CNC routers vary in cost due to factors such as size, spindle type, and country of origin. Hobby models are cheapest but have limited capabilities, while high-end models have multiple cutting axes and require significant investment in software, training, and infrastructure.
Computer numerical control (CNC) router is widely used in shaping wood and other materials, and has many design specifications. Several factors, therefore, affect the cost of a CNC router, including whether it is new or refurbished, how fast it can process material, whether it has multiple spindle heads or not, among others. As of 2011, the lowest cost of a CNC router is easily ten times less than the highest tier machine, so choosing the right one can involve some research to compare features and prices. Routers made in countries like China, where labor costs are low, are also much less expensive than comparable models made in Europe or the United States.
Since a hob CNC router can be over 100 times cheaper than an industrial model, it is important to define the factors that go into such a wide range of prices in the cost. Inexpensive CNC router equipment usually comes in kits that need to be assembled locally. A small table area of about 1 foot by 1 foot (30.48 by 30.48 centimeters) to 3 feet by 6 feet (about 1 by 1.8 meters) is usually the norm. They are often constructed from inexpensive materials such as wood and aluminum, and the cutting action is very simple. While they must have a control system to qualify as a CNC machine, this is often not included in the basic purchase price.
Discount CNC routers are designed for light factory use and are about ten times more expensive than hobby models, with this price range taking table dimensions up to 4 feet by 8 feet (1.22 by 2.44 meters). The Z axis for up and down movement of the cutting bits is usually limited to approximately 6 inches (15.24 centimeters). Like the hobby models, they can also come in kit form, but are made from aluminum and steel with linear guides. The major distinction in the cost of a CNC router at this level is the type of spindle included, which can be a standard or industrial grade unit running from 3 to 6 horsepower and supported by a motor drive assembly. Optional equipment available would be a vacuum system to collect dust, but it will cost more.
Buying a mid-range CNC router will get you a machine similar in spec to the discount models, except that the frame is of a much heavier design and reinforced for a stable cutting surface. Dust collection systems are included, but an optional feature would be an automatic tool changer. Brand names will account for many price variations with a professional CNC router like this one. Cutting tolerances can even drop to 0.0005 inches (0.0127 millimeters), which is at least double that of discount hobe models.
Very high-end models factor into the cost of a CNC router by having up to four or five cutting axes instead of the traditional three. Table dimensions can be as large as 7 by 20 feet (2.13 by 6.1 meters), and the machines are several tons of high-grade steel. They have multiple cutting spindles and built-in computer controls. Tolerances are still at the maximum level of 0.0005 inches (0.0127 millimeters), however, and vendor training services are offered at an additional cost. CNC router parts for these machines will also be the most expensive, and the equipment often comes with a warranty to protect against manufacturer defects.
Using a CNC router requires a significant investment and should be carefully planned. The cost of a CNC router isn’t even in the purchase of the equipment alone and often must include additional software, training, shipping costs, and spare parts inventory. It may be necessary to reinforce the floors to handle the weight and widen the entrances to fit the car into the building. Often a consultant from the company comes to set up the machine for an additional cost, as it will come in parts and have special power requirements if it is a high-end model.
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