CNC Routers and Software: A Critical Path

To put it simply, CNC routers make life easier for sign-makers. They allow users to programme machines to carry out cutting tasks on soft and harder materials that previously would have been done by hand. Doing so frees up staff for other tasks, increasing efficiency in the process.

While this may sound simple enough, when it comes to selecting the right machine for your company, this may not be quite so simple. With so many options out there for sign-makers, and with new products coming to market all the time, how do you go about identifying the best CNC router and support for you?

We speak with manufacturers and suppliers in the CNC market to find out how to best go about investing in new machinery and software, and also get the low-down on their latest solutions.

Operate With Confidence

Starting us off is Vivid Laminating Technologies, a brand synonymous with finishing, not just in the print market but also signage applications. Commercial director, Lewis Evans explains that when selecting a CNC cutting system, the importance of quality equipment cannot be overstated, with ease of use, reliability, and precision all critical attributes that significantly impact the efficiency and success of CNC operations.

“High-quality CNC equipment ensures that users can confidently operate the machinery with minimal training,” he explains, adding: “An intuitive interface simplifies the setup and completion of cutting tasks, allowing operators to focus on their projects rather than troubleshooting complex systems. This ease of use is crucial for maximising productivity and minimising downtime.

High-quality CNC equipment ensures that users can confidently operate the machinery with minimal training

“Reliability is another vital factor in choosing CNC equipment. Reliable machines are less likely to experience unexpected breakdowns or require frequent repairs. This consistency reduces the likelihood of production delays and helps maintain a steady workflow.

“Precision is perhaps the most critical aspect of CNC cutting systems. High-quality machines offer exceptional accuracy, ensuring that each cut is made with exacting detail. Consistent accuracy reduces material waste and minimises errors, leading to cost savings and higher profitability.”

For sign-makers, Evans says selecting the right machinery involves several considerations. Firstly, support and aftercare from the supplier are crucial, as a reliable supplier should offer comprehensive support, including installation, training, and ongoing maintenance. This support, he adds, ensures machinery operates at peak performance and any issues are promptly addressed, minimising downtime, and disruptions to your business.

Evans goes on to say that the quality of the finished product is a significant factor, adding that CNC cutting systems should deliver precise, high-quality results consistently. As this quality directly impacts the final appearance of your graphics, affecting both durability and visual appeal, it is important to choose machinery that meets high standards of performance and reliability.

Finally, Evans recommends working with a good supplier that is innovative and forward-thinking. He comments: “They should be committed to continuous improvement and introducing new technologies that can enhance your capabilities and keep you competitive in the market. Staying ahead with the latest advancements allows you to offer cutting-edge products and services, helping you to attract and retain clients.”

With this, Evans offers an insight into the VeloBlade Nexus, a range of wide-format digital die-cutting systems billed as the most popular CNC equipment option from Vivid. These machines are designed to handle substrates up to 25mm thick, allowing users to work with a variety of materials including dibond, MDF, fabrics, and acrylic.

“The VeloBlade Nexus stands out with several user-friendly features,” Evans says, adding: “The system includes the intuitive Zip Core software, which provides comprehensive control over the cutting process. This software is designed to be easy to use and allow operators to efficiently manage complex tasks with minimal effort.”

Another key feature is the automatic tool changer, enabling seamless transitions between different cutting tools, meaning uninterrupted operation across various substrates. The machine is also equipped with an auto-depth function, which eliminates the need for manual adjustments, ensuring cutting depths are set accurately and consistently.

Consistency and Reliability

Also in this market, HPC Laser supplies CO2 and fibre laser cutting systems as well as engraving systems and CNC routers. Freya Taylor, part of the marketing team at HPC Laser, says when it comes to CNC cutting, quality equipment is important as users will want a reliable machine that will not frequently break down and halt production.

Taylor also talks up the importance of purchasing your machine from a reputable source so that there are resources out there that can help you if you encounter any problems. These can include a technical support line, online guides and manuals, and access to a repair team.

“High quality equipment also provides more consistency in production and repeatability,” Taylor says, adding: “For sign-makers specifically, they should look for an equipment supplier that has all the things above, with access to a support team being a must for equipment that is being used for hours a day, and necessary for production.

“The machine itself also needs to be safe to use with features such as an emergency stop button, curtain guards, and effective dust extraction, which is optional but should be available as an option. A protective enclosure is also a good choice, especially if the machine is amongst other machinery and workers.

“As well as safety, having a variety of options and customisations available is a good sign that the machine and supplier is good quality, as the company cares about your experience.”

