This guide provides a comprehensive reference for machining on Brother Speedio vertical machining centers (コンパクトマシニングセンタ) equipped with BT30 and BBT30 spindles. It covers all major operations – from heavy end mill roughing to fine engraving – along with recommended tooling (工具) and cutting parameters for each. We also include Brother-specific G/M codes, control interface tips, dual-pallet/rotary usage, macro programming examples, and an English–Japanese glossary of key terms. All information is tailored to BT30 and BIG-PLUS BBT30 dual-contact spindles, which offer enhanced rigidity by simultaneous taper and flange contact​

bigdaishowa.com. The goal is to ensure Speedio users (オペレータ) can maximize productivity (生産性) and safety while maintaining clarity and accuracy on the shop floor.

Machine & Spindle Overview (BT30 vs. BBT30)

Brother Speedio machines like the S700X1, S1000X1, TC-S2DN, TC-32B QT are high-speed #30-taper machining centers known for extremely fast tool changes and agile motion. The standard BT30 spindle (BT30スピンドル) is a 30-taper tool interface; Brother also offers the BIG-PLUS BBT30 dual-contact system, where the tool holder shank seats in the spindle taper and the flange face simultaneously for a more rigid connection​

bigdaishowa.com. This dual-contact design (二面接触設計) greatly increases resistance to deflection and vibration, allowing heavier cuts and improved surface finish at high speeds​

bigdaishowa.com. It also improves automatic tool change (ATC) repeatability and reduces fretting wear on the spindle. In practice, a BBT30 spindle can often push tools harder (aggressive feeds and depths) than a conventional BT30 due to this added stiffness.

Spindle speeds (主軸回転数) on Speedio models typically range up to 10,000 min^−1 standard, with optional high-speed packages of 16,000 or even 27,000 min^−1 on some models​

machinetool.global.brother​

machinetool.global.brother. The machines also feature high acceleration on the Z-axis (e.g. 2.2G on S500X1) to minimize non-cutting time​

machinetool.global.brother, and a high-torque spindle option for improved low-speed cutting of tough materials​

germond.be. This means the Speedio can handle a broad range of machining – from high-efficiency milling at medium/high RPM to moderate heavy-duty cuts in steel​

germond.be​

machinetool.global.brother – despite the small taper size.

Finally, all recommendations in this guide assume the use of a rigid BT30/BBT30 spindle with good tool holders. Always keep tool gauge lengths short (工具ホルダ突出し長さを短く) to leverage the rigidity of the system, especially when using BBT30 dual-contact holders for stability.

Machining Operations and Supported Processes

Brother Speedio machines support the full spectrum of milling and drilling operations expected of a modern vertical machining center. Below is a list of common operations (加工内容) and how they are approached on a Speedio, including typical tool types (工具種類) in the 2–10 mm diameter range (for end mills and drills) or tap sizes M2–M8, and recommended cutting parameters. For each operation, we provide safe default cutting speeds/feeds (安全切削条件) for general use and more aggressive high-speed settings (高速加工条件) that push the Speedio’s capabilities (for experienced users and optimized setups). These recommendations draw from tooling data by OSG, NS Tool, and Misumi catalogs, and are tailored to BT30/BBT30 performance.

Roughing (荒加工) with End Mills

Rough milling involves heavy material removal using end mills (エンドミル) at large depths of cut and feed rates. On a Speedio, roughing is typically done with solid carbide flat end mills of 4–10 mm diameter for larger pockets, and 2–3 mm for small features. Choose 2–3 flute mills for aluminum (アルミニウム) to aid chip evacuation, and 3–4 flute mills for steel (鋼) or harder materials for strength. Coated micrograin carbide tools (e.g. TiAlN-coated) are preferred for high-speed rigidity and heat resistance, but HSS (high-speed steel) can be used at lower speeds as a safe starting point.

• Safe Defaults: Use moderate surface speeds and chip loads to ensure reliability. For example, a 8 mm carbide roughing end mill in medium carbon steel (S45C 中炭素鋼) can be run around 2,000 min^−1 (approx. 50 m/min surface speed) with about 220 mm/min feed (0.03 mm/tooth for 4 flutes) when slotting​us.misumi-ec.com. In aluminum alloy (A5052 アルミ合金), the same 8 mm HSS end mill might run ~6,000 min^−1 (150 m/min) and 650 mm/min feed for a full-width cut​us.misumi-ec.com. These conditions are conservative and aimed at stable cutting with minimal chatter. Keep radial depths (~30–50% of diameter) and axial depths moderate if using safe speeds.
• High-Speed Settings: With a rigid BBT30 spindle and quality carbide, Speedio excels at high-RPM adaptive roughing. For instance, NS Tool’s data on A5052 aluminum shows a 6 mm end mill (ALZ345) can rough at 18,600 min^−1 and 2,200 mm/min feed (using 3-flute) in a slotting operation​ns-tool.com. That is ~350 m/min cutting speed and ~0.04 mm/tooth chip load – achievable thanks to the machine’s stiffness and dual-contact holder. In steel S50C, a 10 mm 3-flute carbide “Power Z” end mill was run at 3,000 min^−1 and 1,500 mm/min feed (0.17 mm/tooth) for side milling 10 mm deep with air blast cooling​ns-tool.com – a heavy cut demonstrating the torque and rigidity available. High-speed roughing in aluminum can even approach 20,000 min^−1 on small tools: e.g. a 3 mm end mill at 20,000 min^−1 with 2,200 mm/min feed (0.037 mm/tooth) for pocketing​ns-tool.com. These aggressive settings require optimized toolpaths (constant cutter engagement like trochoidal milling), proper coolant or air blast, and good tool holders. Always ramp up to such parameters gradually and listen for chatter. With BBT30 holders, you can often take heavier cuts without vibration than with standard BT30​bigdaishowa.com.

Typical G-codes: G00/G01 for linear milling moves, G02/G03 for any circular interpolation (円弧補間) or helical entries. There is no special G-code needed for roughing; use a high-feed CAM toolpath. Ensure cutter compensation (G41/G42 工具径補正) is considered for wall finishing allowances.

Finishing (仕上げ加工) with End Mills

Finishing cuts aim for tight tolerances (公差) and smooth surfaces (面粗さ) using lighter passes. Use sharp 4-flute carbide end mills or ball end mills for 3D surfaces, typically 2–8 mm diameter for detail. Finishing often employs the same tool as roughing but with a reduced cut or a separate fine tool for corners.

• Safe Defaults: Reduce feed per tooth and increase cutting speed for a cleaner finish. For example, a 6 mm 4-flute carbide end mill finishing a side in steel might run at 3,000–4,000 min^−1 and 300 mm/min (around 0.02 mm/tooth) for a shallow pass (e.g. 0.2 mm radial depth). In aluminum, a 8 mm end mill can finish at 6,000–8,000 min^−1 and 800 mm/min (0.03–0.04 mm/tooth) with flood coolant to avoid built-up edge. These defaults yield good surface quality with minimal risk.
• High-Speed Settings: Leverage the Speedio’s RPM for fine finishing. In aluminum, it’s common to run at the spindle max (e.g. 16,000–20,000 min^−1) with a light chip load. For instance, finishing a pocket wall with a 10 mm carbide in aluminum might be done at 20,000 min^−1 and 2,000 mm/min (0.025 mm/tooth) as seen in NS Tool’s example​ns-tool.com. In steel, you can increase speed to ~6,000 min^−1 for a 6 mm end mill (approx 115 m/min surface speed) and use 600–800 mm/min feed for a light finish cut. The dual-contact BBT30 spindle will help maintain stable contact and reduce chatter at high RPM, improving surface finish. Use a precise tool holder (e.g. hydraulic or shrink-fit, ハイドロチャック or シュリンクホルダ) for finishing to minimize runout.

The Brother control offers a High-Accuracy Mode B (高精度モードB) which can be activated for finishing if needed. This mode increases block lookahead (up to 200 blocks on some models​

machinetool.global.brother) and smooth path filters to ensure fine finish on contours. You might use G61.1 or a parameter for this mode (on C00/D00 controls). Always do a test pass and measure the part – adjust tool offsets (工具補正) in the Brother offset table as needed for final finesse.

