Brandon Fowler, Author at Machinist Guides

CNC Offsets Explained [D, H and Work Offsets]

December 22, 2022 by Brandon Fowler

What is a CNC offset?

Offsets are the adjustments that the CNC machine will make based on different features of the machine.

There are three types of offsets:

Diameter offsets

Height offsets
Work offsets

Want to learn more about CNC G Code?

Types of CNC offsets

Each of the three offset types has a specific purpose.

They each allow for flexibility when running your program. This includes allowing you to use the same program even if you need to change cutting tools.

Height (H) offsets

The height offset refers to the location difference between the spindle and the cutting tool.

This difference in location is stored in the machines offset library. Height offsets are usually stored in the same number location as the tool.

For instance, T01 (tool 1) and H01 (height offset 1) or T05 (tool 5) and H05 (height offset 5).

This makes it easier to match up the necessary offset with the correct tool.

The G43 code is used to turn on tool length compensation using an H offset.

For example, G43 H01 turns on tool length comp with the first H offset.

Once tool length compensation is turned on with the G43 code, it will stay on until it is turned off with the G49 cancel code or switched to a new H offset such as H02 or H05.

Diameter (D) offsets

While H offsets adjust for the length of the cutter, D offsets compensate for the diameter of the cutting tool.

D offsets are also stored in the machines offset library. D offsets are usually stored in the same number location as the tool they are used with.

T04 (tool 4) and D04 (diameter offset 4) would usually be matched together.

G41 and G42 are the two cutter compensation modes that are used with D offsets.

They tell the machine to adjust the path of the cutter so that the edge of cutter follows the path given in the CNC program. G41 shifts the cutter left and G42 shifts the cutter right.

With cutter compensation off using the G40 code, the machine will move the center of the cutter along the path in the program.

This can make it difficult to get the correct size, especially when using different or multiple cutters.

Telling the machine the size of the cutters with your D offsets allows it to account for them and run the same program with different tools ang get the same size part.

If you didn’t have cutter compensation, then you would need to create a new version of the program every time you wanted to use a new tool.

Just like tool length compensation with G43, cutter comp with G41 and G42 are modal commands so those adjustments will stay on until switched or turned off with the G40 code.

Work offsets (G54-G59)

Work offsets are basically the stored location of your part in the machine.

You use them to set the XYZ zero location when working in absolute positioning mode.

There are multiple work offsets available.

The six most common are G54 through G59. Most machines will also have others available, but the format varies from machine to machine.

Fanuc controls are one of the most common controllers. If they allow additional work offsets, the Fanuc format for using them is G54.1 P1, G54.1 P2 and so on. The P number is the additional offset.

In most cases the six offsets of G54 through G59 that are common on all machines will be more than enough.

One benefit of having multiple work offsets is how easy they make it to run multiple parts at once. You can set the work offset for multiple parts and run the same program with a new work offset each time.

This works well when you a fixture that holds multiple parts in your CNC.

Where are offsets stored?

Offsets are stored in the tool offset table or library.

This tool table allows you to describe the different dimensions of the tool that will affect the program.

This includes the tool radius or diameter (D offset) and its length (H offset).

Some machines allow you to store the H and D offsets together in one offset. In this example, tool T01 would use both H01 and D01 as offsets.

Other machines may require the offsets to be stored individually.

When the offsets are stored individually, the programmer should maintain a system so that the offset numbers used are consistent.

In other words, the first H offset would always be stored in the 01 location and the first D offset would always be stored in the 51 location.

Having a system like this will help prevent errors in your program.

Want to learn more about CNC G Code?

CNC Spindle Controls Explained [M03, M04, M05 and More]

December 22, 2022 by Brandon Fowler

Getting started with CNC spindle controls

The most basic codes to control your CNC spindle are:

M05 = spindle off

But there is more to controlling your CNC spindle than simply turning it on and off.

For instance, most CNC machines have multiple ways to turn the spindle off and each way has it’s own use case.

Controlling the spindle speed is another function that has multiple modes. Choosing the wrong one could potentially be disastrous.

Learn the ins and outs of controlling your spindle below.

Want to learn more about CNC G Code?

Codes for turning your spindle on

There are two CNC commands for turning the spindle on, M03 and M04.

The S code is used together with these codes to set the speed of the spindle.

