How does the CNC machine work? 

The CNC router machine needs at least 3 axis to complete the routing works, called X, Y and Z. The X-axis is horizontal, the Y axis vertical, and the Z-axis refers vertical to the other two axis. A computer “controller” reads G-code or machine language instructions and drives a tool. The CNC router spindle holds the tool and move along X, Y and Z axis, following the paths generated by the software. 

1. CAD: Computer Aided Design, that is, computer-aided design. 2D or 3D workpiece or stereo design.
2. CAM: Computer Aided Manufacture, that is, computer-aided manufacturing. Use CAM software to generate G-Code.
3. CNC: Computerized Numerical Control, CNC controller, read G-Code to start processing. 

In modern computer numerical control systems, the design of workpieces highly depends on software such as computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM). The computer-aided manufacturing software analyzes the design model and calculates the movement instructions during the processing. The movement instructions and other auxiliary instructions required during the processing are converted into a format that can be read by the numerical control system through the post-processor. The generated file is loaded into the computer numerical control machine tool for workpiece processing. After inputting the program instructions into the memory of the CNC system, the computer compiles and calculates, and through the displacement control system, the information is transmitted to the driver to drive the motor to cut the designed parts. 

• Step 1, Design a 2D or 3D drawing via CAD software.
• Step 2, Convert the CAD file into G-code via CAM software.
• Step 3, Setup CNC kits.
• Step 4, Start CNC programming.
• Step 5, Start machining. 

3 Axis CNC router machine:

The tool is always vertical, and undercuts are not possible. In addition, some CNC router machines have an A, B and C axis representing a rotary axis around the main axis X, Y and Z, called 4th axis, these CNC router machines are mainly used for some cylinder carving and engraving works. A real 4 axis CNC router also have X, Y, Z axis which refer to the X-Y-Z-A, X-Y-Z-B, X-Y-Z-C, 4 axis are linked, and the four axis can work at the same time. 

5 Axis CNC router machine has two additional axis which can move along.

These additional axis allow for shorter project time due to their capability of carving five edges of the material simultaneously. The position of the router is determined by a computer telling the motors mounted on each axis how much to move in each direction. Using this method of positioning, any location within the machines work area (envelope) can be defined and the router can be moved within that space. As the CNC router machine is driven by a computer telling it where to move, the operator uses a software program to draw the shapes they want to cut and create the path that the machine will follow. So, when you have some CNC router plans, what kind of CNC router machine should be chosen? which all depends on your work needs and budgets. 

What is a CNC machine used for? 

CNC Routers are widely used for Cabinetry, Furniture, Sign Making, Woodworking, Mold Making, Model Making, Channel Letters, Joinery, Point-of-Purchase (POP), Prosthetic Manufacturing, CAD/CAM Instructional, Jewelry Manufacturing, Educational, Prototyping, Solid Surface Production, Countertop Production, Radius Mouldings, Metal Working, Aerospace, Foam Packaging, Musical Instrument Manufacturers, Mannequin Production, Plastic Packaging Equipment Manufacturers, Packaging, Store Fixtures, Boat Building, Custom Millwork, Extrusions Cutting Boards, Pool Cues, PCB Fabricators, Safety Enclosures, Gun Stock / Pistol Grip Manufacturers, MDF Doors, Korbal Manufacturers, Magnetic, Fixtures, Conveyor Manufacturers, Puzzles, Knife Template Manufacturing, Fan Blade Manufacturers, Name Tags, Artistic Carvings, Kneuls Manufacturing, Orthotic Manufacturing. 

What materials can a CNC machine cut? 

CNC routers can cut various nonmetal and soft metal materials such as solid wood, soft wood, hard wood, foam, MDF, stone, ceramic, soft plastic, hard plastic, acrylic, glass, ACM, PVC, copper, brass, aluminum, etc. 

How much does a CNC machine cost? 

Wood CNC router machines with different configurations and specifications have different cost, CNC router machines with different brands have different service and support, which will make the CNC router costs are different, CNC routers from different countries have different tax rates, different customs, different shipping costs, all these factors will lead to different CNC router prices, you will get a CNC machine price range of $1,600 to $250,000.00. CNC router machine cost is from $1,600.00 to $147,000.00, CNC milling machine cost is from $3,000.00 to $110,000.00, CNC laser engraving cutting machine cost is from $2,300.00 to $240,000.00, CNC lathe machine cost is from $2,600.00 to $11,000.00, CNC plasma cutting machine cost is from $3,000.00 to $29,000.00.