Drilling (穴あけ加工)

Drilling is a core capability on Speedio. It supports standard drill cycles for making holes with twist drills (ツイストドリル) or indexable drills typically 2–10 mm. Use spot drills (センタードリル) beforehand for accuracy on critical holes.

• Safe Defaults: Use G81 (drilling cycle, ノーマル穴あけ) for through or shallow holes. For a typical HSS or carbide twist drill:
  • 5 mm drill in mild steel (SS400 or S45C): ~2,000 min^−1 (30 m/min cutting speed) with 100 mm/min feed (0.05 mm/rev). For deeper holes, reduce feed to 0.03 mm/rev. In aluminum, the same 5 mm HSS drill can go ~3,000 min^−1 (50 m/min) and 150 mm/min feed (0.05 mm/rev) safely.
  • 10 mm HSS drill in steel: ~1,000 min^−1 (≈30 m/min) and 80 mm/min feed (0.08 mm/rev). In aluminum: ~1,600 min^−1 and 160 mm/min (0.10 mm/rev). These are gentle conditions to avoid excessive heat and ensure straight holes.
  • Use pecking (G83 深穴サイクル) if depth >~3×D (see Peck Drilling below). Always retract fully out of the hole periodically to break chips in sticky materials.
• High-Speed Settings: Speedio’s rigid tapping spindle and feed control allow much higher drilling rates with carbide drills (especially with thru-coolant drills). For example, OSG’s carbide drills in stainless steel (~11 mm) are recommended at ~1,730 min^−1 with 0.20–0.30 mm/rev feed​practicalmachinist.com, which is ~0.008–0.012 in/rev, far higher than HSS drills. In practice, a 5 mm carbide drill in steel can run ~4,000 min^−1 (≈63 m/min) and 400 mm/min feed (0.1 mm/rev) if rigid and coolant-fed, while in aluminum one might go 6,000+ min^−1 with 600 mm/min or more since chip evacuation is easier. Misumi’s data notes that certain high-performance drills can increase cutting speed by 20–30% when machining aluminum​us.misumi-ec.com – e.g. a coated drill that is rated 80 m/min in steel may handle 100+ m/min in aluminum. High-speed drilling should use G73 (high-speed peck cycle, 高速ピック) if available on your control to avoid full retracts while breaking chips. Also, consider through-spindle coolant (スルークーラント) or at least a strong external coolant flow at high feeds to clear chips and cool the tool.

For deep holes, peck drilling is crucial (see next section). Also note that Brother’s CNC-B00/C00 supports custom drilling cycles via parameters if needed, but standard Fanuc-style cycles (G81, G83, etc.) are available and recommended. Ensure you set a proper R-plane (R点) and peck depths in the cycle to avoid smashing chips. If abnormal vibration occurs (びびり音), reduce feed or RPM accordingly​

us.misumi-ec.com. The Speedio’s rigid build usually handles recommended drill feeds well as long as the tool is held in a concentric holder (collet chuck or drill chuck).

Peck Drilling (段階穴あけ / 深穴繰り返し穴あけ)

Peck drilling is used for deep holes or stringy materials to break chips and prevent clogging. Brother supports G83 for full retract pecking and G73 for high-speed pecking (short retract)​

scribd.com. Use these as follows:

• G83 (Full Peck): Safe default for deep holes in steel or stainless. For example, drilling 8 mm hole 50 mm deep in steel: program G83 with Q (peck depth) of ~3–4 mm. At safe settings (say 1200 min^−1, 0.08 mm/rev), the drill will retract fully to the R-plane each peck to clear chips. This ensures chips evacuate but is slower. Use if hole depth > 3–4×D or materials like stainless (ステンレス) where chip evacuation is tough.
• G73 (High-Speed Peck): This cycle makes a small retract (typically just out of the cut) to break chips, then continues drilling, which saves time. Suitable for aluminum or mild steel where chips break more easily. You might peck every 5–10 mm for a deep aluminum hole without fully coming out of the hole, saving cycle time. Brother’s canned cycle format for G73 is similar to Fanuc (with Q for depth increment), and it will rapid out a short distance (per parameter). For example, drilling a 6 mm hole 30 mm deep in aluminum at high speed: use G73 Q5.0; the machine will peck every 5 mm with a small retract, allowing a continuous but safe process​scribd.com.
• Safe Defaults: In general, for holes deeper than ~4×diameter in steel, use peck. A conservative peck increment is 1×D (drill diameter) or less. For aluminum, you can do 2–3×D per peck if chips clear well. Ensure adequate coolant to flush chips out of deep holes, especially with G73 (since the tool doesn’t fully exit each time). If you notice chip packing or a squealing sound, decrease Q (shorter peck) and consider clearing the hole.
• High-Speed: With solid carbide drills, you can peck less frequently. Some advanced drills (OSG, etc.) even allow “peckless” drilling up to certain depths due to their flute design. But as a rule on Speedio, err on the side of more frequent pecks for reliability unless you’ve validated the process. High-speed pecking with G83 can be time-consuming because of full retracts; if chip evacuation is reliable, prefer G73 to keep the tool in the hole and save time.

Spot Drilling (センタードリリング)

Spot drilling (センタードリルでの座標出し) is the practice of using a short, stiff spot drill or center drill to create a precise start point for deeper drilling. This prevents the main drill from walking. On Brother machines, a spot drill cycle typically uses G81 for a shallow depth.

• Tooling: NC spot drills of 5 mm or 6 mm diameter, or 90° center drills (センタードリル) are common. Misumi’s NC spot drills (e.g. TA-NCSPD series) can run at relatively high speeds; in fact, Misumi notes you can increase cutting speed by 20–50% for their advanced NC spot drills compared to normal drills​us.misumi-ec.com. For example, a 6 mm carbide spot drill might safely run at 5,000 min^−1 in steel (as it’s only cutting a small point).
• Depth: Spot just deep enough to create a chamfer (面取り) that is slightly larger than the target drill’s diameter. For instance, if drilling a 10 mm hole, spot drill to ~2–3 mm deep with a 90° tip to create a sufficient cone for guiding.
• Speeds/Feeds: Safe default – in steel, 2,000 min^−1 with 100 mm/min feed for a 6 mm HSS spot drill. In aluminum, 3,000–4,000 min^−1 with 200 mm/min feed is fine. High-speed – carbide spot drills can run at 8,000–12,000 min^−1 easily in aluminum (with proportionally higher feed). For example, a TA-NCSPD 90° carbide spot drill can likely run ~8,000 min^−1 in aluminum and 500+ mm/min feed, as suggested by Misumi’s guidance of +20–30% speed for aluminum​us.misumi-ec.com. The key is to avoid chipping the spot drill – they are sturdy, so usually the limit is maintaining position accuracy rather than tool breakage.
• G-code: Use G81 with a small dwell (P value) if needed to ensure a nice dimple. For example: G81 X... Y... Z-2.0 R1.0 F100 P0.1. The P0.1 would dwell 0.1 sec at bottom to form a clean chamfer. This is optional.

Spot drilling is typically quick, and on a Speedio you can even combine it in one program with the drill by using multiple lines of G81 (the control will auto output each position). The English term “spot drill” corresponds to Japanese センタードリル or 位置決めドリル.

Tapping / Threading (タップ加工)

Brother Speedio machines are famous for their high-speed rigid tapping (剛性タッピング) capability. The synchronized tapping control allows precise feeds and retracts with no need for a floating tap holder. Typical tap sizes supported (M2–M8 in this context) cover fine to medium threads.