M03 [spindle on, clockwise]

The M03 code turns the spindle on in a clockwise direction at a set speed.

The speed is set with the most recent S code.

Clockwise rotation with M03 is the most common spindle rotation direction when CNC machining.

Clockwise rotation is used with right hand cutting tools.

M04 [spindle on, counterclockwise]

The M04 code turns the spindle on in a counterclockwise direction at a set speed.

Just like M03, the set speed is the value used with the most recent S code.

M04 is used with left hand cutting tools.

Counterclockwise spindle rotation is much less common than clockwise.

This is especially true for machining centers (mills). For lathes, M03 is still more common but M04 gets more use.

Codes for turning your spindle off

The M05 code is the only code that just turns the spindle off.

However, there are other codes listed below that turn off multiple machine functions and the spindle is included in those functions.

M05 [spindle off]

The M05 code is used to stop the spindle.

It is normally used when there is a tool change or other change in the machining process.

When the spindle is turned back on with an M03 or M04 code after being stopped, the spindle will return to the same speed it was previously set at with the last S code.

M00 [program stop]

The M00 code is called a program stop. It stops the current program in the middle of running.

Using the M00 code turns off the following functions:

Movement of all axes
Spindle rotation

Coolant flow
The machine pauses reading the program

When the M00 code is used, nothing is reset. In other words, any active modes or parameters will stay as they are.

The program is merely paused when it reads the M00 code.

The machine will resume reading the program when the cycle start button is pressed after the program stop has occurred.

One thing to keep in mind is that the machine doesn’t turn on functions when cycle start is pushed.

If the M00 code turns something off such as the spindle, it will need to be turned back on in the program.

M01 [optional stop]

The M01 code is called an optional stop.

It stops the current program in the middle of running, but only if the optional stop switch or button is on.

If the optional stop switch is not on, then the machine will ignore any M01 codes it reads and continue running the program like normal.

When the machine reads an M01 code and the optional stop switch is on, it will turn off the following functions:

Movement of all axes

Spindle rotation
Coolant flow
The machine pauses reading the program

When the M01 code is used, nothing is reset. Same as with the M00 code.

In other words, any active modes or parameters will stay as they are. The program is merely paused when it reads the M01 code.

The machine will resume reading the program when the cycle start button is pressed after the program stop has occurred.

One thing to keep in mind is that the machine doesn’t turn on functions when cycle start is pushed.

If the M01 code turns something off such as the spindle, it will need to be turned back on in the program.

M30 [program end]

The M30 code ends the program.

This makes it different from M00, M01 or M05.

M00 and M01 shut down various machine functions and pause the program.

M30 shuts down machine functions and ends it.

Pressing cycle start after an M30 code will start the entire program over again.

How to set spindle speeds

CNC spindle speeds are set using the S code.

S code

Using the S code sets the spindle speed that will be used whenever the spindle is turned on. The units are revolutions per minute (RPM).

The same spindle speed value will be maintained until it is changed.

Below is a small section of code with comments in parentheses that show what will happen as the machine reads the code.

M03 S3000 (Spindle On CW, Speed = 3,000 RPM)

M05 (Spindle Off)

M04 (Spindle On CCW, Speed = 3,000 RPM)

Notice how the spindle turns back on at the same set speed. This happens even if the spindle rotation direction is changed from clockwise to counterclockwise or vice versa.

S codes show up frequently in programs at the beginning of a new section of code. This can be switching tools or switching machining operations such as going from cutting the outside profile of the part to drilling holes.

Some other notes about the S code:

Must be a whole number (no decimals such as 3000.5)

Most machines have a limit to the range of spindle speeds that can be used. 1-9999 is common but 1-99999 is also used by some machines

Spindle speed modes

In CNC programming there are two codes that control the spindle speed mode, G96 and G97.

G97 is the most common and sets the spindle mode to RPM.

G96 sets the spindle mode to constant surface speed which adjusts the speed of the spindle based on the size of the part being machined.

G97 [speed in RPM]

When the G97 mode is active, the machine will maintain a constant spindle speed based on the RPM value set with the most recent S code.

If G97 is active, spindle speed will only change when the S code is changed.

G96 [constant surface speed]

When the G96 mode is active, the machine will maintain a constant surface speed.

