CNC[1] routers utilize toolbits[2] to cut, drill, and mill material to file specifications. CNC technology allows users to efficiently produce large-scale replicatable designs without sacrificing quality or artistry. Whether creating a singular art object or mass producing furniture, CNC routers are a valuable tool for many types of makers.
A membership or day pass is required to access Digital Fabrication.
The Shop Safety Class CNC Router 2: Laguna is required to operate the Laguna Swift Series CNC Router.
You can make machine reservations in the following ways:
The Laguna CNC router is a machine designed for cutting and milling[3] stock[4] based on G-code.[5]
Open Works has 3 CNC routers available for use. Reference the following chart to understand the difference betwen the ShopBot PRSalpha CNC Routers and the Laguna Swift Series CNC Router.
Name | Axes[6] Orientation | Affixing Material | Controller | Spindle[7] Warm Up | Tool Path[^8] File Type | Revolutions Per Minute (RPM) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ShopBot | X = 8', Y = 4' | Screws or Nails | ShopBot 3 (SB3) Software on Desktop | Shortcut "C3" on Sb3 | .sbp | Do Not Exceed 15,000 RPM |
Laguna | X = 4', Y= 8' | Vacuum Bed, Screws or Nails | Control Panel | Manual by operator | .tap | Do Not Exceed 18,000 RPM |
The bed size of all three CNC Routers is 48'' x 96''.
¶ Acceptable Materials:
Untreated lumber.
Plywood.
OBS (Formaldehyde free).
MDF (Formaldehyde free).
Acrylic.
Plexiglass.
PET.
Insulation panel foam.
Copper.
Aluminum.
Brass.
PVC.
Masonite.
¶ Use with Caution and Proper Technique:
Epoxy and resin.
Fiberglass.
¶ FORBIDDEN MATERIALS :
Steel
Any material containing formaldehyde.
Materials containing or coated with lead or lead-based paint.
Any wood containing metal fasteners or hardware.
Homosote.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
Sturdy, close-toed shoes must be worn at all times.
Long hair, jewelry, and loose clothing must be tied back.
Safety glasses and earmuffs must be worn while machines are running.
A dust mask or a NIOSH certified respirator is recommended.
For more information on shop safety visit Digital Fabrication under "Safety."
.
All machine maintenance pages are only accessible to Staff. All machine maintenance is only to be done by Staff.
All troubleshooting pages are only accessible to Staff. All troubleshooting is only to be done by Staff.
Laguna Swift Series 4'x8' and 4'x4' Manual
CNC: Computer numerical control; a type of automated manufacturing process which uses computer code to control machines.
Chuck: The fitting on a CNC machine spindle that holds the collet in place.
Collet: The sleeve or collar that fits holds a bit inside the spindle on a CNC machine.
Feed rate (IPM/IPS): The speed of the tool traveling through the material on a CNC machine, measured in either inches per second (IPS) or inches per minute (IPM).
Flash drive: A small portable storage device used for transferring files. ↩︎
Bit: The interchangeable cutting tool used in a CNC mill to remove material. There are many different sizes and shapes of bits for specific applications. ↩︎
Milling: The process of transforming rough lumber into flat, square, usable material. ↩︎
Stock/workpiece/material: Terms used interchangeably to describe a piece of wood or composite that you are working with.
Gantry: The part of a CNC machine that moves along the Y axis. ↩︎
G-code: A programming language that tells digital fabrication machines the type of action to perform. ↩︎
Axis: The lines along which a machine moves through space. On the CNC routers at Open Works, the axes are X, Y, and Z. X and Y move forward, backward, and side to side, and Z moves up and down. ↩︎
Spindle: The rotating axis at the heart of a CNC machine which contains the bit.
Toolpath: A series of coordinate locations that the cutting tool will follow on a CNC machine. Settings for each toolpath are defined based on a number of variables and the desired outcome.
Wasteboard: A piece of backing material used on the CNC router to support your workpiece against tearout and prevent damage to the bed.
Zero/Origin/Home: The starting point for each axis on a digital fabrication machine. ↩︎