CNC Machine Processes

Course Description

This combined lecture and laboratory course (ETI2411C) introduces students to Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine processes within the Engineering Technologies / Industrial Systems Technology taxonomy of Florida's Statewide Course Numbering System (SCNS). Students develop the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to effectively program and operate CNC milling and turning equipment in an industrial setting. The course integrates fundamental machining theory with practical laboratory experience, preparing graduates for entry-level positions in precision manufacturing, advanced manufacturing, and related engineering technology fields.

The "C" suffix designates this as a combined lecture/laboratory course meeting in the same instructional space. Credit is awarded upon demonstrated competency in both programming and machine operation tasks aligned to Florida college standards.

Learning Outcomes

Required Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Identify and describe the fundamental principles of Computer Numerical Control (CNC), including machine configurations, control types, and advantages of CNC over manual machining.
• Apply the Cartesian coordinate system and understand absolute vs. incremental programming to define part geometry and tool motion.
• Write, edit, and verify basic G-code and M-code programs for CNC milling and/or turning operations.
• Set up and operate a CNC machining center (mill or lathe), including tool loading, workholding, and datum/program zero assignment.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings and blueprints to determine machining requirements, tolerances, and surface finish specifications.
• Use precision measuring tools (micrometers, calipers, dial indicators) to inspect finished workpieces against specified tolerances.
• Demonstrate safe shop practices and personal protective equipment (PPE) use in compliance with industry and OSHA standards.
• Calculate and apply appropriate cutting speeds, feed rates, and depth of cut for common workpiece materials.
• Identify and select appropriate cutting tools, toolholders, and workholding devices for milling and turning operations.
• Apply tool length and cutter radius compensation offsets within CNC programs.

Optional Learning Outcomes

The following outcomes may be covered depending on institutional resources and program sequence:

• Use CAD/CAM software (such as Autodesk Fusion 360 or Mastercam) to generate toolpaths and post-process CNC programs.
• Program and execute canned cycles (drilling, pocketing, threading) and subprogramming routines.
• Perform basic machine maintenance tasks, including lubrication checks, coolant management, and startup/shutdown procedures.
• Demonstrate proficiency with a Haas CNC control or equivalent industry-standard controller interface.
• Prepare for industry certification exams, such as NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills) Level 1 credentials in CNC Milling or Turning.
• Apply concepts of Statistical Process Control (SPC) and quality documentation to machined parts.

Major Topics

Required Topics

• Introduction to CNC Technology — History, advantages, types of CNC machines, machine components, and industrial applications
• Coordinate Systems and CNC Mathematics — Cartesian coordinate system (X, Y, Z axes), absolute vs. incremental positioning, shop math, and trigonometry for machining
• Blueprint Reading and Engineering Drawings — Orthographic projections, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), surface finish symbols
• CNC Programming Fundamentals — Program structure, sequence numbers, G-codes (motion, compensation, canned cycles), M-codes (spindle, coolant, tool change), and program formatting
• Cutting Tools and Toolholding — End mills, drills, inserts, tool materials, tool geometry, speeds and feeds calculations
• Workholding and Setup — Vises, clamps, fixtures, chucks; program zero assignment; datum setting procedures
• CNC Mill Operation — Machine startup/shutdown, control panel navigation, program loading, dry runs, and part production
• Tool Offsets and Compensation — Tool length offsets, cutter diameter compensation, fixture offsets
• Precision Measurement and Inspection — Micrometers, vernier calipers, dial indicators, gauges; dimensional verification of finished parts
• Shop Safety — Hazard identification, PPE requirements, emergency stop procedures, OSHA standards, and machine guarding
• Quality and Documentation — Quality standards, inspection records, basic process control concepts

Optional Topics

• CNC Turning Operations — Lathe setup, turning, facing, boring, threading, and grooving using CNC turning centers
• CAD/CAM Integration — Solid modeling basics, toolpath generation, post-processing for a target CNC controller using software such as Fusion 360 or Mastercam
• Canned Cycles and Subprogramming — Drill cycles, peck drilling, tapping cycles, mirror image, scaling, and subroutine programming
• Advanced G-code Features — Parametric programming, helical motion, multiple repetitive cycles
• Machine Maintenance — Preventive maintenance schedules, lubrication, coolant system care, and basic troubleshooting
• Industry Certification Preparation — NIMS Machining Level 1, Autodesk CAM, or Mastercam Certified Programmer exam readiness

Resources & Tools

• CNC Equipment: Haas VF-series CNC milling center or equivalent; CNC turning center (where available)
• CAM Software: Autodesk Fusion 360 (free for students), Mastercam, or equivalent CAD/CAM platform
• CNC Simulation Software: CNC machine simulators for program verification prior to live runs
• Precision Instruments: Digital calipers, outside/inside micrometers, dial test indicators, gauge blocks
• Textbooks / References: CNC Programming Handbook (Smid); Haas operator and programming manuals; NIMS study guides
• Standards: OSHA 1910 General Industry Safety Standards; ASME Y14.5 GD&T Standard
• Online Resources: Titans of CNC Academy (free CNC training); Florida Department of Education CTE Frameworks; NIMS credentialing resources

Career Pathways

Completion of ETI2411C supports entry into the following O*NET / SOC occupations identified by the Florida Department of Education for CNC-related programs:

• 51-4011.00 — Computer-Controlled Machine Tool Operators, Metal and Plastic
• 51-4012.00 — Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers, Metal and Plastic
• 51-4041.00 — Machinists
• 17-3026.00 — Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians

Industries hiring in these roles include aerospace, defense, automotive, medical device manufacturing, electronics, and marine/naval manufacturing — all significant sectors in Florida's economy. This course also serves as a stepping stone toward the Associate in Science (A.S.) in Engineering Technology degree at participating Florida colleges.

Special Information

Certification Preparation

Students completing this course are encouraged to pursue nationally recognized industry credentials that align with course content:

• NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills) Machining Level 1 — Credentials available in CNC Milling, CNC Turning, and related areas; widely recognized by Florida manufacturers
• Autodesk Certified User — Fusion 360 CAM — Validates competency in computer-aided manufacturing toolpath generation
• Mastercam Certified Programmer — Industry-recognized CAM programming credential for students who cover CAD/CAM topics

Program Context

ETI2411C is typically offered as part of a CNC Machinist College Credit Certificate (CCC) sequence at Florida colleges including Polk State College, Eastern Florida State College, Hillsborough Community College, and others. The certificate sequence builds skills progressively — successful completion of prerequisite machining coursework is generally required before advancing. Credits earned in this course may apply toward the A.S. in Engineering Technology degree at participating institutions.