Imagine a monster truck tire. Now picture rolling the monster truck tire one complete revolution in one minute. In that one minute, you might move 20 feet.

Now imagine you have a normal car tire. If you roll the car tire one revolution in one minute, you might only travel 4 feet.

You covered a lot less distance in that one minute, which means you traveled at a slower speed.

When things are spinning based on an RPM speed, the actual speed that the cutting edge of the tool is traveling can change.

Using constant surface speed with the G96 code tells the machine to change the spindle speed over time as the size of the part changes so that the speed where the cutting action is happening remains the same.

This is a simplified explanation of how G96 works. For more information about G96 see our full guide to the G96 command.

How to change the tool in your spindle

Most machining centers have automatic tool changers that can switch tools into and out of the CNC spindle.

The tool to be placed into the spindle is called up with the T code. This places the new tool in location so that it is ready to be switched.

The M06 command is then used to perform the tool change.

Here is an example section of code:

T01 (Tool 1 is readied for change)

M06 (Tool 1 is placed in the spindle)

T02 (Tool 2 is readied for change)

T03 (Tool 3 is readied for change)

M06 (Tool 3 is placed in the spindle)

Notice that even though tool 2 was readied for change, it never actually was put in the spindle. Instead, tool 3 was readied before the tool change occurred and it was placed in the spindle instead.

Want to learn more about CNC G Code?

Quick Guide to CNC Safety Lines [Common Codes]

December 21, 2022 by Brandon Fowler

What are CNC program safety lines?

Safety lines, sometimes called a safety block, are a section of code within a CNC program which are used to protect the machine, the workpiece, and the operator.

Safety lines are used to make sure the machine is in the proper mode/state which means that the machine will understand all the commands we give it correctly.

If you need the machine to work in inches (or mm in some parts of the world), it is important to frequently set the machine to work in those units.

This is especially true if you will be switching between units when machining.

While many won’t switch between imperial and metric units, it is common to switch between absolute and incremental positioning modes.

The safety lines used will vary by machine, however there are many which are common between the majority of machines.

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Types of codes found in a safety line

Safety lines can contain G codes for coordinate systems, measurement units, tool compensation, and cancel functions.

Each one of these commands is necessary to move the tool safely.

Modal commands and cancel commands are two of the most common codes used in CNC safety lines.

Below are the most common safety codes found in CNC programs:

Positioning mode – G90/G91

The first code normally found in a safety line will be the machine’s positioning mode.

There are two positioning modes available to use. Absolute and incremental positioning.

Absolute positioning uses the G90 command.

Absolute positioning mode tells the machine to interpret all locations it is given as measured from a fixed zero location (origin).

Incremental positioning uses the G91 command.

Incremental positioning modes tells the CNC that the zero location is wherever the machine currently is.

Once the CNC makes a move in incremental mode, the new location becomes the zero location.

Units mode – G20/G21

Selecting the system of units you will be working in is important. This is why the units mode is found in the safety lines of the program.

Imperial units are set with G20 (inches) and metric units are set with G21 (mm).

You don’t want to move 4 inches when you meant to 4 millimeters.

Setting the units mode is critical to running your CNC.

Plane selection – G17/G18/G19

Selecting the plane you will be working with is necessary. Not because you will often switch between planes, but because it’s possible.

Most people will never use anything other than the standard XY plane with G17, but setting it will make sure that it is set correctly.

The alternatives to G17 are G18 for the ZX plane and G19 for the YZ plane.

Canned cycle cancel – G80

G80 is the g code used to cancel any active canned cycle.

Canned cycles are used to perform repetitive machining. This includes drilling, reaming, boring, counterboring and other operations.

Canned cycles are modal which means they are on until they are switched or turned off.

In the case of a drilling canned cycle, once it is turned on every new location the machine reads will be a spot where it drills a hole.

Obviously, you need to stop drilling holes eventually. Using G80 cancels the drilling canned cycle or another other canned cycles that might be active.

Cutter compensation cancel – G40

Cutter compensation is when the CNC machine control changes how it reads the program. With cutter compensation on, the machine will shift a set distance based on the size of the cutting tool when running the program.

Cutter compensation is turned on with either G41 or G42. G41 shifts the tool left and G42 shifts it right.

The G40 code turns cutter compensation off.

