CNC Machinery and Techniques at WOODWEB's Knowledge Base

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Selecting the Right CAM System

A CAM systems administrator outlines the top considerations involved in choosing computer-aided manufacturing software. August 16, 2005

High-End Versus Low-End CNC Routers

Pros discuss the cost versus capability tradeoffs when considering a CNC investment. November 8, 2008

Cost of running a CNC router

Choosing the right CNC machine based on projected capabilities and costs. November 29, 2000

Maximizing Efficiency with CNC Cabinet Production

A CNC-equipped cabinetmaker explains how he squeezes the most productive value out of his equipment. September 8, 2007

CNC Router Productivity

Shop owners evaluate the productivity advantage of CNC equipment, and discuss ways to adapt shop methods and processes to the machine's capabilities. October 2, 2007

CNC-Routing Aluminum

Advice on material selection, tooling up and operating technique for cutting aluminum on CNC equipment. June 26, 2006

Considering a CNC Router Purchase

A four-man shop wants to bring its CNC work in-house, and gets advice on evaluating equipment options. November 12, 2005

Shopping for a New CNC

Think carefully about what capabilities you do and don't need, and take a close look at the vendor's tech support system. October 13, 2008

CNC Versus Panel Saw Accuracy

CNC equipment has a reputation for superior accuracy. Here, cabinetmakers discuss the reasons it may be so. March 25, 2007

What Tools Will My New CNC Replace?

A cabinetmaker contemplates buying a CNC, and thinks about how to make room for it on his floor. November 26, 2007

CNC Machine Vibration in 3D Path Cutting

Machine controllers may introduce vibration when cutting complex three-dimensional curves. The problem may improve if you lower the acceleration settings. March 12, 2009

CNC Dust Collection Improvements

CNC owners discuss ways to boost the effectiveness of CNC dust collection and keep the table and shop clean. March 12, 2009

Microvellum Users Assess New Version

An extensive and detailed look at the powerful drawing-to-cutlist integrated application's traits and quirks. August 29, 2005

Five-piece doors on CNC

Doing raised-panel work on a CNC router. November 26, 2001

Cutting Complex Shapes in 1/2-inch MDO

A long thread of advice and discussion for an unusual CNC project. December 6, 2006

G Code Trick

Writing code that repeats itself at different xy locations. June 4, 2004

The Importance of G-Code

Does a machine operator need to know G-code? Or are modern machines smart so we don't have to be? Opposing sides raise some dust in this thread from the CNC forum. August 30, 2005

Post-Processor Runs Amuck While Tracing Fonts

When you CNC draws crop circles while trying to cut out sign lettering, you know you've got troubles. Here, pros do some detective work and zero in on the buggy code. November 10, 2006

Linking Spindle RPM to Travel Speed

CNC owners discuss the feasibility of tweaking their control systems to couple bit speed with gantry travel velocity. July 16, 2008

Calibrating Wood Thickness for CNC Part Production

A CNC shop needs help figuring out how to achieve consistent thickness on stock before sending it to the CNC for cutting into small parts. The discussion ranges over belt sander accuracy, planer choices, onion-skinning techniques, and more. April 21, 2008

Speeding Up CNC Router Production

Tips on operation, loading and unloading for efficiency. December 26, 2004

Considering CNC

Another long thread about the realities of adding a CNC to an already well-equipped shop. April 8, 2008

CAD-to-Production Options

Some insights into the ever-changing world of drafting and machining software integration as of Spring, 2007. October 3, 2007

Custom Architectural Woodwork on the CNC

A request for ideas for making some custom quarter-round mouldings turns into an extended discussion of custom techniques and the value of hand labor versus computerized production. February 19, 2008

CNC tooling: What's the best?

Solving the problems of worn-out router bits and torn-out melamine. January 3, 2001

Capabilities of a Point-to-Point Router

If you're buying older used equipment, be aware of its limitations and its condition. August 17, 2006

CNC configuration

Building a CNC router. May 1, 2003

Nesting Bleeder Board Material

CNC users dissect the options. January 24, 2005

Going from handcrafted to CNC

Discussion of P2Ps, dedicated boring, edgebanders and other equipment, software and processes. August 29, 2001

Does Outsourcing Cabinet Parts Make Sense for a Small Shop?

Cabinetmakers discuss the pros and cons of having parts cut by another shop. January 26, 2008

Determining CNC feeds and speeds

Where to begin in a world with no standards. June 19, 2003

Configuration for Cowards

Basics of configuration December 5, 2001

The Take on Tooling

Advances in tooling technology are helping to change the face of the cabinet and furniture industry. This reprint from Fine Woodworking magazine rounds up the latest news on progress in tooling manufacture, and outlines how improved cutters are bringing diverse new capabilities to CNC-equipped shops ......

Feed rates and spindle speeds

Programming CNC machines at the proper feed rates. August 13, 2002

Adding a Rotary Indexer to a CNC Router

Detailed thoughts on installing a "fourth axis," similar to a lathe, onto a CNC, to hold and rotate blanks for machining complex pieces. June 29, 2007

CNC Code -- Causing a Line to Be Ignored

Code which will exclude a line from the program. June 4, 2004

CNC tooling slippage

Could it be the collects, the cleaning, the cones... what? July 9, 2002

Selecting CNC Machinery

Choosing a machine to best suit your operation. January 28, 2004

"Dovetail" Drawer-Box Joinery on a CNC

Strictly speaking, this joint may not be a true dovetail. But it functions the same way, and can be efficiently cut as nested parts on CNC equipment. May 7, 2007

Shop-Built CNC Vacuum Table

A detailed discussion of how to fabricate a vacuum table for an older CNC. December 9, 2008

Parametric Code Examples for CNC

CNC beginner gets help on coding parametric data. March 17, 2005

How Powerful a Vacuum Does a CNC Router Need?

A discussion of vacuum pumps, regenerative blowers, and spoilboard techniques for maintaining a strong hold-down vacuum. March 27, 2008

Chip Load and Tool Diameter

Experts and operators discuss the relationship between bit size, chip load, RPMs, and feed speed when machining various materials on a CNC router. August 29, 2006

CNC Router Versus Vertical Panel Saw

Which to invest in? It all depends on the shop's needs and the business plan. January 8, 2007

Figuring Out Woodshop Power Requirements

Amps, volts, watts, horsepower, and all that jazz: here's an instructive thread on how to figure out if a building's power supply will support your plans for shop equipment. July 9, 2007

Standard Layer Setups in AutoCAD

A consistent SOP for organizing the layers in your CAD files can help keep your work organized. Here, several pros show how they routinely manage layers. January 14, 2008

Slow-Opening CNC Program Files

CNC owners troubleshoot a case of excessive lag time when opening program files. January 14, 2008

Cabinet Machining and Assembly Options in a CNC Shop

Accuracy and efficiency are the goals. How you get there can vary, depending on your machinery choices. December 7, 2008

Moving to CNC: Worth the Investment?

