G01 is one of the most basic and common G-code commands in CNC programming. It instructs the machine to move the tool in a straight line at a specified feed rate to a given position. G01 is also known as linear interpolation or linear feed move.

Usage Format

The general format of G01 command is:

G01 X Y Z F

where:

• X, Y, and Z are the coordinates of the end point of the linear move, relative to the current position or the coordinate system origin, depending on the mode (absolute or incremental) set by G90 or G91.
• F is the feed rate in units per minute (or per revolution for lathes).

Explanation

When G01 command is executed, the machine will move the tool along a straight path from the current position to the specified end point, at the given feed rate. The tool will maintain a constant speed throughout the move, unless it is modified by other commands or factors. The tool will stop at the end point and wait for the next command.

G01 command can be used for various purposes, such as cutting, drilling, milling, turning, etc. It can also be combined with other G-code commands, such as G00 (rapid move), G02 (circular interpolation clockwise), G03 (circular interpolation counterclockwise), G04 (dwell), etc.

Example

Here is an example of G01 command in CNC milling:

G90 G21 ; Set absolute mode and millimeters as units G00 X0 Y0 Z5 ; Rapid move to the origin and 5 mm above the workpiece G01 Z-2 F100 ; Linear move to 2 mm below the workpiece at 100 mm/min feed rate G01 X10 Y10 F200 ; Linear move to (10, 10) at 200 mm/min feed rate G01 X20 Y0 F300 ; Linear move to (20, 0) at 300 mm/min feed rate G01 X0 Y0 F400 ; Linear move to the origin at 400 mm/min feed rate G01 Z5 F500 ; Linear move to 5 mm above the workpiece at 500 mm/min feed rate G00 X0 Y0 Z50 ; Rapid move to the origin and 50 mm above the workpiece

This example will produce a triangular cut on the workpiece, as shown in the figure below:

Z
^
|    /\
|   /  \
|  /    \
| /      \
|/________\_______> X