Rapid Traverse
Is rapid traverse the same as feed rate?
No. Rapid traverse is a non-cutting positioning mode, while feed rate is the controlled cutting motion used for material removal.
Can G00 move in absolute and incremental programming?
Yes. Both absolute and incremental coordinates can be used depending on active mode and control setup.
Does G00 always move at the same speed?
No. The actual rapid speed is machine- and axis-dependent, typically set by builder parameters; the control may also limit velocity based on axis capabilities.
Rapid traverse (G00) is a CNC machine's non-cutting positioning motion at the highest available speed. It is used to quickly move axes between safe points, tool changes, and machining locations without removing material. This modal command shortens non-productive time and is essential for efficient cycle time in millwork and machining operations.
In CNC milling, turning, and millwork cells, rapid traverse is used to shorten non-productive time by moving the tool or spindle from one coordinate to another at the machine’s maximum programmed or parameter-limited traverse rate. G00 is modal, so once active it remains in effect until replaced by a feed or contouring command such as G01, G02, or G03. The move is typically a straight-line simultaneous axis repositioning to the target point. On modern controls, the rapid rate is usually set by the machine builder or axis parameters rather than by the G-code line itself, and some controls allow feed-override behavior even during rapid positioning. Practically, operators and programmers use G00 to retract above clamps, clear fixtures, index to a new face, or send the tool to a tool-changer park position while reducing cycle time and air-cut losses.
Fixture Collisions: Failure to clear Z and verify safe intermediate planes before a rapid move can cause the tool to strike clamps or vises at full speed, resulting in machine damage or scrapped parts.
Machining with G00: Using rapid traverse where feed is required forces the machine to plow through material at maximum speed, leading to cutter breakage, part damage, and potential spindle overload.
Swept Path Avoidance: In multi-axis rapid moves, axes move simultaneously and are timed together. Assuming independent motion can lead to unexpected swept paths and collisions in tight fixture nests or tombstones.