A small-shop owner is considering whether to invest in a CNC router. In this thread, experienced pros help him evaluate his options. July 24, 2005

Ways to Machine Radiused Casings

Woodworkers discuss various methods of making curved mouldings, including CNC and moulder techniques as well as ways to join segments. December 2, 2006

Compensating for Material Thickness Variations

Thickness differences between pieces can cause trouble when machining parts out of sheet goods. But a savvy operator can work around the problem. August 29, 2006

CNC pod table

Homemade pods and more. (CNC Forum) March 23, 2003

Creating Curves on CNC Equipment

Instructions for cutting curved shapes can be hand-programmed, but it makes more sense to draw in CAD and import the shapes to the CNC controller. October 26, 2005

Performance of Resharpened Bits

CNC router bits should take several resharpenings before performance drops off. October 18, 2005

Dovetail Drawers on a CNC Router

A wide-ranging discussion about cutting dovetail drawer joints on a CNC. November 8, 2008

Phase Converters for CNC-Equipped Shops

If you need 3-phase power for a CNC machine as well as other equipment, you should consider your phase converter choice carefully. The wrong setup could damage your equipment. July 9, 2007

Understanding Vacuum Hold-Down

When shopping for a vacuum pump for a CNC, it's helpful to know how vacuum works. February 13, 2009

CNC Machine Build Quality

A shop owner's considering a CNC purchase wonders why one machine weighs more than a similar competitor. But as he learns, quality construction depends on more than weight. October 18, 2005

Machining Matching Male and Female Ellipses

There's many a slip twixt the cup and the ellipse. Here's a long and informative thread on the problem created when trying to program CNC equipment to cut two similar ellipse shapes of slightly different sizes. October 12, 2007

Buying Second-Hand CNC Equipment

People who have been there and done that describe the trouble they've been through with used CNC gear — and the payoff. March 21, 2006

Beaded face frames on CNC

Developing the right CNC setup for beaded face frames. February 13, 2001

Using DXF Files as CNC Control Input

The latest generation of CNC control software can accept some AutoCAD-generated DXF-format files directly and use them to cut parts, without the need for secondary processing by a post-processor. January 27, 2008

Troubleshooting "Banana Cut" Problems with Melamine

Humidity issues cause some panels to curve or bow when cut. Here, CNC operators discuss possible solutions. December 6, 2006

Z axis oscillation code

Programming the Z-axis of a router to use more of the cutting length of the tools. February 19, 2002

Is a Vacuum Bed Necessary?

CNC owners discuss the types of work that benefit from vacuum-table equipment, and describe other methods for holding parts down. November 8, 2007

Buying CNC Equipment for Woodcarving

A woodworker gets advice on the pitfalls awaiting the unwary buyer of CNC gear. July 21, 2006

Customized Vacuum Setups for Small Parts

This long thread offers detailed suggestions for holding down small parts on the CNC machine. January 14, 2008

The Importance of Tuning Up CNC Equipment

Low end or high end machines, performance and accuracy depend largely on "polishing" the setup. December 10, 2007

CNC feed rates for melamine

Concerns on purchasing a CNC router and software for cutting melamine. August 12, 2001

Shopping for Entry-Level CNC Equipment

Advice on finding good CNC machinery for a small shop at an entry-level price point. January 14, 2009

Doweling on a Point-to-Point CNC

CNC routers can be tweaked for accurate dowel boring, but a dedicated boring machine is a better way to go. August 8, 2008

Dedicated and Gasketed Spoilboards

Advice on spoilboard refinements for holding down small parts during CNC machining operations. August 17, 2006

To nest or not to nest?

Is nesting appropriate for all shops? June 4, 2003

Holding Down Solid Wood Parts on a CNC Router Table

Holding small pieces down with a CNC vacuum table is one of the trickiest aspects of CNC work. Here is some detailed advice. May 7, 2007

Tool Control Tolerances for Routing a Hole

CNC pros try to figure out why a CNC router is making lockset holes out of round. The culprit may be a problem with tool compensation in the lead-in and lead-out routine. September 24, 2006

CNC Choices and Blind Dado Versus Dowel Cabinet Construction

This wide-ranging discussion centers on CNC machinery capabilities in relation to different methods of building cabinets. November 25, 2005

Beading Face Frames on a CNC Router

Here's how one shop machines the joints for cabinet face frames using CNC equipment. January 21, 2007

CNC Dowel Hole Drilling Accuracy

Pros help a programmer troubleshoot inconsistencies in dowel hole placement. October 1, 2005

Fishtail problems with CNC router

Could it be the CAM package or controller? February 19, 2002

Troubleshooting Router Errors -- Hardware or Software?

A CNC tech thought his machine's bad behavior was caused by mechanical adjustment problems, but it turned out to be bad numbers in the controller. Lesson learned. April 10, 2008

Router Bit Accuracy

Router bit dimension variations may be one limit on CNC machining accuracy. Here are thoughts on why bits may not be consistent sizes, and what operators can or should do to compensate. May 27, 2008

CNC Productivity and the Purchasing Decision

A discussion of machine output versus shop needs, the outsourcing option, and the planning and preparation recommended before purchasing a CNC router. August 29, 2006

Should a Small Cabinet Shop Switch to CNC Equipment?

Do too many people invest in CNC routers for emotional reasons, asks a small shop owner? In response, CNC users try to zero in on a rational basis for the choice. November 25, 2005

Remote Control Cutoff for CNC Equipment

Ideas for solving a unique problem: shutting off a CNC router while programming and observing the machine remotely. August 21, 2006

Expected Service Life for a CNC Spindle

How long should a CNC spindle last before it needs replacing? That depends on many operating conditions, including tool sharpness, type of cooling system, and ramping parameters. August 24, 2008

Routing Deeper than a Tool's Allowed "Usable Length"

Creative programming lets a CNC user rout progressively deeper into thick material, working around software restrictions on a given tool's maximum depth of cut. August 29, 2006

Tool Touch-Off

CNC operators discuss their preferred methods for touching off tools. November 12, 2005

Scarf Joinery on a CNC Router

CNC pros show how they machine scarf joints for continuous pieces like stair stringers and yacht hull planking. December 27, 2008

Outsourcing Cabinet Carcase Parts to CNC Shops

Here are some detailed thoughts on how to interface with a CNC-equipped shot to get custom cabinet parts made to order. April 20, 2008

CNC Routing From PDF

Definition of a tap file, and whether or not PDFs provide precision. August 17, 2004

Troubleshooting a Morbidelli Tolerance Error

When the controller reports a tolerance error, the cause is probably mechanical. Pros get the details and probe the mystery. July 1, 2005

CNC Collet and Chuck Choices

CNC pros compare the advantages of different tool-gripping technology. November 26, 2007

Pricing For Small Orders

When you make your living with volume production, how do you cope with occasional one-off requests? January 26, 2008

