Major Work Activity H – Machines using computer numerical control (CNC) machines
Task H-18 Performs CNC programming
Task Descriptor
Fully qualified machinists use CNC machines for machining that would be difficult or time‑consuming on conventional machining equipment. Programming this equipment requires knowledge of conventional machining methods as well as CNC programming skills and an understanding of machine controls.
H-18.01 Creates process documentation
Essential Skills
Thinking, Document Use, Numeracy
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Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| H-18.01.01P |
interpret workpiece documentation |
workpiece documentation is interpreted |
| H-18.01.02P |
identify information required for CNC machining |
information required for CNC machining is identified |
Range of Variables
documentation includes: drawings, computer-aided design (CAD) files, machine manuals
information includes: part origin and orientation, location and type of work holding devices, tool list
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Knowledge |
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Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| H-18.01.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of CNC machines, their setup, maintenance and procedures for use |
define terminology associated with CNC machines |
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identify CNC control units and describe their purpose |
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interpret documentation pertaining to the machining of workpieces |
Range of Variables
documentation includes: drawings, computer-aided design (CAD) files, machine manuals
H-18.02 Creates manual input program
Essential Skills
Numeracy, Thinking, Document Use
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QC |
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Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| H-18.02.01P |
determine types of cutting tools |
types of cutting tools to be used in machining operation are determined |
| H-18.02.02P |
calculate program points |
program points are calculated using trigonometry and Cartesian Coordinate System |
| H-18.02.03P |
establish safety blocks of code |
safety blocks of code are established in order to cancel previous code and initialize machine at a start point |
| H-18.02.04P |
plan entry and exit moves |
entry and exit moves are planned to avoid collisions |
| H-18.02.05P |
use programming codes |
programming codes are used to manually produce program |
| H-18.02.06P |
compensate for tool nose radius and cutter radius |
tool nose radius and cutter radius are compensated for |
| H-18.02.07P |
interpret and review codes from program |
codes from program are interpreted and reviewed |
Range of Variables
programming codes include : G-codes, M-codes, coordinates
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Knowledge |
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Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| H-18.02.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of CNC programming |
identify types of programming codes and describe their applications |
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define the differences between centerline programming and cutter radius compensation (CRC) programming |
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identify reference points and their location |
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describe the procedures used to calculate speed, feed and depth of cuts |
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identify potential setup problems and describe their causes and solutions |
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identify the hazards and describe safe work practices pertaining to CNC machines |
Range of Variables
programming codes include : G-codes, M-codes, coordinates
H-18.03 Transfers program to and from control memory
Essential Skills
Reading, Continuous Learning, Writing
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QC |
ON |
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Skills |
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Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| H-18.03.01P |
use edit functions |
edit functions are used according to specifications |
| H-18.03.02P |
transfer program |
program is transferred to and from CNC machine and computer, network or storage device |
Range of Variables
edit functions include: insert, alter, delete, copy, paste, export
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Knowledge |
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Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| H-18.03.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of transferring CNC programs |
identify types of edit functions used and describe their applications |
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describe the procedures used to transfer programs to and from the CNC machine and computer, network or storage device |
Range of Variables
edit functions include: insert, alter, delete, copy, paste, export
H-18.04 Optimizes program
Essential Skills
Thinking, Numeracy, Continuous Learning
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Skills |
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Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| H-18.04.01P |
adjust speed and feed overrides |
speed and feed overrides are adjusted to ensure peak program efficiency and surface finish quality |
| H-18.04.02P |
record changes to speed and feed overrides |
changes to speed and feed overrides are recorded |
| H-18.04.03P |
modify cutting and tool paths |
cutting and tool paths are modified to ensure most efficient removal of material |
| H-18.04.04P |
save optimized program on storage media |
optimized program is saved on storage media for future reference |
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Knowledge |
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Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| H-18.04.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of CNC programming |
identify types of programming codes and describe their applications |
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describe the procedures used to perform CNC programming |
Range of Variables
programming codes include : G-codes, M-codes
H-18.05 Creates 2D and 3D models
Essential Skills
Numeracy, Digital Technology, Thinking
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QC |
ON |
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no |
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Skills |
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Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| H-18.05.01P |
identify datum |
datum is identified to obtain reference point for machining |
| H-18.05.02P |
create geometry |
geometry is created using lines, arcs, points and CAD tools according to specifications |
Range of Variables
