What Is CNC Routing?
The first question in your head could be what is CNC routing? It is one of the popular machining approaches in modern manufacturing.
Like other standard CNC machining, routing refers to shaping compatible materials into the desired shape or geometry. However, the difference is in tooling and capabilities.
The routing machine uses a specialized tool called a router with a rotating bit. This router moves across the workpiece following the instruction (G-code) and pre-determined tool paths to shape to perform the machining operations.
Furthermore, it involves a large CNC bed and low tool pressure. As a result, routing operations are suitable for thin and large worksheets.
A CNC router is a type of computer-controlled machine created for milling, drilling and cutting materials.
CNC routers are similar to milling machines, with some of them capable of performing almost the same tasks.
The main functions are to cut, engrave and carve objects out of a work piece, essentially a replacement for the usual hand-held router.
By introducing computer control to the process, the number of errors is drastically reduced.
How Does A CNC Router Work?
CNC routers vary in their build volume and configuration; they can have one or more axis to work with and the ability to swap tools to perform different tasks.
The key feature of these machines is the computer control, which moves, rotates and spins tools according to a CAM program, which can be created manually for relatively easy tasks or automatically using software.
The software transforms a digital CAD file into a set of instructions for the machine to complete.
What Are The Stages Of The CNC Routing Process?
CNC routing, integral to industries from aerospace to custom furniture, follows a meticulous sequence of stages.
Each stage is crucial, building upon the last to ensure the final product meets exact specifications with high-quality finishes.
Let’s navigate through these stages, understanding their importance in the CNC routing journey.
#1. Design Creation.
The journey begins with design creation, the conceptual blueprint of the final product. Utilizing CAD software, designers draft detailed models, laying the foundation for what will eventually materialize from the CNC router.
This stage is pivotal; the precision and creativity employed here directly influence the feasibility and quality of the finished piece.
Whether for complex machinery components or intricate art pieces, the design stage encapsulates the envisioned outcome in digital form.
#2. Conversion to CNC Language.
Following design, the next critical phase is converting the CAD model into a language the CNC machine comprehends G-code.
CAM software programs come into play here, translating design intricacies into executable machine instructions.
This conversion is more than mere translation; it’s about ensuring the CNC router can accurately follow the design paths, considering factors like tool paths, cutting depths, and material properties.
This stage bridges the gap between digital designs and physical production, underscoring the importance of precision in CNC operations.
#3. Material Selection and Preparation.
Selecting the appropriate material is not merely about aesthetics; it’s about compatibility with the design’s functional requirements and the CNC router’s capabilities.
Materials range from softwoods and hardwoods to metals and plastics, each chosen based on the project’s needs for durability, finish, and structural integrity.
Preparation involves sizing the material correctly and securing it to the CNC table, ensuring stability and accuracy during routing.
This stage sets the stage for the transformation, ensuring the chosen material is primed for the intricate dance with the router.
#4. Machine Setup.
Before the magic happens, setting up the CNC router is paramount. This includes loading the correct tools, such as drill bits and cutters, and configuring settings like speed, feed rate, and tool paths based on the material and design specifics.
Proper setup is crucial for operational efficiency and precision, impacting everything from cut quality to tool longevity.
This stage is about aligning the machine’s capabilities with the project’s demands, ensuring it’s ready to execute the design flawlessly.
#5. CNC Routing Process.
With preparations complete, the CNC routing process begins. The machine springs to life, cutting and carving as per the G-code directives.
This stage is where the digital design materializes, with the router meticulously following the programmed paths to create the physical object.
The precision of CNC routing shines here, showcasing the ability to produce complex shapes and fine details far beyond manual capabilities.
#6. Post-Processing.
Once the router has done its part, the post-processing stage addresses any necessary finishing touches.
This might include sanding, painting, or assembly, transforming the routed piece into the final product.
Post-processing is critical for aesthetics and functionality, ensuring the piece not only matches the design intent but is also ready for its intended use.
