A CNC machine uses computer numerical control to cut, etch, or drill materials. This article will explain different materials that can be used in a CNC machine.
CNC materials vary drastically depending on the machine and manufacturer, but they all serve the same purpose: to make it easier for people to create complex shapes. This is because CNC machines have a small margin of error in comparison with traditional materials.
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Wood
A CNC machine can cut wood to make beautiful products like furniture and musical instruments. It does this by using a saw similar to what you would find in a home improvement store. The CNC machine adds the wooden product to its computerized arm and scores it so that it can be snapped apart later on.
A CNC machine can be programmed to cut thin pieces of wood into virtually anything people want – from decorative candle holders to components for an audio amplifier. Wood is fairly easy to work with, but needs more power than most materials because it’s fairly dense.
Different wood types vary in hardness and particles, which might ruin a CNC machine. Before you start a project with wood, it’s important to know what kind of material you’re dealing with or what sort of result is expected from the CNC machine. Always be sure to have an idea about where your final product will go. Some woods can be used outside, while others can’t. For example, cedar is softer than oak and needs to be treated with a waterproofing material before it’s exposed to the elements.
Before you use your CNC machine for wood, be sure to check regional regulations regarding the disposal of sawdust or other waste that may come from your project.
MDF
Medium-density fiberboard is an inexpensive material used by CNC machines to create decorative edges or shapes for people who are building something, but can’t afford real wood. MDF is cut into squares, rectangles or triangles to make shelving, decorative boxes or other forms that are better for this kind of material.
Steel
A CNC machine can be programmed to cut through steel, but this type of material will take longer to finish than most others because it’s harder and needs more power to cut. However, steel is strong and once it’s cut into the desired shape, it will stay that way without breaking or bending out of shape.
Aluminum
CNC machines designed for custom machining can be programmed to cut thin pieces of aluminum into virtually anything people want – from airplane parts to decorative items for their home. Aluminum is thin, but very sturdy once it’s finished and can even be used as a circuit board for electronic items.
PVC
PVC is less sturdy than most materials, but it can create items like toys and furniture. Like steel, PVC is hard for CNC machines, which means it takes longer to cut through than other kinds of material.
Glass
The only glass that can be cut by a CNC machine with ease is tempered glass, but raw glass can be cut with some difficulty. Glass breaks easily, which is why it’s rarely used for home decor or construction projects – that said, if tempered glass is treated correctly, it can last for decades.
Cutting acrylic
Acrylic is also known as Lucite, Plexiglass, PMMA or Perspex. Acrylic can be cut easily by CNC machines, which means items like signs and nameplates are often made out of the material. It’s easy to shape with a razor blade or other tools after it has been cut by the machine. The right machine shop will be able to receive your CAD design and give you a quick quote. You also need to work out whether you’d want high-volume production or small batch machining, as that may dictate the kind of machine shop you use for your CNC machining services.
Avoid using thin sheets
If possible, it’s best to avoid cutting thin acrylic with a CNC machine. The material is less likely to break when cutting out small pieces (around six inches wide or smaller), but thicker acrylic can bear more weight and still be cut easily.
Leather
Leather is another material that CNC machines have no problem cutting – especially large pieces. Larger leather items can be crafted on a laser cutter machine, but if you need to cut out the shape of your item first, use a leather punch or heavy duty scissors.
Foamcore
Crafting with foamcore is becoming more and more popular, if only because it’s easy to find in most office supply stores. Foamcore can be cut easily by CNC machines , but keep in mind that the thinner the piece of foamcore you are using, the easier it will be for it to break or warp when you attempt to cut it.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many kinds of materials that can be used in a CNC machine. From acrylic to ABS, find your favorite material and create some pretty cool stuff!