Measuring Resharpened Tools

Tips and tricks for finding the true measurements of CNC cutter bits after sharpening. December 6, 2006

CNC Bit Life in Baltic Birch

Baltic birch plywood has hard glue lines and is rough on CNC tooling. Here's a multitude of advice on appropriate tooling and techniques that could help your bits last longer. June 30, 2007

Giving Vendors Feedback

A discussion of whether and when to tell tooling vendors that you found a better price elsewhere. September 8, 2007

Programming CNC Equipment from Templates

Advice on "teaching" a CNC to cut out the shape that corresponds to a site-made countertop template. July 29, 2007

Hold-Down Problem when Profiling MDF Panels

MDF panels may bow or warp when large amounts of skin are removed from one face. Here's how to deal with the problem. June 5, 2006

Exporting CAD Files for a CNC Controller

Creating CAD files that a CNC controller will recognize can be a very complex puzzle. Here's one example, with a few lessons learned. June 30, 2007

Small parts on P2P

Using a spoilboard to solve problems of no suction with small parts. March 20, 2001

Cutting Rosettes with a CNC Router

Hold-down is the big challenge. Here are a half dozen suggested solutions. October 8, 2005

Phase Converter for CNC Equipment

Advice on power conversion equipment for powering a CNC router. October 9, 2006

Router Overheating

Woodworkers discuss how hot router bits and collets should be expected to get during normal operation, and what might cause them to overheat. September 7, 2006

Getting to Know Aggregate Tools

A newcomer to CNC asks for a basic explanation of what aggregates are and how they work — and gets one. April 10, 2008

Think before you take the CNC plunge

WOODWEB technical advisor Brian Personett offers some food for thought to those thinking about purchasing CNC equipment. November 15, 2000

Routers

Basic descriptions of various types of routers commonly found in wood shops, including CNC router equipment. November 13, 2008

Purchasing a CNC Router: New Versus Used

CNC users debate the pros and cons of investing in used machines. December 10, 2007

Exporting CAD-Drawn Curves to CNC Software

Considerations on the problem of getting CNC software to understand curved paths (ellipses, splines, arcs, and so forth). July 29, 2007

Spindle Fan Failure Headaches

Spindle cooling fans can be a weak point on CNC equipment, causing expensive and time-consuming breakdowns. Here, pros commiserate and offer advice. January 27, 2008

Efficiency of nested-based manufacturing

How much time can be saved? January 16, 2002

Troubleshooting a Sticky Tool Holder

CNC pros try to find the source of a tool-changing problem. March 25, 2007

Should engineers do parts drawings?

Product engineers can draw impressive sketches. But should they be expected to write code? November 15, 2000

Blind Dado Versus Confirmat Construction with a Nested-Base CNC Setup

Cabinetmakers describe their experiences with different assembly methods in CNC cabinet production. December 10, 2007

Making Crown Moulding on a CNC Router

Tips and tricks from those who have tried it. October 8, 2005

Correcting dowel hole runout

Finding and correcting the cause of dowel hole runout in CNC-machined parts. November 7, 2000

Cutting Sheet Aluminum on a CNC Router

Aluminum plate can be machined on CNC equipment designed for wood. Here, pros discuss the considerations involved (and the alternatives). March 21, 2006

Universal spoil boards

Making universal spoil boards for different machines. January 15, 2003

CNC Circle-Cutting Accuracy in Solid Wood

CNC pros help troubleshoot when a CNC router cuts circles that look more like ellipses. August 21, 2006

Commissioning CNC Equipment

What does it take to get a newly purchased CNC machine up and running? May 14, 2006

Payback Period for an Investment in CNC Equipment

CNC owners discuss how quickly new machinery can be expected to pay for itself. May 14, 2006

How do you do it? -- CNC Programming

Programmers share their methods. August 17, 2004

Dadoing techniques

Using a router to make dados. June 24, 2002

Creating Custom Curved Moulding Profiles with a CNC Router

Any good CNC router can create mouldings, using either a ball-end cutter or a custom-ground bit. In this thread, pros provide a few pointers on the process. November 25, 2005

True Cost of an Entry-Level CNC Machine

Don't forget the extra "little" costs that can add up: accessories, re-wiring, downtime, et cetera. October 3, 2007

CNC Equipment for MDF Door Production

Advice on choosing the right CNC setup for milling doors from MDF. October 9, 2006

Spoilboard Material and Vacuum Strength

Variability in MDF material may result in problems with consistent vacuum hold-down. Here's advice on how to compensate. September 8, 2007

Shop Productivity With a New CNC

It seems more efficient to go on cutting parts manually than to program the CNC... what's missing? October 5, 2004

"Climb Cutting" and Bit Rotation

A basic introduction to bit rotation, feed direction, and the meaning of left-handedness and right-handedness in CNC work, with some tips on controlling cutter rotation and feed direction. February 8, 2008

CNC Decimal-Point Quirk

CNC controllers may occasionally ignore instructions when the numbers do not include a decimal point. March 28, 2008

Why Use a CNC for Drilling Dowel Holes?

Flexibility, accuracy, and speed — the advantages are pretty obvious. August 14, 2007

CNC-Machining Curved Parts from Hard Wood

Advice on bit choice, feed speeds, RPMs, and pre-roughing blanks. May 22, 2006

Spoilboard Choices

CNC owners discuss the options for spoilboard material and dimensions. October 1, 2005

Clean Plywood Edge Cuts

Bit choice, feed speed, RPMs, and other factors that affect how cleanly CNC equipment will cut routers. June 5, 2006

Flame-Polishing Acrylic Edges

A router may leave scalloped chatter marks on the edge of acrylic pieces, no matter what bit you choose. But a quickly-applied hot blue flame can leave the edge glass-smooth. June 26, 2006

Routing Through an Edgebanded Edge

Tips and techniques for routing into an edgebanded panel edge without tearing the edgebanding loose. February 17, 2006

CAD/CAM Software for Curved CNC Work

This discussion of software for curved CNC work includes some interesting photos of unique examples. January 28, 2009

Crashing the CNC Machine

Accidents will happen, but damaged CNC tables can be repaired with epoxy, and new pods can be machined on the device. March 1, 2006

Why CNC Routers Crash

CNC owners list the programming errors, operator errors, and other snafus that can crash your CNC router. May 14, 2006

Vacuum Capacity, Spoilboards, and Hold-down Effectiveness

A nested CNC owner wonders if his vacuum pump has enough horsepower. Others chime in with observations about spoilboards, gaskets, and assessing vacuum pump performance. February 13, 2006

To Nest or not to Nest?

