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So,what Is A CNC Router And How Does It Work?
It’s basically a computer-controlled router. You can mill, drill and cut with one. And out of the all CNC machines it's the most used CNC machine type.
Unlike a jig-router, you can produce accurate one-offs with a CNC router as easily as you can make repeat pieces.
Accuracy, and the ability to automate production are what really sets the CNC Router apart.
The router works within a specified cutting area, guided by computer control – you input instructions via an interface programming language.
It works like a traditional router to remove material using various cutting bits, but the need to physically move the router around is removed.
To sum up: The best cnc routers will give you precision work with less labour and you can scale up your production in short time.
Types Of CNC Routers Based On Use
There are a few different types and classifications of three-axis table routers.
Industrial CNC Routers :
These are large, heavy-duty machines that are designed and built to do professional production on a big scale.
They are capable of doing fast, complicated cutting of large parts and these machines often weigh several tonnes, and cost many tens of thousands of dollars
Mid-range CNC Routers:
These are smaller versions than their industrial counterparts, but capable of the same intricacy, accuracy and volume in production – on a slightly smaller scale.
Hobbyist DIY CNC Routers:
These machines are used my amateur woodworkers and hobbyists to make parts for projects and are often home-made or made from commercially available kits.
These machines are on a much smaller scale than industrial versions. They’re smaller, less powerful and lighter in weight
Mini and Desktop hobbyist CNC Routers:
Hobbyist CNC Routers are on the same sort of scale as DIY Hobbyist machines, but they’re bought ready-made or in complete kits. Mini and Desktop versions are very similar in operation to these, but on a smaller scale again, and often have tiny tables.
The Advantages Of A CNC Router Over A Traditional Router -
Precision:
CNC control offers great control and fine limits when it comes to producing flawless pieces – every time.
Once programmed, the CNC router removes any scope for human error from woodworking.
Less work:
Less laying and marking out are big benefits with a CNC router.
But the true advantage of these machines is in the automation.
You’ll spend way less time at the machine than you will with a mini mill, for instance.
You can get on with other work while the CNC router gets on with it’s own.
Less waste:
Fewer mistakes means less wasting of expensive materials.
CNC also means less need for layout, and this results in far more reliable production.
Produce work at scale:
Smaller scale projects can be completed with great intricacy using a CNC router.
You can also use the software to easily scale up or down a part.
Something that’s incredibly difficult to do using more traditional tools.
Set it and forget it:
A CNC Router is quicker and produces less waste than a traditional router.
Once you’ve set it, you can pretty much forget it, short of having to change out tools occasionally.
Mistakes are less frequent, so long as you get your programming correct in the first place. And as we’ve said, repeat jobs are a breeze with a CNC Router.