• Tooling: Use spiral flute taps (スパイラルタップ) for blind holes to evacuate chips upward, and spiral point taps (スパイラルポイントタップ) for through holes (they push chips forward). OSG’s A-Tap series (A-SFT, etc.) are excellent multi-purpose taps that work across materials​osgblog.com​osgblog.com. Also consider forming taps (転造タップ) for ductile materials if you want no chips (Speedio can handle those as well with appropriate feed rates).
• Speeds: Safe default surface speeds for tapping are lower than drilling, to reduce torque on the tap. For metric taps:
  • M3 in steel: ~6 m/min cutting speed. This means ~635 min^−1 spindle speed (since an M3×0.5 tap has ~3 mm diameter, 6 m/min → 636 rpm). The feed is automatically S * pitch (e.g. 0.5 mm pitch → 318 mm/min). So program S635 (the control will synchronize feed).
  • M6 in steel: ~8 m/min → approx 424 min^−1 (M6 tap ~6 mm major diameter). Feed = 424 * 1.0 mm = 424 mm/min (for an M6×1.0 tap).
  • M8 in aluminum: safe ~10 m/min (M8 ~8 mm diameter → ~398 min^−1, feed 398 mm/min for 1.25 pitch).
  • These defaults (5–10 m/min) are very conservative and virtually guarantee no tap breakage if the hole is properly sized and lubricated.
• High-Speed: Brother tapping can be pushed to impressive speeds given the right tap and material. OSG’s data from field tests with A-Tap (spiral flute) showed for an M8×1.25 tap:
  • In S50C steel, 15 m/min cutting speed (≈600 min^−1) yielded 1,400 holes tap life​osgblog.com.
  • In ADC12 aluminum, 20 m/min (≈800 min^−1) yielded 4,000 holes with minimal wear​osgblog.com.
  • In SUS304 stainless, 10 m/min (≈400 min^−1) was used successfully for ~1,000 holes​osgblog.com.

osgblog.comThese are real-world aggressive numbers. On a Speedio S700X1, even higher speeds are possible for small taps – e.g. many users tap aluminum at 2,000–3,000 min^−1 for M3–M5 (that’s 20–30 m/min) to crank out threads extremely fast, but this requires excellent tap alignment (ensured by rigid spindle) and usually a high-performance tap (OSG, Yamawa, etc.) with good lubrication. Always follow the tap manufacturer’s catalog: for example, OSG might recommend ~20–30 m/min for an M6 in aluminum and ~10–15 m/min in steel with their A-SFT tap​

osgtool.com​

osgblog.com. High-speed tapping in aluminum can also benefit from spiral flute taps with nitride coatings or forming taps to avoid worrying about chip evacuation at high speed. Remember to use proper tapping oil or coolant – it significantly affects tap life at high speeds.

• Feeds: With rigid tapping, you don’t explicitly set feedrate in the program (the control calculates feed from spindle speed and thread pitch, since G84 tapping cycle locks the two). So you only program G84 X...Y... Z... F... where F is either the pitch (on some controls) or leave it as feed per minute equal to S * pitch. On Brother, you specify S (speed) and L (lead) for tapping cycles​reddit.com if using the Brother format (older models use G84 with an L address for pitch in mm/rev or I address depending on control language). For simplicity, use G84 with S and either F or L as appropriate:
  • Example: G84 X50. Y20. Z-15. R2.0 S800 F1000; might be a tapping cycle for M8x1.25 where F= S * 1.25 = 1000 mm/min. Check the Brother programming manual for the correct format (some use L for pitch mm/thread). The CNC C00/B00 allows both mm/rev and mm/min specification for tapping​reddit.com.

An OSG A-SFT multi-purpose spiral tap (example) – these taps excel in a wide range of materials and allow high-speed threading with proper chip evacuation​

osgblog.com​

osgblog.com.

• Chip evacuation and reversal: The Speedio will reverse out of the hole at the same speed it entered (unless you specify a different retract rate, which by default it’s the same in G84). You can sometimes retract faster with a modified cycle, but generally stick to 100% to avoid thread damage. For blind holes, ensure you have sufficient depth beyond thread (a relief hole or deeper drill) so the tap doesn’t bottom out – the machine will not know if the tap hits bottom and it could break. Use the chamfer in blind holes to help chips coil (spiral flute taps will pull chips upward out of blind holes).
• Safety tip: Use the tap return function on Brother (if available, タップリターン機能) to re-cut threads if a tap breaks or for re-threading – this is a feature where you can re-enter a threaded hole synchronously to clean it. It’s accessed via menu programming on C00/D00 controllers (mentioned in the Operability section: tap return function​machinetool.global.brother).

Chamfering & Back-Chamfering (面取り・裏面取り)

Chamfering is usually done to break edges of holes or part perimeters. On Speedio, you typically chamfer with a countersink tool or chamfer mill (面取りカッター), often a 90° carbide spot drill or a dedicated 45° chamfer end mill. Back-chamfering (裏面取り) is creating a chamfer on the backside of a feature, often requiring a specially ground tool or a reversible countersink.

• Tooling: Common chamfer mills are 90° included angle, in diameters ~5–10 mm, often with 2 flutes. A spot drill can double as a chamfer tool for many cases. Back-chamfer tools often have a relieved shank and 45° cutting edge that can reach through a hole and chamfer the far side. For example, a 6 mm double-ended back-chamfer tool (両端面取り工具) might be used for chamfering the back of a through-hole.
• Safe Defaults: Chamfering cuts are light. For a 90° chamfer tool of 6 mm:
  • In steel, 3,000 min^−1 at 200 mm/min feed is a safe start. Only a small depth (say 0.5 mm) is cut, so load is low.
  • In aluminum, 6,000 min^−1 at 500 mm/min is easily done with carbide chamfer mills.
  • If using a spot drill to chamfer, treat it like a drill but with very shallow depth – e.g. feed 0.05 mm/rev or less.
  • Use G01 moves with a programmed 45° or 90° angle move to create the chamfer, or simply drill a short depth for hole chamfers.
• High-Speed: You can crank up RPM for chamfer tools as they have small engagement. Chamfering edges in aluminum might be done at 10,000+ rpm and 1,000 mm/min feed, especially with a 2-flute carbide. The main limitation is surface finish – too high feed might leave a rough chamfer. In steel, going above 5,000 rpm is fine for coated carbide chamfer mills, with feed perhaps 300–400 mm/min.
• Back Chamfering: Typically done at lower feed to avoid chatter since the tool often hangs out. E.g., if you have to back-chamfer a 8 mm through-hole in steel, you might use a small 5 mm back-chamfer tool: enter the hole, slow RPM (~2,000) and feed (100 mm/min) to cut the back chamfer, then exit. In aluminum, you can double those speeds.

Since chamfering often just deburrs edges, surface speed isn’t critical – a nicer finish can come from a slower pass if needed. Use cutting oil manually if needed on steel edges to improve finish. Chamfering can also be done using a multi-axis move: for example, move in X-Y while lowering Z to create a chamfer on a perimeter (this can be output from CAM). The Brother control has the capability for small macro programs to automatically chamfer corners of profiles if needed (though typically done in CAM). Chamfering codes: Usually just G01 linear moves or a G81 with shallow depth for hole chamfers.

Tip: Chamfer amounts are small (e.g. 0.2–0.5 mm), so make sure tool length offsets are set accurately – a slight error can mean no chamfer or too large a bevel. For backside chamfers, use a camera or careful measurement to confirm the result, as they’re harder to see in-machine.

Reaming (リーミング)

Reaming is used to finish holes to tight tolerances (e.g. H7 fits) after drilling. Speedio can perform reaming (リーマ加工) at relatively high speeds, but generally reaming is done at slower RPM with steady feed for best results.

