Store
A CNC (computer numerical control) router is a type of tool used in cutting wood, aluminum, composites, and several other materials. A CNC router is distinct from other types of routers because it is computer controlled. Because it is computer controlled, it often offers more precision and quality than traditional routers. While a jig router, for example, is better suited to repeated identical production, a CNC router can work well in both repeated identical production and producing a one-off.
Applications for which a CNC router is appropriate
CNC routers are appropriate for many different manufacturing applications. They can be used to create elaborate door carvings, wood panels, sound boards, musical instruments, grinding machines, and more.
CNC routers are used in forming plastic in addition to being used to form metal and wood parts; they are particularly useful in plastics manufacture when they're used to thermoform plastics through the automation of the trimming process.
How the router can be sized and configurated
CNC routers use CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) software to function. This type of software uses g-code to communicate with the CNC machine. When the g-code/computer controls a CNC router, uploaded coordinates are pulled from a CAD program. In order for CNC routers to operate both a program that creates CAD designs and a program that translates these designs are necessary.
omgIt's possible for CNC routers to be controlled through a manual program. When CAD/CAM is used in a router, it's possible to take advantage of maneuvers like contouring the work piece. It's also possible to make programming a bit faster by using CAD/CAM than programming would be if only a manual program were used.
CNC wood routers typically have a slightly different design than CNC milling machines used to form metal work pieces. A milling machine will typically use rotary cutters.
If you have any questions about CNC routers, contact the experts at Northline Industrial today!