geometry includes: lines, arcs, points, surfaces, solids
specifications include: design, standards, client, industry, manufacturers’, drawings
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Knowledge |
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Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| H-18.05.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of geometry creation |
describe process to create geometry using CAD software |
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identify dimensioning tools in CAD software |
Range of Variables
geometry includes: lines, arcs, points, surfaces, solids
H-18.06 Programs using computer-aided manufacturing (CAM)
Essential Skills
Digital Technology, Thinking, Numeracy
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QC |
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Skills |
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Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| H-18.06.01P |
import geometry |
geometry is imported to proper location and orientation |
| H-18.06.02P |
plan sequence of operations |
sequence of operations is planned according to machining practices |
| H-18.06.03P |
select tooling |
tooling is selected for the operation |
| H-18.06.04P |
select machining operations |
machining operations are selected according to planned sequence |
| H-18.06.05P |
generate tool paths |
tool paths are generated using software |
| H-18.06.06P |
generate program |
program is generated |
| H-18.06.07P |
review program |
program is reviewed to ensure that required code is generated |
Range of Variables
geometry includes: lines, arcs, points, surfaces, solids
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Knowledge |
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Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| H-18.06.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of CAM software |
identify cutting tools in CAM software library |
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define types of CAM operations and tool paths |
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identify machine post processors in CAM software |
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identify the hazards and describe safe work practices pertaining to CNC machines |
Task H-19 Sets up CNC machines
Task Descriptor
Fully qualified machinists use CNC machines for machining that would be difficult or time‑consuming on conventional machining equipment. Setting up this equipment requires knowledge of conventional machining methods as well as CNC programming skills and an understanding of machine controls.
H-19.01 Selects tooling and tool holders for CNC machines
Essential Skills
Document Use, Numeracy, Thinking
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Skills |
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Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| H-19.01.01P |
read documentation for information |
documentation is read for information |
| H-19.01.02P |
determine if tool and tool holder will allow for clearance |
clearance for tool and tool holder is determined |
| H-19.01.03P |
assess tooling properties |
tooling properties are assessed according to operation to be performed |
| H-19.01.04P |
match tool holder taper and pull-stud to machining centre |
tool holder taper and pull-stud are matched to machining centre |
| H-19.01.05P |
match tool shank sizes to turning centres |
tool shank sizes are matched to turning centres in order to ensure accurate centre height |
Range of Variables
documentation includes: setup sheet, tooling list, drawings
information includes: tooling offsets, tooling required, tool holders
tooling properties include: rigidity, reach, composition, size, shape
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Knowledge |
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Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| H-19.01.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of CNC machines and tooling, their accessories, attachments and applications |
define terminology associated with CNC machines and tooling |
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identify types of CNC machines and tooling, and describe their characteristics and applications |
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identify types of accessories and tool changers used with CNC machines and describe their applications |
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identify types of tool holders and work holding devices used with CNC machines and describe their applications |
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identify the hazards and describe safe work practices pertaining to CNC machines |
H-19.02 Sets up tooling and tool holders on CNC machines
Essential Skills
Numeracy, Thinking, Digital Technology
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QC |
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Skills |
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Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| H-19.02.01P |
check mounting surfaces |
mounting surfaces are checked to ensure they are clean and free of damage |
| H-19.02.02P |
locate and secure tooling in tool holder |
tooling is located and secured in tool holder to ensure access to all part features and adequate clearances |
| H-19.02.03P |
arrange tooling to avoid interference |
tooling is arranged to avoid interference with work holding devices, workpieces and other tools in CNC machines |
| H-19.02.04P |
arrange tooling for efficient tool changes |
tooling is arranged for efficient tool changes |
| H-19.02.05P |
match tool to programmed tool location |
tool is matched to programmed tool location |
| H-19.02.06P |
install tool and tool holder |
tool and tool holder are installed in orientation according to specific machining process |
| H-19.02.07P |
determine tool offsets |
tool offsets are determined using methods |
| H-19.02.08P |
input tool offsets into offset register |
tool offsets are confirmed |
Range of Variables
methods include: using tool presetters, touching off tool on workpiece surface, measuring and cutting tools, probing
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Knowledge |
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|---|---|---|
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Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| H-19.02.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of CNC machines, their setup, maintenance and procedures for use |
identify CNC axes and describe the relationship between them |
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identify CNC control units and describe their purpose |
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identify the hazards and describe safe work practices pertaining to CNC machines |
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describe the procedures used to set up tooling and tool holders on CNC machines |