#7. Quality Control.
The final stage, quality control, is about ensuring the finished product meets all specifications and quality standards.
This involves inspecting the piece for accuracy, dimensions, and finish, affirming that the entire CNC routing process has adhered to the highest standards.
Quality control is the final checkpoint, a testament to the process’s precision, and a guarantee of the product’s readiness for delivery or use.
Why Use A CNC Router?
Routing is a common production method used in woodwork, signage, moldings, thermoforming, and more. It’s most effective when a precise cut is required on a regular basis.
CNC routers, depending on their components, are compatible with various hard materials including wood, metal, stone, plastics, foam, acrylics, and glass.
Some machines are equipped with dust collection systems, which soak in material chips and other waste during the process.
Computer controlled routers help to reduce production time and the frequency of manufacturing errors by creating near-identical objects each and every time, provided all external factors are controlled.
CNC routers require technical assistance from time to time, with working tools and mechanisms wearing down over time.
However, the production capabilities and speeds still make using these machines extremely cost-efficient for businesses and hobbyists.
Older versions of CNC routers used to be large and take up a lot of room but now modern machines come in various sizes, and there are even desktop versions, which fit on a table and still delivery superb results.
Software used in routers has also improved, so even hobbyists are now able to operate simple machines with the help of CAD/CAM programs.
Several programs are designed for special purposes and can help to create simple models, as well as generating codes for designs.
This makes CNC routers helpful for tinkerers, furniture manufacturers and even designers, without the need for professional carving and woodworking skills.
Parts Of A CNC Router
A CNC router machine has four main components that all work together to make the part: the bed, the controller, the motors, and the spindle/router. Below you’ll find a little more information on each of these components.
Bed: This is where you’ll put the material that you want to cut. Some beds have multiple holes or attachment points to make it easier to mount clamping hardware so that the workpiece can stay in place during cutting.
Controller: This part houses all the electronics, including the stepper or servo motors, that control the machine’s speed and how and where it cuts.
Motors: The stepper or servo motors operate each of the three motion axes. Steppers are usually found on cheaper hobbyist routers, whereas servos, which are found on more expensive machines, are used in professional-grade models because they offer more precision. There’s also a separate high-speed motor that rotates the cutting tool.
Spindle/Router: This is what holds and rotates the cutting tool at the set speed. It’s usually mounted on the gantry above the bed and moves as needed along the axes.
Types Of CNC Routers
As you explore the world of CNC routing, you’ll find an array of machines each designed to meet specific needs, from industrial production to hobbyist projects.
Let’s delve into the different types of CNC routers available, highlighting their main applications, unique characteristics, and capabilities.
1. Industrial CNC Routers.
Industrial CNC routers are the powerhouses of CNC technology, designed for heavy-duty use in manufacturing environments.
These routers are built with robustness and durability in mind, capable of handling large volumes of work with speed and precision.
They often feature advanced automation capabilities, including ATC (Automatic Tool Changer) systems and sophisticated software interfaces for managing complex tasks.
Main applications include cutting, engraving, and shaping a wide range of materials for industries such as aerospace, automotive, and furniture manufacturing.
Their unique capability lies in their high production capacity and precision, making them indispensable for large-scale operations.
2. Desktop CNC Routers
Desktop CNC routers, as the name suggests, are compact versions designed to fit on a desk or small workshop space.
These routers cater to smaller projects, prototyping, and educational purposes, providing a cost-effective solution for those beginning their journey into CNC routing or with limited space.
Despite their size, desktop CNC routers offer impressive precision and versatility, suitable for working with wood, plastics, and soft metals.
They are particularly favored by designers, hobbyists, and small businesses for their ease of use and maintenance.
3. Hobby CNC Routers
Hobby CNC routers are tailored for enthusiasts and DIYers who delve into CNC routing for personal projects, crafts, or small-scale production.
These machines often balance between affordability and functionality, offering a gateway into CNC routing without the investment required for industrial-grade equipment.
Hobby CNC routers are versatile enough to handle a variety of materials, including wood, plastics, and foams, making them perfect for crafting unique items, home decor, and prototypes.
4. 3-Axis CNC Routers
3-Axis CNC routers represent the most common type of CNC router, capable of moving in three directions: X (left to right), Y (front to back), and Z (up and down).
This versatility allows for a wide range of cutting, drilling, and milling applications across flat surfaces.
The simplicity and efficiency of 3-axis CNC routers make them a popular choice for both beginners and professionals, applicable in creating signs, furniture, and other intricate designs on a flat plane.
5. 4-Axis CNC Routers
Expanding on the capabilities of 3-axis machines, 4-Axis CNC routers introduce an additional axis of rotation, allowing the workpiece to be rotated along the X-axis.
This added flexibility enables more complex shapes and designs, such as sculptures or parts that require machining on several sides.
4-Axis CNC routers are particularly useful in industries where precision and multidimensional cutting are essential, offering the ability to create more complex geometries without repositioning the workpiece manually.
6. 5-Axis CNC Routers
5-Axis CNC routers are at the forefront of CNC routing technology, providing movement along five different axes simultaneously.
This capability allows for cutting complex shapes and undercuts, as well as achieving smoother surface finishes.
5-Axis machines are ideal for advanced manufacturing applications requiring intricate design work, such as aerospace components, architectural elements, and high-precision parts.
Their unique capability to approach the workpiece from virtually any direction opens up limitless possibilities for innovation and design.
7. ATC (Automatic Tool Changer) CNC Routers
ATC CNC routers are equipped with an automatic tool changing mechanism, enabling the machine to swap out tools during the routing process without manual intervention.
This feature significantly enhances productivity and efficiency, particularly for jobs requiring multiple tool types.
ATC routers find their main applications in production environments where time is of the essence, and precision is paramount.
Their unique capability to minimize downtime and human error makes them a valuable asset for high-volume, complex projects.
8. Nested-Based CNC Routers
Nested-Based CNC routers are designed to optimize material usage and efficiency by arranging patterns to be cut in a way that minimizes waste.
This type of CNC router is particularly suited for industries involved in furniture production, cabinetry, and sheet metal fabrication, where maximizing material yield is critical.
Their unique capability to combine software-driven optimization with precision cutting ensures that nested-based CNC routers offer both economic and environmental benefits, reducing waste while maintaining high production standards.
What Materials Are Suitable For CNC Routing?
Since routing is a preferred machining process for soft materials, you might think it is compatible with fewer CNC machining material options.
On the contrary, the router can machine diverse plastics, woods, and some composites & metals. It is only unsuitable for metal and alloys with high hardness.
The following are the materials for the routing process.
- Woods (soft, hard, and, ply)
- Acrylic
- High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
- Polycarbonate
- Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
- Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
- Aluminium and its alloys (2024, 6061, 6062, 7075, etc)
- Brass
- Copper
- Steel
- Fiberglass
What Are The Applications Of CNC Routing?
Let’s explore the major industries that benefit from CNC routing, highlighting the diverse applications within each.
Woodworking Industry
Woodworking stands as one of the primary sectors that extensively utilize CNC routing.
This industry appreciates the router’s ability to perform intricate cuts, carve detailed designs, and create joineries such as dovetails and mortise-and-tenon joints.
Applications include:
- Furniture Making: Crafting both modern and traditional furniture with complex designs and precise fittings.
- Cabinetry: Producing cabinets and shelving with intricate patterns and exact dimensions.
- Musical Instruments: Carving and shaping wooden parts for guitars, violins, and other instruments, where precision is crucial for sound quality.
Signage and Engraving
The signage industry benefits greatly from CNC routing, using it to cut out letters and shapes from various materials.
Engraving applications extend beyond signs, offering personalized customization for awards, nameplates, and promotional items.