A spirited discussion on which is more productive: nest-cutting parts with a CNC router, or using a beam saw and point-to-point machining center. June 30, 2005

Drilling Problem

Participants help troubleshoot a "boring" challenge. February 25, 2005

Windows-based CAD on a Macintosh

It's not hard to get Windows and Windows-based programs, including CAD, on a new Macintosh computer. November 23, 2008

Engraving a 3-D Rope Pattern with a CNC Router

Suggestions and advice for programming a CNC router to carve a circular braided rope pattern. January 28, 2009

Dust Protection for a CNC Computer

CNC owners discuss how to keep the computers that control the machine cool and dust-free. April 18, 2006

Changing Splines to Polylines

Easy AutoCAD tips for a quick change. December 26, 2004

CNC Dust Collection Connections

Dust collector hose joints that move a lot are subject to wear and failure. Here's some insight into the problem. April 21, 2007

Spreadsheet to G-Code?

Yes, there are ways to rig a spreadsheet application to generate simple G-code for controlling CNC equipment. It's an interesting approach, but has practical limitations. May 23, 2007

Feed Speeds and RPMs for Cuts in Thick Hardwood

Adjusting bit speed and travel may help reduce a screaming sound that happens when machining solid wood on a CNC router. November 26, 2007

Getting Initial Vacuum

CNC operator with a spoilboard installed has trouble getting the machine to suck plywood down when first placed for cutting. Pros offer advice. September 24, 2006

Software for Nested Parts Production

Users discuss the virtues of ASpan, AlphaCam, and AlphaDoor. August 30, 2005

Powering a CNC Router Using a Phase Converter

It works fine, say those who are doing it — but there are a few details to consider. November 12, 2005

Buying Used CNC Equipment

Is a good deal on used iron worth the potential headaches? Pros share opinions and experiences. August 30, 2005

Machine Design For Complex Carving

It's hard to do, and might not pay off. April 10, 2005

Bar Codin' Blues

A Visual Basic script can generate bar codes for inputting CNC instructions. April 10, 2005

CNC Vacuum Problem

The power you need in a vacuum for hold-down purposes varies depending on your CNC table setup. November 26, 2007

Supporting the Dust Collection Hose for a CNC Router

Ideas for sliding support to suspend the vacuum hose in a way that lets it freely follow the CNC machine's travel. November 8, 2007

Variables in Parametric Programming

Forum participants guide a user through programming customization techniques for an Andi CNC with a Fanuc 18I controller. January 24, 2005

Vacuum Pod Tips

Techniques for achieving good hold-down for machining small parts on CNC equipment. December 6, 2006

Machining Scallops or Flutes into MDF Panels

With CNC equipment, you can machine any kind of regular or irregular scallops, waves, or flutes into MDF — but it can be pricey, and makes a lot of dust. January 26, 2008

Machining PVC Foam with a CNC Router

Advice on feed rates, cutter choice, and RPMs when cutting sheet PVC foam on CNC equipment. March 21, 2006

Protecting the Pods During Cuts

Some point-to-point equipment leaves hold-down pods exposed to damage during cutting. Here are ideas for minimizing the problem. February 8, 2008

Hand-Coding to Engage CNC Vacuum

In case the operator forgets to turn on the vacuum, you can code to have the machine do it automatically. November 11, 2006

Bit Selection for a CNC Router

A shop owner gets advice on what bits he'll need for his new CNC router, along with tips on bit care and re-sharpening. August 30, 2005

Compensating for Bit Shape when Touching Off

When you "touch off" brad point or V-shaped drill bits, but you want the bit to drill all the way through the material, how do you adjust your settings or programs? June 8, 2008

Sliding Table Versus Gantry

Pros discuss which type of CNC equipment is better, units with a sliding table or units with a moving gantry. July 21, 2006

Kerfing Plywood for Bending with a CNC Router

A CNC router can kerf out 3/4-inch plywood to make it bendable, but it takes a little tweaking to get there. August 12, 2007

Cutting MDF on a CNC

MDF is rough on bits. Here's a discussion on bit choices and operating techniques. January 13, 2009

Troubleshooting Slipping Router Bits

A thread from the CNC forum discusses the factors that could be causing router bits to slip off the collet on a CNC router. March 21, 2006

CNC Table Size: 4x8 Versus 4x10

CNC shop owners consider the costs and advantages of investing in equipment with a larger table. August 8, 2008

Machining Small Wood Items Without Sanding on the CNC

Can a CNC router make small pieces out of solid wood that don't require sanding for a smooth finish? November 8, 2007

Flush Dowel Joints Using a CNC

Edge doweling accurate enough to allow flush joining of panels edge to edge is problematic on CNC equipment. November 10, 2006

Troubleshooting Tool Marks in MDF

A CNC process leaves circular tool marks in an MDF substrate that telegraph through the pressed finish lamination. Unfortunately, this may just be in the nature of the materials. August 29, 2005

Efficient Face-Frame Shop Process

Thoughts on making face-frame beaded inset-door cabinets efficiently, relying mainly on a CNC router. October 27, 2008

CNC V-grooving

Suggestions for tooling and techniques. March 23, 2002

Liquid Ring or Rotary Screw Vacuum Pump?

Vacuum pump types compared. May 16, 2005

Spoilboard Resurfacing

Basic spoilboard tips. January 28, 2009

Value of Laser Projection Systems

If improved accuracy setting small parts will help you, a laser guide system for your CNC might be a good long-run investment. September 24, 2006

Smooth Surfacing of MDF Using CNC Equipment

Material choice and cutterhead selection affect the smoothness of a CNC-profiled MDF surface. CNC sanding is also possible. May 16, 2005

Preventing a Tool Holder from Sticking

Some tool holders stick and make a "popping" sound. The solution: frequent cleaning. December 6, 2006

Holding Small Cut-Outs in Place

Tiny cut-out pieces created when profiling CNC grill-work can pop out, land on the panel, and cause trouble. Here are some tips on keeping those small pieces in place or controlling where they end up. June 30, 2007

Boring Into Laminate on Plywood

Drilling into laminate-covered plywood poses a special challenge for a CNC router. Here are some tips on bit choice and machine settings. May 27, 2008

Hinge holes on a CNC

Boring 35mm hinge holes on a CNC machine. March 20, 2001

Returning Bad Parts when Having a CNC Machine Repaired

Miscommunication about who is responsible for getting bad parts back to the factory can create issues for CNC owner and manufacturer. January 27, 2008

P2P Origin Placement

Best postitioning for running gables on a point-to-point router. March 14, 2004

Upcut, Downcut Or Compression Tools

Which is better? It depends on the use (and your technique). April 10, 2005

Bit Life in Melamine

Bits wearing out too fast? Consider the tips in this thread from the CNC forum. November 12, 2005

Supporting the Dust Collection Hose for a CNC Router

Here are some proven solutions (with photos) for supporting the dust collection ducting for a CNC router, while allowing the hose to move freely. December 29, 2008

Purchasing a Five-Axis CNC Machine

Advice on shopping for 5-axis CNC machinery and software. March 1, 2006

First CNC for Furniture Production

While considering his options for a first CNC, an owner asks colleagues for their recommendations. February 25, 2005

Shaper Heads on CNC Machines

A "shaper aggregate" offers a whole new way to do curved mouldings. Here's some introductory info on the technology. August 14, 2007

