CNC routers give top-notch performance.

CNC ROUTERS

GIVE TOP-NOTCH PERFORMANCE

Today's CNC routers are designed to save time, labor and expense.

Effective CNC routing is no longer restricted to long-run operations at huge corporations. As machinery manufacturers become more familiar with CNC technology

and their customers' needs, they are providing a multitude of options that enhance the productivity of CNC routers in both large and small shops. In turn, the woodworking industry is finding more uses for CNC routers. According to industry experts, today's CNC routers are more productive, easier to operate and more cost-justifiable, even for smaller shops.

CNC router goal: 100% productivity

To reduce downtime, many of today's CNC machinery has been designed for quick setup and multiple operations. According to Skip McFarland, president of GPM Technologies, universal fixturing eliminates costly setup time and makes short runs profitable. In addition, two-table machines eliminate load time and keep the machine running 98 percent of the time and automatic tool changers provide more capability and faster set-up time.

Michael Hardesty, executive vice president of Thermwood added that, "In order for a machine to be setup quickly it must have a universal part holding system, large storage capacity, and be equipped with multiple heads. The large number of heads help in two areas. First, common cutters and drill sizes can be left on the machine, and secondly, the machine can perform operations normally done on other pieces of equipment eliminating their setup."

In addition to routing, operations that can be performed more efficiently on CNC machines include tenoning, square hole mortising, boring, sawing and moulding, according to Hardesty.

Other functions, such as fastener insertion heads and glue dispensing systems offer more of a true machining center and "allow for more complete part processing without handling the parts," said Sandy Brady at Powermatic.

Improved software increases CNC productivity

As CNC machinery becomes easier to operate and maintain, the number of machining hours increases. Manufacturers are designing CNC controls for the shop floor operators to assist them with the daily running of the machine. These troubleshooting functions require minimal computer training.