Tool length compensation cancel – G49

Cutter compensation is accounts for the diameter of the cutting tool.

Tool length compensation accounts for the length of the cutter from the CNC spindle.

G49 is the code used to cancel tool length compensation.

Both compensation modes adjust for the size of your cutter. This allows you to run the same program with different tools.

Other safety codes

Codes will vary by machine. Check your instruction manual for the specific codes you need to use in the safety lines.

The codes listed here are certainly a good start.

Safety lines for starting up your CNC

Setting the initial modes for your machine is an important part of every CNC program. If the modes are not set then the machine will stay in it’s initialized state.

Modes such as the unit system (mm/inch) can be set in the machine parameters. If no code is specifically given in the program then the machine will remain in the initialized state.

This is not a good programming practice because there is plenty of opportunity for errors to occur. Use safety lines to make absolutely sure your CNC is in the correct mode.

Here is an example of a safety line to use at the beginning of a program:

O1000

(Start of safety code)

G20 G17 G40 (G20 inch, XY plane, cancel cutter compensation)

G49 G64 G80 (cancel tool length compensation, normal cutting mode, cancel canned cycles)

G90 G94 G98 (absolute mode, feed per minute, initial plane for canned cycles)

(end of safety code)

Frequently asked questions about CNC safety lines

Can you put all of your safety codes on the same line?

The number of codes that can fit in the same line depends on the CNC machine.

Many machines have limitations for how many M-codes you can put on one line. G codes are generally only limited to one code from each group.

For example, G00, G01, G02 and G03 are all in the same group (movement). Only one of the codes from this group should be used on any particular line.

Want to learn more about CNC G Code?

Ultimate Guide to CNC Codes

January 8, 2023December 10, 2022 by Brandon Fowler

Here is our Ultimate Guide to CNC Codes. Below is a list of CNC codes with a description of what they are.

Click on the code if you want to find out more including multiple examples to help you understand how to use them in your programs.

A - Rotation Around the X Axis

Rotates around the 4th axis of the machine if equipped.

B - Rotation Around the Y Axis

Rotates around the 5th axis of the machine if equipped.

C - Rotation Around the Z Axis

Rotates around the 6th axis of the machine if equipped.

D - Diameter Offset

Specifies the tool diameter offset to be used for cutter compensation (G41 and G42).

Learn more about the D code

F - Feed Rate

Sets the feed rate to be used for movement. The feed rate is used when moving using codes such as G01, G02 & G03.

The feed rate is not used when using rapid travel (G00).

Learn more about the F code

G - Preparatory Functions

Sets various modes in the machine or prepares the machine to perform a function such as a canned cycle.

Learn more about G codes

H - Height Offset

Specifies the height offset to be used when turning tool length compensation on (G43) or off (G49)

Learn more about the H code

I - Radius Center in X Axis

Identifies the location of the center of a radius for a circular move relative to the current X axis location.

J - Radius Center in Y Axis

Identifies the location of the center of a radius for a circular move relative to the current Y axis location.

K - Radius Center in Z Axis

Identifies the location of the center of a radius for a circular move relative to the current Z axis location.

L - Number of Subprogram Repetitions

Used with the M98 subprogram call command. L lists how many times the subprogram will be repeated.

M - Miscellaneous Functions

M codes turn on and off various machine functions such as the spindle or coolant.

They are also used for program start and stop functions.

Learn more about M codes

N - Program Line Number

Identifies the sequence or line number of the program. They are not required but they can help make a CNC program easier to follow.

Learn more about the N code

O - Program Number

The program number is the first CNC word in the program.

Learn more about the O code

P - Subprogram Number/Dwell Time

When used with an M98 code, P identifies the subprogram number.

When used with G04 or canned cycles, P specifies the amount of time to dwell.

Learn more about the P code

Q - Peck Drill Depth

Used with G73 and G83 peck drilling cycles. Q identifies the depth of each drilling peck before the drill backs up to break chips.

Learn more about the Q code

R - Radius Size/Reference Plane

When used with G02 and G03, R specifies the size of the circular curve to be machined.

When used with a canned cycle such as G73, R specifies the location of the rapid plane.

Learn more about the R code

S - Spindle Speed

Sets the speed of the spindle.

