In the early years of CNC, many systems were modified to fit the existing standard machines. Today, almost any machine tool is available in a CNC version, and that includes the highly versatile CNC router.
Whether your knowledge of CNC routers is limited or you already have experience with them and are looking to step up to a more sophisticated model, you likely have questions as you make some critical decisions.
Here are some frequently asked questions that are mostly geared to individuals who are hoping to get started with the right machine tool. We hope you find your answers here, but rest assured that help is always just a phone call or email away.
What is a CNC Router?
The CNC router is part of a lineup of automated machine tools that include milling machines, lathes (turners), grinders, and lasers, just to name a few. These machines require computers and software to manage their operations, and they utilize much of the same tooling as you would find on the milling machine.
CNC routers have become popular with machine shops, kitchen manufacturers, sign makers, metal fabrication shops, and a host of other enterprises. You’ll find these machines in the world’s largest manufacturing plants and in the garages of part-time hobbyists and entrepreneurs.
Wherever they are used, CNC routers will reduce waste, increase efficiency, and allow their owners to create things that they wouldn’t have thought possible just a few years ago.
What kind of work can I do on the CNC router?
Since the CNC router is predominately (but not exclusively) used for woodworking, you can use it to generate income by making signs, cabinet doors, musical instruments, toys, clocks, or any type of artistic pursuit for fun or profit.
Check out this Farmers Market Honey Display that was created on a CNC router:
Photo credit: 3axis.co
If you are looking for a hobby, the CNC router is open to your suggestions, so use your imagination to design and create projects that suit your interests.
And don’t think you must break the bank to purchase a CNC router. There are budget-friendly “desktop” models that are perfect for the hobbyist or the fledgling entrepreneur.
Laguna’s 2’ x 3’ Desktop Model
I keep seeing the term “axis” as I research CNC routers. What does it mean?
Axis simply refers to a direction in which the machine is moving. When the operator is facing the machine, and the worktable is moving right or left, that is called the “X” axis.
When the table is moving toward or away from the operator (in or out), that’s the “Y” axis. And when the spindle, which holds the cutting tool, is moving toward or away from the work table (up or down), that is the “Z” axis.
A 3-axis CNC machine can move along all three of these axes simultaneously as it creates three-dimensional shapes.
What materials will the CNC router cut?
A CNC router can be used to cut several different materials that include:
- wood
- aluminum
- composites
- metals
- plastic
- foam
- leather
- fabrics
- fiberglass
No matter which material you’re using, the CNC router will offer the advantages of automation and exceptional productivity.
Must I learn a programming language such as G-Code to operate a CNC router?
No, that isn’t necessary. There is software that allows you to design your parts, import drawings, and edit them. The software will generate the code that the machine uses to machine the parts.
CNC router manufacturing is compatible with several software programs.
Some of the programs used most frequently include:
- Vectric VCarve (2D software)
- Vectric Aspire (3D software)
- Rhino (3D software)
- EnRoute
- Mozaik (Cabinet software)
- Cabinet Vision (Cabinet software)
Why not simply use a hand-held router instead of a CNC?
This is an excellent question, but once you see what differentiates the two types, you’ll realize the comparison is similar to apples vs. oranges.
Here are the CNC’s main advantages:
- Faster moving: CNC routers move along three axes (X, Y, & Z) using a three-engine drive framework. Hand-held routers have a single cutting head, while CNCs can have multiple heads. And CNC routers can deliver intricate work in a fraction of the time. Need more reasons?
- Accurate: Hand-held routers cannot produce the precision that their CNC counterparts do. Routing by hand using a template can’t compete with the quality that comes from a stable and powerful CNC router.
- Safer and more reliable: With a hand-held router, the operator is closer to the moving router bit, and there is always the possibility of human error. CNC routing can safely machine harder surfaces with the operator at a safer distance. Since the computer dictates all the moves, there are fewer errors, and repeatability is almost ensured.
- Cost-Effective: Quality CNC routers have a higher upfront cost, but over the life of the machine tool, you will save much more in efficiency, quality, safety, and productivity. It isn’t even close; the CNC router is much too versatile and provides too many benefits, so the hand-held router will always pale in comparison!
Handheld Router Photo Credit: Wonkee Donkee
Which CNC machine is right for me?
Determining which machine to purchase comes down to deciding what you want to make with it. The size, shape, and number of parts that you want to produce will aid you in choosing the right machine.
Keep in mind that the physical size of the table controls the work area on a CNC router, minus any room you need clamping, dust collection, etc.
Also, think about the future: Will you be branching out into larger items sometime down the road? If you think you’ll be working with full sheets at some point, you’ll need a CNC router with a work area of 4’ x 8’.
CNC router machines come in all sizes and price ranges, so consider what you’ll be making and how much you can afford. There is likely a CNC machine tool that meets your needs and fits your budget!
