How to Pick Your First CNC Machine in 2025

 The CNC (Computer Numerical Control) market in 2025 is more exciting—and more overwhelming—than ever. With dozens of machine types, new automation features, and AI-assisted programming, beginners can easily feel lost in the choices. Whether you’re starting a small workshop, creating prototypes, or building a hobby business, the key is finding a CNC machine that matches your goals, skills, and budget.

This guide will walk you through what to consider before you make your first purchase.

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1. Know Your Purpose First

Before you even look at machines, answer this question: What will you actually make?

Different CNC machines are designed for different materials and projects:

• CNC Mills & Routers – Ideal for wood, plastics, aluminum, and light steel.

• CNC Lathes – Best for cylindrical or symmetrical parts (shafts, rings, threads).

• Laser Cutters – Excellent for engraving, fine cuts, and intricate designs in wood, acrylic, or fabric.

• Plasma Cutters – Good for cutting thick metal sheets quickly.

• Hybrid Machines – Combine milling, turning, and sometimes additive manufacturing.

💡 Tip: Buying a machine that’s “overkill” for your needs means wasted budget and steeper learning curves.

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2. Understand Machine Size and Workspace

Measure twice, buy once.

• Work Area – Will your projects fit on the machine’s bed? A desktop CNC is great for small signs and jewelry, but not for large furniture panels.

• Footprint – Do you have the floor space, power supply, and ventilation for the machine?

• Portability – If you plan to move it often, weight matters.

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3. Match the Machine to Your Material

In 2025, CNCs are increasingly specialized for certain materials.

• Wood/Plastics: Lightweight spindle, high-speed cutting.

• Metals: Rigid frame, high-torque spindle, coolant systems.

• Composites: Dust control and special tooling.

Choosing the wrong type can lead to excessive wear, tool breakage, or poor-quality cuts.

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4. Check the Software Ecosystem

A CNC is only as good as its software.

• CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing): Converts designs into cutting instructions.

• Controller Compatibility: Make sure the software works with your chosen CNC’s control board.

• Ease of Learning: Modern CNC software in 2025 often has AI-assisted toolpath generation, making it easier for beginners to get professional results.

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5. Consider Budget Beyond the Machine Price

Don’t blow your whole budget on just the CNC. Factor in:

• Tooling (end mills, bits, collets)

• Materials for testing

• Maintenance and spare parts

• Dust collection or coolant systems

• Training or software subscriptions

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6. Look for Beginner-Friendly Features

In 2025, many entry-level CNCs now offer:

• Touchscreen interfaces

• Built-in material libraries

• Auto tool-length measurement

• Wi-Fi file transfer

• AI error detection (alerts you before a crash)

These can save you hours of frustration as you learn.

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7. Brand Reputation & Support

A good support network can be the difference between a great start and a broken machine sitting in your garage.

• Check for active user communities and forums.

• Read recent reviews (2024–2025 models).

• See if the company offers training or quick replacement parts.

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8. Future-Proof Your Choice

Even if you start small, you may want more capabilities later.

• Look for machines that allow spindle upgrades, bigger work areas, or modular attachments.

• Choose a machine with open-source or widely supported control software to avoid being locked into outdated tech.

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Final Thoughts

Buying your first CNC machine in 2025 isn’t just about specs—it’s about matching your creativity with the right tool. Start by knowing your projects, then choose a machine that balances capability, budget, and room to grow.

With today’s beginner-friendly software, AI safety features, and online communities, there’s never been a better time to dive into CNC. Just remember: the perfect CNC is the one you’ll actually use, not the one with the flashiest brochure.

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If you want, I can also create a comparison table of the top beginner CNC machines for 2025 so this article feels more actionable. That would make it much easier for readers to make a decision. Would you like me to add that next?

CNC Laser Cutting Machine

 In today's fast-paced manufacturing industry, precision and efficiency are key factors in achieving success. This is where CNC laser cutting machines come into play. These cutting-edge machines have revolutionized the way industries handle material processing and fabrication.

A CNC laser cutting machine utilizes advanced computer numerical control technology to accurately and precisely cut a wide range of materials such as metal, wood, plastics, and more. By harnessing the power of lasers, these machines can achieve intricate cuts with minimal waste and high repeatability.

