About CNC Routing

CNC stands for Computer Numeric Control. It Sounds complicated, however its quite a basic process:

  • Complete any simple 2d drawing or even a complex 3 dimensional model
  • Apply the instructions for the machine through the use of CAM software (Computer Aided Manufacturing)
  • Cut Out the project using (in my case) Either a CNC Router or Laser cutting machine

    • These machines operate and follow their instructions based on the Cartesian Grid (an X,Y,Z grid).
    The X axis is usually the longer side of the machine, with the Y axis being the shorter side. The Z axis represents the height and/or depth of the cutter.

    Cartesian Grid

    The information sent to the machine simply goes to these coordinates. Watch this short video to see it in action: