Horizontal vs Vertical Milling Machines: Find Your Ideal Fit

Steps of Operation on a CNC Mill

Job Setup: 
1.1 Secure Workpiece: The raw material (commonly called the workpiece) is securely fastened to the machine bed using a vise, clamps, or a fixture. 
1.2 Installing Tools: All of the cutting tools in the CAM program have been loaded into the automatic tool changer (ATC) or tool turret. Each tool has an associated number. 
1.3 Set Work Zero (Datum): This is the most important setup task. The operator informs the machine where the workpiece is, by setting the X, Y, and Z zero points. This is the origin from which all the machine tool movements in the G-code will be referenced. It can be set using a precision probe or a edge finder. 
Performance (The Machining Process) 
2.1 Dry Run / Simulation: 
Before cutting real material, a responsible machinist should execute the program either as:
Virtually: Using the machine's on-screen simulation to check for any errors. 
As a Dry Run: In the air, with the spindle turned off, or with the workpiece lifted up, to ensure nothing collides. 
2.2 Production Run: 
After confirming all setup, the cycle start button is pressed. 
The machine will follow the G-code instructions automatically: 
The ATC will select the first tool and place it in the spindle. 
The spindle will rotate the tool at the programmed RPM. 
The machine will move the tool and/or table to the programmed coordinates. 
The coolant will often be turned on to provide lubrication, reduce heat, and wash away metal chips. 
The tool will begin to remove material based on the program toolpath.