CNC Engraving: Guide complet
CNC engraving is a popular CNC process used by industries to create patterns on their components.
If you are confused about what CNC engraving is and are eager to learn, this guide below will tell you everything. So let's read.
What is CNC Engraving?
The process of engraving removes the material from the component in a very controlled way and creates marks and patterns on the surface of the material.
CNC engraving is an automated and highly precise method to engrave any component with accuracy.
Engraving can cater to multiple industries which include sign-making as well as decor. The best part is that it is highly compatible with most of the materials. CNC engraving is also an affordable form of machining.
How CNC Engraving Works?
CNC engraving works in a step-by-step manner that involves essential techniques. The section below features a detailed engraving technique.
- The designers initially create a digital design to be engraved on the CAD software as this software is capable of creating complex patterns.
- The CAD design is then converted into a CAM design, which generates the G-code file containing instructions for the CNC machine.
- The CNC machine is then prepared with a workpiece placed perfectly so that the process may take place smoothly.
- The process of CNC engraving is an entirely automated procedure; once completed, the workpiece is released.
Types of CNC Engraving
CNC engraving is of different types, and the three most common types of CNC engraving are as follows:
CNC Laser Engraving
CNC laser engraving is a process in which a high laser beam is used to heat the workpiece so that sublimation takes place. Once the workpiece is heated, the laser head moves with a CNC-controlled machine and creates the pattern.
CNC Rotary Engraving
CNC rotary engraving has a rotating tool that removes material from the workpiece.
The cutting edges of the tool have a flute-type shape, and with the help of its sharp edges, it cuts the material. The size and shape of the cutter are very important to attain the required pattern.
Diamond Drag Engraving
Diamond drag engraving is a process that has a diamond tip, and it moves with the CNC machine.
Diamonds are one of the hardest metals and, hence, offer an efficient engraving process. It offers high precision and accuracy and can work with the hardest metals.
Common Materials Used for Engraving Machining
CNC engraving is carried out on various materials, a versatile process. Some of the commonly used materials in the process of CNC engraving are as follows:
Métaux
Métaux are very commonly used in all types of CNC machining processes, and the same goes for CNC engraving.
Different types of metal are used in CNC engraving, including gold, copper, brass, stainless steel, aluminum, etc. However, when choosing metals for CNC engraving, the tools selected should be hard enough.
Plastiques
Plastiques also opt for CNC engraving, and plastics have multiple types of polymers that work perfectly with CNC engraving.
Thermoplastics are, however, commonly selected as they offer thermal stability. They can be compatible with rotary and CNC laser engraving.
Some of the types of plastics are Nylon, ABS, polyethylene, polystyrene, polyurethane, etc.
Bois
Wood engraving is used for decorative items and luxury products. It is the softest and cheapest option when it comes to manufacturing engraved components.
It can work with CNC lasers as well as rotary engraving machines. The different types of woods that can be chosen for CNC engraving are balsa, softwood, cork, and hardwood.
Pros and Cons of CNC Engraving
CNC engraving has various pros and cons, and some of these are as follows:
Pour
- CNC engraving is a highly precise and accurate process, and when it engraves the component, the accuracy is commendable hence, sensitive applications may find it to be suitable.
- CNC engraving helps to save time compared to the manual engraving process. It is automated and quick, and the results are excellent.
- When CNC engraving is opted for, custom designs are allowed to be manufactured for custom components.
Cons
- CNC engraving requires a high investment, and if the process is carried out for a low volume of components, it can be expensive.
- The thickness of the material is a concern, and the process must be compatible with a certain thickness level to attain the best results.
- CNC engraving machines can be operated by trained and experienced people; hence, training is a must to operate them efficiently.
Applications of CNC Engraving
The applications of CNC engraving are as follows:
Sign Making
Road signs and some advertisement signs require CNC engraving so that they can withstand different weather conditions.
Bijoux
CNC engraving is used in jewelry making and helps create bracelets and pendants, having personalized texts added with the help of engraving.
Trophies and Awards
Awards and trophies which can have the names of recipients engraved, are quite common. CNC engraving gives an opportunity for these personalized trophies and awards to be engraved.
Conclusion
Nous, à DEK offer you CNC engraving services for your components where you want to add a personalized touch. We work with a wide range of materials composed of metals, plastics and wood.
So, if you need to outsource your CNC engraving project to us, you can get in touch.
FAQ
What is the difference between engraving and etching?
Etching and engraving are the two processes in which material is removed from a component, but they have different processing methods. Engraving uses cutting tools, and etching uses chemicals to burn the surface of the material.
How does CNC engraving differ from laser engraving?
In the process of laser engraving, a laser melts the material for engraving. On the other hand, CNC engraving uses digital techniques for controlling the cutting tool.
Which software is used in a CNC engraving machine?
CNC engraving machines use CAD/CAM software, which helps perform engraving tasks using cutting parameters and tools after selection.
What cutters or bits are needed for CNC engraving?
CNC engraving uses bits and cutters that are the same as those used in usual CNC machines. The common types of cutters are carbide tips and diamond tips for harder materials.