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describe methods for determining tool offsets |
Range of Variables
methods include: using tool presetters, touching off tool on workpiece surface, measuring and cutting tools, probing
H-19.03 Sets up workpieces on CNC machines
Essential Skills
Thinking, Document Use, Numeracy
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QC |
ON |
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Skills |
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Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| H-19.03.01P |
select work holding device |
work holding device is selected according to setup sheet for operation to be performed |
| H-19.03.02P |
clean and deburr workpiece and remove chips and debris |
workpiece is cleaned and deburred, and chips and debris are removed to maintain part locating accuracy on work holding device |
| H-19.03.03P |
machine soft jaws, if required |
soft jaws are machined to match workpiece requirements, if required |
| H-19.03.04P |
adjust clamping pressure |
clamping pressure is adjusted according to workpiece requirements and to prevent damage to workpiece |
| H-19.03.05P |
install workpiece in correct orientation |
workpiece is installed in correct orientation according to setup sheet and machining requirements |
| H-19.03.06P |
mount workpiece according to support and pressure points |
workpiece is mounted using methods to ensure contact between part and locating surface |
| H-19.03.07P |
set up accessories |
accessories are set up according to setup sheet and machining requirements |
Range of Variables
work holding devices include: vises, fixtures, clamps, soft jaws, hard jaws, chucks
methods include: using feeler gauges, performing visual inspection
accessories include: tail stock, steady rest, fourth axis
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Knowledge |
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|---|---|---|
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Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| H-19.03.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of CNC machines, their setup, maintenance and procedures for use |
identify CNC control units and describe their purpose |
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describe the procedures used to set up workpieces in CNC machines |
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identify the hazards and describe safe work practices pertaining to CNC machines |
H-19.04 Establishes work datum
Essential Skills
Numeracy, Thinking, Digital Technology
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PE |
NB |
QC |
ON |
MB |
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BC |
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NU |
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yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
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yes |
yes |
yes |
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NV |
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Skills |
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Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| H-19.04.01P |
verify location of work datum |
location of work datum is verified according to setup sheet, workpiece characteristics and specifications |
| H-19.04.02P |
touch off on designated datum surfaces of workpieces |
designated datum surfaces of workpieces are touched off using tools |
| H-19.04.03P |
input datum information into specific machine offset register |
datum information is input into specific machine offset register according to setup sheet |
Range of Variables
workpiece characteristics include: material, size, shape
tools include: probes, edge finders, dial indicator
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Knowledge |
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|---|---|---|
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Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| H-19.04.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of CNC machines, their setup and procedures for use |
describe the procedures used to touch off datum surfaces |
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describe the procedures used to input datum information |
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identify the hazards and describe safe work practices pertaining to CNC machines |
H-19.05 Verifies program
Essential Skills
Thinking, Numeracy, Document Use
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NB |
QC |
ON |
MB |
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BC |
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yes |
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NV |
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Skills |
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Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| H-19.05.01P |
confirm program reference number |
program reference number is confirmed |
| H-19.05.02P |
identify and prevent interferences |
interferences are identified and prevented |
| H-19.05.03P |
perform dry run or graphic simulation of program |
dry run or graphic simulation of program is performed to verify datum, tool path and tool sequence |
| H-19.05.04P |
use features to step through program |
features to step through program are used to identify interferences and errors |
| H-19.05.05P |
confirm and retain program modifications |
program modifications are confirmed and retained |
| H-19.05.06P |
update master file |
master file is updated |
Range of Variables
features include: single block mode, distance to go, feed hold, feed and rapid override
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Knowledge |
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Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| H-19.05.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of CNC programming |
describe the procedures used to download programs into CNC machines |
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describe the procedures used to perform dry run or graphic simulation of a program |
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define features for stepping through program |
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describe the procedures used to perform CNC programming |
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describe the procedures for saving modified program into master file |
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identify the hazards and describe safe work practices pertaining to CNC machines |
Range of Variables
features include: single block mode, distance to go, feed hold, feed and rapid override
Task H-20 Operates CNC machines
Task Descriptor
Fully qualified machinists use CNC machines for machining that would be difficult or time‑consuming on conventional machining equipment. Operating this equipment requires knowledge of conventional machining methods as well as CNC programming skills and an understanding of machine controls.