Cutting Aluminum on a CNC Router

Basic CNC tips for working with sheet aluminum. December 27, 2006

CNC Dust Brush Issues

Brush strips around CNC routers may pick up sawdust and chips and drop them during tool changes. Here, equipment owners discuss alternative dust skirt materials. October 1, 2005

CNC Router for Guitar Parts

A newcomer to automation gets basic advice about using CNC to make guitar necks and bodies. August 30, 2005

Speeding Up CNC Feed Rates Around Corners

Advice on how to safely tweak the cutterhead feed speed up when routing corners, to prevent burning. September 27, 2008

Heavy-duty CNC router recommendations

Suggestions choosing for a good-quality CNC router, offering adequate tech support and training. February 28, 2001

Selling Used CAD or CNC Software

You can transfer a software license to another buyer, but there are formalities involved. November 23, 2008

Troubleshooting Melamine Chip-Out Around Bore Holes

Drill bit type and drilling speed control can reduce chipout on two-sided melamine panels, and there are also touch-up solutions for minor chipping problems. February 26, 2007

CNC Bit Choice and Dust Collection

Will an upshear bit improve dust collection effectiveness on a CNC? November 26, 2007

Troubleshooting Breakage of Bits

CNC operators help a colleague figure out why his 1/4-inch bits keep breaking in 3/4-inch-thick hardwood. August 29, 2006

Alternatives to spoil boards

Looking for a new option for a CMS router. October 2, 2001

Troubleshooting a Noisy Spindle

CNC router spindles are rebuildable, but the noise problem could have other sources. April 6, 2007

Bit Choice for Routing Hardwoods with CNC

Experienced hands provide tooling advice. August 30, 2005

CNC routing of small parts

How to keep small parts from wandering during machining. January 16, 2001

Holding Down Nested Plywood Parts

Vacuum alone may not hold parts in place well enough, but there are many ways to get around the problem. Here's an assortment of tips and techniques. July 24, 2005

Changing Tool Radius Settings in a CNC Controller

Advice on hand-coding some tool settings in a CNC controller. September 27, 2008

Working with Sheet Aluminum on a CNC Router

Advice, tips, and cautions on running aluminum on your CNC equipment. September 27, 2008

Thrown CNC Tool -- What Happened?

When a tool slips out of the collet while the machine's running, it's dangerous. Here, pros troubleshoot a case. November 26, 2007

Troubleshooting Inaccurate Cutting with Dual Tables

Mechanical backlash or a control problem could be causing performance flaws in a dual-table CNC setup. Here are tips of finding the source of trouble. May 16, 2005

Boring Block Bit Set-Up

Advice on setting up a CNC drill bank for good boring performance. October 12, 2007

Two-Head CNC Router Choices

Several suppliers make CNC routers with two independently operating heads and advanced control capabilities. January 14, 2008

Buying used CNC and tech support

How much help can you expect from the manufacturer or distributor? January 28, 2002

Bit Slippage in Tough Material

A CNC owner who's making stair stringers from laminated veneer lumber (LVL) gets advice on good practice for inserting and tightening the bits. September 8, 2007

Cutting Solid Phenolic with CNC Equipment

Pros discuss bit choice, feed rates, RPMs, and more. October 26, 2005

Avoiding Blowout Cutting Hardwood on CNC

Multiple passes, with climb cutting, seems to do the trick. February 20, 2008

Machining Hinge Mortises in Veneered Doors with CNC

How do you avoid blowing out the veneer? There's more than one way to do it. August 30, 2005

Replacing a CNC Ball Screw

When a CNC's ball screw fails, you can get an aftermarket part custom-built — but is it worth the hassle? June 30, 2007

Vacuum Table Pump Options

A description of vacuum pump types and some advice on the limitations of cheap alternatives. June 26, 2006

CNC Router or Machining Center?

For complex work on small parts, a pod and rail machine works best. A router table setup is better for cabinet production. But hybrid machines exist that offer the best of both worlds. March 6, 2006

Securing a Narrow Part to the CNC Table

A CNC operator learns how to hold down the blank for a narrow curved part. June 5, 2006

When a Spindle Won't Let Go

Tool spindles can be finicky, and sometimes fail to release a tool properly. Here's one example, and a discussion of what could be causing the trouble. January 27, 2008

Making Small Parts with a CNC Router

A CNC beginner gets advice on various ways to hold the work in place. August 8, 2005

Troubleshooting A Drilling Inconsistency

Professionals diagnose a case of inaccurate drilling. April 10, 2005

CNC Vacuum Pump Placement

Placing the pump at a distance, or even outside, helps keep the noise down. October 3, 2007

Cutting Stacked Sheets on the CNC

Suggestions for how to hold thin sheets of material down while cutting multiple sheets in one pass. August 24, 2008

Troubleshooting Chatter Marks

Imperfect cuts are traced to alignment and bit issues. December 10, 2007

Routing phenolic paper

A discussion of the best bits and techniques for cutting phenolic paper on a CNC router. November 15, 2000

"Step" or "Jump" Defect on Curves with CNC

CNC owners discuss why curves cut on a CNC router may not be smooth. January 28, 2009

Do I Need a Five-Axis CNC Router?

A discussion of the rare situations that make 5-axis capabilities a necessity. October 28, 2008

Pump Capacity Requirements for Vacuum-Table Work

Necessary pump size varies depending on many factors. November 12, 2005

Chip-out on HPL panels

Solving problems with chip-out during CNC machining. August 12, 2001

Tool Choice and Settings for Crisp Laminate Cuts

CNC operators discuss carbide versus diamond tooling, feed rates, and bit speeds to get good cut quality when machining laminate. August 24, 2008

Best Tool Head for Cutting Grooves?

A saw blade or a router bit could give the best results, depending on the situation. December 10, 2007

Dealing with CNC Off-Fall

CNCs can rapidly create a huge pile of odd-shaped scrap. Here's how shop owners manage the mess. August 19, 2008

Fabricating MDF Doors on the CNC

You can make MDF doors quickly with specialized tooling, or slowly with generic tooling. March 9, 2008

Miter Fold Feed Rates

Tips on grooving MDF with the CNC router for miter fold box corner construction. December 29, 2008

Melamine Chipping

Is it the bits, the feed rate, the material? Pros troubleshoot a case of melamine chipping on a new CNC unit. June 30, 2005

Holding Veneer Flat on a CNC Table

A CNC operator finds that veneer tends to "bubble up" off the vacuum spoilboard in random spots. Here, he gets advice on holding the material down so he can cut inlay pieces out of it. June 30, 2007

Air Nozzle Control Work-Arounds for CNC Routers

Some CNC control systems have code to switch blower-nozzle air on and off, and some don't. If yours doesn't, a simple hardware tweak might help. July 16, 2008

Working Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic on a CNC

Tips and cautions for machining FRP on the CNC. Choose bits carefully and beware of the dust. October 25, 2007

