CNC Router: What to Consider When Buying a Woodworking Machine

admin
By admin

Do you need a CNC router? With impressive benefits like great designs, low cost, reliable repeatability, and accessibility, CNC routers for woodworking have obtained tremendous popularity in recent years. Nevertheless, the boom has brought numerous alternatives to the market, and this makes finding the best machine tricky. Every CNC router for woodworking is battling for the top position and boasting features one might not have. At that moment, the issue is aggravated by the fact that people will have different needs and preferences based on the router machining procedure. 

If you are searching for the best machine for your woodworking projects, we have provided a list of functions that make good CNC routers. They include:

  • Drive system

Offering automatic and precise control is one of the primary functions of a CNC router machine. This is made possible via the drive system. Generally, the three types of drive systems include rack & pinion, ballscrew, and lead screw. The ballscrew is the most costly of them all, and it makes up for it by providing high accuracy and the capability to hold large material sizes. Lead screw and rack & pinion are cheaper options and conduct the tasks at hand. However, the end product might not be so good. 

  • Motor system

People can choose between servo and stepper motors when considering the motor system driving the router machining mechanism. Servo motors are always under monitoring with facilities to correct their positions. Stepper motors are pulse powered and don’t receive location feedback under normal conditions. Another difference is that servo motors are best suited for high-torque, high-speed applications that need constant load change. This justified their higher costs. 

  • The spindle

Spindles are motors that do the actual CNC router machining procedure using proper tools. They come in different sizes and shapes and can perform a nice duty on various functions. For this reason, based on the load and machining functionality, read the capabilities of the spindles, like their RPM, torque, power requirement, and load rating. Collect type, size, and spindle motor type. 

  • CNC router machine weight

Even though machine weight might impact the machine’s portability, CNC routers for woodworking clearly indicate strong construction. Furthermore, it corresponds to enhanced performance. 

  • Dust collection

Since CNC router woodworking tools will produce sawdust, shavings, and chips, it makes sense to pay attention to the dust collection unit. Get a tool with a vacuum unit to clear the atmosphere and working area. 

  • Cost

Lastly, every choice boils down to your budget and the corresponding expenses of the tool. Since the cost ranges from USD5K for an entry-level machine to USD150K for a router decked with powerful features, you have variability to pick from. Additionally, you must factor in the cost of training, installation, maintenance, and warranty. 

Final Words

CNC routers for woodworking can be costly. Besides, the stakes are higher since the machine’s choice defines your woodworking project’s success. Use these pointers to learn the primary requirements of the machine. You can also talk to experts at CAMaster, Inc for more information.  

Share This Article