G-Code in a can! Lets look at how to use Mastercams Lathe Turning Canned Cycles.
Even though the main point of programming with CAM software is to never needing to edit the posted G-Code, sometimes it can be very useful for optimizing programs. The easiest way to edit code and have great control over the resulting motion is with Canned Cycles.
There are many different types of Canned Cycles but here today, we are focusing on the Lathe Turning Cycles. In the Fanuc syntax this would be your G70, G71, G72, G73, etc.
The first thing to check before attempting to output the canned cycle is whether or not your post is capable of doing so. Sometimes a quick check in the post will reveal a text block stating if canned cycles have been setup. If so, carry on!
Step two, select the Canned Cycle tooplath. You may need to expand the toolpath gallery to see it, its way down there at the bottom. Next, is just adjusting your parameters to match your cutting needs. If you are in the Rough Canned Cycle, you will get a preview of the resulting call for the Canned Cycle. Keep in mind this is generic code and may not match what your post will output.
Make sure you make any settings in the roughing path that you would want to have in the finish canned cycle as there are no additional settings there. The Roughing Canned Cycle is used to drive the Finish Canned Cycle.
Rough can be used to generate both G71 ID and OD roughing as well as G72 Face roughing.
There are also canned cycle options for threading. These options are all found within the normal threading toolpath. You can choose between G76 Canned, G92 Boxed, or G32 for Longhand and Alternating.
Outputting your lathe turning cycles as canned cycles can save a lot of time when trying to adjust cutting parameters. Instead of reposting an edited program, the operator can simply adjust a G-Code word and essentially have an entirely different program.
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