Units are in revolutions per minute (RPM)

Learn more about the S code

T - Tool Number

Selects a tool to prepare it for tool change. M06 will cause the CNC to swap the currently loaded tool with the one selected with the T code.

Some machines do not require the use of a M06 code and will swap tools by simply using the T code.

Learn more about the T code

X - X Axis Movement

Specifies the location to be moved to in the X axis.

The distance will be affected by whether the machine is in absolute (G90) or incremental (G91) mode.

Learn more about the X code

Y - Y Axis Movement

Specifies the location to be moved to in the Y axis.

The distance will be affected by whether the machine is in absolute (G90) or incremental (G91) mode.

Learn more about the Y code

Z - Z Axis Movement

Specifies the location to be moved to in the Z axis.

The distance will be affected by whether the machine is in absolute (G90) or incremental (G91) mode.

Learn more about the Z code

; - End of Block

Signifies the end of a block of code. A single block will usually consist of one line of code.

Useful when testing code by stepping through the blocks in single block mode.

/ - Block Skip

Used together with a switch on the CNC control.

When the switch is on the machine will read and execute lines that start with the / character. When the switch is off, these lines will be ignored.

Best Engraving Pens for Every Budget and Material

July 18, 2023December 10, 2022 by Brandon Fowler

Engraving pens come in a wide range shapes, sizes and capabilities. You want to find the one that is just right for you project.

As you read our guide to the best engraving pens, make sure to keep your planned project in mind to determine what tool will work best for you.

Some applications such as jewelry engraving will benefit from a smaller tool for more precise strokes. Other materials such as metal or glass will engrave better with a more powerful tool such as one of the engravers by Dremel below.

No matter what you are working with, we have laid out the best tools on the market and an extensive list of items at the bottom of the article for you to consider when looking for your right fit tool.

Name	Awards	Where to Buy
Culiau Customizer	Best Overall Cordless Engraving Pen	Check Price
Tidalpool Easy Etcher	Best Budget Cordless Engraving Pen	Check Price
Tacklife PCG01B	Best Value Cordless Engraving Pen	Check Price
Dremel 290-01	Best Corded Engraving Pen	Check Price
IMT Scriber	Best Manual Engraving Pen	Check Price

Best Overall Cordless Engraving Pen

Culiau Customizer

The Culiau Customizer Engraving Pen is excellent choice for novices. Because the tool is so light, engraving is as simple as using a pen.

Don’t get me wrong, it will still take practice to get a nice, finished product but the Customizer is easier to use than some of the other bulkier engraving pens on the market.

The Customizer is roughly the size of a regular marker. The grip and light weight make controlling the engraver while in use a snap.

You can sketch with it just like a normal pen or pencil.

One of the biggest indicators of the quality is the feel of the tool. This is a well-built tool that feels good in the hand.

The flexibility of the Customizer makes the job as simple as drawing on paper. It works well on wood, including hardwoods, glass, and metals like steel, silver, and others.

It is ergonomic, lightweight, and small. Because of this it is exceptionally comfortable to use and handle. The Customizer truly is a pocket-sized engraving machine.

The quality comes with a price though and the Customizer does cost more than many of the other engraving pens on the market. The cheaper engraving pens aren’t built as well, but if you only plan to use it for the occasional project then it might not be a big deal.

If you plan to use it a lot, I recommend going with an engraving pen that is a step above such as the Customizer from Culiau and skipping all the generic cheapy ones.

Best Budget Cordless Engraving Pen

Tidalpool Easy Etcher

The Easy Etcher is an excellent engraving pen for beginners. The tool is so lightweight that engraving with it is as close to using an actual pen as you will get. The Easy Etcher is actually about the size of a standard marker.

The rubberized grip also helps keep the engraver under control while using it. While the 12,000 RPM speed may seem under powered when compared to other engraving pens, it actually helps keep the tool stable during use.

Runtimes will vary depending on the type of material you are working with, but the Easy Etcher runs on AAA batteries which means there is no waiting around for the tool to recharge. The batteries aren’t included but other extras are.

The Easy Etcher comes with 10 sets of stencils that make engraving text or designs on your material a piece of cake. It also comes with a nice starter selection of bits that allow you to create a variety of textures and finishes.

The Easy Etcher won’t be the be all, end all for engraving every material but it is a great tool to get you started without breaking the bank.

