THE TRIFECTA OF A CNC ROUTER Weight, speed, and vacuum holding By Alex Colic, CNC Product Manager at Akhurst Machinery
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TOP: CNC vacuum BOTTOM: Under the hood of a CNC vacuum
18 WOOD INDUSTRY WINTER 2021
Researching CNC routers can be a daunting task for many. There is a wide range of models available, and it takes time to decipher all the differences. However, there are really two main areas where CNC routers differ: features and size when it comes down to it. There are apparent tables or capacity-sized differences when discussing size, but differences in machine construction are also distinct. For instance, Anderson manufactures a wide range of CNC routers ranging in weight from 3000 kg to over 30000 kg. So why the wide range in machine weight and models? It all comes down to matching the right machine with the daily production requirements. The key factor in cutting speed is not router horsepower or the cutting tool. These both play a role, but the most crucial consideration is the weight and design of the machine structure. Omnitech Selexx machines are produced with a cast iron gantry, and cast-iron mounting plates are known for their vibration-damping properties. Vibration plays a factor in cut quality, cutting speed, and cutter life. An accumulation of vibrational energy without adequate dissipation can result in an increased amplitude of vibration. Excessive vibration will result in rapid cutter wear, poor cut quality, excessive wear on bearings and machine components. Many CNC manufacturers will use aluminum for their backing plate and some for their gantry. One of the reasons is that aluminum is lighter,
