WHAT IS CNC MACHINING?
By automating the milling process, a CNC machine cuts materials faster and with far more precision.
A CNC machine is essentially a robot. CNC stands for “computer numerical control,” which means the machine is run by a computer. Instead of manually controlling a milling machine by hand (like a traditional mill or table saw), a person uses digital software to program the machine with instructions for cutting material.
By automating the machine’s movements, the cutting can be done faster, with far more precision, and with cleaner edge finishes than manual machining.
CNC machines are commonly found at cabinetry and metal machining shops. 3D printers, laser cutters, plasma cutters and water jet cutters are all versions of CNC machines.
At Toolpath Design, we use software to design products and 3D shapes, which are then cut from sheets of wood, plastic or metal by our CNC routers. (For the nerds out there, a toolpath is the path through space that the tip of the cutting tool follows. “Toolpath design” is when a person designs that path!)
CNC technology is key to the future of manufacturing since it allows digital designs to be fabricated in all kinds of shapes and materials. Contact us to learn how CNC machining can help your business.
The videos below show one of our CNC routers in action, using different types of router bits to cut aluminum, plywood and brass. (Click to play if videos don’t autoplay on your browser).