H-20.01 Adjusts offsets
Essential Skills
Numeracy, Thinking, Digital Technology
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NS |
PE |
NB |
QC |
ON |
MB |
SK |
AB |
BC |
NT |
YT |
NU |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
NV |
NV |
NV |
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Skills |
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Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| H-20.01.01P |
leave extra material on workpiece |
extra material is left on workpiece to verify size |
| H-20.01.02P |
measure workpiece dimensions |
workpiece dimensions are measured to compare actual dimensions to planned dimensions |
| H-20.01.03P |
calculate deviations |
deviations are calculated according to measurements, specifications and machine configuration |
| H-20.01.04P |
enter offset changes into tool offset register |
offset changes are entered into tool offset register |
Range of Variables
specifications include: design, standards, client, industry, manufacturers’, drawings
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Knowledge |
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|---|---|---|
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Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| H-20.01.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of CNC machines and their procedures for use |
describe the procedures used to operate CNC machines |
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describe the procedures used to adjust offsets |
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identify the hazards and describe safe work practices pertaining to CNC machines |
| H-20.01.02L |
demonstrate knowledge of calculations required to calculate deviations |
calculate deviations from specifications |
Range of Variables
specifications include: design, standards, client, industry, manufacturers’, drawings
H-20.02 Monitors machining processes
Essential Skills
Thinking, Document Use, Digital Technology
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NB |
QC |
ON |
MB |
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BC |
NT |
YT |
NU |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
NV |
NV |
NV |
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Skills |
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Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| H-20.02.01P |
verify clamping force |
clamping force is verified by checking if workpiece is moving in the work holding device or is distorted |
| H-20.02.02P |
verify required coolant flow |
required coolant flow is verified to maintain required surface finish and tool life |
| H-20.02.03P |
observe operating conditions |
operating conditions are observed to identify potential problems and inefficiencies |
| H-20.02.04P |
monitor tool wear |
tool wear is monitored by using procedures |
Range of Variables
operating conditions include: sound, vibrations, abnormal chip formations, chip evacuation
procedures include: visual inspection, reading spindle and drive axis load meters, checking surface finish and workpiece sizes
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Knowledge |
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|---|---|---|
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Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| H-20.02.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of CNC machines, their maintenance and procedures for use |
describe the procedures used to operate CNC machines |
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describe the procedures used to inspect and maintain CNC machines |
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identify issues with operating conditions |
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identify the hazards and describe safe work practices pertaining to CNC machines |
Range of Variables
operating conditions include: sound, vibrations, abnormal chip formations, chip evacuation
H-20.03 Interrupts program cycle
Essential Skills
Thinking, Digital Technology, Continuous Learning
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NS |
PE |
NB |
QC |
ON |
MB |
SK |
AB |
BC |
NT |
YT |
NU |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
NV |
NV |
NV |
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Skills |
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|---|---|---|
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Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| H-20.03.01P |
determine level of urgency requiring a stop |
level of urgency requiring a stop is determined |
| H-20.03.02P |
recognize points in program where interruptions are not safe |
points in program where interruptions are not safe are recognized |
| H-20.03.03P |
use control features |
control features are used according to level of urgency |
| H-20.03.04P |
use emergency stop feature |
emergency stop feature is used to prevent equipment damage and personal injuries |
Range of Variables
control features include: single block mode, feed override, feed hold, reset
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Knowledge |
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|---|---|---|
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Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| H-20.03.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of CNC machine operations |
identify CNC-related reference points and their location |
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describe the procedures used to operate CNC machines |
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identify levels of urgency requiring a type of stop |
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define control features |
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identify the hazards and describe safe work practices pertaining to CNC machines |
Range of Variables
control features include: single block mode, feed override, feed hold, reset
H-20.04 Restarts program cycle
Essential Skills
Thinking, Digital Technology, Continuous Learning
NL |
NS |
PE |
NB |
QC |
ON |
MB |
SK |
AB |
BC |
NT |
YT |
NU |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
NV |
NV |
NV |
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Skills |
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|---|---|---|
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Performance Criteria |
Evidence of Attainment |
| H-20.04.01P |
position tool to avoid collision |
tool is positioned to avoid collision |
| H-20.04.02P |
clear machine control’s temporary memory (buffer) |
machine control’s temporary memory (buffer) is cleared to prevent unexpected machine movements upon restart |
| H-20.04.03P |
identify and execute required elements of program code |
required elements of program code are identified and executed in order to safely restart program |
| H-20.04.04P |
restart program at correct tool and program location |
program is restarted at correct tool and program location |
| H-20.04.05P |
monitor distance to go to prevent collisions |
distance to go is monitored to prevent collisions |
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Knowledge |
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|---|---|---|
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Learning Outcomes |
Learning Objectives |
| H-20.04.01L |
demonstrate knowledge of CNC programming and operations |
identify CNC-related reference points and their location |
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describe the procedures used to restart program |
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describe the procedures used to perform CNC programming |
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describe the procedures used to operate CNC machines |
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identify hazards and describe safe work practices pertaining to CNC machines |
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