Computer purchase recommendations

Choosing the right computer system to run CAD and more. January 3, 2001

Laser Alternatives

A discussion of laser layout equipment, software, and a low-tech shop-rigged alternative. July 2, 2005

Keeping Parts Dust-Free in CNC Production

Tips for keeping parts clean as they come off the CNC. October 27, 2008

Troubleshooting CNC Vacuum Pump Problems

CNC owners discuss a grab bag of possible vacuum pump issues. November 23, 2008

Moving in the Z Axis when Machining Melamine

CNC owners consider whether it's worth moving the tool in the Y axis while cutting, in order to extend bit life. August 14, 2007

Carbide Cutters Wearing Out in Melamine

CNC users troubleshoot a case of short bit life in melamine. December 14, 2005

CNC Contour Milling and Bit Breakage

Complex milling with lots of direction changes requires some adjustment of bit speeds in order to keep the cutters cool. August 24, 2008

CNC Production Rates

A discussion of ballpark numbers: How many sheets will a CNC router cut in a day, and how many before you need a new bit? June 30, 2007

Tool Holder and Collet Maintenance

How often should you clean or replace CNC tools and collets? December 27, 2007

Eliminating Hand Sanding in Pocket CNC Routs

The right tool, ramping in, and a light finish pass can eliminate most tool scratches in decorative routs. October 3, 2007

Estimating price of CNC projects

Formulas for calculating how much to charge on CNC jobs. January 3, 2001

Reducing Tool Wear with Laminated Sheet Goods

Bits wear out quickly when machining laminate. Here's advice on achieving longer tool life. April 21, 2007

Why CNC Sometimes Cuts a Line Instead of an Arc

A variety of input flaws can cause equipment to take a shortcut between the end points of what should be an arc. March 1, 2006

Creating Wavy Surface Patterns in Plywood with CNC Equipment

Tips on how tooling and programming to get that desert-sand-dune look on a sheet of plywood. September 8, 2007

Sticky Tool Holder Syndrome

Cleaning, maintenance and adjustment ideas to stop tool holders from sticking during CNC operation. February 13, 2009

CNC Table Base Sizes

Three out of three doctors agree — bigger is better. Choose 5x12 over 5x8 or 5x10, and you'll be glad you did before too long. July 29, 2007

Using Boring Tools with a CNC Router Collet

Boring tools can be adapted to a CNC router for use at slower RPMs. October 3, 2007

Improving Relief Cut Quality

Advice on bits, RPMs, and more for getting clean, sharp cuts in complex relief surfaces. March 1, 2006

Tear-out on raised panel corners

Eliminating corner tear-out on raised panel cabinet doors when using CNC equipment. November 7, 2000

Bit Life in High Pressure Laminate

How many sheets should you be able to cut before a bit wears out? Comparing carbide with diamond, and a discussion of feed rates and settings. July 3, 2005

CNC Vacuum Pump Sizing and Elevation

Altitude affects the efficacy of a vacuum pump for CNC hold-down applications. Here's some info on how to make the adjustment. May 16, 2005

Small Pilot Bits for the CNC

There are several workable options for pre-drilling for #8 screws with CNC equipment. December 10, 2007

Chip Load and Cutterhead Characteristics

Different CNC tool designs call for different chip loadings. May 16, 2005

PTP vs. CNC: What's the difference?

Technical differences and applications of point-to-point and CNC routers. December 12, 2000

Engraving Single-Line Fonts

Work-around options for simple font routing. October 3, 2007

Blum's Process 32™ Manual (PDF)

October 15, 2003

CNC Compressed Air Needs

CNC owners discuss compressor, tank, and pipe setups for good performance. October 13, 2008

Dowel Hole Layout for CNC Boring

A CNC gives you flexibility in dowel-hole spacing. So what do you choose? March 9, 2008

More CNC Basics for Aluminum

Basic advice on cutting aluminum on CNC equipment. December 27, 2006

Making Pocket Holes with a CNC Router

Depending on the job, setting up the CNC device to rout and drill pocket holes may be faster than using a dedicated pocket-hole machine or jig. July 24, 2005

Cutting Stainless Steel with a CNC Router

Short answer: bad idea. February 23, 2008

Resolution in 3D CNC Carving

Tips on how to improve the rendering of fine detail in three-dimensional woodcarving using a CNC router. August 29, 2006

Material Choices for Shop-Made Vacuum Pods

CNC owners discuss the options for making your own vacuum pods. July 2, 2008

Stable spoilboard material

Choosing spoilboard material that won't shrink, grow or warp. January 3, 2001

Spoilboard Tips

Advice on how deep to cut into the spoil board, and when to discard the sheet. August 17, 2006

CNC Routing: Minutes per Sheet

Tracking the time it takes to cut out cabinet parts on a CNC router. August 17, 2006

Boring MDF Without Blowout

Bit speed, bit material and bit geometry could all be factors if MDF blows out as the drill bit exits the material. November 25, 2005

Machining Brass with CNC Equipment

Advice on lubrication and cooling when working with sheet brass on a CNC router. June 30, 2007

Consistent Dado Joints with Inconsistent Material

Thickness variations in sheet goods make for loose dado joints. Here's how to adjust your CNC settings to deal with the problem. March 27, 2008

CNC or Conventional Equipment?

Cabinetmakers discuss the value and usefulness of CNC equipment and other alternatives. December 14, 2005

Improving Particleboard Cut Quality with a CNC Router

Edge tears or voids may be unpreventable, given typical particleboard quality. June 30, 2007

Feed Speeds, RPMs, and Bit Life

"Make chips, not dust" — chips take heat off the tool, so to make bits last, set feed rates and RPMs to cut large chips. May 23, 2007

CNC vs P2P

Defining the difference between P2P and CNC. June 13, 2001

CNC Software and True-Type Fonts

A discussion of compatibiity between font software encoding and CNC machinery characteristics. July 29, 2007

"Parametrics": Defined and explained

An explanation of parametrics in CNC machinery programming. June 13, 2001

Limits to Vacuum When Routing Small Parts

A newcomer asks what size parts he should expect his vacuum table to manage. Experienced hands discuss his problem. July 2, 2005

Hold-Downs for Machining Small Hardwood Pieces

CNC operators suggest various ways to hold boards down for machining flutes and other profiles. June 26, 2006

Machining aluminum

Determining the feed speed and other details for machining aluminum. July 24, 2001

More on Improving Dust Collection on a CNC Router

Ways to modify and tweak your CNC device for better dust collection. October 9, 2006

Starter CNC for a Guitar Maker

A guitar maker gets advice on an entry-level CNC setup that will let him make time with artistic electric bodies. August 24, 2008

Keeping the CNC Operator Busy

Productivity tips for operators while nested part runs are in progress. March 17, 2005

3d Cnc

Programming 3D work on a CNC. August 26, 2004

Maintaining Vacuum on CNC Equipment

Considering pipe sizes, pump setup, and a vacuum reservoir tank. June 30, 2005

Troubleshooting Bit Breakage

Many different things could cause a bit to break inside the collet. July 21, 2006

Bit Size for CNC Cut-Out Operations

Are there reasons for preferring a 1/2-inch, 3/8-inch, or even 1/4-inch bit for cutting out parts on a CNC router? June 26, 2006

Cutting Techniques for PVC Board

A fabricating shop has problems working with expanded PVC foam board. Colleagues share advice on cutter choice, feed rate, and more. July 11, 2005

Breaking router bits

Why are bits breaking while cutting exterior-grade MDF? November 26, 2001

Cold CNC Machine Won't Run

When a CNC device generates a "too cold" error message after spending the night in an unheated shop, pay attention. March 6, 2006

Cut MDF in One Pass, or Several?

