The Evolution and Revolution OF CNC MACHINES

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines have revolutionized the surface & panel industry by not only offering automated precision, but also by increasing production output while reducing waste.

And while the industry continues to face challenges including everchanging customer needs, costs, environmental considerations, and quality standards, the ever-evolving capabilities of CNC machines are keeping pace, helping the companies that use them gain a competitive edge over their competition.

“Manufacturing has moved on from simple cutting tools,” says Russell Riddiford, President of ANCA Americas. “It’s now about the end-to-end process, from sourcing the best materials to providing the best customer experience, and it relies on networked machines and devices. As expectations for cutting tools have changed, so has the equipment you use to stay competitive. The types of CNC machines you use can make or break your position in your toolmaking niche.”

From cutting and drilling to milling and turning on various types of

ABOVE: BUILT WITH VERSATILITY AND OPERATION IN MIND, CASTALY’S NEW FEED THROUGH ARES CNC MACHINE CENTER IS PERFECT FOR THREEDIMENSIONAL WOOD PROCESSING, CUPBOARD DOORS, WOODEN DOORS, WINDOW PROCESSING, VIDEO GAME CABINETS, DOOR LITE CUTTING, STEEL DOOR PROCESSING. CASTALYMACHINE.COM materials, including composite, plastic and even metal, these computerized machines can produce high-quality and precise surfaces and panels to quickly meet industry needs and requirements. And having your machines “talk” to each other adds another level of efficiency and control.

Having the right software is vital in having different types of CNC machines work together, says Riddiford. “In the past,

LEFT: THE SMARTSHOP 2 ELITE FROM LAGUNA TOOLS FEATURES AN ALL-STEEL WELDED FRAME, ADVANCED FANUC CONTROL SYSTEM, SERVO DRIVE MOTORS AND A POWERFUL 12HP HSD CUTTING SPINDLE, PROVIDING UNMATCHED SPEED, ACCURACY, AND PERFORMANCE TO HANDLE EVEN THE MOST DEMANDING PRODUCTION WORKLOADS. LAGUNATOOLS.COM

BELOW: THERMWOOD’S MODEL 43 IS A HIGHPERFORMANCE THREE AXIS CNC ROUTER IDEAL FOR MACHINING PLASTIC SHEETS, NESTED-BASED CUSTOM CABINETS, CUSTOM FURNITURE, NONFERROUS METALS AND MORE. THERMWOOD.COM machines using different protocols, or from different manufacturers, might not have been able to interact with systems inside the factory,” he explains. “Software on the machines allows them to send data to a central location, where it can be distributed in a form every machine — and person — can understand.”

Riddiford says that 95% of CNC machines in use today are 10 years old or less, which is good news for manufacturers. “[You are] still capable of moving to the latest software and adding on accessories that can be used in automation,” he says. Features including laser measurement, automated processes and operating systems can be updated and/or retrofit, he says. “[Which means] you can avoid replacing your machines wholesale. Updating them one-by-one will allow you to keep your factory running with minimal downtime and cost so your customer engagement is not disrupted.”

The latest CNC machines offer many benefits, including:

• Improving quality and efficiency: CNC machines can operate faster and more accurately than manual machines, reducing errors and waste. CNC machines can also create complex and intricate patterns and designs on surfaces and panels that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with manual machines.

• Increasing productivity and flexibility: CNC machines can handle diverse shapes and designs that can suit different tastes and preferences. CNC machines can also switch between different tasks and tools easily, enabling them to produce a variety of products with minimal setup time.

• Reducing costs and environmental impact: CNC machines can optimize material usage and minimize scrap by cutting the exact amount of material needed for each product. CNC machines can also reduce energy consumption and emissions by running more efficiently and using significantly less power than manual machines.

• Enhancing design and innovation: CNC machines can help realistic product models using software such as CAD/CAM. CNC machines can also help them preview how their products will look in different settings and lighting conditions using technologies such as Augmented Reality (AI) and Virtual Reality (VR). CNC machines can also help them test their products in various scenarios and simulate potential problems using technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML).

CNC machines are revolutionizing the surface & panel industry by providing high-quality and customized products that meet customer specifications and standards. These powerful tools can help improve a company’s competitiveness, efficiency, quality, profitability, customer satisfaction, and environmental sustainability. And by updating CNC machines through new software or accessories or replacing them with the latest models, says Riddiford, you are investing in a future that is efficient, connected and ultimately, more profitable S P

Powder Coating Wood

Process. High Performance Finishes. 20 Minutes