G01 Linear Interpolation in CNC Programming Explained
G01 is the command for linear interpolation, which moves the tool in a straight line at a controlled feed rate. It tells the machine to cut or move the tool precisely from one point to another along a straight path.How It Works
Imagine you want to draw a straight line between two points on a piece of paper. G01 in CNC programming works the same way by moving the cutting tool in a straight line from its current position to a target position. The machine calculates the path and moves smoothly along that line.
This command also controls the speed of the movement using a feed rate, so the tool moves steadily and accurately. It’s like telling a friend to walk straight from one spot to another at a steady pace instead of running or wandering.
Example
This example shows a simple CNC program using G01 to move the tool in a straight line from the origin to a point 10 units away on the X-axis at a feed rate of 100 units per minute.
N10 G90 G21 ; Set absolute positioning and metric units N20 G01 X10 F100 ; Move in a straight line to X=10 at feed rate 100 N30 M30 ; End of program
When to Use
Use G01 whenever you need the tool to move in a straight line with precise control over speed. This is common for cutting straight edges, drilling along a straight path, or moving the tool safely between points.
For example, when milling a flat surface or cutting a straight groove, G01 ensures the tool moves exactly where you want it without curves or arcs.
Key Points
- G01 commands straight-line movement between points.
- It requires a feed rate (
F) to control speed. - Used for precise cutting or positioning along straight paths.
- Works with absolute (
G90) or incremental (G91) positioning modes.
Key Takeaways
G01 moves the CNC tool in a straight line at a controlled speed.G01 to control movement speed.