Machining Service:
CNC Routing Parts
Parts in days anywhere in the USA.
CNC Routing is good for:
- Repeatability
- High Dimensional Tolerances
- Custom Prototypes and End-Use Parts
Quality Matters | AS9100D Certified, ISO 9001:2015, ISO 13485:2016, & ITAR Registered
* Not all locations have all certifications and registrations. Parts requiring these will be made at facilities with the correct certifications and registrations.
![CNC Machine Shop Services - CNC Routing](https://prototek.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/CNC-Routing.webp)
Our Digital Manufacturing Process is Simple.
Upload a CAD file and request a quote.
Our team begins production once the project specifications are finalized and the quote is accepted.
When the part has been completed and finished, it passes through quality control.
After your part goes through quality control, our team ships the part(s) to you.
Table of Contents
What is CNC Routing?
CNC routing is a manufacturing process that utilizes computer numerical control (CNC) technology to cut wood, plastic, and metal materials precisely. This process involves employing a computer-programmed cutter to remove material from a piece of stock, thereby creating a desired shape or design. CNC routers are guided by instructions that dictate the machine’s movements and cutting actions. Consequently, this method is highly efficient and accurate, enabling the creation of intricate designs and shapes with high precision. CNC routing is commonly employed in manufacturing, woodworking, sign-making, and other industries that require precise cutting. Additionally, it is a popular choice for producing prototypes and small production runs.
How does CNC Routing work?
CNC routing is an advanced manufacturing process that uses computer-controlled machines to cut and carve wood, plastic, and metal materials. These machines, or CNC (Computer Numerical Control), follow programmed instructions to shape the materials into desired forms.
During the routing process, the material is carefully positioned on the machine bed for cutting. Subsequently, a cutting tool, like a router or spindle, moves along pre-programmed paths to cut and shape the material based on design specifications. The cutting process involves the rotating cutting tool making contact with the material. Depending on the design, the tool may make multiple passes to achieve the desired shape or cut.
CNC routing is an efficient and precise process that can be repeated accurately. Moreover, manufacturing commonly uses it to create furniture, cabinetry, signage, and industrial parts.
![Prototek offers CNC Router](https://prototek.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/CNC-Router.png)
CNC Routing at Prototek
OEM:
KOMO
Lead Time:
14 Days
Max Dimensions:
48 x 120 in
Material:
Plastic, composites, wood, soft metals.
Tolerances:
± 0.005 in
Prototek's Materials for CNC Routing
![Metal](https://prototek.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/CNC-Routed-Metal.webp)
Metals
Soft metals, such as aluminum, brass, and copper, are highly favored for CNC routing due to their exceptional machinability. These metals are characterized by their relatively low hardness, making them exceptionally easy to cut, shape, and form precisely. Additionally, they possess excellent thermal conductivity and are highly resistant to corrosion, making them suitable for a diverse array of applications.
For instance, aluminum is widely employed in aircraft construction due to its lightweight yet sturdy nature. Similarly, brass finds extensive use in decorative applications and is a common material in the production of musical instruments due to its acoustic properties. Lastly, copper is extensively utilized in electrical wiring due to its excellent conductivity and in the manufacturing of heat exchangers due to its thermal properties.
![CNC Routed Plastics](https://prototek.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/CNC-Router-Plastics.webp)
Other Materials
CNC routing is a versatile process that can be used with various materials. Wood is commonly used in CNC routing due to its easy cutting, shaping, and carving capabilities. Additionally, other popular wood-based materials like MDF are denser and more uniform than natural wood, making them ideal for intricate designs.
Moreover, plastic materials such as acrylic, polycarbonate, and PVC can also be used in CNC routing for signs, displays, and enclosures. These materials are durable, lightweight, and have a smooth surface that is great for printing and painting.
Furthermore, composites and laminates, such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, and reinforced plastics, can also be CNC routed. These strong and lightweight materials make them ideal for aerospace, automotive, and marine applications.
In summary, CNC routing is a versatile process that can work with an extensive range of materials, including wood, plastics, composites, laminates, and specialized materials. The possibilities are endless, and the results are precise and consistent, making it an ideal process for various industries.
Designing Parts for Routing
When designing parts for CNC routing, several factors require careful consideration. First, you must select the right software and CAD tools to create your design. Once you have your plan, optimizing it for CNC routing is essential. This means ensuring all your curves can be routed without sharp corners or tight turns. You also need to account for the thickness of the material you’ll be using and the bit size of your router.
It’s crucial to remember that CNC routing is a subtractive process, meaning the bit will remove material from the substrate. As a result, you should consider how your design can make the most of the available material while minimizing waste. Also, you’ll need to consider post-processing and finishing options to ensure your parts are ready for their intended use.
Considering these factors, you can design parts optimized for CNC routing, producing high-quality and efficient manufacturing.
Finishes for Machined Components
CNC-routed metal and plastic parts can be finished using various methods depending on the desired outcome. A popular finish for metal parts is powder coating, which provides a durable, corrosion-resistant coating that can be applied in multiple colors and finishes. Anodizing is also a standard finish for metal parts, creating a protective layer that enhances appearance while increasing resistance to wear and corrosion. Other finishes for metal parts include plating, painting, and polishing.
Plastic parts can be finished using paint, which can be done in any color and finish, including glossy, matte, or metallic. Plating is another popular finish for plastic parts, which applies metallic finishes such as aluminum and chrome, creating a reflective surface.
Overall, the choice of finish will depend on the desired outcome and the material being used, and a skilled CNC operator will be able to suggest the best option based on the project requirements.
Why choose Prototek for your next CNC routing project?
Choose Prototek for your next CNC routing project and enjoy the benefits of more than 30 years of experience in providing top-quality precision machined parts and assemblies. Our team of experienced engineers and machinists is dedicated to providing exceptional service. We use state-of-the-art CNC equipment and software to produce high-quality components that meet specifications. We offer in-house services, including CNC routing, milling, turning, and sheet metal fabrication. This means faster turnaround times and lower costs for you. Partner with Prototek for your next CNC routing project; we will provide only the highest quality parts and services.