Applications involve:
- Outdoor and Indoor Signage: Creating durable signs from wood, plastic, and metal.
- Custom Engraving: Offering personalized engraving services for corporate awards, gifts, and memorabilia.
Aerospace and Automotive
In the aerospace and automotive sectors, CNC routing is pivotal for prototyping, part fabrication, and the creation of custom components.
The precision and ability to work with a wide range of materials make CNC routers invaluable for:
- Component Prototyping: Quickly producing parts for testing and design validation.
- Custom Fabrication: Manufacturing unique components that meet stringent industry standards.
Marine Industry
The marine industry relies on CNC routing for crafting boat components, custom dash panels, and decorative elements.
The router’s precision ensures that parts fit perfectly, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.
Applications include:
- Boat Building: Cutting and shaping hull components, decking, and interior cabinetry.
- Custom Panels: Designing and manufacturing bespoke control panels for boats and yachts.
Architectural and Decorative Applications
Architectural firms and interior designers use CNC routing to bring creative visions to life.
From decorative panels to custom furniture and architectural elements, CNC routing offers limitless possibilities for creative expression.
Applications are:
- Decorative Panels and Screens: Producing intricate designs for indoor and outdoor use.
- Custom Architectural Elements: Creating unique moldings, facades, and structural components for buildings.
Prototyping and Model Making
CNC routing is indispensable in prototyping for various industries, allowing designers and engineers to rapidly produce accurate models.
This accelerates the development process, from initial concept to final product.
Applications span:
- Product Design: Fabricating prototypes for consumer goods, electronics, and industrial products.
- Architectural Models: Constructing detailed scale models of buildings and landscapes for presentations and planning.
Education and Research
Educational institutions and research facilities utilize CNC routing for teaching manufacturing techniques and conducting experiments.
It enables students and researchers to design and create precise models and components for various projects, enhancing learning and innovation.
Benefits And Limitations Of CNC Routing
The first significant advantage of CNC routing is fast and accurate machining for soft materials. Let’s discuss straightforward benefits and limitations.
Benefits
- It can achieve a precision of approximately ± 0.0025mm and is far ahead of traditional handheld routers.
- The large size of the router bed allows the machining of large sheets or workpieces.
- Advanced tooling like ATC routers allows for automatic change of CNC router bits during operation, reducing the cycle time.
- Routing offers excellent repeatability. It can create identical complex shapes consistently.
- It is cost-effective and can create complex shapes from compatible CNC materials.
Limitations
- The CNC router machine has some limitations also. It cannot machine hard materials like steel and titanium.
- The CNC bed size limits the workpiece size, and design change demands too much time.
- The router machine can be loud due to its vacuum system.
CNC Routing vs. Milling: What’s the Differences?
| Criteria | CNC Routing | CNC Milling |
| Working | A spindle moves along the X, Y, and Z axes with a rotating router bit that removes the material. | The spindle moves along multiple axes (3 or more) with a cutting tool with high cutting force for materials removal. |
| Rigidity | Routing machines are less rigid than milling. | The robust frame and structure of CNC milling machines make them highly rigid. |
| Speed | CNC routing machine operates at High speed. | Lower to moderate cutting speeds |
| Material Capabilities | Wood, plastics, foam, and some soft metals and composites. | Almost every CNC material, from plastic to hard metal and alloys. |
| Cutting Force | Low to medium cutting forces | High cutting forces |
| Precision | Excellent precision in material-specific machining with a tolerance of as low as ± 0.0025mm. | More than routing, tight tolerances for complex and detailed designs. |
| Complexity | More suitable for large-scale machining rather than complexity. | Milling handles complex and detailed projects. |
| Tooling Options | Straight bits, flush trim bits, round-over bits, V-grooves, etc. | Diverse machine tool options than routing, end mills, face mills, drills, chamfer tools, ball nose cutters, etc. |
| Cost | Highly cost-effective | Expensive than routing |