• Tooling: Solid reamers (straight or spiral flutes) in 3–10 mm are common. They are usually HSS or carbide with 4–6 flutes. Ensure the pre-drilled hole is appropriately sized (typically 0.2–0.3 mm undersize for reamers in this size range).
• Speeds/Feeds:
  • Safe Defaults: Reamers often run at about 1/2 to 1/3 of drilling speed for the same diameter. For example, a 6 mm reamer in steel: ~500–800 min^−1 is a good starting point (cutting speed ~10 m/min), with feed ~100–150 mm/min (i.e. ~0.02–0.03 mm/rev per flute). In aluminum: a 6 mm reamer might go 1,500 min^−1 with 300 mm/min feed (0.03–0.04 mm/rev). Always use plenty of cutting fluid for reaming – on Speedio, a flood coolant (クーラント) at moderate pressure is fine.
  • High-Speed: If you have a carbide reamer and rigid setup, you can increase speed somewhat. For instance, Misumi’s guidance for reamers suggests that stable cutting is possible when the finishing allowance is about 0.3 mm and to not exceed about 1/3 of drill speed​us.misumi-ec.com. So maybe up to 1,200 min^−1 for a 6 mm reamer in steel (approx 25 m/min) and feed 0.05 mm/rev (which is ~300 mm/min). In aluminum, carbide reamers might run at 3,000 rpm (like 60 m/min) if held in a floating reamer holder – but with rigid spindle, better to stay a bit conservative to avoid chatter. On a BBT30, you might try 2,000 rpm in aluminum with a good reamer and see results, adjusting if needed.
• Technique: Use G85 bore/ream cycle (fine boring cycle, ボーリングサイクル) if available – this feeds in at cutting feed and feeds out at the same feed (G85 does not rapid out, to avoid tool marks). For example: G85 X... Y... Z-20.0 R2.0 F100; will feed down to Z-20 at 100 mm/min and then feed back out at 100 mm/min (this produces a smooth retracted finish). If your control doesn’t have G85, you can simulate by feeding in and then reversing out with G01 at feed. Do not rapid out of a hole with a reamer (it can mar the hole or break the tool). G85 or a slow feed retraction prevents scratches.
• Tip: Ensure alignment – if the reamer is not perfectly coaxial with the hole due to runout, it can cut oversize. Use a good collet chuck to hold the reamer (ER collet or similar). Also, reaming needs an accurate pre-hole: typically drill to ~0.3 mm under reamer size for small holes (e.g. drill 5.7 mm before 6.0 mm ream). If too much stock, the reamer will rub and wear, if too little, it won’t clean up the hole.

The Speedio’s low spindle runout (especially with BBT30) is helpful for precision reaming. Don’t omit lubricant: reaming in steel without oil can lead to poor finish and size errors. If you need ultra-precision, check hole size after the first part and adjust the reamer (some reamers can be slightly adjusted or you can adjust feed to tweak size).

Boring (ボーリング / 中ぐり)

Boring on a machining center typically refers to using a boring head or a single-point boring bar to enlarge or finish a hole. On a Speedio, you might use a small boring bar for precision holes above ~Φ8 mm where a reamer of exact size is not available or for interpolating non-standard sizes with fine control.

• Tooling: Fine-adjustable boring heads (ボーリングヘッド) can be used, but given the Speedio’s size, often a simpler approach is to helically interpolate (円弧補間) a hole with an end mill (see Helical Milling below). However, if extreme accuracy or surface finish is needed (like IT6 tolerance), a boring bar can be employed. For small diameters (8–20 mm range), a boring bar with a carbide insert or brazed tip is mounted in a boring head that offsets the bar from center.
• Parameters:
  • Safe Defaults: Boring is done at relatively low surface speeds to avoid vibration, especially with small diameter boring bars. For a 10 mm bore in steel using a boring bar, you might run 800 min^−1 and feed 0.05 mm/rev (which is 40 mm/min) on the finishing pass. Depth of cut for finishing boring is usually tiny (like 0.1 mm radially). Use G85 cycle to feed in and out without retracting to maintain consistency.
  • In aluminum, you can go higher: maybe 1500 min^−1 and 0.1 mm/rev (150 mm/min). But ensure the bar is sharp and the machine is tight; even slight looseness in the spindle or slides can show up as chatter in boring due to the single-point contact.
• High-Speed: Boring is generally not a high-speed operation. If you want faster cycle, use helical milling with an endmill (since multi-point cutting is more stable at speed). However, if using a balanced fine boring head (with counterweights for high RPM), you might run up to ~3000 rpm even on BT30. Big Daishowa makes boring heads that are usable at higher speeds. But for the scope of this guide, assume boring is done slowly but precisely. You can feed a bit faster on roughing passes – e.g. if boring a hole from 9.5 to 10 mm, first pass might be 0.25 mm radial at 0.1 mm/rev feed, second pass 0.05 mm radial at 0.05 mm/rev feed.
• G-codes: Use G85 for boring (feed-in, feed-out). If the Brother control has a specific fine boring cycle (some have G76 or others for boring, but likely G85 is used as standard). A typical boring command: G85 X... Y... Z-20.0 R2.0 F50; (feeds in and out at 50 mm/min). For multiple bores, the control can handle multiple positions in one cycle call (like Fanuc), or you repeat the G85 for each location.

Note: Ensure you cancel the cycle after boring (with G80) before any indexing or movement. Also, check any backlash or lost motion – on a well-maintained Speedio, it’s minimal, but when boring to tight tolerances, you might want to approach the bore from the same direction each time (the canned cycle takes care of consistent entry/exit).

Helical Milling (ヘリカルミリング)

Helical milling is a strategy to create holes or circular pockets by moving an end mill in a helix (simultaneously X-Y circular interpolation and Z linear motion). This is often used to machine holes of non-standard sizes or when you don’t have the right drill size. Speedio’s CNC control supports helical interpolation natively via G02/G03 with an added I/J for circle radius and a K for pitch (on older controls, or using YZ helical via G code). CAM software typically outputs small linear segments or a G02/03 helix move.

• Usage: Use an end mill smaller than the desired hole. For example, to cut a 20 mm hole, you might use a 6 mm end mill in a helical path.
• Safe Defaults:
  • In steel, helix at a moderate ramp angle: ~1–2 degrees max. For a 6 mm cutter into steel, try helixing with a pitch of 0.5 mm per revolution (this corresponds to about 1° helix angle if the circle is, say, 10 mm radius). Program via CAM or manually as needed: e.g., a G02 with I/J for circle and a K for incremental Z per revolution (some Brother controls allow G02 X Y Z I J K for a helical move). If not, break it into multiple circles each going down a bit.
  • Speed for that 6 mm in steel: ~2,500 min^−1 and feed 300 mm/min (for the circular motion – meaning about 0.05 mm per tooth effective) is safe.
  • In aluminum, you can be more aggressive: maybe 2–3 mm pitch per rev if the cutter can clear chips. For instance, helixing a 15 mm hole with a 5 mm end mill in aluminum: run 10,000 min^−1, feed 1,000 mm/min, pitch K=1.5 mm per revolution. The cut is light because the tool is only engaging a fraction of its diameter.
• High-Speed: Helical milling can replace drilling for larger holes – with advantage that you don’t need to switch tools. At high speed, ensure the tool deflection is managed. For example, NS Tool demonstrates helical milling in some cases: a long helical interpolation could be run at high RPM in aluminum using their end mills​ns-tool.com. On Speedio, one might helix a 30 mm hole with a 8 mm carbide end mill at 6,000 min^−1 and 600 mm/min downfeed, if the machine has the torque to handle the side cutting. BBT30 helps here by keeping the end mill stable as it tracks in a circle.
• G-code example: If the control supports full helix in one block – for example: G02 X___ Y___ Z(final) I___ J___ K___ F___;. Not all controls do, but Brother C00 should (based on standard format). If not, use a series: e.g., loop a G02 move that goes 360° and drops Z by a small increment each time (this can be done with a macro program to loop if desired, or simply output via CAM).

Monitor chip evacuation, especially in blind hole helixing – you may need a pecking style helix (come out after full depth to clear chips). Helical milling is a versatile technique – it can also be used to cut circular grooves or thread milling (with a small pitch helix equal to thread pitch, see below).

Counterboring & Countersinking (座ぐり・皿穴加工)

Counterboring is enlarging the top of a hole to a flat-bottom recess (e.g., for socket head cap screws), while countersinking is conical enlargement for flat-head screws. On Speedio, these are straightforward.