As for what is available from HPC Laser, Taylor says its most popular CNC routers are smaller routers, namely the CNC6090 and the CNC1212. However, for sign-makers, Taylor says they tend to go for a CNC1325 or larger, as the larger machine bed allows for more versatility.

Key features on the CNC1325 include a large work area, with the ability to take a full 8ft x 4ft sheet of material, a generous spindle motor power, and high tool speed of 18,000RPM. This, Taylor says, allows it to process a wide range of materials and thicknesses. In addition, as standard all CNC routers from HPC Laser, it is delivered with Vectric Cut2DPro software, with alternative software packages available upon request.

Infinite Innovation

Elsewhere, AXYZ specialises in tailored router solutions, offering a line-up of CNC machines. Kevin Recinos, director of product management and marketing, says being such a critical piece of production, the reliability of the machine needs to be a critical factor in the buying decision process.

“CNC routing equipment is often one of the most expensive components in a sign shop,” he says adding: “The machines are expected to run continuously with some shops having two and even three work shifts per day.

“Every shop relies on their CNC router to produce and achieve spectacular results every day and thus, high quality components carefully chosen and engineered for the application are paramount to the long-term success of any operation.”

Offering advice to those in the market for a new machine, Recinos says sign-makers should first consider their application and look at equipment designed to process the materials used in their operation.

“From acrylics to foams, every tool and feature on your CNC equipment will determine the output quality of the part and or the speed it takes to process the material,” Recinos says, continuing: “It’s also important to consider the secondary processes that might be involved if the quality is not to the desired standard. AXYZ’s roots are based in the signs and graphics market and several features available on machines such as our Infinite and Innovator products have been engineered specifically to cut sign-based materials.”

On this, Recinos picks out some of the latest developments at AXYZ, focusing on software. It has recently launched its intuitive MOVE CNC control software across its Infinite, Trident, and Innovator products.

MOVE brings a variety of new features such as a menu option, job queueing, and easy-to-use machine functions such as origin setting, which are now more accessible.

Enhancing Efficiency

On the subject of software, SAi is a specialist in this area, working with sign-makers all over the world on CNC. Marco Burinato, international marketing manager at SAi, says quality software is crucial in CNC cutting due to the high levels of precision and accuracy required in both design and tool path creation.

“Effective software not only optimises cutting paths to minimise unnecessary movements and reduce cutting time, but also prolongs the lifespan of machinery and accelerates the overall production process,” Burinato says, adding: “Accurate simulations play a significant role in reducing errors, thereby lowering costs and enhancing efficiency.”

When selecting CNC software, Burinato says sign-makers should prioritise ease of use and accessibility, even for those without a technical background. High-quality software, he adds, should come with comprehensive documentation, tutorials, and responsive customer support to minimise the learning curve and help users become proficient quickly.

On top of this, Burinato flags the importance of design capabilities, saying software should support efficient vector and text handling, image vectorisation, and 3D design, while also being compatible with a wide range of file formats.

“Additionally, it should offer support for various CNC machines and tools, ensuring both versatility and flexibility in production,” Burinato advises, adding: “Efficient tooling strategies and nesting algorithms are also vital to reduce cutting time and minimise material waste, ensuring a cost-effective operation.
“Moreover, quality software should always be supported by ongoing updates and customer service, ensuring that users have the tools they need to maintain a smooth and efficient production environment.”

With this, Burinato draws attention to EnRoute, a solution from SAi that is popular among sign-makers. In the latest release of EnRoute, SAi has introduced several features designed to enhance user capabilities and efficiency. These include double-sided machining, which now allows users to create designs that require cutting from both sides of the material, with a streamlined workflow for flipping the material to cut on the reverse side.

SAi has also added the ability to incorporate thread mills as tools, along with a new tool path type specifically for cutting threads. Furthermore, users now have increased control over output sequencing, enabling them to precisely order every entry into the material, which Burinato says allows for more meticulous and efficient production processes.

“One of our most popular features remains our automated tool pathing module, which can process large volumes of DXF files into ready-to-cut machine files with just a few clicks,” Burinato flags, adding: “This capability significantly enhances workflow efficiency, making it a favoured tool among users handling complex and large-scale projects.”

Be it hardware or software, selecting the right solution is critical in CNC. Get this wrong and you run the risk of not being able to deliver what your customer wants or produce work at a high enough quality. Researching the market and gaining expert insight from knowledgeable suppliers will put you on the right track.