A single pass is faster, but if you have time there might be reasons to make multiple passes. April 20, 2008

Countersink Drilling with CNC Equipment

A custom-made one-piece step drill bit is your best bet for countersinking success. May 16, 2005

Plywood Offcut Organizing Systems

Plywood scraps aren't waste if you use 'em — but keeping them saved and sorted is a challenge. There are basic and advanced systems for doing that. January 27, 2008

What Transducers Do

On CNC equipment, transducers are used to record actual machine motion for feedback to the controller, improving accuracy and preventing error. July 21, 2006

V-Grooving for a Miter-Fold on a CNC

Cutting a V-groove with a CNC's rotary bit has inherent limitations because of bit speed. But there are solutions. March 25, 2007

Vacuum Hold-Down with Rough Materials

Advice on how to achieve a strong working vacuum when holding down rough sheet stock on a CNC router table. April 29, 2006

Buying Used PTP Equipment

Reliability and service can be issues, say those who've done it. August 30, 2005

CNC Tool Overheating and Fire Risk

Tips on CNC feed rates and rpm's to reduce the risk of ignition in composite panels. November 23, 2008

Refurbishing Old Tool Holders

Rusted or corroded spindles on a CNC tool holder can be chrome-plated and reground. April 29, 2006

Spoilboard Advice for Routing CDX Plywood

Holding down CDX plywood requires a strong vacuum and a good spoilboard, because of the plywood's voids and warping. August 17, 2006

Routing Laminated Strand Lumber Material

LSL material can be very tough on CNC router bits. But solid carbide reputedly holds up well. April 21, 2008

CNC Tooling for Large Solid Wood Parts

Step-cutting with a relatively light bit can break the tool. Instead, rough out with a large, slow helix bit and come back for a light finish pass. September 24, 2006

Planing and Smoothing with CNC Equipment

Fly cutters and spiral heads can smooth surfaces. Some foreign shops have also developed planer-head CNC tooling. May 16, 2005

Cutting Bamboo Plywood with a CNC Router

Bamboo can be hard on the equipment. Here's some advice about bit choice, feed speed, and RPMs. November 11, 2006

Troubleshooting Melamine Chipping on CNC Equipment

Maintenance steps, different bit choice, or RPM and feed speed modifications should correct a chipping problem. September 7, 2006

Nested base manufacturing

Switching from a P2P to a CNC router, and taking on new software and a new process. August 29, 2001

Distressing with a CNC Machine

How some people use shiny new CNC equipment for beating up wood to make it look old and busted. May 23, 2007

Depth Variations: Is It the Code?

Inconsistent machining is probably a mechanical issue, not a code or controller fault. December 10, 2007

Diamond Bits Versus Carbide Bits

Diamond bits last longer in hard materials, but may not be as sharp for quality cutting. January 14, 2008

Cost Per Sheet for CNC Part Cutting

A cabinetmaker looking to outsource parts gets some rough ballpark numbers as of 2007. January 27, 2008

Heat Issues when Cutting MDF with Compression Bits

It's tricky to adjust cutter speeds for good chip load and cool cutting in MDF. May 15, 2008

Cleaning Tool Holders

Tips on routine cleaning for CNC tool holders. October 27, 2008

Understanding Chip Load

Explaining the term "chip load" --what it means, and why it matters. June 19, 2005

Routing Slots into White Oak with CNC Equipment

It's rough on bits, but what are the options? Pros suggest some possibilities. October 8, 2005

Whether to Invest in a Small CNC Machine

Even a small CNC machine can be highly productive. But a small shop has to think through whether it will suit their volume, workflow, and schedule. July 11, 2007

Keeping the Spoilboard Down

Plastic screws work, and surfacing both sides might help. March 17, 2005

Cutting Cedar Without Splintering on a CNC Router

Pros recommend climb-cutting for the first pass, and add other tips. December 6, 2006

Buying an Older Model Used CNC Device

CNC pros advise against buying outdated machines from the 1980s. March 1, 2006

Power Lifters for Loading CNC Tables

Loading panels onto your CNC equipment can be hard work. Consider lift equipment to save labor (and avoid injuries). November 11, 2006

Compression Bit Size: What's Best

Half-inch bits run faster, but the 3/8-inch size wastes less. April 10, 2005

Duplicating Existing Parts

There are simple ways, complicated ways, and software solutions when you need to image a part into a useable CAD/CNC file. July 11, 2005

Machining Curved Casings and Sashes on CNC

How to handle hold-down problems when cutting out large curved parts. April 6, 2007

CNC maintenance

How can a small shop deal with CNC equipment breakdown, maintenance and repair? January 31, 2001

Spindle Load Meter Fluctuations

For various reasons, spindle load meters may display momentary very high readings during normal operations. March 28, 2008

Clean Grooves in Acrylic

Advice on machining V grooves into acrylic without re-welding problems. October 28, 2008

Machining Your Own CNC Vacuum Pods

You can make your own vacuum pods out of PVC. Here's some advice on how to do it. August 14, 2007

Comparing Materials for CNC Spoilboard

MDF, LDF, and even expanded PVC all have their good points for use as spoilboards. November 25, 2005

Detailing Pre-Hung Entry Doors on CNC

A description of what's involved in equipping a CNC router to prep doors for hanging, including cutting to size and mortising for hardware. November 8, 2007

Why CNC Machines Slow Down on the Curves

Actual feed rates are slower than the programmed rate when the cutter has to trace a curve. Pros in the know explain why. June 28, 2005

Shop-Built Solutions for CNC Vacuum Hose Suspension

Here's a handful of tips for supporting the vacuum hose on a CNC router to keep the hose out of the way, but free to move. November 25, 2005

Half-inch Versus Three-Eighths-Inch Cutters

Larger bits can work faster. To choose RPMs and feed rate, calculate the desired chip load. June 30, 2007

Cutting 3/4 Melamine on CNC

Advice on bit type, feed rate, and RPM. July 3, 2005

Jamb Hinge Machining on CNC

Tips for a tricky CNC problem: holding down and referencing door jamb stock with a grooved back. January 10, 2006

CNC Router Tables: Is Bigger Better?