• Counterboring (座ぐり): Use an end mill or a counterbore tool of the required diameter. For example, to counterbore a M5 screw hole to 10 mm diameter × 5 mm deep, you could use a 6 or 8 mm end mill:
  • Helically interpolate the 10 mm diameter recess (small helix or circular interpolation) to depth 5 mm. Safe condition: 6 mm end mill in steel, 1500 rpm, 200 mm/min circular feed. In aluminum, 3000 rpm, 500 mm/min. If you have a piloted counterbore tool (which looks like a small flat-bottomed trepanning tool with a guide pin), you can plunge it like a drill – but usually just using an end mill is easier via CNC.
  • Ensure bottom is flat: use G85 or a final dwell to let the end mill flatten the bottom of the counterbore if needed.
• Countersinking (皿穴加工): Use a 90° countersink bit or chamfer tool. This is similar to chamfering. For a standard metric flat-head screw, you typically use a 90° included angle. Program a drilling cycle or a positioning move:
  • For example, countersink a hole to 12 mm diameter for an M6 flat-head screw: take a 12 mm 90° countersink, run ~1000 rpm in steel (they are often HSS) and feed slowly (50–100 mm/min) to cut the cone. If using a small chamfer mill, you could spiral it outward.
  • In aluminum, you can run faster (3000–5000 rpm) but be careful to avoid chatter – sometimes slower works better for countersinks to get a smooth finish.

Misumi’s guidance notes that certain 90° countersinks (like TA-CS3M etc.) can run ~20–30% faster in aluminum​

us.misumi-ec.com. For instance, if you normally countersink steel at 1000 rpm, you might do aluminum at 1300 rpm with the same tool.

G-codes: often just a G81 for a conical sink (specifying depth such that desired top diameter is reached), or use a simple G01 Z move while not moving X/Y (essentially drilling a cone). Some CAMs provide a countersink cycle.

For back countersinking (if you ever need to countersink the far side of a hole for a flat-head on the backside), you’d need a special back-countersink tool that opens up behind the hole – those are advanced tools and typically used at low speed to avoid damage. They are not very common, but if required, program carefully with positional control and low feed.

Face Milling (フェースミリング)

Face milling refers to machining a large, flat surface (typically the top of a workpiece) to improve flatness or finish. Brother Speedios, being small footprint machines, usually use end mills or small face mill cutters for facing since the BT30 tooling limits size somewhat. However, there are 50–80 mm diameter indexable face mills made for BT30 as well.

• Tooling: For smaller parts, a 10 mm or 16 mm flat end mill can serve as a face mill by simply rastering across the surface. For larger surfaces, a 50 mm 4-insert face mill (指数式フェースカッタ) can be used if the machine has the power (it likely does for light cuts, especially with high-torque spindle option). BBT30 helps with such larger cutters by adding stability.
• Safe Defaults: If using an end mill (say 10 mm) to face:
  • In steel, maybe 1500–2000 rpm and 200 mm/min with 5 mm stepovers (just as a smoothing cut).
  • In aluminum, 3000 rpm and 800 mm/min with 8 mm stepover. These are not critical – you adjust to achieve the finish you want (slower feed or overlap passes for better finish).
  If using an indexable face mill (like a 50 mm with 4 inserts, for aluminum):
  • Steel: keep it shallow (1 mm depth) and moderate speed (1000 rpm) with maybe 400 mm/min feed (0.1 mm/tooth if 4 inserts at 1000 rpm = 400 mm/min). BT30 can handle more, but heavy milling with large cutter might strain the spindle bearings if pushed.
  • Aluminum: you can run faster – e.g., 3000 rpm on a 50 mm cutter (that’s ~472 m/min at the edge, which is fine for carbide on aluminum) and feed 1500 mm/min (0.125 mm/tooth for 4 inserts) for a decent finish. Ensure the inserts are sharp (use aluminum-specific polished inserts for best result).
• High-Speed: With smaller cutters, you can increase speed to max. For instance, a 16 mm carbide 2-flute face mill (really just a large end mill) in aluminum can run 10,000–16,000 rpm easily and you can zip it around at 2000+ mm/min for a very fine finish (taking a light skim cut). The limit might be the surface finish – very high RPM on aluminum can sometimes reduce finish quality due to built-up edge; you might find an optimal zone. In steel, if you have a good indexable cutter, you might try around 2000–2500 rpm for a 50 mm cutter (with suitable coated inserts) and adjust feed up to ~0.15 mm/tooth if the machine doesn’t complain. Watch spindle load meter on the Speedio’s screen.
• Strategy: Face milling can be done in a back-and-forth raster or one pass if the cutter covers the width. The Speedio’s rigidity (剛性) and accuracy allow very flat surfaces if the head is trammed well. If your part is large and you need very flat results, consider a spring pass (i.e., a second pass at the same Z without depth increment) to eliminate any tool deflection effects.
• Surface Finish: For best finish, use a wiper insert (ワイパーインサート) in an indexable face mill if available – it can achieve near-grinding finish in one pass. And use high spindle speed with a lower feed to reduce feed marks. For example, to super-finish aluminum, you might run a 50 mm face mill at 6000 rpm, 0.05 mm/tooth feed, which on 4 inserts is 1200 mm/min, with a wiper insert – the surface will be very smooth.

Face milling G-code is just a series of G01 cuts. No special code beyond perhaps G00 to position and G01 to cut. If you use cutter comp, remember to use G40/G41 appropriately. Often, CAM will output a zigzag pattern for facing.

Engraving (刻印・彫刻)

Engraving refers to etching text, logos, or other small features into the workpiece. On Speedio, engraving is typically done with small end mills or specialized engraving tools (engraving bit or V-bit). The control does not have a special engraving cycle, so it’s typically driven by CAM (with lots of small moves or using a font).

• Tooling: Small diameter end mills (e.g. 1 mm or 2 mm) or a chamfer mill with a sharp point (like a 60° or 90° vee cutter) are used. For fine lettering, a 2 flute carbide end mill of 1 mm can engrave ~0.2 mm depth lines.
• Speeds/Feeds:
  • For a 1 mm carbide end mill in aluminum: 10,000–15,000 min^−1 is recommended (small tools need high surface speed to cut cleanly) and feed of ~100–300 mm/min depending on detail (this might be 0.005–0.015 mm/tooth). In practice, you might just set 200 mm/min for simplicity if doing very small moves.
  • In steel, engraving is tough on tiny tools. Use a coated micro end mill or a diamond-coated engraver if possible. Speedio’s high RPM helps – use at least 8,000 min^−1 (more if available, e.g. 16k). Feed very slowly, like 50–100 mm/min, and shallow (0.1 mm or so). Alternatively, use a spring-loaded carbide engraver (spring-loaded pantograph-type tool) which allows deeper engraving without breaking, but that’s an accessory.
  • A 90° V-bit can be used at moderate speeds: e.g. 3 mm diameter tip at 45° per side (90 total) in aluminum might do well at 6000 rpm, 300 mm/min, cutting 0.3 mm deep for a nice beveled groove.
• High-Speed approach: If you have a very high-speed spindle (27k option), you could use that for micro engraving – e.g. a 0.5 mm end mill at 20000 rpm in aluminum can actually “micro-mill” letters quite fast (like 500 mm/min). But that’s a specialized scenario. For most, stick to careful feeds to not snap the tool.
• G-codes: Engraving often involves many short G01/G02/G03 moves. There isn’t a standard G-code for text on Brother (some controls have custom macros or use CAM to generate strokes). If doing simple serial numbers, one could also use a drill and peck to dot-matrix engrave (just punching dots in patterns). However, the more common method is to use CAD/CAM to generate the outline of text and run a small cutter. The Brother control handles the small moves fine, especially if you use high accuracy mode for very fine detail to ensure it doesn’t go too fast around corners.

Because engraving tends to be cosmetic, test on a scrap piece first to ensure the depth and appearance are as desired. Also consider using M-code to stop spindle (M5) and dwell (G04) if you ever need to use a manual engraver or insert stamping, but that’s beyond typical CNC engraving.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on thermal growth for precise engravings – if the machine has been running hot, the Z zero might shift a few microns (though Brother has thermal compensation features​

machinetool.global.brother). For very even engraving depths, do it in consistent conditions or probe the surface if possible before engraving (Brother’s control can use a touch sensor input and macros to set offsets, see Macro section).