The benefits of using a CNC laser cutting machine are manifold. Firstly, it offers unparalleled precision, ensuring that each cut is executed with utmost accuracy. This level of precision allows for intricate designs and complex shapes to be effortlessly created.

Secondly, these machines offer exceptional speed and efficiency. With their automated capabilities, they can swiftly process large volumes of materials in a fraction of the time it would take traditional methods. This not only saves valuable production time but also reduces labor costs.

Moreover, CNC laser cutting machines boast versatility in terms of the materials they can handle. Whether it's thin sheets or thick plates, these machines can effortlessly cut through various materials with ease and consistency.

Furthermore, safety is paramount when operating any machinery. CNC laser cutting machines prioritize operator safety by incorporating advanced safety features such as enclosed work areas and interlocking systems that prevent accidents or mishaps.

In conclusion, CNC laser cutting machines have transformed the manufacturing landscape by providing unmatched precision, speed, versatility, and safety in material processing applications. As industries continue to evolve towards greater efficiency and productivity, these advanced machines will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of manufacturing processes worldwide.

How CNC Machines Are Made

 CNC machines are made using a variety of different methods. The most common method is to use a computer-controlled router to cut the desired parts out of a larger piece of material. Other methods include using a computer-controlled laser cutter or a computer-controlled milling machine.

No matter what method is used, the goal is to create a machine that can accurately and quickly create parts that meet the specifications of the designer. The finished product must be able to function as intended and must be durable enough to withstand the rigors of use.

How CNC Machines Work

 CNC machines are computer-controlled machines that are used to create parts and products. The acronym “CNC” stands for Computer Numerical Control. These machines are operated using a special computer program that tells the machine what to do and how to do it.

CNC machines can be used to create many different types of products. They are commonly used to create parts for cars, airplanes, and other machinery. They can also be used to create products such as jewelry and furniture.

CNC machines are very precise and can create products that are very detailed and intricate.

alingG Precision Alignment Tool For CNC Machines And 3D Printers (video)

Javad Gatabi has developed a new precision alignment tool which has been created for both CNC machines and 3D printers takes the fall of an ultrasonic instrument that can be used for bed levelling and to provide an estimate of how much 3D printing filament you have left.

Watch the video below to learn more about what the small device is capable of and the features it can add to your CNC machine such as G-Code Correction, Speed Monitoring and more.

alignG is a wireless, portable, non-contact measurement instrument that utilizes an innovative ultrasonic measurement technology. This innovation enables the use of alignG to be the fastest, easiest, and most cost effective way to monitor and maintain 3D printers and CNCs. alignG can be installed using the provided magnet tape or using the provided extension rod connected to its tapped M3 hole.

In 3D printer, alignG can be used for:

– Monitoring the position of Z-stage and zeroing the Z-stage
– Rapid and accurate bed leveling
– Filament life estimation through an adaptive humidity monitoring algorithm

In CNC Machines, alignG can be used for:

– Monitoring the position of Z-stage and zeroing the Z-stage
– Rapid and accurate auto bed leveling and G-Code modification
– Spindle alignment, without the hassle of using a dial indicator
– Spindle speed monitoring to increase the lifetime of your tools

For more information on the new alingG Precision Alignment Tool jump over to the Kickstarter website for details by following the link below.