Shop owners tell why a larger table is often a good investment. October 18, 2005

Where to Put the Vacuum Pump

Some CNC owners find their vacuum pumps perform better when located in a space that communicates with the outdoors. May 16, 2005

Attaching an Aggregate and Saw Blade to a CNC Machine

Here's a basic explanation of how you go about equipping a CNC machine with the capability to saw square shapes out of panels. June 30, 2007

Putting Old CNC Machinery into Service

If it's running, that 1986 machine can be put to work, with or without updated controls. July 21, 2006

Machining Aluminum with a CNC Router

Lubrication, holddown, RPMs and feed rate are the issues noted in this discussion. November 13, 2005

CNC Spindles: Air-Cooled Versus Liquid-Cooled

Liquid-cooled spindles are a little more complicated. Is it worth it? January 14, 2008

Machining Acrylic

Bit selection, feed rates, and other advice for cutting acrylic on a CNC router. March 1, 2006

Diamond Bits for Cutting Laminate on CNC

Far more durable than other alternatives, diamond bits are cost-effective despite their high price. August 21, 2006

Used CNC buying advice

What to look for when buying a used point-to-point CNC. April 20, 2001

Reverse-Side Router Indexing

How to index your workpiece and your router for working the back side of a panel. November 8, 2008

Keeping Vacuum Pods Clean

Dust can clog the vacuum pods on CNC equipment. August 29, 2006

Cutting Rosettes with CNC Routers

Be careful — CNC router spindle bearings aren't designed for a lot of plunge cutting. June 26, 2006

Diamond Versus Carbide Bit Life

More opinions on how long a cutter bit should last. July 4, 2005

Routing Openings in Solid MDF Doors

Tips on using a CNC machine to rout openings for glass in solid MDF. March 1, 2006

Troubleshooting Swirl Marks from CNC Bit

Pros suggest several flaws that could be causing swirl marks created by a tool tip in flat areas. March 6, 2006

Smooth Plywood Cuts with CNC Equipment

Advice on preventing "fuzz" when cutting out plywood parts. October 26, 2005

CNC-Routing PVC Sheet Material

Bit choice, speeds, and related issues for routing Sintra and similar materials. February 17, 2006

Grounding a CNC Router

Stray voltage can zap your operator and also fry your electronics. Here's how to ground the machine. January 21, 2007

Cutting a spiral groove

Suggestions on how to cut a clean spiral groove. June 13, 2001

Mortising Sharp Inside Corners on CNC Equipment

A few suggestions for making inside corner cuts with a CNC machine. April 6, 2007

Cutting Cast Acrylic on a CNC Router

Multiple passes with the right cutter will give you an excellent edge. December 6, 2006

Replacing the Monitor on a CNC Router

Used monitors are easy to find these days, and the changeout is not difficult. May 14, 2006

CNC dust collection

Installing a flexible hose for dust collection with CNC machinery. March 14, 2001

Torque Wrenches for Tool Tightening

They help. December 10, 2007

Which Parts to Cut with a CNC Setup

A shop owner has just bought a CNC machine, and wants to know what he should use it for. Short answer: "Everything." August 30, 2005

Do Titanium-Coated Bits Last Longer?

In wood machining, a titanium coating on bits does not seem to bring benefits. March 27, 2008

Preventing Vacuum-Pump Overheating

Clean filters, a working bypass valve, and supplemental ventilation will help keep your vacuum pump cool. May 16, 2005

Holding Down The Spoilboard With Nylon Screws

Drill and countersink the screw holes. April 10, 2005

Milling Expanded PVC on CNC Equipment

Bit choice, feed speeds and RPMs for cutting cellular PVC. November 10, 2006

Surfacing a Spoilboard

How and why to "flycut" an MDF spoilboard. August 17, 2006

Unfolding and Flattening CNC Design Options

Is there software out there for creating a design to be machined on a flat surface, then wrapped around a 3D shape? Here are some suggestions. January 27, 2008

Using CNC Vacuum as a Glue Press

You can use a CNC vacuum table and plastic sheeting for an improvised "vacuum bag" for laminating panel goods together. Who knew? January 9, 2008

How Thin Should You Wear Your Spoilboard?

When should you swap out your worn vacuum spoilboard for a new one? CNC operators report their experiences regarding minimum spoilboard thicknesses. May 23, 2007

Solid Surface CounterTop

Watch as a CNC router cuts out and profiles solid surface countertops. July 12, 2007

Machining Brass on CNC Equipment

Bits and feed rates for cutting 3/8-inch brass. March 1, 2006

Shutter Manufacturing

Be a fly on the wall as a CNC router cuts out parts for louvered arched wood shutters. (Leave the sound turned off for this one.)July 12, 2007

CNC Router Bit Size

Pros select why to choose a larger or smaller bit. July 3, 2005

Machining Small Parts on a CNC Vacuum Table

Quick tip: to maintain vacuum, onion-skin and cut out the smallest parts first. November 25, 2005

Cutting Aluminum-Plastic-Foam Panels

Advice on a challenging problem: how to cut composite insulated metal air-conditioner panels. February 23, 2008

Basic differences, CNC vs. P2P

The basic capabilities of these two types of computer-driven woodworking machine are explained. January 3, 2001

Nested Side Panels

Watch as a CNC router drills and cuts out parts for melamine cabinets. Fine craftsmanship as practiced by gigantic, noisy robot machines. July 12, 2007

Two Workers on One CNC?

Is two men on a CNC machine one man too many? Here's a long, informative discussion on improving labor productivity with CNC equipment. October 25, 2007

Troubleshooting a Tool-Change Software Hang

Manually changing a tool can make some CNC machines stop working because of a software issue. Here's how to troubleshoot and fix. March 4, 2009

Whether to Buy A Larger-Table CNC

Small table sizes can be limiting. Here, CNC owners offer various reasons for investing in a 5x12 table. March 4, 2009

Holding Down and Machining Curved Material

Advice on rigging up clamps or vacuum jigs to hold down arched sheet material for CNC machining. March 4, 2009

Stringing Together Multiple Controller Macros for Sequenced Operations

Programming tips for creating a main G-code and multiple subroutines to manage a series of different nested operations on one panel after another. March 4, 2009

After-Market Tool Holder Parts for CNC Equipment

CNC owners discuss where to find minor accessories for their CNC gear — and how to fabricate their own parts from plastic, on the CNC itself. March 3, 2009

Is CNC Equipment Practical for a One-Man Shop?

A long and thorough analysis of the value of an investment in CNC equipment for the small shop, this thread should be read by anyone considering the upgrade to CNC. August 23, 2006

Using a CNC Vacuum for a Glue Press

You can use a CNC vacuum for laminate and veneer glue-ups or for laminating plywood sheets together. February 15, 2009

What's an Overhead Router Good For?

CNC router owners say they still find lots of uses for their old, "obsolete" overhead pin routers. August 21, 2006

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