CNC Toolpath Menu

PROFILE

The Profile is simply the outline of the desired shape – you can think of it as the outline of the silhouette of the cut part. But there are a few things to keep in mind:

Sharp points and plywood tend not to get along – consider a rounded point or MDF
Allow 20mm gaps between parts – you can use the offset tool in your CAD program to check your spacing at a glance
Half the size of the cutting tool gives you your min. internal corner radius – see Internal Corners under CAD TIPS
The thickness of the material might limit cutter options – here’s what to expect

POCKET

Pocketing is one capability that separates CNC milling from laser or water-jet cutting. In this example pockets allow for backlit translucent acrylic.

Large Diameter cutters are used for clearing stock
Smaller cutters can subsequently tidy up pocket-profiles
Consider internal corners (radius) when CADing the complementary acrylic parts.
In this case a deeper pocket provides space for an LED lighting strip.

DRILL

Including drill holes, such as pilot holes for screws, saves a lot of effort down the line. Drills can also be used to make locating holes – choose your hardware in advance.

8mm Harron dowels are our favourite locators – available at Bunnings
Drills can be THROUGH or BLIND
CAD your Drills as a circle equal to the Drill diameter
Non-standard diameters can be achieved as Internal Profiles – eg for a 1″ dowel

ENGRAVE

COMING SOON …

3D

COMING SOON …