The above covers the primary operations the Speedio supports. Other operations like profile milling (輪郭加工), pocketing (ポケット加工), etc., are basically combinations of the above (roughing/finishing with end mills). The machine is also capable of 2.5D and 3D toolpaths for molds (e.g. 3D surfacing falls under finishing with ball end mills). In summary, any milling/drilling operation that a BT30 machining center can do, the Brother can do at very high efficiency given its speed. It’s designed to handle from 高効率加工 (high-efficiency machining) to a degree of 重切削 (heavy cutting) within the limits of #30 taper​

germond.be.

Next, we’ll discuss the special features in Brother’s control that you can leverage to optimize these operations and how to navigate the CNC interface, including pallet changer usage, macro programming, and more.

Brother CNC Programming Features (G/M Codes, Macros, Interface)

In addition to standard ISO G-code, Brother Speedio machines offer proprietary G/M codes and control functions to streamline operations. This section compiles Brother-specific codes and techniques relevant to the operations above, as well as tips for using the Brother CNC panel (CNC-B00, C00, etc.), dual-pallet management, and macro programming (マクロプログラミング).

Special G & M Codes for Speedio

While basic G-codes (G00, G01, G02, G03, G40–G99, etc.) follow FANUC-like standards, Brother provides some unique codes for advanced functions. Here are key ones:

• G100 – Non-stop ATC Tool Change: This is a Brother-exclusive G-code that enables simultaneous axis movement during tool change. When invoked, the machine can move X/Y (and any additional axes) to the next position while the ATC is swapping tools, eliminating wasted time​germond.be. In practice, you use G100 in place of M06 in your program (or in conjunction with it, depending on your post). For example, a tool change line might be: vbnetCopyEditN100 T2 (next tool call) N110 G100 (non-stop ATC – machine starts moving to next XY) N120 M06 (execute tool change) The exact usage can vary with the control/postprocessor, but the concept is the next move’s coordinates are buffered and executed during the tool change​machinetool.global.brother. G100 dramatically cuts chip-to-chip time (e.g. reducing chip-to-chip from 1.6s to 1.4s on newer models)​machinetool.global.brother. Use it whenever possible in production programs to maximize throughput.
• M06 – Tool Change (工具交換): Standard code to change tool. On Brother, if using G100, the M06 comes immediately after as shown. If not using G100, M06 behaves normally (the machine finishes any motion, then changes the tool with Z-axis movement optimized for Brother’s lightning-fast ATC). Brother’s ATC is so fast (0.7s tool-to-tool on some models​germond.be) that even without G100 it’s impressive, but G100 squeezes out that extra efficiency. Note: Always ensure the spindle is stopped (M05) before M06 (the control usually enforces this anyway).
• M410 / M411 – Pallet Change Commands (パレット交換): These M-codes control the dual-pallet QT table on machines like the TC-32B QT or newer Speedio models with pallet option. According to the manual, M410 brings Pallet 2 to the front (pallet #2 out), and M411 brings Pallet 1 to the front​manualslib.com​manualslib.com. When you command M410 or M411, the Speedio will first ensure Z-axis is retracted to tool change position (Z0 home) then rotate the pallet table 180° to swap pallets​manualslib.com. Typically, you would use these in a pallet-changing program (see “Dual-Pallet Workflow” below). Example: vbnetCopyEdit... M411 ; Pallet 1 to front (Machine part on Pallet 1) M410 ; swap to Pallet 2 (Machine part on Pallet 2) M411 ; swap back to Pallet 1, etc. Pallet change time is extremely fast (~3.4 seconds) due to Brother’s quick turn design that avoids lift-up​machinetool.global.brother. Important: Do not use M410/M411 unless you have a dual-pallet machine; those codes are not valid on single-table machines.
• M430 / M431 – Fourth-Axis Clamp Control (回転軸クランプ/アンクランプ): On machines equipped with a rotary 4th axis or the pallet changer (which is essentially a C-axis), these M-codes control the brake:
  • M430: Unclamp the rotary axis brake (C-axis unclamp override)​manualslib.com.
  • M431: Clamp the rotary axis brake (C-axis clamp override)​manualslib.com.
  The control normally auto-clamps the rotary axis during rotation commands and clamps after movement. M430/M431 are used if you need to manually override that. For instance, if you wanted to free the 4th axis to manually move or to let it spin freely for some reason (uncommon), or in a custom macro where you need to unclamp, jog, then clamp. In context of the TC-32B QT, the C-axis (table) is automatically controlled during M410/M411, but M430/M431 are provided as low-level controls​manualslib.com. Similarly, if you have an optional tilting rotary (B-axis), there are M440/M441 for that axis clamp​manualslib.com. Generally, you won’t use M430/M431 in regular G-code programming except in special macros or recovery procedures.
• M120 / M121 – Tool Breakage Check (工具折損検出) Signals: These are related to an optional tool breakage detection sensor (like a touch sensor). M120 will check an input (TOUCH sensor) and if the signal is ON, operation ends; if OFF, it raises an alarm​manualslib.com. M121 does the inverse check​manualslib.com. Essentially, M120/M121 are used in a macro after a tool touches a check pin – the control can automatically stop if the tool doesn’t trigger the sensor (meaning it broke off). If your machine has this hardware, you’d insert M120 after a tool break check move. If not, these codes do nothing. There are also M200/M201 for a different type of breakage detection unit (vibration type)​manualslib.com.
• M211 – M214: Workpiece Counters (ワークカウンタ) Increment: Brother controls provide 4 internal part counters. M211, M212, M213, M214 will increment counter #1, #2, #3, #4 respectively at the end of program​practicalmachinist.com. Typically, you put M21x right before M30. For example: python-replCopyEdit... M211 ; increment part counter 1 M30 ; end program After each cycle, the monitor display “Counter 1” increments by 1​practicalmachinist.com. This is very useful for tracking production quantity automatically. The counters can be reset via the control or using M221–M224 codes (which cancel the respective counter specification)​manualslib.com. Note: Ensure only one of M211–M214 is used per cycle, unless you intentionally want to increment multiple counters (you could use one counter for good parts, another for rejects, etc., as needed). By default, M211 is the most used (single parts counter).
• M221 – M224: Counter Cancel: As noted, these will cancel the corresponding counter so it no longer increments until re-specified​manualslib.com. Usually not needed unless you temporarily disable counting mid-program.
• M230 / M231: Tool Life Counter Control (工具寿命カウンタ): The control also has tool life counters (to track number of holes drilled by a tool, etc.). M230 resumes tool life counting, M231 pauses it​manualslib.com. This can be used if you want to exclude certain motions from tool life count (for example, tool change positions or rapid moves). In practice, many just let the control count every cycle of a tool. You’d use these only if you needed to stop the count during some non-cutting action or special case.
• G54.1 P… – Extended Work Offsets: Brother supports multiple work coordinate systems (like Fanuc). Use G54, G55, etc., and G54.1 P1…Pn for extended offsets (the number of offsets may vary by option, often 48 or more). For dual pallets, you might use different work offsets for each pallet (e.g., G54 for Pallet 1, G55 for Pallet 2) to account for any slight difference in fixture positions.
• G10 – Programmatic Offset Setting: The Brother control allows using G10 L2 or L20 to set work offset values from within a program (in case you want to update coordinates or tool offsets under program control). This is advanced usage but useful in automated workflows.
• M-code I/O: There are also M-codes for user PLC I/O. According to the manual index, M400–M409 are “M-signal level output” which likely set some custom outputs ON/OFF for interfacing with external devices​manualslib.com. M450, M451, M455, M456 are one-shot outputs​manualslib.com. M460–M469 are “wait for response” type commands (like wait on an input signal)​manualslib.com. These are primarily used when integrating automation – for example, to control a robot or a conveyor, you might output an M-code to trigger a clamp, then use M460 to wait for a “finished” signal. Using these requires understanding the ladder logic integration on the machine. In standard operation without automation, you won’t use these, but it’s good to know they exist. For instance, Yamazen (Brother importer) or integrators might give you an M-code number to actuate an air blow or a part ejector if installed.
• M98 / M99 – Subprogram Call / Return: Just a reminder that Brother uses the same format for subprograms as Fanuc. You can store subprograms O9010, etc., in memory and call with M98 P9010. M99 returns from subprogram or loops if in main. Use these for macros or repetitive structures (like indexing a rotary multiple times, etc.).

The above list isn’t exhaustive (there are many more G/M codes like canned cycles G81–G89, etc., which we used in operations section), but it covers those specifically unique or requested. Always refer to the Brother Programming Manual for a full code list.

CNC Interface (C00/B00) Navigation and Tips

Brother’s CNC units – e.g. CNC-B00, CNC-C00, and the newer CNC-D00 – have a user-friendly interface with some unique features. Here we highlight practical tips for using the control effectively, especially in a Japanese/English bilingual context:

• Language Switching (言語切替): The Speedio interface can display in English or Japanese. On most Brother controls, language is a parameter or menu setting. For example, on CNC-C00, you might go into the MENU, find an “Option” or “Setting” that says Language (言語) and select 英語 (English) or 日本語. According to Brother documentation, it’s possible to change the conversational programming language via parameter​machinetool.global.brother. If the machine boots in Japanese and you need English: navigate to the menu (メニュー), look for a list where “言語” is listed, select “英語”. On some older controls, this might be under Maintenace mode. If unsure, consult the Brother manual or contact support, but typically it’s straightforward through the menu.
• Operation Modes: Like any CNC, you have modes: MEM (Memory run, 自動運転), MDI (Manual Data Input 単発運転), EDIT (編集), JOG (ハンドル or increment movement), REF return (原点復帰). The Brother panel has hard keys for these. One nice feature on Brother is the Shortcut Keys (ショートカットキー) on newer C00/D00 – these allow one-press to go to certain screens (like tool table, offsets, etc.)​machinetool.global.brother. If your machine has labeled keys for say OFFSET, or directly for tool management, use them to save time digging in menus.
• Menu Programming (メニュープログラミング): Brother controls include a conversational programming system where you fill in fields to create operations (drill, mill, tap cycles, etc.). This is accessible through something like the “Menu” button and is useful for simple operations or if you prefer conversational over G-code. The interface will ask for shapes, dimensions, etc., and generate the G-code for you. It’s great for beginners or quick jobs. You can toggle between NC code and conversational (the control actually allows conversion from conversational program to NC code)​machinetool.global.brother. If you’re comfortable with G-code, you might not use this, but it’s there if needed.
• Parameters & Advanced Settings: To access system parameters (パラメータ), you typically need to be in MDI mode and possibly have parameter write enabled. Brother usually protects parameters by requiring the machine to be in emergency stop or with a physical key switch turned. Check if your machine has a key for “Parameter Write” – often it’s inside the electrical cabinet. Once enabled, you can go to the parameter screen and edit values. Advanced parameter access: Many high-speed features (like special acceleration or custom M-codes) are toggled via parameters. For example, one forum note said there’s a parameter for dry-run feedrate override​practicalmachinist.com. Indeed, if you find dry-run (空運転) too fast, there is a parameter to set its speed​practicalmachinist.com. Similarly, parameters adjust rigid tapping acceleration, lookahead, etc. Only adjust parameters if you know what they do – the manual lists them. Switching between inch/metric is also a parameter (though G20/G21 might be locked, Brother often is configured for metric by default in JP).
• Macro Programming (マクロ): The Brother control supports Fanuc-style macro B. You can use variables #1–#33 (local), #100–#199 (common), #500+ (permanent) and system variables (#5001 for current X pos, etc., are typically available). Conditional statements (IF [#100 EQ 5] GOTO 100, etc.) and loop constructs using WHILE/END are supported on newer controls. This allows you to create custom cycles. For example, you could program: bashCopyEdit#100 = 5 WHILE [#100 GT 0] DO1 (do something) #100 = #100 - 1 END1 to loop 5 times. Or use IF and GOTO for simpler older-style logic. You can also call subprograms with M98 and use macro arguments via #xn variables (like #1, #2 get values from a P call, etc.). Macro programming enables advanced automation: probing routines, tool length measurement, conditional pallet changing, etc. A simple but useful macro: automatic tool count and change – one could increment a counter every time a tool uses and if over a threshold, call an alarm or change tool. However, Brother already has built-in tool life management via the tool table, so you can simply set the tool life (寿命) count in the tool data screen and the control will warn or even auto-select a sister tool if you set it up.
• Safety Macros: You can embed safety checks in your programs using macros. For example, you could check that a certain mode is active or a certain input is on:
  • Before a critical operation, read a PLC signal (via macro variable corresponding to an input) to ensure, say, the door is closed or coolant is on. If not, you can trigger an alarm: e.g. IF [#1000 NE 1] THEN #3000=1 (Door Not Closed) which will raise a P/S alarm. #3000=1 triggers a user alarm with the text in parentheses.
  • Automatic part count macros are not needed due to M211, but you could also do: #500 = #500 + 1 at end of program and display it.
  • A favorite: a retract macro at end of program. You can program: vbnetCopyEdit(Safe End Macro) G91 G30 Z0 (go to reference position) M05 M09 (spindle off, coolant off) #3000 = 0 (program stop without alarm, if desired) Actually, #3000 is alarm – for normal stop just use M30 or M02. Some use a custom macro to move axes to a safe location if needed.
• Interface usage in Japanese: If you’re confronted with the Japanese interface, here are a few translations for common screen labels:
  • 現在位置 (げんざいいち) – Current position.
  • 絶対座標 (ぜったいざひょう) – Absolute coordinates (machine position).
  • 作業座標 (さぎょうざひょう) – Work coordinates (relative position in current WCS).
  • オフセット – Offset (tool/work offset pages).
  • プログラム – Program.
  • 編集 – Edit.
  • 自動 – Auto (memory run).
  • 単発 (たんぱつ) – Single (MDI single operation).
  • ハンドル – Handle (manual pulse generator mode).
  • 送り速度 (おくりそくど) – Feedrate.
  • 主軸速度 (しゅじくそくど) – Spindle speed.
  • 非常停止 (ひじょうていし) – Emergency stop.
  • アラーム – Alarm.
  • リセット – Reset.
  • 実行 (じっこう) – Execute (like Cycle Start might be labeled 実行).
  • 停止 (ていし) – Stop (Cycle Stop).
  Knowing these can help if the control is in Japanese. You can always switch to English as mentioned, but sometimes specific messages or parameter names might still appear in Japanese, especially in documentation.
• Brother’s help function: Some models have an on-screen help. If you highlight an alarm or a G-code in the editor and press whatever help key, it might show a short description (the D00 with touch screen likely has more of this). For older, you rely on the manual.
• Dual-Pallet screens: If you have a dual-pallet machine, there will be a schedule screen (パレットスケジュール) where you can set which program runs on which pallet, etc. On Brother, you can simply call M410/M411 in the program as discussed, but the control also has a mode to schedule pallets (especially for manufacturing cells). Check the manual section on “Pallet schedule table” – it might allow you to assign, for example, Program O100 to Pallet 1 and O101 to Pallet 2 and let them alternate continuously. Utilizing that can automate production further without writing a custom looping program.
• Rotary axis usage: If you have a 4th axis (say a Brother machine with a TSUDAKOMA rotary), programming it involves addressing it as A or B axis depending on configuration (A for rotation about X, B for Y, C for Z rotation). Likely it’s A-axis on a Speedio (if mounted along X). You then use G90 or G91 moves or even G0 A90. to index. Don’t forget to clamp (M431) if needed, but typically the machine auto clamps after movement. If doing full 4-axis simultaneous, the post must output proper interpolation – the control can handle it if you have the 4-axis option. Use G68.2 if doing tilted work planes (that’s Fanuc style, but not sure if Brother supports G68.2 plane rotation for 5-axis – probably only on 5-axis models). Simpler, use index moves and separate work offsets for each face if doing 3+1 axis work.

To summarize, the Brother interface is designed for efficiency: things like shortcut keys, menu programming, and integrated part counters help minimize downtime. It’s worthwhile to explore the control’s menus to discover features – e.g., there is often a maintenance info screen showing servo load, a productivity screen showing parts produced (helpful if you forgot to M211, it may still track a macro count or time). The CNC-D00 (the newest) even has a touch screen and apps for tool monitoring, parameter tuning, etc., making it very user-friendly​

machinetool.global.brother​

machinetool.global.brother.

