CNC milling on plexiglass

Plexiglass (also called organic glass) is one of the most widely used plastic materials because it is easy to work with. However, plexiglass is also a rather difficult material to process, because it could easily crack during processing. 

To avoid errors, it is important to know the characteristics of the milling machine and the different techniques.

In this article we delve into the CNC milling machine and how to take the necessary precautions for processing on plexiglass. 

CNC milling on plexiglass 

Plexiglass is often processed to obtain advertising signs, packaging, indoor or outdoor structures, shelves, doors, showcases and much more. In fact, it is a material that lends itself to many uses that require transparency and flexibility. In addition to this, plexiglass is easily customizable, allowing for creative and crafting versatility.

CNC milling on plexiglass allows different machining processes. Among the most common options are: 

• cutting;
• engraving; 
• light effects and curvatures.

There are different types of CNC milling machines on the market, which can be 2, 3, 4 or 5-axis. 

This type of machine allows you to create the project digitally, send it to the computer and automate the machine settings for machining the piece. 

Thanks to numerical control, the machine axes are moved according to the indications on the file, guaranteeing speed of execution, precision and quality products.

Depending on the different characteristics, CNC milling can work in different ways:

• vertical; 
• embossing; 
• longitudinal;
• versatile. 

CNC pantograph milling machine on plexiglass

Pantograph machining is among the most used for plexiglass machining, as it is able to handle vibrations during machining. In addition, the pantograph is able to polish or opaque some surfaces of the piece depending on your indications. 

Here is the necessary preparation to be carried out before starting the work:

First you need to fix the blank on the worktop and make sure you have an effective suction system during machining to prevent material scraps from compromising the final result. 

Next, you must choose the most suitable milling cutter according to the type of machining (profiling, shaping or other).

It is also useful to provide for the presence of a sprayer in order to wet the tool and prevent it from kneading with the material.

Finally, it is advisable to opt for smaller two-edged milling cutters since if they are too large they could break the surface.

3D CNC milling on plexiglass

Plexiglass can also be used for 3D machining. In this case the machine works in 3 different dimensions (X, Y, Z). 

There are different types of 3D milling machines on the market:

• mini milling, used by artisans and hobbyists for the production of small quantities.
• at the table, for those who have limited spaces. 
• vertical, the professional machine used in industries for mass production or large quantities.

Depending on the possibility of movement of the axes, 3D milling machines can be classified into 4 types depending on their use:

• Vertical milling
• Console-milling
• Longitudinal milling
• versatile (the most popular model as it allows machining in different directions)

Conclusions

In general, CNC milling is a process that requires attention and expertise. Although the machine monitors the machining steps, the supervision of an operator remains necessary to check the correct operation. 

In addition, although plexiglass is a simple material to shape, it is important to know its characteristics and pay attention to cracks that may appear during processing. For this reason, CNC milling on plexiglass often requires subsequent machining to perfect the cutting of the edges and possible imperfections.