CNC milling machines are the backbone of many modern manufacturing industries. It is an accurate means of producing high-quality and complex-shaped functional parts. CNC milling continues to undergo technological advancements which expands the material options you can use. However, many wonder if CNC milling is a viable option when it comes to wood.
Using CNC milling on wood opens up a wide range of possibilities and unmatched levels of efficiency. Before milling a wooden workpiece, it is important to understand the properties of the wood type and cutting tool. This article will explore everything about CNC wood mill. It will explain how to mill a wood part, the advantages of CNC milling of wood, and considerations for a successful operation.
Can You Use a CNC Mill on Wood
The answer to this question is a resounding YES. It is possible to mill a woodworkpiece using the CNC technology. CNC milling is a versatile operation and you can use it with a variety of engineering materials. However, you should note that you have to optimize the different CNC parameters when working on wood to get the best result.
The process of CNC milling wood is pretty straightforward. The first step involves the creation of a 2D or 3D model of the final part. You carry out this step with the aid of CAD software such as AutoCAD or SOLIDWORKS. Thereafter, you convert the CAD model into a language the machine understands in the form of G codes and M codes using CAM software. G codes tell the cutting tool how and where to move. On the other hand, M codes control miscellaneous activities such as tool change, coolant flow, and program start and stop actions.
You then set up the machine and execute the operation. In CNC wood milling, the workpiece is stationary while the tool rotates to remove excess material. As the tool engages and disengages, it results in a cutting action to create high-quality products and components. You can use CNC milling for furniture making, architectural woodwork, wood carving, and sculptures.
Advantages of Using CNC Milling on Wood
CNC milling is now the mainstay method in wood fabrication because it is accurate, fast, and flexible. The following are some reasons you should use CNC mills when handling woodwork pieces
Enhanced Creativity
Using CNC milling on wood is a good way to maximize your creativity skills. With the right software, there is no limit to the ideas you can bring to life. CNC milling allows you to cut intricate designs and features on wood. The final parts are accurate and highly detailed. Furthermore, CNC wood milling allows for easy customization of parts. It is the perfect process for projects that involve personalized patterns.
Increased Efficiency
CNC wood milling increases production efficiency in many ways. CNC milling is automated and requires minimal human intervention. The machine runs without attending to it for hours. Hence, you can complete more projects in the shortest time possible. Additionally, CNC millers come with in-built tool changers. Automatic tool change reduces the time you spend setting up and changing over.
Consistency and Repetition
With CNC, you can be sure of consistency and repeatability when milling woodwork pieces. CNC wood milling produces thousands of parts with the same quality and dimensions. It minimizes error and maintains consistent feed rates for uniform cutting action. Furthermore, you can easily store your design and produce the exact parts some other time.
Material Optimization
Unlike manual milling, you produce precise cuts and less material waste with CNC milling. The cutting tools move accurately in predetermined directions to produce high-quality parts. With CNC wood milling, you can be sure of a lower scrap rate and waste. All these help you to use the wood material efficiently and prevent the incidence of reworking.
Improved Safety
CNC wood milling improves safety and prevents accidents in your workspace. One of the reasons for this is that you do not handle the cutting tools manually. This reduces the risks of cuts and injuries. Furthermore, CNC milling machines come with many safety features. The machine is enclosed which reduces exposure to dust and debris. It can automatically shut down when it senses any form of danger.
Considerations and Best Practices for CNC Milling Wood
Though the process of using CNC milling on wood is pretty straightforward, there are some considerations you should know to get the best results.
Wood Type
The type of wood you want to use is an important consideration. Generally, it is easier to machine softwoods like pine or cedar than hardwoods such as oak and maple. You should also note the moisture content, grain pattern, resin content, and fiber orientation. Go for wood types with low moisture content and always cut the workpieces on the grain for a smoother cutting action. Additionally, wood with low resin content and consistent fiber orientation is preferred.
Tooling and Bit Selection
Consider the tool and bit you want to use for the operation. When working on softwood or cutting at a low speed, tools made with high-speed steel are better. However, carbide bits are tougher and produce cleaner cuts on hardwoods. You should also check the size of the bit. Larger and longer bits provide a faster and deeper cutting action. Note that they may not be suitable when making fine and detailed designs and features.
Parameter Optimization
The level of parameter optimization directly affects the wood milling result. Based on the wood type, adjust important key variables such as feed rate, spindle speed, and depth of cut. Using a higher-than-required feed rate and depth of cut will produce rough edges while a lower one will lead to heat build-up. There should also be a balance when it comes to spindle speed. A low speed will give a poor cut quality and you will experience a burn-through if the speed is too high.
Workpiece Fixturing
You must also properly secure both small and large workpieces on the table. The most common fixturing methods for CNC wood milling are clamps and custom jigs and fixtures. Clamps carefully secure the part to ensure stability and prevent it from slipping. On the other hand, jigs hold and guide the cutting tool while fixtures hold the part to ensure safety and process repeatability. However, you should be careful when clamping soft and thin wood. They can deform or warp if the pressure is too much.
Coolant and Lubrication
It is important to also use CNC coolants and lubricants when milling woodwork pieces. This helps to prevent heat-related issues, ensure high-quality cuts, and reduce friction between the cutting tool and wood. There are different types of coolant and lubrication systems you can use for wood milling. Water-based and mist coolants help to cool the workpiece and clear chips. However, do not load the workpiece with excess coolants because it increases the risk of wood moisture absorption.
Workshop Ventilation and Dust Collection
CNC milling wood will inevitably produce chips. The smaller particles are a source of dust which can affect your respiratory health if you are not careful. Constant inhalation of dust can lead to long-term issues like pulmonary disease or lung cancer. Furthermore, wood dust is combustible and can lead to a fire hazard. For this reasons, ensure you have an effective dust collection system and there is a free flow of air in the workplace.
Is There Any Other Materials Can Be CNC Milled
Let’s move on to the final part of our discussion; other CNC milling materials
Metals
Metals such as aluminum, stainless steel, brass, copper, and titanium are popular CNC milling materials. They are the most widely used across various industries. The reasons for this are not far-fetched. Most metals are strong and ductile and you will find them easy to machine. Furthermore, they have good dimensional stability and produce parts with excellent surface finish. However, you have to consider properties like electrical conductivity, aesthetics, and post-processing requirements before using a metal for your project.
Plastics
Plastics are slowly replacing metals in the manufacturing sector. Plastics weigh significantly less than their metal counterparts. Hence, you can easily work on and manipulate them to create complex parts. Furthermore, different types of plastics including acetal, acrylic, polycarbonate, and ABS are faster to machine and cut. Their low hardness results in less wear and tear of the tool during machining. However, plastics are prone to scratches during milling. Additionally, you have to use a good cooling system when working on plastics to prevent overheating and burn-through.
Conclusion
CNC milling is a popular wood fabrication method. With a milling machine, you can create accurate and precise parts that meet and exceed your customers’ expectations. However, you have to understand the properties of the wood type you are working with to determine the appropriate CNC parameters to use. Furthermore, you should employ an appropriate cooling technique and ideal dust collection system for a stress-free operation. Are you ready to bring your ideas to life in the most cost-effective way? Reach out to a professional CNC mill shop to get started.