Source: Kickstarter

NTC's CNC machining program receives Haas Foundation grant

Officials with Northeast Technology Center’s Afton Campus were recently awarded a $12,500 grant from the Gene Haas Foundation to put towards improving the school's CNC machining program. The grant funds are part of a new partnership to provide schools and training centers with cutting-edge educational materials to inspire students and provide pathways to advanced manufacturing careers. “With 3.5 million manufacturing jobs needing to be filled over the next decade, our economic competitiveness depends on preparing today’s students for current and future jobs,” said Gene Hass Foundation’s Kathy Looman. Awarding the grant was Johnnie Austin, Sales Engineer for Timco Machine Tools. Timco Machine Tools is the Oklahoma dealer for Haas equipment. “Our goal with these grants is to help provide the critical resources educators and students need to understand and embrace the skills required to be successful in advanced manufacturing jobs,” said Austin. Gene Haas, owner of Haas Automation, Inc., founded the Gene Haas Foundation in 1999. Haas Automation is America's leading builder of CNC machine tools. Started in 1983, the now-billion-dollar company and its owner have a commitment to the importance of US manufacturing with a focus on manufacturing education, scholarships for CNC machinist training and helping technical programs that teach these skills grow and expand. “The Haas Foundation is big into schools that train in manufacturing,” said Austin. “If you go into just about any shop across nation, you will see Haas equipment. That’s largely because of their commitment to education. The company offers free training to educators as well as discounts on equipment for schools.” NTC’s Afton Campus started offering manufacturing classes in CNC programming, operations and projects in late 2013. The classes were added in response to members of the Manufacturing Alliance expressing a need for future employees to have some hands-on training in the field prior to seeking employment with their companies. Some manufacturers in the area even voiced a demand for expanding operations in the future if the properly-trained workforce is available. NTC’s training options are a fit for anyone interested in acquiring skills that would make them marketable to work in the manufacturing industry. Students are trained on simulators, lathes, mills, a metal cutting bandsaw, measurement and calibration tools, drill presses, a Haas CNC Vertical Lathe and a Haas CNC Vertical Mill. “We have been brainstorming on how we will spend the money,” said Tony Cordray, NTC Industrial Coordinator. “We are prioritizing our wish list of things needed to grow the program to next level. Most of it will be in tooling our machines, including measuring tools for each student, and possibly enhancing our tool storage area.”

Mini CNC Router provides 2 x 3 ft cutting table.

Mini CNC Router for any Size Production Shop or Educational Institute from Techno CNC Systems to be Showcased at ACTE

Techno CNC Systems is proud to be showcasing their HD Mini CNC Router at ACTE’s CareerTech Vision 2015, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, LA, Booth 436, on November 20 -22th!

Techno’s HD Mini CNC Router is a heavy-duty production machine with a compact floor print size ideal for any size production shop or educational institute. The HD Mini machine is powered by a 2HP HSD high-frequency collet spindle with precision ball screw drives on all three axes and is controlled using Techno’s easy-to-use hand-held micro stepper controller that can run industry standard G and M codes. Other key features include an automatic tool calibration pad and an aluminum T-slot table for easy part fixturing. The HD Mini is used widely in industry manufacturing, making it the perfect industrial skills training solution for classroom students. These CNC router applications can include any 2D or 3D geometric shape commonly fabricated in prototyping, sign making, woodworking, or any engineered product — using wood, plastic, fiberglass, metal or other routable materials within the 2' x 3' cutting table size.

Join Techno at Booth 436 where you can meet their factory experts in person who will answer all your application questions, see live demonstrations of the HD Mini featuring the latest CNC technology and pick up their new product catalog of CNC equipment and accessories.

Techno CNC Systems Educational Sector offers high speed, affordable industrial quality CNC routers, plasmas, and laser machines in a wide range of sizes with work areas available from 12" x 12" to 5' x 10'. All machines offer endless STEM opportunities. Every machine is installed and supported by local Techno CNC Systems representatives to ensure a successful startup.

Additionally, you can call Techno at 631-648-7481 today to get your CNC machining program off to the right start and visit www.techedcnc.com to see their educational CNC machines and learn about Techno’s success in schools!

http://news.thomasnet.com/fullstory/mini-cnc-router-provides-2-x-3-ft-cutting-table-20050849

Millturn CNC machine

3 axis high speed cnc router

The Most Modern CNC Machines In The World

Impressive Formaker, 4-in-1 CNC mill, laser, PCB maker & 3D printer launches on Kickstarter

Aug 12, 2015 | By Alec

It’s obviously a very busy time over at the headquarters of Zhuhai CTC Electronic. As you might know, this is one of the most prominent 3D printer manufacturers in China (with distributors throughout the west). Over the past few months, they have already announced a number of 3D printers (including thisRiverside Photocuring 3D printer and this Giant 3D printer), but they are already back for more. CTC Electronic has just launched a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter for a very impressive and remarkably affordable all-in-one desktop manufacturing machine called the Formaker, that operates as a CNC mill, a laser cutter, a PCB etcher and a double-headed 3D printer.