Best Value Cordless Engraving Pen

TACKLIFE PCG01B

While the TACKLIFE PCG018 is not as nimble as the Easy Etcher it does a good job of making up for it in the power department. With similar price points, it would be wise to determine whether power or maneuverability is more important to you.

The PCG018 has 3 speed settings of 5, 10 and 15,000 RPMs. This means it will work well for a variety of materials.

This TACKLIFE engraving pen is cordless and rechargeable. It charges over USB which has some benefits and drawbacks.

The charge time is fairly long at 2 hours but with a runtime of 90 minutes it lasts long enough to complete most jobs.

Additionally, the tool comes with 31 different accessories for engraving, sanding and finishing along with a case to contain them all. Two collets to accommodate different bit sizes of 3/32” and 1/8” is also a nice addition.

The TACKLIFE PCG018 is a solid choice when it comes to cordless engraving pens.

Best Corded Engraving Pen

Dremel 290-01

The Dremel 290-01 is different than most of the other engravers on this list. Instead of being a rotary engraver, it has a vibrating tip that moves in and out. Basically, it operates like a mini jackhammer.

Corded engraving pens like this Dremel have some advantages and disadvantages.

Being corded means that you are tethered to your power outlet and it can be slightly cumbersome to work with the power cord snagging on objects in your work area. The 290-01 is pretty lightweight though which makes maneuvering it around your workpiece a little easier.

A nice benefit of using a corded engraver is that you won’t ever run out of power. This is helpful for harder materials that may take multiple passes to get the amount of engraving you desire.

The power of the 290-01 is controlled with a dial that allows five depth settings. This works well to adjust for different material types such as wood or rock. All that power comes with the side effect that the tool is quite loud when running. You should expect it to be noisy. It is a power tool after all but take note that the other tools on this list are quieter.

There are a couple minor downfalls for the 290-01. The biggest one is that the bit can be difficult to install. The set screw that locks it is tiny and it can be challenging to work with.

Also, the provided stencil comes in handy but is somewhat lacking. Many other engravers come with a wider variety of stencils so keep in mind that you may want to purchase some extra stencils if you plan on engraving a lot.

On the plus side, just like this engraving pen’s cordless counterpart, the Dremel 290-01 comes with a two-year warranty which is well above what most competing engravers come with.

Overall, the Dremel 290-01 is a solid engraving pen. A couple minor inconveniences are balanced nicely by the higher, non-stop power that comes from being always plugged in.

Best Manual Engraving Pens

IMT Scriber

If all you need is something basic and reliable for engraving then the manual scriber from IMT may be your best bet.

It requires no batteries or power cord. The tool is extremely lightweight and its tungsten carbide tip will engrave a large variety of materials including steel, ceramics and glass. If you are working with plastics though, a powered tool would be a better choice.

The IMT scriber will actually perform an operation that is more akin to scratching your material than actually engraving it. For many use cases, this is more than enough. Just keep this in mind when choosing your engraving pen.

It also comes with extra tips in case one snaps. They are somewhat brittle because they are so hard. They aren’t fragile but can break if you aren’t dropped or handled roughly. Luckily, the scriber comes with a protective cap that will help shield the point from damage.

The IMT scriber is definitely more low tech than some of the other engraving pen options available but if all you need is a simple engraver then it may be a great choice at a cheap price.

Things to consider when buying an engraving pen

Safety

Remember that these tools can be dangerous, especially to your eyes. Be careful handling them and use eye protection to protect you from things such as flying chips or broken bits.

Corded vs cordless engraving pens

Corded engraving pens generally have more power than their cordless counterparts. The downside is that the cord can get in the way and make the tool more difficult to maneuver. The easiest engraving pens to use are those that are lightweight and battery operated.

Cord length

If you choose to use a corded engraving pen to have more power, keep in mind that the length of the power cord is very important. If the cord is short, then make sure that you have an extension cord handy because some of the power cords can be very short.

Speed

RPMs do not equal power. Being able to adjust your RPMs over a wider range is more beneficial than simply having a higher RPM overall. Different materials will require different RPMs. In general, materials such as glass or metal which are harder will benefit from a higher RPM and softer materials will engrave better at lower RPMs.

