| A | B |
|---|
| Absolute | System in which positions are given with respect to a fixed point, usually the origin. |
| Address Character | A letter used in G & M code programming to designate a class of functions. |
| Block | A single line of code in an NC part program. |
| Bench Grinder | A grinding machine that has been mounted to a bench or table. The grinding wheels mount directly onto the motor shaft. Normally one wheel is coarse, for roughing, and the other is fine, for finishing. |
| Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) | The use of computers in converting engineering designs into finished products. |
| Computer Numerical Control (CNC) | A numerical control method in which one computer is linked with one machine tool to perform NC functions. |
| Feed | The distance advanced by the cutting tool along the length of the work for every revolution of the spindle. |
| Fixture | A device designed and built for holding a particular piece of work for machining operations. |
| G & M Codes | Programming code used to control CNC machines. |
| Incremental | A system in which each position is taken from the one prior. Also called relative. |
| Jig | A device that holds and locates a piece of work and guides the tools that operate upon it. |
| Laser | An acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Some common uses are cutting, measuring, and guidance systems. |
| Lathe | A machine tool used for turning cylindrical forms on work pieces. Modern ones are often equipped with digital readouts and numerical controls. |
| Machinability | The ease or difficulty of machining as it relates to the hardness of a material to be cut. |
| Milling Machine | A machine that removes material from work by means of a rotary cutter. |
| Modal | Information that is retained by the system until new information is obtained. |
| Numerical Control (NC) | Any controlled equipment that allows an operator to program its movements through a series of coded instructions consisting of numbers, letters, symbols, etc. |
| Parameter | Attribute of a feature, such as a dimension, that can be modified. |
| Part Program | The instructions written by the programmer to produce a workpiece. |
| Preparatory Code | Codes that carry out machining operations or establish machine settings; G-codes. |
| Spindle Speed | The number of revolutions per minute (RPM) that is made by the cutting tool of a machine. |
| Tolerance | The amount of interference required for two or more parts that are in contact. The amount of variation, over or under the required size, permitted on a piece of machined work. |
| V-Block | A square or rectangular steel block with a 90 degree V-groove through the center, provided with a clamp for holding round stock for drilling, milling, and laying out operations. |
| Word | The programming expression formed when a letter is combined with a number. |