Obviously Kickstarter sometimes looks completely filled with upcoming 3D printers that offer the world and more, but this Formaker by Zhuhai CTC Electronic is definitely an interesting option for obvious reason. While desktop combo machines have been previously seen, in our memory we haven’t yet seen a machine that operates as a CNC mill, a laser cutter, a PCB etcher and a multi-head 3D printer at the same time. What’s more, its completely modular. Don’t need a laser cutter? That’s fine too, as the standard setup consists of a multi-head 3D printer, and you can purchase add-ons through their Kickstarter as well.

As the company says on their Kickstarter page, it was developed to fill a niche in the making market where serious makers needed more than just a high quality 3D printer to get things done. Following their – in their own words – successful 3D printers, this seemed like the perfect follow-up. ‘From the very beginning we wanted a precise multi-function printer. We have excellent results from our 3-D printers and have been tested through the years with our customers. With a simple tool change you can now convert the machine to a full machining center for the home or office,’ they write.

And while multiple functions usually means sacrificing 3D printing quality or space, that doesn’t seem to be the case here. To get to the stats, the Formaker features a respectable build space of 225x145x150mm, but as the different heads are interchangeable, you don’t sacrifice more of that limited space.

The 3D printing option itself is, they say, their best 3D printer so far. Featuring an impressive printing quality of layers down to 0.04 mm and a heated bed, they even claim to be the fastest 3D printer in the industry at 120 mm/s to 170 mm/s. ‘[Furthermore] the Formaker is made of metal and provides excellent stability for high precision. The structure is very robust, and provides high mechanical repeat-ability,’ they add. What’s more, the multi-head is also multifunctional, being compatible with PLA, Carbon Fiber PLA, ABS, Wood, Poly Carbonate, and Ninja Flex filaments. In short, plenty to work with.

But the additional options all seem pretty attractive too. The CNC Mill/Lathe is compatible with wood, acrylic, lexan, brass, aluminum and plastics, while the laser engraver can be used on those materials and even on leather and soft metals. The PCB Etcher, finally, is a perfect option for brass, aluminum, or copper PCBs. The different options are all controlled with an LCD touchscreen and provided software. And, as we said earlier, it’s up to you how to upgrade it. ‘The Formaker has unlimited potential, and is very safe and robust and can be upgraded with user components. Without any limits to the machine, we hope we can give our customers the ability to realize any dream, they say.

If you’re interested in this machine, this best is still to come. The complete price for the complete machine with all add-ons is just $999 and comes with a full year warranty. Obviously, you can also mix and match the different attachment to suit your preferences, but that seems like a very decent price for the product they’re offering. For more ordering information, go to their crowdfunding page here.

Specifications:

• 350 Watt 24 Volt Power Supply
• Shipping Weight 26Lbs
• Building Size: 225x145x150mm
• Laser Power : 3.0 Watts
• Included Items in full set:
• Spool Holder
• 4GB SD Card
• 1KG Spool PLA Material
• Spare Hardware Kit
• CNC Tooling Bits/Router Bits
• CNC Motor
• Laser Cutter
• Dual 3D Print Head
• Power Cable
• USB Cable

http://www.3ders.org/articles/20150812-impressive-formaker-4-in-1-cnc-mill-laser-pcb-maker-3d-printer-launches-on-kickstarter.html

Montana Couple Develops American-Made 5-Axis Desktop CNC Mill that Retails for $3,300!

What do you get when a machinist marries a mechanical engineer? If you're Matt (the machinist) and Michelle (the mechanical engineer) Hertel, you get what may be the world's first desktop-sized 5-axis CNC mill, and is certainly the world's most affordable at just $3,300.

The Montana-based couple spent four years developing the device, picking up some help along the way: Another machinist named Gary and a software guru named Duane (sorry, no last names available). Here is the result of their collaboration, dubbed the Pocket NC:

Now for the bad news: The darn thing sold out after just one week on Kickstarter. As the Hertels explain,

We are SO excited about the machines sold and ready to head into production. So ready, that today we took delivery of about 1000 pounds of aluminum so that we can get to making chips on some of your frames.

For those of you wondering if we will be adding more machines to the campaign, the answer is that we don't plan to. The number we limited the campaign to is based on the manufacturing plan that we have developed and our capacity to grow over the coming months. While it kills us to not sell as many machines as we can through the campaign, we want to make sure that we are well equipped to follow through with the delivery dates that we have set.

That I can respect. And not to worry, as the Hertels plan to eventually launch pre-orders for the next batch. To get onto their notification list, click here and enter your e-mail address.

