CNC milling on wood

In this article we deal with the processing of wood using a CNC milling machine.

Specifically, we will better understand the technique and possible applications of the CNC milling machine on wood.

What is CNC wood milling

The term CNC indicates a numerically controlled machine, i.e. where the movement of the tool is controlled by a computer instead of manually by the operator. Once the computer has received the digital project file, it interprets the information and manages the machine independently. 

It is therefore an automated process, but not to be confused with a robot.

In fact, the difference between robots and CNCs lies in the management of unforeseen events. If the former is able to anticipate and resolve any obstacles, in the case of CNC machines it is still necessary to monitor an operator to ensure the correct operation of the machine.

The digital file (also called a CNC program or part-program) contains the instructions necessary for the project, which are sent to the machine in the form of codes and numbers. This type of code is called the Standard ISO Code. To date, there are many programs for CNC design and they are constantly evolving. 

Working with the pantograph

CNC machining on wood guarantees the customer quality, precision and machining in a short time, usually without the need for subsequent machining.

Currently the most used CNC technique for woodworking is the CNC Pantograph.

Widely used by carpenters especially for industrial production, the pantograph consists of at least 3 axes that move the piece during processing. 

Pantograph machines can have 3 to 5 axes depending on the complexity of the project. The greater the axes, the greater the machine's ability to move the blank and process it. In fact, in the case of 4 and 5 axes, the machine is able to move not only in the horizontal (X), vertical (Y) and depth (Z) plane, but also to turn the tool holder head around the workpiece.

Types of woodworking

Different types of milling cutters can be mounted on the milling machine. Among the most used for wood are CNC or helical cutters, which can be made of hard metal (HW) or Diamond (PDC).

These two types of cutters allow different processes on wood.

The most common methods include:

• The contouring

It is a process that redefines the corners and edges of the raw material according to the indications of the program. You can change the contours of the project according to the type of surface finish you want to achieve (smooth, rugged or rough surface).

• Shaping

As the name suggests, it is the ability of the machine to shape the blank at will. CNC milling on wood allows great versatility of shapes and lines, reproducing curves, points or right angles. 

• Sizing

This processing is done using a pantograph, which works with circular blades to cut the wood to size and then perform a finishing with other types of cutters such as contouring.

Conclusions

CNC milling on wood is often carried out using a pantograph, which is able to operate in different modes depending on the axes available. 

In general, it is important to consider that the processing of wood depends a lot on the characteristics of the material on which it is worked. The most commonly used types of wood are red: oak, balsa and birch. It is also possible to work on laminates and plywood.

In any case, it is important to know the technical characteristics of each material in order to guarantee the correct processing of the piece.