Our CNC Journey: From Concept to Precision Manufacturing
In 2013, we made a significant leap in our manufacturing capabilities by investing in a CNC Router imported from a well-known manufacturer in China. This wasn’t just a simple purchase—it was a project that we took full control of, from research to customisation, ensuring that every aspect of the machine was tailored to meet our specific requirements. even including a custom colour.
The Research Process
Over the course of eight months, we delved deep into the world of CNC routers, researching various models, components, and manufacturers. It was crucial for us to find a machine that could handle our growing production needs, while also allowing room for customisation and future upgrades.
Customisation & Personalisation
What made this journey special was the level of customisation we integrated into the machine. Not only did we specify key components and features, but we also opted for a custom paint job, making sure that the machine fit seamlessly into our brand’s identity. Every detail was chosen with precision, ensuring that the machine would serve us well for years to come. Fingers crossed its been a great piece of kit. Regularly services, well maintained, stripped and cleaned. i have a YouTube video to show you just that.
Key Specifications and Features
The CNC Router we purchased is packed with high-performance features that make it a key asset in our workshop:
- Working Area: 1300mm x 2500mm x 200mm (X, Y, Z axes), offering a large working surface suitable for various cutting and engraving tasks.
- Industrial Bed: Built with a heavy-duty steel tube frame (300x300mmx6mm), designed for long-term durability and stability, ensuring zero distortion even after years of use.
- Spindle: A powerful 3KW 4 HP Italy air-cooled spindle, delivering precision and consistency in cutting across a wide range of materials, from wood to composites.
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Drive System:
- X and Y Axes: Equipped with skew rack and pinion drive systems, which offer higher accuracy and smoother operation compared to traditional spur gears.
- Z Axis: Uses a Hiwin/PMI square rail linear bearing system, paired with a ball screw for precise vertical movement.
- Vacuum Table with T-slot: The machine features a 5.5KW vacuum pump, allowing secure material clamping, alongside a T-slot table for added flexibility in material handling.
- Motors & Drivers: High-performance stepper motors drive the machine, ensuring accurate and stable operation.
- Control System: Managed by a DSP control system that is user-friendly and reliable, making it easy for operators to execute complex tasks.
- Max Working Speed: Reaches up to 25,000mm per minute, allowing for efficient processing of large jobs without sacrificing precision.
- Lubrication System: Integrated lubrication system ensures all moving parts are maintained, reducing wear and extending the life of the machine.
- Dust Collection: A 3KW double-bag dust collection system helps maintain a clean workspace by efficiently collecting wood chips and debris. Some might of see my lazy days of not emptying on a Friday what i was faced with. Lets say it was a lesson learned. or even a leak we had on the roof over the weekend
- Operating Voltage: The machine runs on AC 380V/50Hz/3PH, ensuring compatibility with industrial-grade power supplies.
Installation and Setup
Once the machine arrived, we handled the installation process ourselves,(ill include a seprate link to delivery photos as this is all on a separate ipad. setting it up in our workshop. The machine came equipped with mobile wheels and adjustable feet, allowing us to easily position and level it for optimal performance. Despite its size and weight, this feature made the installation process surprisingly straightforward.
Efficiency and Precision in Our Workflow
Since its installation, the cnc router has been instrumental in transforming our production workflow. The precision and speed of the 3KW spindle and the versatility of the vacuum table allow us to create Custom Solutions literally with a high degree of accuracy, whether we're cutting, engraving, or drilling. The machine's ability to handle a wide range of materials has expanded the range of products we can offer, and the DSP control system pared with Vectric Pro makes it easy to switch between complex projects.
Why We Chose This Machine
There were several reasons why we opted for this style of machine. Ater month of work, working out whats good whats not and what i really required. I pieced this together and was happy it would suit us. 10 year later. Im now going to say lets move to a 10 x 5 ATC. ANyone want to buy this? drop it in the comments.
- High Precision Components: The use of HIWIN/PMI square rails and ball screws for the Z-axis ensures that the machine operates with exceptional accuracy.
- Robust Build Quality: The steel tube frame and anti-corrosion treatments (plastic spraying) guarantee long-term durability, even under heavy industrial use.
- Flexible Material Handling: The combination of a vacuum table and T-slot allows for flexible material clamping, making it easier to handle a variety of projects. Saying this ive never used the Tslot but i know some that use it every day. our racking could not be produced on a no vac bed. as the accuracy is all from the face of the sheet. I couldn't be with out the Vac and wouldn't buy a machine with out it.
- Customisation Options: Being able to specify the paint job and components meant that we got exactly what we needed for our business. I would say the time and effor that went in to it was well worth it.
Long-Term Value
Since purchasing this machine, it has become a cornerstone of our manufacturing capabilities. Its durable build and high-performance components ensure that it continues to deliver consistent results year after year. Additionally, the ability to add software like ArtCAM (which came with the machine) this was what i started with. Now a work flow with fusion 360 for all 3D designs and Vectric for all 2D has further improved our workflow, enabling us to design and cut Custom Solutions efficiently.
This machine has been an essential part of our growth, allowing us to offer custom products with the precision and speed our customers demand. Looking back, the investment we made back in 2013 has paid off many times over, helping us remain competitive and innovative in the market. Some might follow my journey on a Full 3D design of our current machine that i would love the chance to build from scratch. I have a full 3D design file still with loads to add. Parts ill change, bits i would change. here is the 3d link of our machine.