Of course, if you just can't wait and are dying for a Pocket NC from the first batch, there is a long shot you can look into: "Another option," the couple writes, "is to watch over the next few weeks to see if another backer cancels their pledge." While $3,300 is small potatoes for a 5-axis machine, it's not chump change; so if one of the pledgers gets cold feet, that could be your gain.

http://www.core77.com/posts/38640/Montana-Couple-Develops-American-Made-5-Axis-Desktop-CNC-Mill-that-Retails-for-3300

Rockler Adds New Line of Premium CNC Machines

Rockler Woodworking and Hardware has expanded its selection of CNC machines, adding four new AutoRoute models manufactured by Axiom Precision. These premium CNC machines are ideal for users looking to upgrade from an entry-level machine or those entering the field who immediately require top-quality precision.

 

Rockler Woodworking and Hardware has expanded its selection of CNC machines, adding four new AutoRoute models manufactured by Axiom Precision. These premium CNC machines are ideal for users looking to upgrade from an entry-level machine or those entering the field who immediately require top-quality precision. Axiom AutoRoute CNC machines are ideal for a wide array of projects including large signs, image reproduction, luthiery, and parts fabrication. They feature liquid-cooled motors that are designed
for quiet operation and a long life of high-level machining, and the universal router mount accepts a wide variety of common woodworking routers. Variable speed operation up to 24,000 RPM plus a 200 inch-per-minute maximum feed rate place Axiom CNC machines among the most capable in their class.
"Axiom AutoRoute CNC machines are built for remarkable precision," says Steve Krohmer, Vice President of Product Marketing at Rockler. "From intricate carvings to musical instruments, these routing machines produce jaw-dropping results."
Rockler will carry four AutoRoute models (4 Basic, 4 Pro, 6, and 8 Pro) that feature different working area capacities (ranging from the 24" x 24" AutoRoute 4 Basic to the 24" x 48" AutoRoute 8 Pro.) Each Axiom AutoRoute features precision ball screws, rigid steel frames, and interlocking aluminum tables which are compatible with T-track accessories. In addition, integrated MDF spoil boards
promise exacting precision, as they can be milled flat for true perpendicularity with the spindle. The machines require operating software and drivers which are sold separately. An onboard USB port allows users to input their operating programs with a flash drive, which means the CNC doesn't need to be tethered to a computer.
Axiom CNCs are priced starting at $3,999.00 and can be ordered through the Rockler.com website. For more information, please visit http://www.rockler.com or call 1-877-ROCKLER.
About Rockler Woodworking and Hardware
Celebrating its 61st year as a family-run business, Rockler Woodworking and Hardware is the nation’s premier supplier of specialty hardware, tools, lumber and other high quality woodworking and do-it-yourself products. Rockler has 29 retail locations in AZ, CA, CO, GA, IL, IN, MA, ME, MI, MN, MO, NH, NY, OH, OR, PA, TX, WA, and WI, as well as extensive catalog and internet operations.

 

AXYZ International expands the possibilities for CNC machines

Leading supplier of high-performance CNC routing, engraving and cutting solutions, AXYZ International, provides a wide range of routers under its AXYZ and Pacer power brands. These have been widely adopted by operatives in the furniture and joinery production, general woodworking and panel processing industries.
A preferred routing solution from AXYZ International is the 4000 series of machines and in particular the 4008/4010 models that are widely evident in these sectors. The 4008 has a processing area of 2440mm (length) by 1466mm (width). It can be supplied with a host of both standard and optional performance-enhancing features, including an expanded automatic tool-change (ATC) facility for multiple tasking and offering both automatic and manual tool-change functions.
AXYZ routers now have the option of a host of machine upgrades to further enhance their performance capabilities. Arguably, the most significant of these is the AXYZ Auto Zone Management facility that ensures the material being processed is always held securely throughout the cutting process to provide optimum accuracy and a superior cut finish. In addition to greatly enhancing material hold-down efficiency, the facility eliminates material wastage as well as reducing machine downtime caused by incorrectly set vacuum valves.

