What are CNC Routers?
Computer numerical control (CNC) routers are a class of machine shop equipment use to remove material from a specific location on a piece of wood or metal. There are different types of CNC routers for different materials, as each material has different strengths and weaknesses. Computer numerical control refers to the computer programming that is used to control and program the router. CNC routers are used to create patterns or cutouts as needed. A CNC router is attached to a table and uses computer programming to remove material from a piece of wood or metal in a specific pattern or shape. The router is usually attached to a three or four speed motor system. The four motor systems provide additional speed and increased accuracy. A recessed door hinge in a door frame is an example of the type of work done by a router. CNC routers designed for use with wood typically spin at a rate between 13,000 and 24,000 revolutions per minute (RPM). Different baseplates, templates or jigs are used t
Some wood routers are specialized for cabinetry and have many drills that can be programmed to come down separately or together. The drills are generally spaced 32 mm apart on centres – a spacing system called 32mm System. Drilling can be vertical or horizontal (in the Y or X axis from either side/end of the workpiece) which allows a panel to be drilled on all four edges as well as the top surface. Many of these machines with large drilling arrays are derived from CNC point-to-point borers The wood router typically holds wood with suction through the table or pods that raise the work above the table. This type of hold-down is used for components which require edge profiling (or undercutting), are manufactured from solid wood or where greater flexibility in production is required. This type of bed requires less extraction with greater absolute vacuum. A second type hold down requires a “spoil board” or “cull sheets” to the work. Such machines are frequently used for nest-based manufactu
