Introduction to Digital Depth Gage Styles

There are many digital calipers specifically designed as depth gages. They share some common features but come in a variety of styles. Here are several to consider.

Basics 19 Jun 2020

CNC Machine Programming: Dealing with Spindle Probe Results in Real Time

There are several situations in which a CNC programmer must work with spindle probe results in the G-code program itself. Here are some strategies to consider.