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By admin 　http://www.germanyseek.com/cutting-router/

LOOKING FOR A NEW CNC ROUTER? HERE ARE SOME DIRECTIONS

If one searches on Google for the phrase ‘buying a CNC router’, there are around 300 000 results and for a simplified version with the words ‘CNC router’, there are around 900 000 results.  If that’s not enough, the words ‘milling machine’ throws up over 3 million results and ‘multicam’ throws up around 3.5 million.  Faced with that mountain of information, it’s hardly surprising that anyone investigating buying a cnc router may find the process more than somewhat daunting!

A cnc milling machine is an extraordinary piece of equipment that can fulfil quite extraordinary functions.  The beauty of these machines is that they can cut, profile and engrave a diversity of materials, quickly and with precision accuracy that a master craftsman wouldn’t even be able to achieve.    However, there are literally thousands of makes and models on the market, both new and used – so selecting the right machine will require a bit of homework. 

Whether for home DIY use, a hobby or as a commercial venture, it is an investment decision.  Some of the most important aspects to consider are suitability, requirements and cost, but the following questions will be invaluable as you search for the right cnc router for your needs :

·         Is this the right machine for my needs?

·         What type of materials do I need to cut?

·         How complex are my requirements and what level of precision, accuracy and speed do I need

·         What are the required tolerances?

·         Does the machine have to be able to handle additional features as my needs change?

·         Other expectations eg functionality, flexibility, maintenance, ease of use etc?

The prices of CNC routers varies considerably depending on the model, the features installed, the size, brand etc.  Some multicam machines are designed for cutting wood only, but it’s always best to check their functionality before finalising your choice.

CNC routers can be classified broadly into four categories, namely DIY or hobby cnc routers, and low, mid-range and high-end models.  A ‘hobby’ model could start as low as six hundred dollars to around four thousand dollars, and a low end model between four and twenty five thousand dollars, say Australian cnc router supplier, Procam. The mid-range models go for anything up to $60 000 with the top end models costing anything up to $150 000 – and upwards. 

When calculating the cost of a cnc router, remember to include items such as:

·         Transport/delivery costs – location of the supplier is important as some machines weigh a ton (or more!)

·         installation – are you doing it yourself or will you need to pay for professional help?

·         training

·         Cost of additional software required

·         warranties

·         Costs of site preparation

Clearly you need time on your hands when searching for a cnc woodworking machine – especially if you’re trawling through hundreds of thousands of sites.  But a little effort will always be rewarded – and an informed choice will always be a good choice.

Zund G3 cutting / routing system routing 1/2 in Acrylic “Plexiglas” 1 pass at 10 IPS or 250 mm/sec