The AXYZ Auto Zone Management facility supplements and supports other performance-enhancing features introduced by AXYZ International. These include the latest A2MC machine control system that greatly reduces ‘bounce’ and vibration caused by sudden acceleration or deceleration often found with other control systems and the integrated AVS (AXYZ Vision System) integrated within the A2MC controller. The AVS is fully compatible with all of the cutting tools used on AXYZ routers, including oscillating, tangential and drag knife cutters, to enable a much wider range of materials to be processed.
A further optional enhancement is the new helical rack and pinion drive system that greatly reduces machine wear. This is due to the system’s multiple gear teeth that ensure a more even distribution of the workload, resulting in significantly increased feed rates, more precise cutting, quieter machine operation and ultimately a longer machine life.
Supporting AXYZ and Pacer CNC machine options is the recently-expanded CNC Routershop online division. This provides a 24-hour resource for a vast range of CNC tools and accessories that will accommodate not only the requirements of machines supplied by AXYZ International but also those of virtually any other make of CNC machine regardless of make or country of origin.

http://www.furnitureproduction.net/resources/articles/2015/01/100180019-axyz-international-expands-possibilities-cnc-machines
 

 

Latest in CNC manufacturing technology

Okuma America’s ‘Make the Leap’ technology showcase highlights advanced CNC manufacturing technologies.

Charlotte, North Carolina – Okuma America Corp. hosted more than 500 customers, partners and distributors at its 2014 Technology Showcase event on Dec. 9-10, 2014 in Charlotte North Carolina. This two-day event featured a wide array of learning opportunities for attendees featuring hands-on demonstrations, App Store and machine demos, a facility tour highlighting titanium machining at the new Aerospace Center for Excellence, and a behind-the-scenes look at Okuma’s electrical and mechanical repair operations.
The theme of this year’s event, “Make the Leap,” included demonstrations of simple technology upgrades that enable users to quickly jump ahead of their competition and enhance the productivity of their CNC machines and operators, thus improving overall profitability. For each technology shown, a side-by-side demonstration of basic vs. advanced machine functionalities and the benefits that can be gained by leaping into higher technology were featured.
The demonstrations were relevant to a wide variety of industries, including aerospace, automotive, construction/farming (heavy equipment), die/mold, firearms/munitions, medical, oil/energy, and general job shops.
Members of Partners in THINC demonstrated how peripheral equipment such as tooling, gaging, workholding, and automation can be integrated with Okuma technology to improve productivity.
“Make the Leap” CNC machine demonstrations
Each side-by-side demonstration gave attendees tips on how they can use advanced CNC machine technology to create a competitive advantage in their marketplace. Examples included:

• 2-axis vs. 4-axis Lathes – side-by-side cutting demonstration of Okuma’s LB EX-II and LU EX lathes show how a 4-axis CNC lathe can easily combine operations to reduce cutting time, improve quality, enhance flexibility and increase throughput
• VMC vs. HMC – how a horizontal machining center increases overall throughput, improves quality and reduces labor, WIP and floor space, all without significantly increasing capital budget
• The Okuma App Store – Machine tool apps can significantly impact the effectiveness and efficiency of machine tools – yes, there IS an app for that

Attendees were able to see more than 20 CNC machines cutting parts, many of which debuted at IMTS 2014. Machines on display included:

• MA-12500H horizontal machining center – debuted at IMTS 2014
• MU-10000H 5-axis horizontal machining center – Okuma’s largest 5-axis machine
• MULTUS U Series – Okuma’s newest multitasking CNC machines
• Okuma’s “Affordable Excellence” products – GENOS CNC lathes and machining centers, LB3000 EX-II and MB-5000H machining centers – functionality at an affordable price

Guests also enjoyed a special dinner at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte where they competed in a driving simulator and in a pit crew challenge and were given the opportunity to explore the history of the sport of NASCAR.

 http://www.onlinetmd.com/okuma-america-manufacturing-technology-medical-121914.aspx#.VKJZWfuAEM

Carvey Is A Powerful CNC Machine For The Rest Of Us

Robotic CNC machines – cutting systems that use spinning tools to swipe through metal, wood, and plastic – are cool but ugly. Most of them are as big as a fridge and designed to carve out objects in a few minutes but none will sit quietly on your desk and do its business with aplomb and elegance. Now, however, there’s Carvey.

