50-420-746CNC Programming and Operations 2 for Machine Tool Trades Apprentices
Course Information
Description
This course is a classroom/lab introduction to CNC programming for apprentices, with a focus on CNC turning and milling centers. Apprentices will create setup sheets, develop tool lists, calculate speeds and feeds, assign tool offsets and write CNC programs.
Total Credits
2
Course Competencies
  1. Determine safe operations for computer numeric controlled equipment
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    identify potential hazards specific to advanced CNC operations and implement appropriate risk mitigation strategies
    demonstrate advanced troubleshooting procedures for CNC equipment malfunctions while maintaining safety protocols
    evaluate workstation ergonomics to prevent operator injury during extended CNC programming and operation sessions

  2. Illustrate the applications of CNC tool systems
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written or Graphic Assessment
    Criteria
    analyze various tooling systems to determine optimal configurations for complex part geometries
    compare the performance of different tool coatings and materials for specialized applications
    demonstrate the proper implementation of modular tooling systems for reducing setup time

  3. Explore advanced machining techniques
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    apply high-speed machining strategies to reduce cycle times while maintaining part quality
    implement trochoidal milling techniques for efficient material removal in hardened materials
    utilize multi-axis simultaneous machining for complex surface generation

  4. Sequence CNC operations
    Assessment Strategies
    Demonstration
    Criteria
    optimize operation sequences to minimize tool changes and machine movements
    design efficient machining strategies for complex multi-sided parts
    create logical operation sequences that maintain part stability throughout the machining process

  5. Select tooling for an operation
    Assessment Strategies
    Demonstration
    Criteria
    evaluate cutting tool geometry and material properties to match specific machining challenges
    determine optimal tool paths based on selected tooling capabilities and limitations
    justify tooling selections through analysis of part requirements, material properties, and economic factors

  6. Plan set-ups for CNC equipment
    Assessment Strategies
    Performance
    Criteria
    design fixture systems that allow for multiple operations with minimal re-clamping
    calculate optimal work offsets and tool length compensations for complex setups
    develop setup documentation that ensures repeatability and quality across production runs

  7. Explore various CNC controls
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    customize macro programming specific to different control platforms
    configure advanced control parameters to optimize machine performance
    troubleshoot communication issues between CAM systems and different CNC controls

  8. Relate feeds and speeds to CNC operations and machines
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    formulate optimized cutting parameters based on tool engagement and material removal rates
    adjust feeds and speeds dynamically throughout complex tool paths for consistent surface finish
    analyze cutting force requirements to determine maximum material removal rates without exceeding machine capabilities

  9. Examine advanced CNC programming
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, Written and/or Skill Assessment
    Criteria
    create parametric programs that adapt to varying part dimensions
    implement advanced G-code programming techniques including custom macros and subprograms
    optimize post-processors to efficiently translate CAM output into machine-specific code