Bits and accessories

It is a nice bonus for an engraving pen to come with a good selection of bits and accessories but not a necessity. There are many bit or accessory kits available that allow you to perform different types of engravings or finishing to your piece for a fairly cheap price.

Extra bits aren’t required to start but before too long you will definitely want to expand your bit collection if your engraving pen doesn’t come with many. Different bits will allow you to different styles of engraving.

Battery

If you go the cordless route, make sure you find a tool that charges quick and has a long runtime.

Cheaper tools tend to run off standard AA or AAA batteries which means they can run out of power quickly but also that more power can easily be on standby. Keep extra batteries nearby but consider the amount of power you will need for your project when choosing which engraving pen to go with. Harder materials require more power.

Warranty

Pay attention to the length of the warranty for your tool. Just like many other power tools, a good warranty is a solid indicator of the quality of the tool. This doesn’t mean that good tools don’t come with shorter warranties, just that it is something to be mindful of.

Stencils

Stencils can be very important for getting the correct design on your part. There are many different stencil kits available but it is definitely a bonus to have a couple to start with. Creating visually appealing designs freehand is going to take some practice so having a template to follow when getting started will be helpful.

Engraving vs cutting

Engraving pens are just that, engravers. They generally are not meant for cutting. If you are looking for a tool that is capable of doing more than simply scratching the surface of a part, then you will want to look into something with more power like the various Dremels or other higher power rotary tools.

For more information check out these related articles:

Culiau Customizer Engraving Pen Review

Every G Code for Your CNC [The Complete List]

January 8, 2023December 10, 2022 by Brandon Fowler

G code, sometimes called g-code, is a simple programming language for CNC machines.

Listed below are the codes that use the G word. These codes are preparatory commands.

This means that they set modes or prepare the machine for various actions.

We have put together a complete list of G codes for your reference.

Not all codes are used often.

Below is a list of G codes. They have been organized into group types based on how the machine reacts to the individual code.

If you are new to G code, you should review the code groups and compare the codes within a single group.

You will quickly see they handle the same function, such as one code to turn something on and one code to turn something off.

This makes learning the codes twice as easy.

Table of Contents

CNC Movement and Travel

G00 - Rapid Travel

Moves the CNC around at the maximum possible speed. Often called rapid traverse.

Learn more about the G00 code

G01 - Linear Interpolation

Move the CNC in a straight line to a specific location. The speed of this movement is determined by the feed rate (F).

Learn more about the G01 code

G02 - Circular Interpolation,
Clockwise

Move the CNC to specific location along along a specified arc or radius traveling clockwise. The speed of this movement is determined by the feed rate (F).

Learn more about the G02 code

G03 - Circular Interpolation, Counterclockwise

Move the CNC to a specific location along a specified arc or radius traveling counterclockwise. The speed of this movement is determined by the feed rate (F).

Learn more about the G03 code

G04 - Dwell

Tells the CNC not to move for a certain amount of time.

Learn more about the G04 code

Plane Selection

G17 - XY Plane Selection

The vast majority of movement in CNC programs will be relative to the XY plane. Plane selection affects how G02, G03, cutter compensation and some canned cycles are handled.

G18 - XZ Plane Selection

Plane selection affects how G02, G03, cutter compensation and some canned cycles are handled. G18 tells the machine you are machining radii around the Y axis.

G19 - YZ Plane Selection

Plane selection affects how G02, G03, cutter compensation and some canned cycles are handled. G19 tells the machine you are machining radii around the Z axis.

Unit Modes

G20 - Inch Mode

All size and location commands will be in inches until changed.

Learn more about the G20 code

G21 - Metric Mode

All size and location commands will be in millimeters until changed.

Learn more about the G21 code

Compensation Codes

G40 - Cancel Cutter Compensation

Turns off any cutter compensation modes (G41 or G42).

Learn more about the G40 code

G41- Cutter Compensation Left

Shifts the machine tool path to the left based on the radius of the cutting tool.

Learn more about the G41 code

G42 - Cutter Compensation Right

Shifts the machine tool path to the right based on the radius of the cutting tool.

Learn more about the G42 code

G43 - Tool Length Compensation

Adjusts a tool’s location based on a specified tool height (H) offset.

Learn more about the G43 code

G49 - Tool Length
Compensation Cancel

Turns off the tool length compensation set by a G43 or G44 command.

Learn more about the G49 code