Carvey is the Form 1 of CNC. Designed to be a seamless, well-designed tool for designers and makers, you program it by entering a tool path – basically the movements the cutting head will make – and pressing a button. The system can be set up for specific materials.
Now this isn’t exactly a 3D printer. It’s more useful if you’re planning on building a flat-pack sort of buildable object (think Ikea) or a flat piece of a bigger project. For example, you could print an entire pair of glasses with this system by printing the stems and eyepieces separately. You could even cut out the lenses.

http://techcrunch.com/2014/10/21/carvey-is-a-powerful-cnc-machine-for-the-rest-of-us/

Arduino 3D Printing And CNC Machines

October 3rd was National Manufacturing Day in the USA. What has this to do with software? Everything.
We tend to forget that just about everything we do with software is based on hardware and now our software has the ability to create solid, tangible things. Manufacturing is no longer a support for computing. With 3D printers, our software can produce real products.
The 3D printer revolution still has a long way to go, but with Arduino on board it is getting closer to its target. The new Arduino Materia 101 is designed to be simple and with its cool blue Arduino logo you can't help but feel that it really is more approachable.




As you might guess, at its heart is an Arduino Mega and the entire machine is a collaboration between Arduino and Sharebot. At the moment, few hard facts are available. What we do know is that it is a fused filament printer, i.e. it prints melted plastic and its printing area is about 140x100x100 mm, which isn't huge. Resolution is claimed to be 0.06mm in the XY plane and 0.0025 in the Z direction - clearly these are theoretical.
Overall the machine looks a lot like the Sharebot Kiwi-3D and uses the same material and printing area. We will have to wait to see if there are any substantial differences in performance or UI.
The Materia 101 is expected to cost $800 as a kit and $1000 for the fully-built version.




Of course, the original 3D printer is the CNC machine tool. These vary in size from a full metal milling machine to a small router. Although not really printers, in the the sense that they work by taking material away from a block rather than depositing it to create the shape, they have the advantage that the range of materials they can work with is much greater - anything from wood to high strength metals. If you want a tough, computer-generated component then a CNC machine is what you need.
As a demonstration of how CNC works the following video explains how a 3D model of a face was constructed - yes CNC machines can be accurate - from high density foam.
Next the same 3D model was rendered using a three-color powder printer. A powder printer works by "inkjet" printing glue onto a layer of powder. Once the layer is complete, another layer of powder is deposited and the print head once again deposits glue.

http://www.i-programmer.info/news/91-hardware/7826-arduino-3d-printing-and-cnc-machines.html

New Multi-Function Machine Capable Of 3D Printing, CNC Milling, And Injection Molding

Luminar Products from Nampa, ID announces launch of the TRiBOT Kickstarter project. The first multi-function machine capable of 3D printing, CNC milling, and auto-injection molding.
Nampa, ID (PRWEB) - View the Kickstarter here.
The TRiBOT fills the void that currently exists between light duty 3D printers and heavier duty machining and injection molding equipment. The TRIBOT desktop workshop machine can take ideas from prototype to production without investing in three different machines at more than three times the cost.
It is the first machine to offer the unique three-in-one manufacturing capabilities of 3D printing, CNC milling and auto-injection molding. Unlike other 3D printing machines, the TRiBOT is built on a solid 130 lb iron frame. It is capable of printing detailed prototype models while still preserving the practical use as a CNC Mill or manual mill to shape solid steel with ease.
The TRiBOT is the ultimate tool for creators with great ideas who don’t have access to the multiple machines, tools and technology needed to bring their ideas to life. The TRiBOT offers the unique ability to develop their ideas and prototype them, then perfect them down to the finest detail and then produce them. All with ONE machine.
John Rule, President of Luminar Products in Nampa, Idaho says "The TRiBOT is the most versatile machining tool that offers creators the ultimate tool for bringing an idea to life."
Ron Steele, chief engineer comments "Anyone who has ever tried to turn an idea into a finished product knows how difficult it can be to get from prototype, to perfecting, to production stages. You often need not just one, but an assortment of very expensive specialized tools to travel through the creation process." The TRiBOT offers the versatility of three machines with a much smaller footprint and price tag than would normally come with purchasing three machines capable of the same functions.
The Kickstart campaign aims to raise $30,000 in 45 days on the crowd-funding website, by reaching entrepreneurs, inventors, artists, clothes designers, jewelry designers, engineers, schools, labs, manufacturing shops, or just a machine hobbyist who wants the most versatile machine available. The campaign launched September 17th and ends on November 1st.
Learn more about the team here.
Luminar Products is a small manufacturing company located in the beautiful Idaho Treasure Valley right outside of Boise. Luminar plans to send waves through the small scale manufacturing world with the the TRiBOT. Passionate about providing inventors, designers, engineers, artists, and anyone with an idea the tools necessary to make it a reality.

