CNC

Workshop

Brunswick

Machining
Fabrication
Consultation
Routing
Design

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Materials we cut

Construction plywood - rough and ready. Further processing can add substantial labour - undermining low cost aspect

Plywood

Plywood is a modern wonder. And being in panel form makes it ideal for CNC routing; milling; machining. Take a look at our instagram for examples of what’s possible with a 3-axis CNC and some plywood.

CNC friendly composite - MDF

Composite

As well as being economical, composites (such as MDF) have great properties for CNC machining. Not having a grain pattern simplifies nesting; part orientation. Cut parts have good stability if properly treated (painted etc). And material thickness is reliably close to what’s on the label (nominal).

Coloured CNC-friendly acrylic sheet suitable for CNC routing

Plastic

Plastics can look very similar at first blush. However, different types of plastics have significantly different properties. Do your research before value engineering a solution. ChatGPT is your friend.

Liberal application of Osmo - vege based timber oil

Solid

Solid timber is beautiful. So we’ve made a special effort to overcome the challenges presented by CNC routing solid planks. Contact us to discuss the specifics of your job.

CNC friendly material option: Alucabond

Metal

Our CNC Router can machine aluminium; composites, such as Alucabond. Our neighbour, under the same roof, can machine a range of metals including aluminium and steel! Everybody needs good neighbours. We can connect you with him by request.

CNC milled and laser engraved knife box
CNC craftsmanship. Not mutually exclusive – solid oak with laser engraving.

CAD Tips for CNC

Formatting suggestion for 3-Axis CNC CAD file

Layers

Use layers to communicate with yourself about what your drawing. If you don’t know what layer the line you’re drawing belongs to, you might be create headaches down the road.
Double sided CNC machining diagram

Double
Sided

As well as being economical, composites (such as MDF) have great properties for CNC machining. Not having a grain pattern simplifies nesting; part orientation. Cut parts have good stability if properly treated (painted etc). And material thickness is reliably close to what’s on the label (nominal).

Nesting and grain direction diagram for double sided CNC machining

Nesting

Plastics can look very similar at first blush. However, different types of plastics have significantly different properties. Do your research before value engineering a solution. ChatGPT is your friend.

Internal radius diagram for CNC CAD design

Internal
Corners

Solid timber is beautiful. So we’ve made a special effort to overcome the challenges presented by CNC routing solid planks. Contact us to discuss the specifics of your job.

Nominal thickness diagram

Material
Thickness

Our CNC Router can machine aluminium; composites, such as Alucabond. Our neighbour, under the same roof, can machine a range of metals including aluminium and steel! Everybody needs good neighbours. We can connect you with him by request.

Dowel located CNC routed parts assembly section

Locators

Our CNC Router can machine aluminium; composites, such as Alucabond. Our neighbour, under the same roof, can machine a range of metals including aluminium and steel! Everybody needs good neighbours. We can connect you with him by request.

Organic shape rendered by CNC routing with dramatic red velvet context.

Serpentine curves reveal granular contours – American Oak.

Toolpath Menu

B/C grade plywood in the process of being CNC routed

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.

Felt lined oak box for leather wallet

Pocket

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

MDF mould for CNC routed acrylic light

Drill

Utilising 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.

Finger joint axonometric

Engrave

Most cutters can be used for engraving. 90-degree V cutters and round-over cutters are the most popular but lots of moulded cutters are available.

3D CNC carved Aussie Vic Ash hardwood

3D

Our CAD/CAM software can handle advanced 3D machining. Send us your 3D CAD for a fixed quote.

Giant lettering for CNC routed sign for NGV art exhibition

Putting it together.

Contact

General
Enquiries

BILLY
[email protected]
0403 611 798

By Appointment ➡️
WORKSHOP
392 VICTORIA ST
BRUNSWICK 3056
(Parking on site)

Book a 15 min consultation

Discuss your job in person at our Brunswick workshop.

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