G code conversion

[blades&grace]

Does anyone here know where a guy could get a blade profile converted into CNC G Code?

 

[rfrink]

hmmm...my first thought is that the guy running/programming the CNC should be the one who developes the G-code.

For me, it's unlikely that I would use someone else's G-Code. For sure, I'll use their DXF or other cad file of the part...but the G-code is what runs the machine and a crash can be more costly than if a friend borrows and wrecks your new F-150.

G-gode is fairly universal...but each machine maker has their own quirks..especially with the "M" commands. For example, my centroid programs will not run in my Fanuc machines without some re-writing. Someties it easier to start from scratch.

I know this is somewhat negative...but I hope it's helpful.

-Rob

 

[blades&grace]

hmmm...my first thought is that the guy running/programming the CNC should be the one who developes the G-code.

For me, it's unlikely that I would use someone else's G-Code. For sure, I'll use their DXF or other cad file of the part...but the G-code is what runs the machine and a crash can be more costly than if a friend borrows and wrecks your new F-150.

G-gode is fairly universal...but each machine maker has their own quirks..especially with the "M" commands. For example, my centroid programs will not run in my Fanuc machines without some re-writing. Someties it easier to start from scratch.

I know this is somewhat negative...but I hope it's helpful.

-Rob

Thanks Rob, this computer programming terminology is Greek to me.
How and/or where could a guy get a DXF or cad file of a preexisting pattern?

 

[Nathan the Machinist]

I draw what I want on paper, scan it into a computer with a regular flat bed scanner, then trace that drawing with NURBS splines. You can do this in many programs including illustrator. I use Pro/ENGINEER with ISDX. There are then programs than can generate G code from an export such as DXF. A free program is flashcut cnc and there are more. You would then define where zero is on the part, put stock on the table, zero the machine on the stock, then get cutting. This is somewhat an over simplification, there are things like cutter offset compensation, and feed rates that must be dealt with on even the simplest program, but that stuff isn't hard.

I would never use someone else's G code. I seldom even trust my own code, I almost always repost from CAM rather than reuse old code. It can be hard to tell what it is going to do, and repairs are a big deal.

 

[greatlakeswaterjet]

Brent, if you need a CAD drawing done for you, I can do a 2D for you. You can e-mail me a pic with dimensions and I'll send you back a DXF to work from. It will be Monday before I could do it. Still in TN.

 

[Nathan the Machinist]

I used to sell G code to a themoformer in Florida to make mold patterns. It took a high degree of competency on both sides plus good documentation to prevent problems. We did this for years and never did crash that 5 by 10, five axis Thermwood (thank God). If you have something simple you want me to do, and your controller speaks Fanuc (most do until you get into canned cycles etc), I'll be happy to give you some code. If you cut up your table, don't come after me...

 

[blades&grace]

Nathan, thanks for your offer but really all I need is DXF file.

I'll try to pm Dave and see if we can work something out.