http://www.machinetoolsonline.com/doc/new-multi-function-machine-capable-printing-cnc-milling-injection-molding-0001

Case Study: Integrating high end CNC routers and software into manufacturing

By integrating an ART CNC router into the manufacturing process, StyroMAX was able to improve cut quality and and productivity 

Panel manufacturing facility StyroMAX purchased a CNC router from Advanced Robotic Technology (ART) to improve cut quality and increase productivity.

StyroMAX, the panel manufacturing division of Summercool Truck Bodies in Darra, QLD, offers a high level of value-added service to its customers by providing lightweight refrigerated transport bodies and laminated FRP panels for the food and beverage industry, as well as RV caravan panels.

To ensure delivery of their products with the assurance of optimum quality and short lead times, company co-owner Steve Whitelock and his team decided it was time to upgrade the production process by adding a CNC router to the factory.

Founded in 1977 by Steve Whitelock and Bevan Carrick as a manufacturer of refrigerated transport bodies, the company was able to attract customers through competitive pricing, the latest in thermal truck panel technology and extensive in-house manufacturing capabilities. Ten years ago, the company decided to bring all panel manufacturing in-house, but wasn’t producing the high volumes to justify CNC equipment.

The decision to buy the CNC router was taken to meet the increase in volumes as well as the need for the refrigerated truck bodies to meet the ever-changing environmental, legislative and commercial demands placed upon them. The advanced technology allows the company to provide high quality products with quicker turnaround, enabling them to maintain their strong business position in the market.

According to Mr Whitelock, the primary objective was to increase the cut quality as well as become more productive and competitive. The CNC cutter would also enable them to offer more complex type of panels.

They chose an ART router because of ART’s local roots and friendly service. Although the machine involved a huge investment, for StyroMAX it was the service and the relationship that made all the difference, because they knew that the complex machine would require ongoing reliable support. StyroMAX also had the assurance that ART could simply log in, diagnose the problem and fix it straightaway.

The ART RT15600 CNC router delivered to StyroMAX’s Darra factory is one of the largest machines built by ART. Measuring 15.5m in length and 3.8m in width, the machine provides the necessary capacities for both sides of Mr Whitelock’s business, Summercool and StyroMAX.

StyroMAX is already reaping the benefits of the CNC router installation. Where it took two men three days to make a complete truck set, the RT router accomplishes the same task in about three hours, making a huge difference to the business. Working in a very competitive market, Summercool has positioned itself as a premium truck body builder for many RV and truck manufacturers; the increased efficiency and productivity therefore helps the company stay ahead.

http://www.ferret.com.au/c/Advanced-Robotic-Technology/Case-Study-Integrating-high-end-CNC-routers-and-software-into-manufacturing-n2517058

Laser Alignment Tool for CNC Gantry Machines

Pinpoint Laser Systems offers its Pinpoint Gantry Kit, a tool for geometric alignment of three-axis CNC gantry machines.

Pinpoint Laser Systems offers its Pinpoint Gantry Kit, a tool for geometric alignment of three-axis CNC gantry machines. Its straight, weightless laser beam replaces traditional piano wire, heavy steel straight edge and granite references. The company says that its tool is faster, easier and more consistently accurate than conventional methods, checking an entire machine in hours. Other potential uses include machine fabrication and assembly, setup and certification, and maintenance.

The kit measures straightness, perpendicularity, level and other parameters to an accuracy of 0.001" over a longitudinal travel of 150 ft. The measurement values can be used directly to make machine adjustments or uploaded to a PC for display and further computation and compensation. The solid aluminum laser and receiver housings are precision-engineered and anodized for wear resistance. The system is battery-operated, and a USB interface enables connection to a PC. Also included is the company's Pinpoint Capture software for data display, graphing and storage. All components fit in a carrying case for safe transportation.

http://www.mmsonline.com/articles/laser-alignment-tool-for-cnc-gantry-machines