CNC machines in action
Below are a few examples of projects made using the latest CNC technology, as well as what types of tooling and techniques were utilized to create the desired effects.
Figure 1 – Bella Baby
Bella Baby
Bella Baby children’s jewellery (Figure 1) was looking to upgrade their existing display and reduce production costs, while manufacturing locally to control the quality.
Several elements and techniques came together to complete this project. Producing each component to the desired specification with a single tool allowed the team to cut the acrylic precisely and accurately, to ensure the correct assembly of multiple pieces. It also allowed them to replicate the look of injection moulding, without the additional tooling costs.
Since the display required so many complex cuts, an in-depth programming process was integral to completing it efficiently. Once this part of the process was finalized, the team selected the appropriate bit to achieve the desired thickness for each component.
For this project, they decided to use a stronger bit, which was intentionally designed for aluminum, running at a speed of 80 impressions per minute (ipm). This allowed for less vibration and higher precision when making each cut. They also used a 4.7-mm (0.18-in.) carbide bit for the lettering on the display.
Figure 2 – HiWay Cannabis
HiWay Cannabis
To support a new product launch, HiWay Cannabis (Figure 2) was looking for impactful signage that would make an impression. With several hundred pieces produced for multiple locations on the first order, creating a finished product that was economical to ship was also a key factor. Cutting with a slotted base reduced assembly time during fabrication and allowed this piece to be completed within weeks.
A multilayered logo mounted to full-colour-printed polyvinyl chloride (PVC) demanded a cut to perfect registration. Using a 4.7-mm end mill bit for the lettering helped reduce vibration and ensured better control for the operator. The base was produced with a 6.3-mm (0.25-in.) bit, to increase the longevity and durability of the signage.
BOGS
This project for BOGS (Figure 3) demonstrates a simple application which showcases an acrylic logo with multiple colours.
Since the piece was intended to be produced in high volume, BOGS was looking for something that could be replicated on demand.
Figure 3 – BOGS
Using specialized software, the team developed the most efficient layout to minimize waste, while increasing efficiency and profitability.
Although a simple design, the challenge was the size of the pieces and the thickness of the substrate. The 3.1-mm (0.12-in.) acrylic was cut with a 4.7-mm bit in one pass. The programmer worked closely with the operator to choose appropriate masking and achieve zero waste for this project.
Conclusion
Recent advancements in CNC router and knife cutting technology have greatly improved the performance and usability of the machines. With more advanced tooling systems, improved components, and user-friendly software, CNC routers and knife cutters are now more capable of producing intricate designs and shapes with greater accuracy and greater speed.
Daniel Austin is the CEO of MultiCam Canada and Mikon Machinery Group Inc. Austin is a CNC machine tool and cutting equipment professional, responsible for overseeing the sales and support of hundreds of machines operating daily. Austin has a wealth of experience in sheet cutting for sign, graphics, and display processes.
