Still hand coding G-code for my lathe, most guys I work with swear by CAM software

I started running CNC lathes back in 1998 at a shop in Dayton. We had no CAM, just a calculator and a notepad. I still write most of my programs by hand. Last month I had a job with 14 different tool offsets and a tricky contour. I programmed it line by line in 45 minutes. The CAM guys spent 3 hours generating their toolpaths and still had to edit the post. I know automation is faster for complex 3D stuff, but for basic turning work I think hand coding keeps you sharper. Anyone else still do it the old way?

3 comments

3 Comments

violag8010d ago

Lol right, gotta justify that CAM license somehow!

fiona_hunt7110d ago

I swear @violag80 it's like people think a piece of paper makes you an instant expert at EVERYTHING. Been noticing this trend where folks get one certification and suddenly they're telling you how to run your whole life. It's just a license, not a magic power up.

the_robin10d agoMost Upvoted

Used to think credentials mattered way more, but yeah you're right.