What command moves the spindle at maximum speed in CNC?
In most mainstream CNC machines (e.g., HAAS, Fanuc, Siemens, Mazak, etc.), the command to move the spindle at maximum speed is typically:
👉 S[MaxRPM] M3
or S[MaxRPM] M4
Where:
S
sets the spindle speed in RPM.M3
starts the spindle in the clockwise direction.M4
starts the spindle in the counterclockwise direction.
💡 How to move the spindle at the machine’s maximum allowable speed:
Most machines have a built-in max spindle speed limit set in their parameters (e.g., 8000, 12000, 15000, or 24000 RPM). If you want to always run at that machine-defined maximum without hardcoding a number, do the following:
✅ For Fanuc, Haas, and most G-code-based systems:
G50 S[MaxRPM] ; Optional spindle speed clamp (Fanuc-style)
S[MaxRPM] M3 ; Start spindle at max speed clockwise
Example:
G50 S15000 ; Clamp spindle max to 15,000 RPM
S15000 M3 ; Run spindle at 15,000 RPM clockwise
🔧 If you’re unsure of the exact max speed, check the machine manual or look for spindle speed limits in your machine’s parameter/settings page.
Brand-specific notes:
Brand | Max Speed Command |
---|---|
Fanuc | G50 S[Max] , then S[Max] M3 |
HAAS | S[Max] M3 directly; spindle override applies |
Siemens | Uses similar commands but may use cycles or ShopMill |
Mazak | Uses Mazatrol (conversational), but G-code mode supports S[Max] M3 |
Heidenhain | SPINDLE RPM MAX set in setup, then M3 to run |
Pro tip:
You can use a spindle override dial on the machine panel to fine-tune or boost spindle speed during operation — but software-wise, S[max] M3
is your go-to for full RPM.
Let me know your CNC brand if you’d like the exact format.
1 thought on “What command moves the spindle at maximum speed in CNC?”
Nailed it.