Dual-Pallet Workflow Optimization (TC-32B QT and Speedio with QT table)

For machines with the Quick Table two-pallet system (QTテーブル), maximizing uptime is key. The idea is to load/unload one pallet while the other is machining, achieving non-stop machining​

machinetool.global.brother. Here’s how to set up and use the dual pallets effectively:

• Pallet Scheduling: As noted, you can either manually control pallet swaps in your NC programs or use the control’s scheduling function. A simple approach is a main program that alternates between two subprograms, one for each pallet: scssCopyEditO0001 (Main Pallet Loop) M411 ; ensure Pallet 1 is in cut position M98 P1001 (Run pallet 1 program) M410 ; swap pallets (bring Pallet 2) M98 P1002 (Run pallet 2 program) M30 Subprogram O1001 would contain the machining instructions for the fixture on Pallet 1, and O1002 for Pallet 2. Each subprogram ends with M99 (return to main). This way, when you start O0001, it will always run P1 then P2, then stop. If you want continuous looping, you could replace M30 with M99 and call O0001 from itself (though careful with infinite looping – better let an operator press stop when needed). Alternatively, copy O0001 to run twice or set a loop count with a macro.
• Work Offsets for Pallets: Typically, you’d touch off and set work coordinate for each pallet’s fixture separately (e.g., use G54 for pallet 1, G55 for pallet 2 in the subprograms). That way any slight difference in pallet positioning is accounted for. The mechanical design usually repeats within a few microns, but always best to indicate each pallet’s workpiece and set offsets.
• Tool Clearance: When using M410/M411, remember the machine automatically moves Z to home before rotation​manualslib.com. This is a safety – ensure your program has retracted tools above any tall parts before pallet change. It’s wise to have a command like G91 G30 Z0 (machine Z home) before the M410 just in case, though Brother does it inherently according to docs​manualslib.com. The rotation plane is horizontal; make sure fixtures on both sides don’t protrude into the swing envelope beyond the table’s diameter/clearance (the manual likely specifies max fixture height and width so that pallets can rotate without collision).
• Optimized Workflow: The concept is to perform part loading/unloading on pallet 2 while pallet 1 is in the machining area, and vice versa. So the operator should time the part change to be within the machining cycle of the opposite pallet. If one part’s cycle time is shorter than the other’s, plan accordingly (maybe add a dwell or handle carefully to ensure the operator has time to finish loading). Usually, identical parts are run on both pallets to keep cycle times equal. If they are different, you may run into one pallet waiting for the other – in that case, an advanced approach is needed, possibly running the slower pallet’s program twice if its cycle is half of the other, etc., or simply accepting some idle time.
• Safety: There are safety interlocks – the door on the loading pallet side can typically be opened while the machine is cutting on the other pallet (since there’s usually a divider or it’s simply the backside). Follow proper procedure: typically an indicator light shows which pallet is safe to open. Opening the door for the machining side will trigger interlock stop. Some machines have auto doors and robots to change parts – in that case, coordinate with the robot program using M-codes as discussed (e.g., MWAIT signals M460/M461 could wait until robot confirms load done).
• Pallet Clamp Confirmation: Brother’s design is robust, but you may consider using an M-code to confirm pallet is locked. Often, the control handles this internally and won’t proceed if not clamped (it would alarm). The M410/M411 sequence likely includes checking of pallet clamp sensor.

By using dual pallets, you can often nearly double productivity, as one pallet is always cutting. As Brother advertises, “Workpieces on one pallet can be changed while machining on the other pallet. Therefore, waste in workpiece change time is eliminated, enabling nonstop machining.”​

machinetool.global.brother. This is the biggest benefit of the TC-32B QT style machines.

View of Brother QT dual-pallet table (top view): Pallet 1 and Pallet 2 are on a rotary table. The machine swaps them in ~3.4 seconds without lifting, allowing loading on one side while the other is being machined​

machinetool.global.brother​

machinetool.global.brother.

• Pallet Programs and Management: If your control has a pallet schedule screen, you might see something like: rustCopyEditPallet 1 -> O1001 Pallet 2 -> O1002 Mode: Alternate / Continuous This could let you hit cycle start once and it will keep swapping and running automatically. Explore the control’s documentation on “2-face pallet changer mode”.
• Rotary Table Usage (4th Axis): On a TC-32B, you might also have a rotary if it’s the QT model (maybe not, but if it’s a 4-axis variant). If so, integrated usage means you can do e.g. pallet 1 has a rotary tombstone with multi-sides. Then you combine A-axis indexing with pallet changes – that’s quite advanced but very powerful (you could machine multiple faces on one pallet’s part via A-axis moves, then swap pallet). If doing that, consider writing macro loops: scssCopyEdit(Pallet 1 routine) G54 (pallet 1 base) M430 (unclamp rotary) G00 A0 M431 (clamp) M98 P2001 (machine face 1) M430 ; unclamp G00 A90 M431 ; clamp M98 P2001 (machine face 2, same sub) ... (repeat for needed indexes) Then swap pallet and do similar for pallet 2. The control’s speed and clamp M-codes will let you automate this. Ensure to clamp after each index (Brother auto clamps after an A move if parameter set, but using M431 explicitly is safe practice between heavy ops).
• Maintenance & Pallet Alignment: Occasionally check that pallets are tram to spindle (no crash has knocked them out) – one can indicate a pallet surface to ensure it’s level and where expected. Any adjustment is via the mechanical stops typically.

Example Macro: Automatic Part Counter with Pallets

To illustrate a custom macro usage tying some of these concepts: Suppose you want the machine to stop after a certain number of cycles on each pallet (maybe to change a cutting insert or perform QC). You could implement:

csharpCopyEdit#510=0   (parts on Pallet1 count)
#511=0   (parts on Pallet2 count)
#512=10  (desired count before stop for Pallet1)
#513=10  (desired count for Pallet2)
...
(M411 pallet1 out)
M98 P1001
#510=[#510+1] 
IF [#510 GE #512] THEN #3000 = 2 ("Pallet1 count reached") 
(M410 pallet2 out)
M98 P1002
#511=[#511+1]
IF [#511 GE #513] THEN #3000 = 3 ("Pallet2 count reached")
M99

This would increment counters and throw a custom alarm (#3000=2 or 3) when a pallet hits its quota, pausing operation with your message. The operator can then reset counters and continue. In practice, using Brother’s built-in counters (M211 etc.) or tool life management might be easier, but it shows how macros can add logic.

English–Japanese Terminology Tables

Below are quick-reference tables for common terms used in machining, machine components, and CAM programming, with English and Japanese (日本語) equivalents. This will help bilingual users or those working from Japanese documentation/CAM software.

Materials (材料) Terminology

Machine & CNC Terms (機械・工作機械用語)

CAM Programming Terms

These terms will help in understanding machine interface labels, manuals in Japanese, and CAM software settings when switched to Japanese. Many CAM programs allow you to set the UI language – knowing that “削除” means delete, or “計算” means calculate, etc., can be helpful if you end up on a Japanese setup. But for machining terms, the above covers most you’ll encounter.

Conclusion: By combining the knowledge of operations, proper speeds/feeds from quality tool manufacturers, and leveraging Brother’s advanced control features (like G100 non-stop tool change, dual-pallet automation, and macro programming), a Speedio user can significantly boost productivity. Always start with the safe cutting conditions if unsure, and gradually dial up to the high-speed regime while monitoring tool condition, surface finish, and machine load. The BT30/BBT30 spindle, while small, can be a powerhouse when used correctly – as evidenced by the real examples (150+ m/min cutting in steel, 600+ m/min in aluminum, lightning tapping at 20+ m/min, etc.). Keep this guide as a reference, utilize the English-Japanese terms to communicate on the shop floor in Japan, and continue to consult tooling catalogs (OSG, NS Tool (sometimes called “NC Tool” by some), Misumi, etc.​

us.misumi-ec.com​

osgblog.com) for the latest recommended cutting data.

安全第一 (Safety first), and happy machining on your Brother Speedio!