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When the first NC codes were originally developed there were a very limited number of coolant types, so, for example, M08 turns the flood coolant on, and M09 turns the coolant off. Coolant keeps the tool and the part cool, as well as extending the life of the tool and removing chips to improve surface finish. Many aspects are controlled or configurated by the Post, but it would be helpful to narrow our scope to just one topic for illustration, so let’s focus on coolant. With a properly configured Post you should be able to generate NC code from your CAM project that is ready to use on your machine with no manual intervention required.Ī Post Processor creates the final instructions that are properly configured to match your machine’s kinematics, capabilities, instruction set, and options. I say usually because machines can be modified from their original configuration or reprogrammed for unique applications, so the Post Processor might need to be customized for a completely custom machine configuration. G-Codes are often movement codes created by CAM and are usually generic across most machines, while M-Codes are usually special commands that control things like the spindle, clamps, air, and additional related actions. The machine follows the instructions exactly as written, so the success of the program relies completely on the NC code being correct. The final NC code consists of a series of individual instructions that drive every action on the machine, and not all machines speak the same language or have the same options.
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A Post Processor is an application that converts the generic tool motion from a CAM system into NC code that is designed for a specific CNC Machine and Control.
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