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Manually Prepared Code


Ideally, NC code for a part should be prepared with AlphaCAM or similar CADCAM software. Apart from the process being quick and easy, the software produces efficient NC code with many small tool clearance movements which improve tool life and the surface finish of the work. More importantly, the software takes account of the fact that the tool tip is not pointed but has a radius. Tool Tip Radius Compensation is done automatically and ensures that curves and tapers are machined dimensionally correct.

However, code for WELturn can be prepared manually with the help of a drawing of the part, pencil, paper and a calculator. Alternatively, CAD software, such as AutoSketch or QuickCAD can be used to draw the part and report essential co-ordinates: see CAD Software as an Aid to NC Code Preparation. When prepared, the code is set out on a computer screen using a text editor such as Notepad. Alternatively, specialised NC code editor software is available. Try an internet search for freebies.  The EdgeCAM NC Editor is available for use for a year from www.pathtrace.com The code must be set out according to the WELturn CNC File Specification.

When the code is complete, give the file a name and save it in C:\WELturn\Turndata with the extension .cnc

If, for some reason, your text editor does not allow you to give a file the extension .cnc, save the file with what the editor allows. Then go into UNCONVERTED WINHELP MACRO:!EP(`C:\\windows\\explorer.exe',0)Explorer, find the file and change its extension to .cnc (see Note about Windows Explorer).

Go into WELturn, load the file and proceed as normal.

(Note about Windows Explorer: to use Windows Explorer to change a file extension, it must be properly configured to permit this. Go to - My Computer - Control Panel - View - Folder Options - View - and uncheck Hile file extensions for known file types.)

An Example of Manually Created NC Code
Arcs: The Rules for Coding Them
Canned Cycles
Speeds and Feeds for Turning and Parting with Indexable Tipped Tools