When one hears CNC routing, the first thing that comes to mind is woodworking and furniture making. CNC routing was originally made to shape and carve wood pieces. However, its capabilities extend beyond wood. CNC routing is versatile and compatible with various materials in manufacturing industries. You can work on metals and plastics to create detailed features and complex shapes.
This article will be your guide on CNC router wood. It will explain the process of CNC routing, other materials you can use when routing, and CNC routing pro tips for the best results.
Table of Contents
What is CNC Routing
CNC routing is a subtractive manufacturing process that offers unwavering accuracy and precision. It involves the movement of cutting tools over a stationary workpiece to carve useful components out of it. This technique is versatile and you can use it for architectural woodworking, customized car parts, and shaping musical instruments. CNC routing is mainly employed for engraving and etching operations. You can also use it for profiling, pocketing, 3D carving, and reaming.
The process of CNC routing begins with the creation of a 2D or 3D model of the final design. You carry out this step using suitable CAD software. Thereafter, convert the CAD model to programming languages that the machine understands. These languages including G codes and M codes control the movement of the cutting tool. You then execute the operation and carry out the routing process. The machine runs uninterrupted till the program ends. After getting the final, inspect the quality and carry out post-processing operations if needed. CNC routing is fast and produces repeatable results.
Can CNC Routing Only Be Used on Wood
No, CNC routing is not exclusive to woodworking and carving applications. While CNC routing was initially used for different wood types, it is possible to work on other engineering materials including metals and plastics. There are many reasons why wood is the most common for CNC routing operations. Wood is soft and easy to cut through. They do not wear the routing tools quickly which saves tooling and maintenance costs.
Furthermore, most types of wood are affordable and accessible. You do not need heavy financial investments when building functional parts. Examples of wood CNC routing applications include furniture manufacturing, custom signage, and decorative architectural panels.
What Materials Can a CNC Router Work With
CNC routing is a versatile process and is suitable for many materials. Let’s look at the in-depth materials compatible with CNC routing other than wood
Plastics
Different types of plastics are good choices for CNC routing. Plastics are durable, tough, and impact-resistant. Many of the common types are as strong as most metals and have a lower weight. Examples of plastics ideal for CNC routing include
Acrylic: Acrylic, also known as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), is a clear and transparent plastic. It is scratch-resistant, is available in various colors, and produces a smooth finish when cut. CNC-engraved acrylic is used in display components and lampshades.
Polycarbonate (PC): PC is a transparent thermoplastic you can use for CNC routing. The final parts are optically clear and dimensionally stable. It is lightweight and resistant to impact. These properties make PC ideal for manufacturing display cases and aircraft interiors.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): PVC is a hard and rigid plastic. It has good insulation properties and is resistant to shock and abrasion. Furthermore, it comes in different forms and you can use it in environments with high moisture content. PVC has applications in display panels and signage.
Metals
Metals and alloys are another category of CNC routing materials. This machining technique is reserved for soft metals including aluminum, brass, and copper.
Aluminum: Aluminum is a popular choice material for CNC routing operations. It is soft and easy to cut through. Aluminum has high conductivity and prevents heat build-up when carving and engraving. Common grades of aluminum alloys you can use include 6082, 2024, and 5083.
Brass: Brass alloy is another CNC routing metal. Brass stands out because of its high machinability and corrosion resistance properties. It is malleable and you can manipulate it to get various shapes and designs.
Copper: Many part manufacturers opt for copper during routing because of its many properties. Copper has superior electrical and thermal conductivity. It is versatile and you can use it for decorative items and outdoor components.
Foam
Foam is another category of material you can use during CNC routing. Most foam types are lightweight and affordable. Their high strength and chemical resistance make them suitable for demanding applications. You can employ them for protective packaging and architectural decorative features. Examples of foam grades suitable for CNC routing include expanded polystyrene (EPS), polystyrene, and polyurethane.
Composites
CNC router bits work excellently with composites and laminates. Common CNC routing composites include fiberglass, carbon fiber, fiber-metal laminates, and ceramic matrix composites. Composites have a high strength-to-weight ratio. It is possible to create detailed features on the workpiece without compromising the integrity of the cutting tool. Note that some composite grades require special bits when carving them.
Pro Tips for CNC Routing
CNC routing is straightforward even for novices. However, there are some precautions and considerations one should be aware of to avoid mistakes and get the best results. Let’s look at some pro tips for CNC routing
Material Selection and Preparation
Before carrying out CNC routing, you should carefully select the material you want to use and understand its innate properties. Furthermore, prepare the workpiece by properly cleaning it with suitable agents. The cleaning agents can be alkaline or neutral depending on the particular metal or plastic you are working with. Additionally, use suitable work-holding fixtures to secure the workpiece to prevent excessive vibrations.
Proper Tooling
The tooling you use will determine the success of the CNC routing operation. Choose the right router bit for your project to get the best results. Ensure that the tools are sharp, properly maintained, and frequently replaced. The type of router bit you use depends on the desired speed and surface quality. Single-flute bits remove material at a high speed but can compromise quality. Multi-flute bits though slower give a smooth and glossy finish.
Optimize Routing Parameters
When CNC routing, you do not use random spindle speed and feed rate. You have to study the workpiece material and modify the routing parameters based on your findings. Experts suggest you start routing at a low speed and increase it as needed. Using higher than required speed can lead to poor cuts and tool damage. Furthermore, too high a feed rate can cause overheating and compromise the workpiece.
Dust and Chip Management
CNC routing will inevitably produce chips and dust. The amount of the dust and chips will depend on the workpiece in question. When engraving or marking a part, you must invest in a good dust management system. A good system will reduce overheating and the incidence of fire outbreaks. Additionally, it will prevent equipment damage and enhance overall productivity.
Use of Coolants
Using good cooling and lubrication systems makes all the difference in CNC routing. Coolants help to control high temperatures and allow the operation to run smoothly. There are different CNC coolants you can use which include synthetic fluids, semi-synthetic fluids, and soluble oils. The type of coolant you employ will depend on the workpiece material, desired surface roughness, and the routing parameters.
Conclusion
CNC routing is an advanced technique that uses computer-controlled tools to shape a workpiece. It is fast, automated, and produces consistent results. While CNC routing has its origin in woodworking, its applications have expanded. CNC routing can be used when working with metals, plastics, and composites. However, you must always prepare your material before starting your CNC routing project. Furthermore, use a proper chip evacuation system and prioritize lubricants to get high-quality cuts.
