CNC machining's best kept secret: parametric programming

Even experienced CNC machinists aren’t always familiar with parametric programming. And those that do know of it, often don’t know how to use it. Once you understand what it is and how it can improve your CNC machining life, you’ll wonder why you hadn’t taken the time to learn it in the past.

What is parametric programming?

You can easily compare this type of programming to any computer program language. Parametric programming allows you to create custom macros, which as you might guess, are quite useful to many businesses. But as it stands, they’re not even using the custom macros which could boost their productivity noticeably.

Here’s some other situations where parametric programming comes in handy:

1. Families of parts:

Pretty easy one here. If you cut families of parts repeatedly, you’re going to benefit from custom macros.

2. General purpose routines:

Okay, so let’s say you’ve created custom macros for parts families. Well, you do likely also have certain cuts you have to make on a routine basis. You know what they are. And they’re a perfect opportunity for parametric programming.One benefit for this kind of parametric programming is that programs become shorter and easier to change. If you’d like to learn more, these routines are commonly referred to as “user-created canned cycles.”

3. Any complex motion you need to make:

Let’s say you need to cut a taper on a thread. Now, that’s a difficult motion to pull off. Instead of programming that one every time, create a macro to save yourself time. To put it in perspective, parametric programming would only require 50 lines or so of code in G code. Do this on a CAM system, and the exact same process requires hundreds or thousands of commands.

4. Any other process that takes time:

Think about how you use your CNC machinery here. How long does it take you to set it up? What if you need to transfer a program? Consider all the steps you have to implement with your CNC machine, and then replace those repetitive ones with macros.

When it comes to parametric programming, the most common uses you’ll find for it include for families of parts and creating your own canned cycles. Once you get these functions programmed in, you’ll be glad you did because it saves you so much time and improves your productivity.