CNC routers are computer numerical controlled (CNC) machines that you can use for cutting complex two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) shapes with routers (a power tool with a shaped cutter) spinning at high speeds.

CNC routers automate the functioning of your cutting and fabrication machines, therefore providing greater speed and accuracy. You can alter the operating parameter of the CNC router just by changing its software.

Some important parameters you must consider before buying a CNC router are:

1. Material of the components
2. Maximum dimensions of the CNC router table
   
3. Number of axes for the CNC router
4. Cutting speed of the CNC router
5. Required clearance for each axis

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy a CNC router from a reputable manufacturer

Once you know your machining requirements, check out the standard CNC routers available with reputable manufacturers. You can buy CNC routers suitable for machining a particular material, or you can select a CNC router that is capable of machining multiple materials, such as plastic, foam or aluminum.

I recommend: Techno offers CNC routers and accessories for machining materials such as wood, foam, plastic, brass, copper and fiberglass. Demand Foam Cutting Systems provides an assortment of CNC foam routers that can also cut aluminum, copper and brass. You can buy a 3-axis or 5-axis CNC router at Thermwood, a reputable manufacturer of woodworking CNC routers. Tekna provides aluminum fabricating CNC routers for start-up companies and small to medium size shops. Damoncnc is another supplier of CNC routers suitable for cutting wood and plastic.

Buy a new or used CNC router from a distributor or a retailer

You can compare CNC router prices offered by various manufacturers on a retailer's website. You can opt for a new or used CNC router depending on your cost-value analysis.

I recommend: You can buy a CNC wood router at Associated Machinery Sales, a distributor of woodworking machines. You can also browse different CNC routers available at distributors Skarie and JRM International. CNC Router Store is a retailer of used CNC routers suitable for woodworking, plastics fabrication and metalworking operations. You can also buy a used CNC router at Used Machinery Source, another retailer of used industrial machinery.

Buy a customized CNC router suitable for specialty application

If standard products available in the market do not meet your requirements, opt for a customized CNC router.

I recommend: MultiCam provides CNC routers that are capable of machining components of large sizes. Shoda designs and manufactures CNC routers suitable for machining aerospace and architectural components. CNC Auto-Motion also supplies customized CNC routers along with standard routers for machining wood, metal, plastics and composites.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Before buying a CNC router, ensure that the manufacturer provides after-sale services.
• •  Use standard CNC router bits, as the machining speed depends on the quality of the router bit.
• •  For a CNC router, software is a very important feature; therefore, select a manufacturer that provides regular updates for your CNC router's software.