Everyone wants to reduce their work in words. This is the primary reason why there are an endless number of technological developments to work effectively and efficiently.
Tabletop CNC router or Computer, Numerical Control Router, is one of those inventions that reduce engineers’ workload in cutting materials like wood, steel, rubber, brass, copper, titanium, plastic, or high-density foam. It is directed by computer software instead of direct human operations.
Specific applications
- For doing 3D carvings
- For cuttings of foams
- In architectural millworks
- During cabinets manufacturing
- On finishings the graphics and prints
- In sign makings
- Fabrication of plastics
- Fabrications of metals
- Woodworkings
- Prototyping
- Aluminum machinings
- Brass machinings
- Making of musical instruments
- In moldings
Why should one buy a tabletop CNC router?
- 70% faster production ability than manual processing.
- Produce accurate parts without waste accumulation.
- Reduces labor as run by computer software.
- Eliminate outsourcing and save time and money on setup change.
- Flexibility in manufacturing.
- Low cost of maintenance.
- Increases safety.
What should one look for while buying a tabletop CNC router?
- The manufacturer of the router.
Before buying a tabletop CNC router, one should research which company has a good track record in producing and selling these routers, how supportive they are, and go through the reviews of their existing customers.
- The motor system used.
Use of servo motors or stepper motors in their routers. One is suitable for high-speed applications, while the other is for low or medium-speed applications.
- The drive system is used.
Use rack, pinion, or ball screw drives. The combination of these three in one router gives perfection of work.
- Spindles used.
Capillaries of the spindle used, power requirement by it, load ratings, and most importantly, the spindle manufacturers.
- Automatic tool charge(ATC) used.
The ATC system is helpful with applications using multiple tools. It speeds up tool changes and reduces operator errors.
- The table size.
Buying a tabletop CNC router that could handle typical material size, considering the future spaces needed.
- Softwares is available.
Consider investing in software that provides advanced features and is updated regularly. Application-specific software is good.
- The machine features present.
A CNC router is good with a wide variety of features. Certain features can also increase machine productivity and longevity.
- Vacuums
Vacuums offer greater hold-down strength, better cutting. The vacuum pressure in the vacuum system should be ideal for both the table size of the machine and the materials being cut.
- The dust collection.
Investing in a good dust collector to clear the dust and debris generated by the router will ensure the longevity of the tabletop CNC router.
Final note
As nothing in the world is perfect, there are some disadvantages to the router, such as the need for good knowledge in maths and science to design the software we need to operate our CNC router.
But if we consider the rise of science in the era along with the advantages of the router, its disadvantages go into less consideration. So buying a CNC router is good for reducing the cost and workload.
